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Herraiz T. β-Carboline Alkaloids in Soy Sauce and Inhibition of Monoamine Oxidase (MAO). Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28062723. [PMID: 36985694 PMCID: PMC10053526 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28062723] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase (MAO) oxidizes neurotransmitters and xenobiotic amines, including vasopressor and neurotoxic amines such as the MPTP neurotoxin. Its inhibitors are useful as antidepressants and neuroprotectants. This work shows that diluted soy sauce (1/3) and soy sauce extracts inhibited human MAO-A and -B isozymes in vitro, which were measured with a chromatographic assay to avoid interferences, and it suggests the presence of MAO inhibitors. Chromatographic and spectrometric studies showed the occurrence of the β-carboline alkaloids harman and norharman in soy sauce extracts inhibiting MAO-A. Harman was isolated from soy sauce, and it was a potent and competitive inhibitor of MAO-A (0.4 µM, 44 % inhibition). The concentrations of harman and norharman were determined in commercial soy sauces, reaching 243 and 52 μg/L, respectively. Subsequently, the alkaloids 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid (THCA) and 1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid (MTCA) were identified and analyzed in soy sauces reaching concentrations of 69 and 448 mg/L, respectively. The results show that MTCA was a precursor of harman under oxidative and heating conditions, and soy sauces increased the amount of harman under those conditions. This work shows that soy sauce contains bioactive β-carbolines and constitutes a dietary source of MAO-A and -B inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Herraiz
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), José Antonio Nováis 6, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Tian Y, Li G, Du X, Zeng T, Chen L, Xu W, Gu T, Tao Z, Lu L. Integration of LC-MS-Based and GC-MS-Based Metabolic Profiling to Reveal the Effects of Domestication and Boiling on the Composition of Duck Egg Yolks. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13010135. [PMID: 36677059 PMCID: PMC9866831 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13010135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Egg yolks contain abundant lipids, proteins, and minerals that provide not only essential nutrients for embryonic development but also cheap sources of nutrients for consumers worldwide. Previous composition analyses of egg yolks primarily focused on nutrients such as lipids and minerals. However, few studies have reported the effects of domestication and heating on yolk composition and characteristics. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of domestication and boiling on the metabolite contents of egg yolks via untargeted metabolomics using GC-MS and LC-MS. In this study, eggs were collected from Fenghua teals, captive mallards, and Shaoxing ducks. Twelve duck eggs (half raw and half cooked) were randomly selected from each variety, and the egg yolks were separated for metabolic profiling. The analysis identified 1205 compounds in the egg yolks. Domestication generated more differential metabolites than boiling, which indicated that the changes in the metabolome of duck egg yolk caused by domestication were greater than those caused by boiling. In a comparative analysis of domestic and mallard ducks, 48 overlapping differential metabolites were discovered. Among them, nine metabolites were upregulated in domesticated ducks, including monoolein, emodin, daidzein, genistein, and glycitein, which may be involved in lipid metabolism; some of them may also act as phytoestrogens (flavonoids). Another 39 metabolites, including imethylethanolamine, harmalan, mannitol, nornicotine, linoleic acid, diphenylamine, proline betaine, alloxanthin, and resolvin d1, were downregulated by domestication and were linked to immunity, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. Furthermore, four overlapping differential metabolites that included amino acids and dipeptides were discovered in paired comparisons of the raw and boiled samples. Our findings provided new insights into the molecular response of duck domestication and supported the use of metabolomics to examine the impact of boiling on the composition of egg yolks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Tian
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Animal Science & Veterinary, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Resources (Poultry) Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Guoqin Li
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Animal Science & Veterinary, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Resources (Poultry) Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Xizhong Du
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Jinhua Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinhua 321017, China
| | - Tao Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Animal Science & Veterinary, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Resources (Poultry) Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Li Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Animal Science & Veterinary, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Resources (Poultry) Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Wenwu Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Animal Science & Veterinary, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Resources (Poultry) Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Tiantian Gu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Animal Science & Veterinary, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Resources (Poultry) Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Zhengrong Tao
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Animal Science & Veterinary, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Lizhi Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Animal Science & Veterinary, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Resources (Poultry) Evaluation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Hangzhou 310021, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-571-8640-6682
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Herraiz T, Peña A, Mateo H, Herraiz M, Salgado A. Formation, Characterization, and Occurrence of β-Carboline Alkaloids Derived from α-Dicarbonyl Compounds and l-Tryptophan. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:9143-9153. [PMID: 35819924 PMCID: PMC9335879 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c03187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
β-Carbolines (βCs) are naturally occurring bioactive alkaloids, whereas α-dicarbonyl compounds are reactive substances generated in foods and in vivo. In this work, l-tryptophan reacted with α-dicarbonyl compounds affording new β-carbolines. Glyoxal afforded 1-hydroxymethyl-β-carboline (HME-βC) and its 3-carboxylic acid, and methylglyoxal afforded 1-(1-hydroxyethyl)-β-carboline (HET-βC) and its 3-carboxylic acid. 3-Deoxyglucosone afforded 1-(1,3,4,5-tetrahydroxypent-1-yl)-β-carboline isomers (1a/b), 1-(1,4,5-trihydroxypent-1-yl)-β-carboline (2), and 1-(1,5-dihydroxypent-3-en-1-yl)-β-carboline (3). The formation of these βCs increased under acidic conditions and with increasing temperature. A mechanism is proposed explaining the conversion of a carbonyl into a hydroxy group based on tautomerism and cyclization to the dihydro-βC-3-COOH intermediates, which were isolated and gave the βCs. These α-dicarbonyl-derived βCs occurred in model reactions of l-tryptophan with fructose or glucose incubated under heating and can be considered as advanced glycation end products (AGEs). They were also present in foods and formed during heating processes. HET-βC appeared in processed foods, reaching up to 309 ng/g, with the highest amount found in dried tomato, fried onion, toasted bread, and Manuka honey. HME-βC was only detected in some foods with lower amounts than HET-βC. HET-βC appeared in foods as a racemic mixture of enantiomers suggesting the same mechanism of formation as the synthetized product. α-Dicarbonyl-derived βCs (HET-βC, HME-βC, and 1a/b-3) occur in foods and food processing and, therefore, they are ingested during diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Herraiz
- Spanish
National Research Council (CSIC), Instituto
de Ciencia y Tenología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), Jose Antonio Novais 10, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Adriana Peña
- Spanish
National Research Council (CSIC), Instituto
de Ciencia y Tenología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), Jose Antonio Novais 10, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Haroll Mateo
- Spanish
National Research Council (CSIC), Instituto
de Ciencia y Tenología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), Jose Antonio Novais 10, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Herraiz
- Spanish
National Research Council (CSIC), Instituto
de Ciencia y Tenología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), Jose Antonio Novais 10, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Salgado
- Centro
de Espectroscopía de RMN (CERMN), Universidad de Alcalá (UAH), Campus Universitario Ctra. Madrid-Barcelona km
33.6, 28805 Alcalá
de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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Hong SW, Teesdale-Spittle P, Page R, Ellenbroek B, Truman P. Biologically Active Compounds Present in Tobacco Smoke: Potential Interactions Between Smoking and Mental Health. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:885489. [PMID: 35557609 PMCID: PMC9087043 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.885489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Tobacco dependence remains one of the major preventable causes of premature morbidity and mortality worldwide. There are well over 8,000 compounds present in tobacco and tobacco smoke, but we do not know what effect, if any, many of them have on smokers. Major interest has been on nicotine, as well as on toxic and carcinogenic effects and several major and minor components of tobacco smoke responsible for the negative health effects of smoking have been elucidated. Smokers themselves report a variety of positive effects from smoking, including effects on depression, anxiety and mental acuity. Smoking has also been shown to have protective effects in Parkinson’s Disease. Are the subjective reports of a positive effect of smoking due to nicotine, of some other components of tobacco smoke, or are they a manifestation of the relief from nicotine withdrawal symptoms that smoking provides? This mini-review summarises what is currently known about the components of tobacco smoke with potential to have positive effects on smokers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sa Weon Hong
- School of Health Sciences, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Paul Teesdale-Spittle
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Rachel Page
- School of Health Sciences, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Bart Ellenbroek
- Department of Psychology, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Penelope Truman
- School of Health Sciences, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
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Denofrio MP, Rasse-Suriani FAO, Paredes JM, Fassetta F, Crovetto L, Giron MD, Salto R, Epe B, Cabrerizo FM. N-Methyl-β-carboline alkaloids: structure-dependent photosensitizing properties and localization in subcellular domains. Org Biomol Chem 2020; 18:6519-6530. [PMID: 32628228 DOI: 10.1039/d0ob01122c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
N-Methyl-β-carboline (βC) alkaloids, including normelinonine F (1b) and melinonine F (2b), have been found in a vast range of living species playing different biological, biomedical and/or pharmacological roles. Despite this, molecular bases of the mechanisms through which these alkaloids would exert their effect still remain unknown. Fundamental aspects including the photosensitizing properties and intracellular internalization of a selected group of N-methyl-βC alkaloids were investigated herein. Data reveal that methylation of the βC main ring enhances its photosensitizing properties either by increasing its binding affinity with DNA as a biomolecular target and/or by increasing its oxidation potential, in a structure-dependent manner. As a general rule, N(9)-substituted βCs showed the highest photosensitizing efficiency. With the exception of 2-methyl-harminium, all the N-methyl-βCs investigated herein induce a similar DNA photodamage profile, dominated largely by oxidized purines. This fact represents a distinctive behavior when comparing with N-unsubstituted-βCs. On the other hand, although all the investigated compounds might accumulate mainly into the mitochondria of HeLa cells, methylation provides a distinctive dynamic pattern for mitochondrial uptake. While rapid (passive) diffusion is most probably reponsible for the prompt uptake/release of neutral βCs, an active transport appears to mediate the (reatively slow) uptake of the quaternary cationic βCs. This might be a consequence of a distinctive subcellular localization (mitochondrial membrane and/or matrix) or interaction with intracellular components. Biomedical and biotechnological implications are also discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Paula Denofrio
- Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (INTECH), Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Av. Intendente Marino Km 8.2, CC 164 (B7130IWA), Chascomús, Argentina.
| | - Federico A O Rasse-Suriani
- Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (INTECH), Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Av. Intendente Marino Km 8.2, CC 164 (B7130IWA), Chascomús, Argentina. and Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), CCT-La Plata, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Diag. 113 y 64 (1900), La Plata, Argentina
| | - Jose M Paredes
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Unidad de Excelencia en Química Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), University of Granada, Cartuja Campus, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - Federico Fassetta
- Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (INTECH), Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Av. Intendente Marino Km 8.2, CC 164 (B7130IWA), Chascomús, Argentina.
| | - Luis Crovetto
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Unidad de Excelencia en Química Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), University of Granada, Cartuja Campus, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - Maria D Giron
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Faculty of Pharmacy, Unidad de Excelencia en Quimica Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), University of Granada, Cartuja Campus, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Rafael Salto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Faculty of Pharmacy, Unidad de Excelencia en Quimica Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), University of Granada, Cartuja Campus, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Bernd Epe
- Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, Mainz, Germany
| | - Franco M Cabrerizo
- Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (INTECH), Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Av. Intendente Marino Km 8.2, CC 164 (B7130IWA), Chascomús, Argentina.
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Wagner DJ, Duan H, Chapron A, Lee RW, Wang J. Potent inhibition of human organic cation transporter 2 (hOCT2) by β-carboline alkaloids. Xenobiotica 2017; 47:1112-1120. [PMID: 27977936 PMCID: PMC5648609 DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2016.1271160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
1. Beta-carbolines are indole alkaloids with a wide range of pharmacological and toxicological activities. Beta-carbolines are structurally related to the neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+), a known substrate of organic cation transporters (OCTs). The goal of this study is to determine the interaction of β-carbolines with human OCT1, 2, and 3 (SLC22A1-3). 2. Dose-dependent inhibition studies were performed for five commercially available β-carbolines using a fluorescent substrate assay in HEK293 cells stably expressing hOCT1-3. The substrate potential was evaluated by uptake assays and the impact of active transport on cellular toxicity examined. 3. All tested β-carbolines potently inhibited hOCT2 with IC50 values in the sub- or low micromolar range. Harmaline is the most potent hOCT2 inhibitor (IC50 = 0.50 ± 0.08 μM). hOCT1 and hOCT3 are less sensitive to β-carboline inhibition. Harmaline, norharmanium, and 2,9-dimethyl-4,9-dihydro-3H-β-carbolinium accumulated 2- to 7-fold higher in cells expressing hOCT1-3. HEK293 cells expressing hOCT1-3 were 6.5- to 13-fold more sensitive to harmane and norharmanium toxicity. 4. Our data support a significant role of hOCT1-3 in tissue uptake and disposition of β-carbolines. Importantly, the potent inhibition of hOCT2 by β-carbolines also raises the concern of potential drug interactions between naturally occurring bioactive alkaloids and drugs eliminated by hOCT2.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Wagner
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Haichuan Duan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alenka Chapron
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Richard W. Lee
- School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Joanne Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Rasse-Suriani FAO, García-Einschlag FS, Rafti M, Schmidt De León T, David Gara PM, Erra-Balsells R, Cabrerizo FM. Photophysical and Photochemical Properties of Naturally Occurring nor
melinonine F and Melinonine F Alkaloids and Structurally Related N(2)- and/or N(9)-methyl-β
-carboline Derivatives. Photochem Photobiol 2017; 94:36-51. [DOI: 10.1111/php.12811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Federico A. O. Rasse-Suriani
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas - Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (IIB-INTECH); Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Chascomús Argentina
- INIFTA - CONICET; Universidad Nacional de La Plata; La Plata Argentina
| | | | - Matías Rafti
- INIFTA - CONICET; Universidad Nacional de La Plata; La Plata Argentina
| | - Tobías Schmidt De León
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales; Departamento de Química Orgánica; Universidad de Buenos Aires; Ciudad Universitaria Buenos Aires Argentina
- Centro de Investigación en Hidratos de Carbono (CIHIDECAR - CONICET); Universidad de Buenos Aires; Ciudad Universitaria Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Pedro M. David Gara
- Centro de Investigaciones Ópticas (CIOP - CONICET - CIC); Universidad Nacional de La Plata; La Plata Argentina
| | - Rosa Erra-Balsells
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales; Departamento de Química Orgánica; Universidad de Buenos Aires; Ciudad Universitaria Buenos Aires Argentina
- Centro de Investigación en Hidratos de Carbono (CIHIDECAR - CONICET); Universidad de Buenos Aires; Ciudad Universitaria Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Franco M. Cabrerizo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas - Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (IIB-INTECH); Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET); Chascomús Argentina
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Truman P, Grounds P, Brennan KA. Monoamine oxidase inhibitory activity in tobacco particulate matter: Are harman and norharman the only physiologically relevant inhibitors? Neurotoxicology 2017; 59:22-26. [PMID: 28057462 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2016.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/31/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase inhibition is significant in smokers, but it is still unclear how the inhibition that is seen in the brains and bodies of smokers is brought about. Our aim was to test the contribution of the harman and norharman in tobacco smoke to MAO-A inhibition from tobacco smoke preparations, as part of a re-examination of harman and norharman as the cause of the inhibition of MAO-A inhibition in the brain. Tobacco smoke particulate matter and cigarette smoke particulate matter were prepared and the amounts of harman and norharman measured. The results were compared with the total monoamine oxidase-A inhibitory activity. At a nicotine concentration of 0.6μM (a "physiological" concentration in blood) the total monoamine oxidase-A inhibitory activity measured in these samples was sufficient to inhibit the enzyme by approximately 10%. Of this inhibitory activity, only a small proportion of the total was found to be due to harman and norharman. These results show that harman and norharman provide only a moderate contribution to the total monoamine oxidase-A inhibitory activity of tobacco smoke, perhaps under 10%. This suggests that other inhibitors (either known or unknown) may be more significant contributors to total inhibitory activity than has yet been established, and deserve closer examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penelope Truman
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research Ltd, Porirua, New Zealand; Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand.
| | - Peter Grounds
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research Ltd, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Herraiz T. N-methyltetrahydropyridines and pyridinium cations as toxins and comparison with naturally-occurring alkaloids. Food Chem Toxicol 2016; 97:23-39. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2016.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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10
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Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase catalyses the N-methylation of the endogenous β-carboline norharman: evidence for a novel detoxification pathway. Biochem J 2016; 473:3253-67. [PMID: 27389312 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20160219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) is responsible for the N-methylation of nicotinamide to 1-methylnicotinamide. Our recent studies have demonstrated that NNMT regulates cellular processes fundamental to the correct functioning and survival of the cell. It has been proposed that NNMT may possess β-carboline (BC) N-methyltransferase activity, endogenously and exogenously produced pyridine-containing compounds which, when N-methylated, are potent inhibitors of Complex I and have been proposed to have a role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. We have investigated the ability of recombinant NNMT to N-methylate norharman (NH) to 2-N-methylnorharman (MeNH). In addition, we have investigated the toxicity of the BC NH, its precursor 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronorharman (THNH) and its N-methylated metabolite MeNH, using our in vitro SH-SY5Y NNMT expression model. Recombinant NNMT demonstrated NH 2N-methyltransferase activity, with a Km of 90 ± 20 µM, a kcat of 3 × 10(-4) ± 2 × 10(-5) s(-1) and a specificity constant (kcat/Km) of 3 ± 1 s(-1) M(-1) THNH was the least toxic of all three compounds investigated, whereas NH demonstrated the greatest, with no difference observed in terms of cell viability and cell death between NNMT-expressing and non-expressing cells. In NNMT-expressing cells, MeNH increased cell viability and cellular ATP concentration in a dose-dependent manner after 72 and 120 h incubation, an effect that was not observed after 24 h incubation or in non-NNNT-expressing cells at any time point. Taken together, these results suggest that NNMT may be a detoxification pathway for BCs such as NH.
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11
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Hogg RC. Contribution of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibition to Tobacco Dependence: A Review of the Evidence. Nicotine Tob Res 2015; 18:509-23. [PMID: 26508396 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntv245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a hypothesis that substances present in, or derived from, tobacco smoke inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO) in the brains of smokers, reducing the degradation of catecholamine neurotransmitters involved in central reward pathways and acting synergistically with nicotine to increase its addictive effects. OBJECTIVE The objective of this review was to evaluate the evidence for a role of MAO inhibition by tobacco-derived substances in tobacco dependence. INVESTIGATIONAL PLAN Relevant studies on the effects of tobacco use on MAO levels or activity in humans were identified by electronic searches. RESULTS The identified data show a clear association between smoking and lower density of MAO-A and MAO-B binding sites in the brains of smokers and strong evidence that MAO is inhibited by a substance or substances in, or derived from, tobacco smoke. There was little evidence to support the hypothesis that low MAO levels/activity is a predictive factor for tobacco use. Substances that inhibit MAO in in vitro assays have been isolated from tobacco leaves and tobacco smoke; however, no single substance has been shown to be absorbed from tobacco smoke and to inhibit MAO in the brains of human smokers. Nevertheless, it is possible that MAO inhibition in smokers could result from additive or synergistic effects of several tobacco-derived substances. MAO inhibition potentiates the reinforcing effects of intravenous nicotine in rodents; however, no data were identified to support the hypothesis that MAO inhibitors in or derived from tobacco or tobacco additives affect tobacco dependence in human smokers. IMPLICATIONS This comprehensive review describes the available evidence for the role of MAO inhibition in tobacco dependence and points the way for further research in this field. In view of the large number of MAO inhibitors identified in tobacco and tobacco smoke, identification of the putative inhibitors responsible for the lower level/activity of MAO in smokers may be impractical. Future studies must address whether the lower level/activity of MAO observed in smokers is also seen in users of other tobacco products and if this change is implicated in their dependence-inducing effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron C Hogg
- Medical Writing, OmniScience Ltd, Geneva, Switzerland
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Brennan KA, Laugesen M, Truman P. Whole tobacco smoke extracts to model tobacco dependence in animals. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2014; 47:53-69. [PMID: 25064817 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Revised: 06/12/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Smoking tobacco is highly addictive and a leading preventable cause of death. The main addictive constituent is nicotine; consequently it has been administered to laboratory animals to model tobacco dependence. Despite extensive use, this model might not best reflect the powerful nature of tobacco dependence because nicotine is a weak reinforcer, the pharmacology of smoke is complex and non-pharmacological factors have a critical role. These limitations have led researchers to expose animals to smoke via the inhalative route, or to administer aqueous smoke extracts to produce more representative models. The aim was to review the findings from molecular/behavioural studies comparing the effects of nicotine to tobacco/smoke extracts to determine whether the extracts produce a distinct model. Indeed, nicotine and tobacco extracts yielded differential effects, supporting the initiative to use extracts as a complement to nicotine. Of the behavioural tests, intravenous self-administration experiments most clearly revealed behavioural differences between nicotine and extracts. Thus, future applications for use of this behavioural model were proposed that could offer new insights into tobacco dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine A Brennan
- School of Psychology, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington 6140, New Zealand.
| | - Murray Laugesen
- Health New Zealand Ltd, 36 Winchester St, Lyttelton, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Penelope Truman
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research Ltd, PO Box 50348, Porirua 5240, New Zealand
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Hydroxyl radical reactions and the radical scavenging activity of β-carboline alkaloids. Food Chem 2014; 172:640-9. [PMID: 25442601 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2014.09.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Revised: 08/02/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
β-Carbolines are bioactive pyridoindole alkaloids occurring in foods, plants and the human body. Their activity as hydroxyl radical (OH) scavengers is reported here by using three different methods: deoxyribose degradation, hydroxylation of benzoate and hydroxylation of 2'-deoxyguanosine to give 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) as assessed by RP-HPLC (MS). Fenton reactions (Fe(2+)/Fe(3+) plus H2O2) were used for OH generation, and the radical increased in the presence of ascorbic acid or 6-hydroxydopamine as pro-oxidants. β-Carbolines were scavengers of OH in the three assays and in the presence of pro-oxidants. Tetrahydro-β-carboline-3-carboxylic acids were active against the hydroxylation of 2'-deoxyguanosine. β-Carbolines reacted with hydroxyl radicals (OH) affording hydroxy-β-carbolines, whereas tetrahydro-β-carbolines gave oxidative and degradation products. On the basis of IC50 and reaction rates (k), β-carbolines (norharman and harman), and tetrahydro-β-carbolines (tetrahydro-β-carboline, 1-methyltetrahydro-β-carboline and pinoline) were good OH radical scavengers and their activity was comparable to that of the indole, melatonin, which is an effective hydroxyl radical scavenger and antioxidant.
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Key Words
- 1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-beta-carboline (PubChem CID: 107838)
- 1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-beta-carboline-3-carboxylic acid (PubChem CID: 98285)
- 1-Methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-beta-carboline (PubChem CID: 91522)
- 1-Methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-beta-carboline-3-carboxylic acid (PubChem CID: 73530)
- 6-Hydroxydopamine (PubChem CID: 4624)
- 8-Hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine
- Antioxidants
- Ascorbic acid (PubChem CID: 54678501)
- Benzoate
- Deoxyribose
- Harman (PubChem CID: 5281404)
- Hydroxyl radical scavengers
- Indoles
- Melatonin
- Melatonin (PubChem CID: 896)
- Norharman (PubChem CID: 64961)
- Pinoline (PubChem CID: 1868)
- Pyridoindoles
- Tetrahydro-β-carbolines
- β-Carboline alkaloids
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Herraiz T, Galisteo J. Naturally-occurring tetrahydro-β-carboline alkaloids derived from tryptophan are oxidized to bioactive β-carboline alkaloids by heme peroxidases. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2014; 451:42-7. [PMID: 25035927 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2014.07.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
β-Carbolines are indole alkaloids that occur in plants, foods, and endogenously in mammals and humans, and which exhibit potent biological, psychopharmacological and toxicological activities. They form from naturally-occurring tetrahydro-β-carboline alkaloids arising from tryptophan by still unknown way and mechanism. Results in this research show that heme peroxidases catalyzed the oxidation of tetrahydro-β-carbolines (i.e. 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid and 1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid) into aromatic β-carbolines (i.e. norharman and harman, respectively). This oxidation followed a typical catalytic cycle of peroxidases through redox intermediates I, II, and ferric enzyme. Both, plant peroxidases (horseradish peroxidase, HRP) and mammalian peroxidases (myeloperoxidase, MPO and lactoperoxidase, LPO) catalyzed the oxidation in an efficient manner as determined by kinetic parameters (VMAX and KM). Oxidation of tetrahydro-β-carbolines was inhibited by peroxidase inhibitors such as sodium azide, ascorbic acid, hydroxylamine and excess of H2O2. The formation of aromatic β-carbolines by heme peroxidases can help to explain the presence and activity of these compounds in biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Herraiz
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Juan Galisteo
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
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Elevated brain harmane (1-methyl-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole) in essential tremor cases vs. controls. Neurotoxicology 2013; 38:131-5. [PMID: 23911942 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2013.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2013] [Revised: 07/10/2013] [Accepted: 07/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Harmane (1-methyl-9H-pyrido[3,4-β]indole), a potent neurotoxin that has tremor-producing properties in animal models, is present in many foods; although we have demonstrated a difference in tissue harmane concentrations in ET cases vs. controls, all work to date has involved blood samples. OBJECTIVES We quantified harmane concentrations in human cerebellum, a brain region of particular pathogenic interest in essential tremor (ET), comparing ET to control brains. METHODS Cerebellar cortex was snap frozen and stored at -80°C in aliquots for biochemical analyses. Harmane concentration was assessed using high performance liquid chromatography. RESULTS Geometric mean brain harmane concentrations (adjusted for postmortem interval [PMI] and freezer time) were higher in ET cases than controls: 1.0824 (95% confidence interval=0.9405-1.2457) vs. 0.8037 (0.6967-0.9272), p=0.004. Geometric mean of brain harmane concentrations (adjusting for PMI and freezer time) was highest in ET cases who reported other relatives with tremor (1.2005 [0.8712-1.6541]), intermediate in ET cases without family history (1.0312 ([0.8879-1.1976]), and both were significantly higher than controls (p=0.02). CONCLUSIONS This study provides additional evidence of a possible etiological importance of this toxin in some cases of the human disease ET.
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Brennan KA, Putt F, Truman P. Nicotine-, tobacco particulate matter- and methamphetamine-produced locomotor sensitisation in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2013; 228:659-72. [PMID: 23519574 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3071-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2013] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Repeated nicotine exposure produces a weak and transient sensitised locomotor response in rats. Since tobacco smoke contains thousands of non-nicotine chemical constituents, these could alter the sensitised response. OBJECTIVES This study aims to compare the magnitude, persistence and spatial distribution of locomotor sensitisation produced by repeated doses of nicotine, aqueous tobacco particulate matter (TPM) and a positive methamphetamine control. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats received five nicotine (0.0, 0.2 or 0.4 mg/kg), TPM (containing 0.2 or 0.4 mg/kg nicotine) or methamphetamine (0.5 mg/kg) injections every second day, followed by a 4-day withdrawal before the first challenge (Challenge 1, C1). The animals were re-challenged again at 15 days post C1 to test for the persistence of sensitisation (Challenge 2, C2). RESULTS There were no major differences in sensitisation profile between nicotine and TPM. At the lowest 0.2 mg/kg nicotine/TPM dose, however, small differences emerged on select test days. CONCLUSIONS The results indicated that the non-nicotinic agents in TPM did not greatly impact the nicotine-produced locomotor-sensitised response. These findings might suggest that the differential pharmacological properties of TPM do not have major clinical significance. Alternatively, the locomotor model might not expose effects of non-nicotinic constituents, and furthermore, might not closely relate to human tobacco dependence. Different reward-related behavioural models should also be utilised to assess potential effects of non-nicotinic constituents before a role in dependence is discounted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine A Brennan
- School of Psychology, Victoria University of Wellington, P.O. Box 600, Wellington, 6140, New Zealand.
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17
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Vignoni M, Rasse-Suriani FAO, Butzbach K, Erra-Balsells R, Epe B, Cabrerizo FM. Mechanisms of DNA damage by photoexcited 9-methyl-β-carbolines. Org Biomol Chem 2013; 11:5300-9. [DOI: 10.1039/c3ob40344k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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18
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Dixon Clarke SE, Ramsay RR. Dietary inhibitors of monoamine oxidase A. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2010; 118:1031-41. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-010-0537-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2010] [Accepted: 11/09/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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19
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Wernicke C, Hellmann J, Zieba B, Kuter K, Ossowska K, Frenzel M, Dencher NA, Rommelspacher H. 9-Methyl-beta-carboline has restorative effects in an animal model of Parkinson's disease. Pharmacol Rep 2010; 62:35-53. [PMID: 20360614 DOI: 10.1016/s1734-1140(10)70241-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2009] [Revised: 02/08/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In a previous study, a primary culture of midbrain cells was exposed to 9-methyl-beta-carboline for 48 h, which caused an increase in the number of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive cells. Quantitative RT-PCR revealed increased transcription of genes participating in the maturation of dopaminergic neurons. These in vitro findings prompted us to investigate the restorative actions of 9-methyl-beta-carboline in vivo. The compound was delivered for 14 days into the left cerebral ventricle of rats pretreated with the neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-pyridinium ion (MPP+) for 28 days applying a dose which lowered dopamine by approximately 50%. Interestingly, 9-methyl-beta-carboline reversed the dopamine-lowering effect of the neurotoxin in the left striatum. Stereological counts of tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive cells in the substantia nigra revealed that the neurotoxin caused a decrease in the number of those cells. However, when treated subsequently with 9-methyl-beta-carboline, the number reached normal values. In search of an explanation for the restorative activity, we analyzed the complexes that compose the respiratory chain in striatal mitochondria by 2-dimension gel electrophoresis followed by MALDI-TOF peptide mass fingerprinting.We found no changes in the overall composition of the complexes. However, the activity of complex I was increased by approximately 80% in mitochondria from rats treated with MPP+ and 9-methyl-beta-carboline compared to MPP+ and saline and to sham-operated rats, as determined by measurements of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase activity. Microarray technology and single RT-PCR revealed the induction of neurotrophins: brain-derived neurotrophic factor, conserved dopamine neurotrophic factor, cerebellin 1 precursor protein, and ciliary neurotrophic factor. Selected western blots yielded consistent results. The findings demonstrate restorative effects of 9-methyl-beta-carboline in an animal model of Parkinson's disease that improve the effectiveness of the respiratory chain and promote the transcription and expression of neurotrophin-related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catrin Wernicke
- Department of Psychiatry, CCM, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Dorotheenstr. 94, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
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20
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Herraiz T, González D, Ancín-Azpilicueta C, Arán VJ, Guillén H. beta-Carboline alkaloids in Peganum harmala and inhibition of human monoamine oxidase (MAO). Food Chem Toxicol 2009; 48:839-45. [PMID: 20036304 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2009.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 209] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2009] [Revised: 11/21/2009] [Accepted: 12/21/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Peganum harmala L. is a multipurpose medicinal plant increasingly used for psychoactive recreational purposes (Ayahuasca analog). Harmaline, harmine, harmalol, harmol and tetrahydroharmine were identified and quantified as the main beta-carboline alkaloids in P. harmala extracts. Seeds and roots contained the highest levels of alkaloids with low levels in stems and leaves, and absence in flowers. Harmine and harmaline accumulated in dry seeds at 4.3% and 5.6% (w/w), respectively, harmalol at 0.6%, and tetrahydroharmine at 0.1% (w/w). Roots contained harmine and harmol with 2.0% and 1.4% (w/w), respectively. Seed extracts were potent reversible and competitive inhibitors of human monoamine oxidase (MAO-A) with an IC(50) of 27 microg/l whereas root extracts strongly inhibited MAO-A with an IC(50) of 159 microg/l. In contrast, they were poor inhibitors of MAO-B. Inhibition of MAO-A by seed extracts was quantitatively attributed to harmaline and harmine whereas inhibition by root extracts came from harmine with no additional interferences. Stems and leaves extracts were poor inhibitors of MAO. The potent inhibition of MAO-A by seed and root extracts of P. harmala containing beta-carbolines should contribute to the psychopharmacological and toxicological effects of this plant and could be the basis for its purported antidepressant actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Herraiz
- Spanish Council for Scientific Research, CSIC, Instituto de Fermentaciones Industriales, Madrid, Spain.
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Fekkes D, Spijkerman R, Bongers I, van den Eijnden R. The role of norharman in alcohol dependence and smoking: The potential inhibitory role of norharman on the urge for alcohol and nicotine use. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/1465980512331344084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Durk Fekkes
- Departments of Neuroscience and Psychiatry, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Inge Bongers
- Tranzo, Scientific Center for Transformations in Health and Social Care, Tilburg University, The Netherlands
| | - Regina van den Eijnden
- Departments of Neuroscience and Psychiatry, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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22
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Herraiz T, Guillén H, Arán VJ. Oxidative Metabolism of the Bioactive and Naturally Occurring β-Carboline Alkaloids, Norharman and Harman, by Human Cytochrome P450 Enzymes. Chem Res Toxicol 2008; 21:2172-80. [DOI: 10.1021/tx8002565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Herraiz
- Spanish Council for Scientific Research, Instituto de Fermentaciones Industriales, CSIC, and Instituto de Química Médica, CSIC, Juan de la Cierva, 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Hugo Guillén
- Spanish Council for Scientific Research, Instituto de Fermentaciones Industriales, CSIC, and Instituto de Química Médica, CSIC, Juan de la Cierva, 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Vicente J. Arán
- Spanish Council for Scientific Research, Instituto de Fermentaciones Industriales, CSIC, and Instituto de Química Médica, CSIC, Juan de la Cierva, 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
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Yang YJ, Lee JJ, Jin CM, Lim SC, Lee MK. Effects of harman and norharman on dopamine biosynthesis and L-DOPA-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells. Eur J Pharmacol 2008; 587:57-64. [PMID: 18457825 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2008.03.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2007] [Revised: 02/28/2008] [Accepted: 03/13/2008] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The effects of harman and norharman on dopamine biosynthesis and L-DOPA-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells were investigated. Harman and norharman at a concentration of 20 microM and 100 microM showed 49.4% and 49.5% inhibition of dopamine content for 48 h, respectively. The IC50 values of harman and norharman were 21.2 microM and 103.3 microM. Dopamine content, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity and TH mRNA levels were decreased during the first 6 h, maintained for up to 48 h and then gradually recovered at 72 h after exposure to 20 microM harman and 100 microM norharman. Under the same conditions, the intracellular cyclic AMP levels and Ca2+ concentrations were also decreased by harman and norharman. In addition, harman and norharman at concentrations higher than 80 microM and 150 microM caused cytotoxicity at 48 h in PC12 cells. Non-cytotoxic ranges of 10-30 microM harman and 50-150 microM norharman inhibited L-DOPA (20-50 microM)-induced increases in dopamine content at 48 h. Harman at 20-150 microM and norharman at 100-300 microM also enhanced L-DOPA (20-100 microM)-induced cytotoxicity at 48 h with an apoptotic process. These results suggest that harman and norharman inhibit dopamine biosynthesis by reducing TH activity and enhance L-DOPA-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoo Jung Yang
- College of Pharmacy and Research Center for Bioresource and Health, Chungbuk National University, 12, Gaeshin-dong, Heungduk-gu, Cheongju 361-763, Republic of Korea
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Herraiz T. Identification and occurrence of beta-carboline alkaloids in raisins and inhibition of monoamine oxidase (MAO). JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2007; 55:8534-40. [PMID: 17883257 DOI: 10.1021/jf0719151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase (MAO) is a mitochondrial enzyme involved in the oxidative catabolism of neurotransmitters and xenobiotic amines, including vasopressor and neurotoxic amines, and a current target for antidepressant and neuroprotective drugs. Raisin extracts and homogenates exhibited reversible in vitro inhibition of MAO isozymes, particularly MAO-A, suggesting the presence of MAO-inhibiting substances. Chromatographic and spectrometric studies showed the occurrence of aromatic beta-carboline alkaloids in raisins, and norharman and harman were identified as the key contributors to MAO inhibition. On average, harman ranged from 6 to 644 ng/g and norharman from 2 to 120 ng/g. Several technological variables appeared to determine the presence of these compounds in raisins. Dark-brown raisins (i.e., sun-dried) contained much higher levels than golden raisins. Tetrahydro-beta-carboline-3-carboxylic acid compounds that are direct precursors of aromatic beta-carbolines were also identified in raisins and appeared in a higher amount, reaching up to 50 microg/g. beta-Carbolines were isolated from raisins and acted as good competitive inhibitors of MAO-A (harman) and MAO-B (norharman) isozymes. These results suggest that beta-carboline alkaloids and perhaps raisins containing a high level of beta-carbolines might exhibit potential activity as MAO inhibitors. The results also show that some raisins can be a source of dietary exposure to bioactive beta-carbolines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Herraiz
- Spanish Council for Scientific Research, CSIC, Instituto de Fermentaciones Industriales, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain.
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25
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Hamann J, Wernicke C, Lehmann J, Reichmann H, Rommelspacher H, Gille G. 9-Methyl-beta-carboline up-regulates the appearance of differentiated dopaminergic neurones in primary mesencephalic culture. Neurochem Int 2007; 52:688-700. [PMID: 17913302 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2007.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2007] [Revised: 08/28/2007] [Accepted: 08/30/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
beta-Carbolines (BCs) derive from tryptophan and its derivatives. They are formed endogenously in humans and mammals and occur inter alia in cooked meat and tobacco smoke. They have been detected in human brain, cerebrospinal fluid, and plasma. Up to now they were predominantly identified as compounds exhibiting neurotoxic actions. Since significantly higher amounts are present in parkinsonian patients, they are regarded as potential pathogenetic factors in Parkinson's disease. We identified for the first time a BC (9-methyl-BC; 9-me-BC) exerting neuroprotective and neuron-differentiating effects. Treatment of primary mesencephalic dopaminergic cultures with 9-me-BC inhibited the basal release of lactate dehydrogenase and reduced the number of cells stained with propidium iodide. Caspase-3 activity was decreased, the total protein content was unchanged and ATP content was increased. Furthermore, the expression of inflammation-related genes was reduced. The number of differentiated dopaminergic neurones was significantly increased and a wide array of neurotrophic/transcription factors (Shh, Wnt1, Wnt5a, En1, En2, Nurr1, Pitx3) and marker genes (Th, Dat, Aldh1a1) decisive for dopaminergic differentiation was stimulated. Consistently, the dopamine content was slightly, although non-significantly, increased and the dopamine uptake capacity was elevated. An anti-proliferative effect was observed in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells which is consistent with a reduced incorporation of bromodesoxyuridine into the DNA of primary mesencephalic cells. Whether the additional dopaminergic neurones in primary culture derive from dopaminergic precursor cells, previously tyrosine hydroxylase negative dopaminergic neurones or are the result of a transdifferentiation process remains to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliane Hamann
- Department of Neurology, Technical University of Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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26
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Guillem K, Vouillac C, Azar MR, Parsons LH, Koob GF, Cador M, Stinus L. Monoamine oxidase A rather than monoamine oxidase B inhibition increases nicotine reinforcement in rats. Eur J Neurosci 2006; 24:3532-40. [PMID: 17229101 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.05217.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Although nicotine is considered to be responsible for the addictive properties of tobacco, growing evidence underlines the importance of non-nicotine components in smoking reinforcement. It has been shown that tobacco smoke contains monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B inhibitors and decreases MAO-A and MAO-B activity in smokers. Here, we investigated the effects of clorgyline hydrochloride (irreversible MAO-A inhibitor; 2 mg/kg/day), selegiline (irreversible MAO-B inhibitor; 4 mg/kg) and the beta-carboline norharmane hydrochloride (reversible MAO-B inhibitor; 5 mg/kg/day) treatments on nicotine self-administration (30 microg/kg/infusion, free base) in rats. Independent of the responsiveness to novelty and locomotor activity stimulation, only clorgyline hydrochloride treatment increased the intake of nicotine in a fixed-ratio schedule (FR5) of reinforcement. When a progressive-ratio schedule was implemented, both clorgyline hydrochloride and norharmane hydrochloride treatments potentiated the reinforcing effects of nicotine, whereas selegiline had no effect. Taken together, these results indicate that MAO-A inhibition interacts with nicotine to enhance its rewarding effects in rats and suggest that other compounds present in tobacco, such as beta-carboline, may also play an important role in sustaining smoking behavior in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Guillem
- Laboratoire de Neuropsychobiologie des Désadaptations, UMR CNRS 5541, Université de Bordeaux 2, BP 31, 146 rue Léo Saignat, 33076 Bordeaux, cedex, France
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27
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van Amsterdam J, Talhout R, Vleeming W, Opperhuizen A. Contribution of monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibition to tobacco and alcohol addiction. Life Sci 2006; 79:1969-73. [PMID: 16884739 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2006.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2006] [Revised: 05/29/2006] [Accepted: 06/11/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Whole-body PET-scan studies in brains of tobacco smokers have shown a decrease in monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity, which reverts to control level when they quit smoking. The observed decrease in MAO activity in smokers is presumably due to their exposure to tobacco constituents that possess MAO-inhibiting properties. The inhibition of MAO activity seems, however, not to be a unique feature of tobacco smoking as subjects with Type II alcoholism have been reported to show a similar decrease in MAO activity that reverses when they cease to use alcohol. The present review summarizes the data on MAO-inhibiting tobacco constituents and explains that the decrease in MAO activity observed in alcoholics is probably due to concomitant tobacco use. It is concluded that the inhibition of MAO by constituents contained in tobacco and tobacco smoke, enhances the addiction induced by tobacco smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan van Amsterdam
- Laboratory for Toxicology, Pathology and Genetics, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
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Herraiz T, Chaparro C. Human monoamine oxidase enzyme inhibition by coffee and β-carbolines norharman and harman isolated from coffee. Life Sci 2006; 78:795-802. [PMID: 16139309 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2005.05.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2005] [Accepted: 05/18/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase (MAO) is a mitochondrial outer-membrane flavoenzyme involved in brain and peripheral oxidative catabolism of neurotransmitters and xenobiotic amines, including neurotoxic amines, and a well-known target for antidepressant and neuroprotective drugs. Recent epidemiological studies have consistently shown that coffee drinkers have an apparently lower incidence of Parkinson's disease (PD), suggesting that coffee might somehow act as a purported neuroprotectant. In this paper, "ready to drink" coffee brews exhibited inhibitory properties on recombinant human MAO A and B isozymes catalyzing the oxidative deamination of kynuramine, suggesting that coffee contains compounds acting as MAO inhibitors. MAO inhibition was reversible and competitive for MAO A and MAO B. Subsequently, the pyrido-indole (beta-carboline) alkaloids, norharman and harman, were identified and isolated from MAO-inhibiting coffee, and were good inhibitors on MAO A (harman and norharman) and MAO B (norharman) isozymes. beta-carbolines isolated from ready-to-drink coffee were competitive and reversible inhibitors and appeared up to 210 microg/L, confirming that coffee is the most important exogenous source of these alkaloids in addition to cigarette smoking. Inhibition of MAO enzymes by coffee and the presence of MAO inhibitors that are also neuroactive, such as beta-carbolines and eventually others, might play a role in the neuroactive actions including a purported neuroprotection associated with coffee consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Herraiz
- Spanish Council for Scientific Research. CSIC. Instituto de Fermentaciones Industriales, Juan de la Cierva, 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain.
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Herraiz T, Chaparro C. Analysis of monoamine oxidase enzymatic activity by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography and inhibition by beta-carboline alkaloids occurring in foods and plants. J Chromatogr A 2005; 1120:237-43. [PMID: 16386263 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2005.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2005] [Revised: 11/26/2005] [Accepted: 12/02/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase (MAO) is a flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD)-containing enzyme located at the outer membranes of mitochondria that catalyzes the oxidative deamination of biogenic and xenobiotic amines. We have used a chromatographic method to measure MAO-enzymatic activity by using kynuramine as a non-selective substrate with its MAO-oxidation product subsequently analyzed by RP-HPLC-DAD and HPLC-mass spectrometry (MS). This method was applied to study the kinetic parameters, inhibition and reaction products of MAO recombinant enzymes in presence of tetrahydro-beta-carboline and beta-carboline alkaloids occurring in foods, plants and mammals. Analysis by HPLC showed that tetrahydro-beta-carbolines or beta-carbolines were not modified by MAO. Several beta-carbolines such as tryptoline (1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-beta-carboline) and 1-methyltryptoline (1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-beta-carboline) were inhibitors of MAO-A; instead their corresponding 6-hydroxy-derivatives (6-hydroxytryptoline and 6-hydroxy-1-methyltryptoline) lacked this activity. Tetrahydro-beta-carboline-3-carboxylic acids were unable to inhibit MAO enzymes. In contrast, their oxidation products, i.e. the fully aromatic beta-carbolines (norharman and harman), acted as good inhibitors of MAO. Two tetrahydro-beta-carbolines (i.e. tryptoline and 1-methyltryptoline) occurring in foods were isolated by solid-phase extraction (SPE) and RP-HPLC from selected samples of sausages and the corresponding extracts exhibited good inhibition properties over MAO-A. These results suggest that beta-carbolines from foods, plants, and mammals may exert inhibitory actions on MAO enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Herraiz
- Spanish Council for Scientific Research, CSIC, Instituto de Fermentaciones Industriales, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain.
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Anderson NJ, Tyacke RJ, Husbands SM, Nutt DJ, Hudson AL, Robinson ESJ. In vitro and ex vivo distribution of [3H]harmane, an endogenous beta-carboline, in rat brain. Neuropharmacology 2005; 50:269-76. [PMID: 16242163 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2005.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2005] [Revised: 08/23/2005] [Accepted: 08/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The endogenous beta-carboline, harmane, has been shown to bind to monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) and a separate, high affinity, non-MAO site. Research in our laboratory has shown that harmane is an active component of clonidine-displacing substance (CDS), the proposed endogenous ligand for imidazoline binding sites (IBS). In the present study we have investigated the distribution of [3H]harmane in rat brain, and related the binding profile to the distribution of the MAO-A selective ligand [3H]Ro41-1049 and the I2BS ligand [3H]2-BFI. The in vivo distribution of [3H]harmane following intravenous administration was also investigated. Receptor autoradiography revealed a highly significant correlation for the distribution of [3H]harmane and [3H]Ro41-1049, and a significant correlation for [3H]harmane and the I2BS ligand [3H]2-BFI. The in vivo distribution of [3H]harmane suggests that the ligand accumulates in the adrenal gland and throughout the brain with the primary route of excretion occurring via the duodenum. In conclusion, these studies have shown that [3H]harmane labels a population of binding sites that reflect the distribution of MAO-A. Further evidence for a non-MAO, IBS [3H]harmane population has not been shown but the high level of expression of the MAO-A site is likely to have masked the much smaller population of I2BS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil J Anderson
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University Walk, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
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Miralles A, Esteban S, Sastre-Coll A, Moranta D, Asensio VJ, García-Sevilla JA. High-affinity binding of beta-carbolines to imidazoline I2B receptors and MAO-A in rat tissues: norharman blocks the effect of morphine withdrawal on DOPA/noradrenaline synthesis in the brain. Eur J Pharmacol 2005; 518:234-42. [PMID: 16061219 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2005.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2005] [Revised: 06/14/2005] [Accepted: 06/20/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to determine the affinity and binding profile of beta-carbolines for imidazoline I2 receptors and catalytic sites of monoamine oxidase (MAO)-A/B in rat brain and liver. The aim was also directed to assess the in vivo effects of norharman (beta-carboline) and LSL 60101 (I2 ligand) on brain 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) synthesis in morphine-dependent rats. Competition experiments against [3H]2-BFI revealed that beta-carbolines recognize the high- and low-affinity components of the brain imidazoline I2 receptor with the rank order of potency (K(iH) in nM): noreleagnine (12)>norharman (20)>harmalol (82)>harmaline (177)>>harmine (630)>harman (700)>>FG-7142 (>100,000). In liver, this rank was different: harmine (51)>harmaline (103)=noreleagnine (103)>>harmalol (1290)>harman (2000)>>norharman (12,382)>>FG-7142 (>100,000). In brain and liver, competition curves for beta-carbolines against [3H]Ro41-1049 (MAO-A) and [3H]Ro19-6327 (MAO-B) were monophasic and resulted in different drug potencies for the two MAO isozymes (higher affinities for MAO-A) and in similar pharmacological profiles in both tissues. In morphine-dependent rats, naloxone (2 mg/kg, 2 h)-precipitated withdrawal increased the synthesis of DOPA in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus (50%). Pretreatment with norharman (20 mg/kg) or LSL 60101 (20 mg/kg) (30 min before naloxone) fully prevented the stimulatory effect of opiate withdrawal on DOPA synthesis. Norharman and LSL 60101 also attenuated the severity of the withdrawal syndrome. The results indicate that beta-carbolines bind with high affinity to imidazoline I2B receptors, and similarly to I2 ligands (LSL 60101) can block the behavioural and biochemical effects of opiate withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Miralles
- Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Institut Universitari d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. Valldemossa km 7.5, E-07122, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
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Human monoamine oxidase is inhibited by tobacco smoke: beta-carboline alkaloids act as potent and reversible inhibitors. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2005; 326:378-86. [PMID: 15582589 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2004.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 209] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase (MAO) is a mitochondrial outer-membrane flavoenzyme involved in brain and peripheral oxidative catabolism of neurotransmitters and xenobiotic amines, including neurotoxic amines, and a well-known target for antidepressant and neuroprotective drugs. Recently, positron emission tomography imaging has shown that smokers have a much lower activity of peripheral and brain MAO-A (30%) and -B (40%) isozymes compared to non-smokers. This MAO inhibition results from a pharmacological effect of smoke, but little is known about its mechanism. Working with mainstream smoke collected from commercial cigarettes we confirmed that cigarette smoke is a potent inhibitor of human MAO-A and -B isozymes. MAO inhibition was partly reversible, competitive for MAO-A, and a mixed-type inhibition for MAO-B. Two beta-carboline alkaloids, norharman (beta-carboline) and harman (1-methyl-beta-carboline), were identified by GC-MS, quantified, and isolated from the mainstream smoke by solid phase extraction and HPLC. Kinetics analysis revealed that beta-carbolines from cigarette smoke were competitive, reversible, and potent inhibitors of MAO enzymes. Norharman was an inhibitor of MAO-A (K(i)=1.2+/-0.18 microM) and MAO-B (K(i)=1.12+/-0.19 microM), and harman of MAO-A (K(i)=55.54+/-5.3nM). Beta-carboline alkaloids are psychopharmacologically active compounds that may occur endogenously in human tissues, including the brain. These results suggest that beta-carboline alkaloids from cigarette smoke acting as potent reversible inhibitors of MAO enzymes may contribute to the MAO-reduced activity produced by tobacco smoke in smokers. The presence of MAO inhibitors in smoke like beta-carbolines and others may help us to understand some of the purported neuropharmacological effects associated with smoking.
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Abstract
The aromatic beta-carbolines norharman and harman have been implicated in a number of human diseases including Parkinson's disease, tremor, addiction and cancer. It has been shown that these compounds are normal body constituents formed endogenously but external sources have been identified. Here, we summarise literature data on levels of norharman and harman in fried meat and fish, meat extracts, alcoholic drinks, and coffee brews. Other sources include edible and medicinal plants but tobacco smoke has been identified as a major source. Exposure levels from these different dietary sources are estimated to a maximum of 4 microg norharman per kg body weight (bw) per day and 1 microg harman per kg bw per day. Exposure via tobacco smoke depends on smoking habits and type of cigarettes but can be estimated to 1.1 microg/kg bw for norharman and 0.6 microg/kg bw for harman per package of cigarettes smoked. Studies on toxicokinetics indicate that inhalative exposure leads to a rapid increase in plasma levels and high bioavailability of norharman and harman. Oral bioavailability is lower but there are indications that sublingual absorption may increase dietary uptake of beta-carbolines. Endogenous formation can be estimated to be 50-100 ng/kg bw per day for norharman and about 20 ng/kg bw per day for harman but these rates may increase with high intake of precursors. Biomarker studies on plasma levels of beta-carbolines reported on elevated levels of norharman, harman or both in diseased patients, alcoholics and following tobacco smoking or consumption of beta-carboline-containing food. Cigarette smoking has been identified as major influence but dietary exposure may contribute to exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Pfau
- Umweltmedizin Hamburg eV and Institute of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology, Hamburg University, Vogt-Kölln-Strasse 30, 22527 Hamburg, Germany.
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Nii H. Possibility of the involvement of 9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole (norharman) in carcinogenesis via inhibition of cytochrome P450-related activities and intercalation to DNA. Mutat Res 2003; 541:123-36. [PMID: 14568301 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2003.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the inhibitory effect of 9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole (norharman), one of the naturally occurring beta-carbolines, on cytochrome P450 (CYP)-related activities and the relationship between its inhibitory effect, its intercalation to DNA, and its comutagenic effect. Norharman reduced the mutagenicities of heterocyclic amines (HCAs) containing 2-amino-6-methyldipyrido[1,2-a:3',2'-d]imidazole (Glu-P-1), aflatoxin B1, benzo[a]pyrene (BP), and some nitrosamines in the presence of 10 microl liver S9 (20.9 microg protein/ml) from polychlorinated biphenyl-treated rats. Norharman inhibited microsomal CYP-related enzyme activities and CO-binding to the CYP heme (50% inhibitory concentration (IC50), 0.07-6.4 microg/ml). It also inhibited the formation of 3-hydroxyamino-6-methyldipyrido[1,2-a:3',2'-d]imidazole (N-OH-Glu-P-1) and was a noncompetitive-inhibitor of CYP1A-related activities, while it enhanced the direct mutagenicity of N-OH-Glu-P-1 (50% effective concentration, 25.0 microg/ml) and inhibited topo I activity (IC50, 31.0 microg/ml). In the presence of norharman, S9 up to 100 microl incrementally enhanced the mutagenicities of HCAs, BP and dimethylnitrosamine. These data clarified that norharman acts as an inhibitor of the CYP-mediated biotransformation of Glu-P-1 via inhibition of O2-binding to CYP heme, and its inhibition of CYP enzymes occurs at much lower concentration than that for its intercalation to DNA. It is indicated that norharman's inhibitory effect on CYP results in the inhibition of excess metabolism by S9 and this is more likely the mechanism for comutagenic action than the intercalation. Norharman's inhibition of CYP and its enhancement of the N-OH-Glu-P-1 mutagenicity suggest that beta-carbolines modulate chemical carcinogenesis by controlling the xenobiotic metabolism and by intercalating to DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Nii
- Laboratory of Radiochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 5-6-1 Mitahorahigashi, Gifu 502-8585, Japan.
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Van Den Eijnden R, Spijkerman R, Fekkes D. Craving for cigarettes among low and high dependent smokers: impact of norharman. Addict Biol 2003; 8:463-72. [PMID: 14690883 DOI: 10.1080/13556210310001646457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Besides nicotine, other chemicals in tobacco smoke, such as norharman, may contribute to the addictive properties of cigarettes. More specifically, elevated blood plasma levels of norharman may reduce feelings of craving among tobacco-dependent individuals. To test this hypothesis, plasma concentrations of norharman were measured in 38 male smokers (at least 15 cigarettes per day) at three time-points on 3 different days spread over a 4-month period. The first measurement (T0) was conducted in the morning at 8.30 a.m., after 12 hours of smoking abstinence. The T1 and T2 measurements were conducted at 13.00 p.m. and 16.30 p.m., during a period of ad libitum smoking (after the T0 measurement, participants were not restricted in their smoking behaviour). At each of the nine time-points, craving was assessed by means of a shortened version of the Questionnaire of Smoking Urges. The Fagerström Test of Nicotine Dependence was used to obtain an indication of nicotine dependence. The results showed that, after a period of smoking abstinence, craving was stronger in those with a high tobacco dependence than in those with a low tobacco dependence. After resumption of smoking, craving declined to a similar low level in both low and high dependent smokers. Measurements during periods of ad libitum smoking indicate that plasma levels of norharman are related negatively to craving among low nicotine-dependent smokers, but not among high dependent smokers.
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Greube A, Rommelspacher H. Isolation and identification of two [(3)H]norharman- ([(3)H]beta-carboline)-binding proteins from rat liver. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2003; 784:155-68. [PMID: 12504194 DOI: 10.1016/s1570-0232(02)00786-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Norharman (9H-pyrido-[3,4-b]indol) represents a member of the mammalian alkaloids with the group name beta-carbolines. In mammals, it exhibits psychotropic and co-mutagenic actions. Highly specific [(3)H]norharman binding sites have been detected in the liver of rats (B(max): 11 pmol mg(-1) protein; K(D): lower nanomolar range). Two [(3)H]norharman binding proteins with apparent molecular masses of 60 and 80 kDa (SDS-PAGE) were isolated from rat liver crude membrane fraction and identified as the enzyme carboxylesterase (EC 3.1.1.1; 60 kDa) and the stress protein glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78; 78 kDa). Possible functional consequences of the interaction of norharman with these two proteins are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa Greube
- Free University of Berlin, Department of Clinical Neurobiology, Ulmenallee 30, D-14050, Berlin, Germany
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Louis ED, Zheng W, Jurewicz EC, Watner D, Chen J, Factor-Litvak P, Parides M. Elevation of blood beta-carboline alkaloids in essential tremor. Neurology 2002; 59:1940-4. [PMID: 12499487 PMCID: PMC4992345 DOI: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000038385.60538.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND beta-Carboline alkaloids are normal body constituents but are also potent tremor-producing chemicals that are naturally present in the food chain. OBJECTIVE To explore the hypothesis that high concentrations of beta-carboline alkaloids are associated with essential tremor (ET). METHODS One hundred cases and 100 controls were frequency matched on age, sex, and ethnicity. Blood concentrations of harmane and harmine were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography, blinded to clinical information. RESULTS The mean log blood concentration of harmane was higher in cases than controls (0.72 +/- 0.53 vs 0.51 +/- 0.64 g(-10)/mL; p = 0.01). A nonparametric test on nontransformed data (median harmane = 5.21 g(-10)/mL in cases and 2.28 g(-10)/mL in controls) confirmed this difference (p = 0.005). The mean log blood concentration of harmine was 0.20 +/- 0.48 g(-10)/mL in cases and 0.10 +/- 0.65 g (-10)/mL in controls (p = 0.20). Log harmane concentrations were stratified based on the median value; 62% of cases vs 39% of controls had a high log harmane concentration (p = 0.001). Mean log harmane concentration was similar in the cases with (0.74 +/- 0.58 g(-10)/mL) and without (0.71 +/- 0.50 g(-10)/mL) an affected relative (p = 0.83). CONCLUSIONS Blood concentrations of harmane were measured in ET cases compared with controls. Concentrations were elevated in cases with and without a family history of ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- E D Louis
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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Herraiz T. Identification and occurrence of the bioactive beta-carbolines norharman and harman in coffee brews. FOOD ADDITIVES AND CONTAMINANTS 2002; 19:748-54. [PMID: 12227938 DOI: 10.1080/02652030210145892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Norharman and harman, two heterocyclic beta-carboline alkaloids with biological activity, were found in brewed coffee. Identification and analysis were carried out by HPLC-MS and RP-HPLC-fluorescence, respectively. All tested samples of brewed coffee including ground coffee, decaffeinated coffee, instant coffee and espresso contained both norharman and harman in variable amounts. Norharman was the major beta-carboline alkaloid in brewed coffee at levels up to 9.34 microg g(-1) in instant ground coffee compared with harman, which had levels up to 1.67 microg g(-1). The two beta-carbolines appeared to be formed during roasting of the coffee beans. It is concluded that drinking coffee is a major exogenous dietary source of these bioactive beta-carboline alkaloids previously reported as mild psychoactive compounds in animal studies and in vitro co-mutagens. These results support our previous conclusion that foods containing beta-carbolines are an important exogenous source of these alkaloids in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Herraiz
- Spanish Council for Scientific Research, Instituto de Fermentaciones Industriales, CSIC, Juan de la Cierva 3, E-28006 Madrid, Spain.
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Gearhart DA, Neafsey EJ, Collins MA. Phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase has beta-carboline 2N-methyltransferase activity: hypothetical relevance to Parkinson's disease. Neurochem Int 2002; 40:611-20. [PMID: 11900856 DOI: 10.1016/s0197-0186(01)00115-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian brain has a beta-carboline 2N-methyltransferase activity that converts beta-carbolines, such as norharman and harman, into 2N-methylated beta-carbolinium cations, which are structural and functional analogs of the Parkinsonian-inducing toxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium cation (MPP+). The identity and physiological function of this beta-carboline 2N-methylation activity was previously unknown. We report pharmacological and biochemical evidence that phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (EC 2.1.1.28) has beta-carboline 2N-methyltransferase activity. Specifically, purified phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT) catalyzes the 2N-methylation (21.1 pmol/h per unit PNMT) of 9-methylnorharman, but not the 9N-methylation of 2-methylnorharmanium cation. LY134046, a selective inhibitor of phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase, inhibits (IC50 1.9 microM) the 2N-methylation of 9-methylnorharman, a substrate for beta-carboline 2N-methyltransferase. Substrates of phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase also inhibit beta-carboline 2N-methyltransferase activity in a concentration-dependent manner. beta-Carboline 2N-methyltransferase activity (43.7pmol/h/mg protein) is present in human adrenal medulla, a tissue with high phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase activity. We are investigating the potential role of N-methylated beta-carbolinium cations in the pathogenesis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Presuming that phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase activity forms toxic 2N-methylated beta-carbolinium cations, we propose a novel hypothesis regarding Parkinson's disease-a hypothesis that includes a role for phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase-catalyzed formation of MPP+ -like 2N-methylated beta-carbolinium cations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra A Gearhart
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta 30912-2000, USA.
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Rommelspacher H, Meier-Henco M, Smolka M, Kloft C. The levels of norharman are high enough after smoking to affect monoamineoxidase B in platelets. Eur J Pharmacol 2002; 441:115-25. [PMID: 12007928 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-2999(02)01452-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies suggest that smoking reduces the risk for Parkinson's disease. It has been hypothesized that inhibition of monoamineoxidase contributes to this action. The present study examined the contribution of the beta-carbolines norharman, an inhibitor of monoamineoxidase B, and harman, an inhibitor of monoamineoxidase A, which are present in high concentrations in tobacco smoke to the protective action. Nineteen active smokers and five nonsmokers smoked one and two cigarettes. The levels of norharman and harman increased in plasma from smokers and nonsmokers. Ex vivo saturation kinetic experiments revealed that the baseline affinity constant of monoamineoxidase in platelets from smokers was higher than that of nonsmokers in contrast to the maximum turnover rate, which did not differ. Acute smoking affected the monoamineoxidase in nonsmokers only. It is discussed that inhibition of both isoforms of monoamineoxidase is necessary for the neuroprotection and that both norharman and harman play an important role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Rommelspacher
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology, University Hospital Benjamin Franklin, Free University, Ulmenallee 32, 14050 Berlin, Germany.
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Spijkerman R, van den Eijnden R, van de Mheen D, Bongers I, Fekkes D. The impact of smoking and drinking on plasma levels of norharman. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2002; 12:61-71. [PMID: 11788242 DOI: 10.1016/s0924-977x(01)00143-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The hypothesized role of the beta-carboline norharman in processes of drug dependence forms the basis for several studies on plasma levels of norharman among substance-using populations, particularly among alcoholics and smokers. However, it is not clear whether norharman is implicated in processes of dependence to both substances, or only to tobacco smoke. In the present study plasma concentrations of norharman were measured among four groups of participants regarding heavy smokers who do or do not drink alcohol excessively and nonsmokers who do or do not drink alcohol excessively. All measurements were conducted on three different days with an interval of 2 months in between and at three times during the day to account for possible circadian or seasonal variations. Results showed that elevated plasma levels of norharman appear only in heavy smokers regardless of their drinking profile. The norharman plasma levels of nonsmoking excessive drinkers showed a similar pattern to that of the control group. The findings indicate that elevated plasma levels of norharman are due to heavy smoking and not to excessive drinking.
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Louis ED. Etiology of essential tremor: should we be searching for environmental causes? Mov Disord 2001; 16:822-9. [PMID: 11746611 DOI: 10.1002/mds.1183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- E D Louis
- The Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center and the Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.
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Cappendijk SL, Fekkes D, van Dalen A, Pepplinkhuizen L. The acute effects of norharman on cocaine self-administration and sensorimotor function in male Wistar rats. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2001; 11:233-9. [PMID: 11418284 DOI: 10.1016/s0924-977x(01)00090-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to determine the acute effects of the beta-carboline norharman on cocaine dependence. Male Wistar rats were allowed to self-administer cocaine for 3 h for seven sessions. A single injection of norharman (0.2-20 mg/kg, i.p.) was given 30 min before the onset of the seventh session. It was shown that norharman decreased the cocaine intake in a U-shaped manner with the dose of 10 mg/kg having the most potent effect. These results indicate that several receptor mechanisms mediate the effects of norharman. In addition, 15 min following the administration of norharman on session 7, motor and sensory skill tests were performed. Six naïve animals were tested with the dose, which has the most pronounced effect on cocaine self-administration intake, in order to examine whether the observed effects were due to norharman or due to the combination of norharman and cocaine. It was observed that norharman in both the naïve and cocaine-exposed animals significantly increased the response time in the somato-sensory orienting test. However, only in the naïve animals a significant effect of norharman on the grasp reflex was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S L Cappendijk
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Section of Pathophysiology of Behavior, Erasmus University Rotterdam, P.O. Box 1700, 3000 DR, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Fekkes D, Tuiten A, Bom I, Pepplinkhuizen L. Tryptophan: a precursor for the endogenous synthesis of norharman in man. Neurosci Lett 2001; 303:145-8. [PMID: 11323106 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3940(01)01750-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether in healthy subjects L-tryptophan may serve as a precursor for the endogenous synthesis of the beta-carboline norharman. For this purpose subjects, smokers as well as non-smokers, received 0 or 1.2 g of an oral dose of tryptophan. Smokers started the experiment 2 h after cessation of smoking. Plasma levels of tryptophan and norharman were measured 100 and 125 min after the start of the experiment. The levels of both compounds were significantly higher in the group receiving tryptophan. Norharman concentrations in the plasma of smokers were significantly higher than in the non-smoking subjects under both experimental conditions. These results add some proof to the hypothesis that in humans tryptophan may serve as a precursor for the synthesis of norharman.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Fekkes
- Department of Psychiatry, Section Pathophysiology of Behaviour, Erasmus University, The, Rotterdam, Netherlands.
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Stawowy P, Bonnet R, Rommelspacher H. The high-affinity binding of [3H]norharman ([3H]beta-carboline) to the ethanol-inducible cytochrome P450 2E1 in rat liver. Biochem Pharmacol 1999; 57:511-20. [PMID: 9952314 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-2952(98)00325-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
High-affinity binding sites of [3H]norharman (synonymous: [3H]beta-carboline) were characterized in microsomal membranes from rat liver utilizing various beta-carboline (BC) derivatives and substances binding to enzymes of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) superfamily (EC 1.14.14.1). Saturation experiments demonstrated that [3H]norharman binds with high-affinity (dissociation constant 20.86 nM; maximum binding 21.40 pmol/mg protein). Displacement experiments with the beta-carboline derivatives 6-methyl-BC and 6-hydroxy-BC revealed a better adaptation to the two-site model, indicating that [3H]norharman binds to at least two sites, with an affinity of the high-affinity site in the low nM range. Substances binding with relative preference to isozymes of the CYP superfamily displaced [3H]norharman with a lesser potency than unlabeled norharman. Imidazole, pyrazole, and 4-methylpyrazole, known as inducers of the ethanol-inducible CYP2E1, displaced [3H]norharman with relative high potency. Furthermore, binding experiments with microsomes from human lymphoblast-expressed rat CYP2E1 revealed a high-affinity binding site [inhibition constant (Ki) 13.21 nM] comparable to that of microsomal membranes for norharman. It was displaceable by ethanol (Ki 14.25 microM), indicating that norharman and ethanol bind to the same binding site on CYP2E1. In vivo experiments with rats which had ingested ethanol for two weeks revealed that norharman blood plasma levels were significantly elevated at the end of this period, supporting the notion of an interaction of norharman and ethanol metabolism. Since it has been demonstrated in the Ames test that norharman's comutagenic action is connected with microsomal membranes (containing CYP isozymes), the present findings suggest that the observed increase in the levels of norharman in alcoholics leads to further CYP enzyme induction and thereby contributes to the increased risk of carcinomas in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Stawowy
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology, University Hospital Benjamin Franklin, Free University of Berlin, Germany
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Lichtenberg-Kraag B, Klinker JF, Mühlbauer E, Rommelspacher H. The natural beta-carbolines facilitate inositol phosphate accumulation by activating small G-proteins in human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y). Neuropharmacology 1997; 36:1771-8. [PMID: 9517450 DOI: 10.1016/s0028-3908(97)00167-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The naturally occurring beta-carbolines exert psychotropic actions in humans and have numerous behavioral effects in animals. The known in vitro activities of these substances do not provide a satisfactory explanation for their in vivo effects. The present study was undertaken to explore the possibility of a specific signal transduction pathway. The human neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y was used as a model system. High-affinity binding sites for [3H]norharman (synonymous: beta-carboline) were detected. Pharmacological characterization revealed displacement of the ligand by beta-carbolines, to a weaker extent by indoleamines, but not by opioids, muscarinic receptor agonists, metabotropic glutamate receptor agonists or several peptide neurotransmitters. Inositol phosphate accumulation was only slightly affected by the beta-carbolines. However, the action of carbachol was clearly facilitated in a dose-dependent and pertussis toxin-insensitive manner. Pretreatment of the cells with Clostridium difficile toxin B blocked the facilitating effect of the beta-carbolines by concentrations which did not affect the action of carbachol alone. This suggests that low molecular weight GTP-binding proteins are involved in the facilitating action of the beta-carbolines. This mechanism was further supported by experiments measuring the concentrations of phosphatidylinositol phosphates after various activating compounds. In conclusion, the facilitating effect of beta-carbolines on inositol phosphate accumulation could play a part in the actions of beta-carbolines and may be produced by stimulating the generation of phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns-4,5-P2), the key component in the activation of phosphoinositide-phospholipase C.
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Verheij R, Timmerman L, Passchier J, Fekkes D, Pepplinkhuizen L. Trait anxiety, coping with stress, and norharman. Psychol Rep 1997; 80:51-9. [PMID: 9122352 DOI: 10.2466/pr0.1997.80.1.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Plasma levels of the beta-carboline norharman, concentration of platelet 5-HT, trait measures of anxiety, and measures of coping and defense mechanisms were compared for 15 patients with panic disorder and 24 healthy volunteers. Patients indicated that they made less use of the defense mechanism of principalization than control subjects. No other differences between patients and controls were significant. Platelet 5-HT concentration was positively correlated with the subjectively reported anxiety. Plasma norharman concentration was negatively correlated with the defense mechanisms of principalization and repression and positively correlated with coping strategies involving palliation. The positive correlations of norharman levels with projection and self-comforting fell short of significance and existed in the patient group only. No correlation was apparent between levels of plasma norharman and scores on anxiety. It was concluded that norharman is not a marker for panic disorder or trait anxiety, but that it might reflect intrapsychic and coping processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Verheij
- Erasmus University Rotterdam, Faculty of Medicine, Section of Pathophysiology of Behavior, The Netherlands.
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Cheng J, Mitchelson KR. Improved separation of six harmane alkaloids by high-performance capillary electrophoresis. J Chromatogr A 1997. [DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9673(96)00785-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Abstract
Norharman is a ß-carboline, possibly of endogenous origin, although cigarette smoking and food are sources too. In brain specific binding sites have been demonstrated. In higher doses norharman binds to benzodiazepine receptors and has MAO-B inhibitory activity. From animal experiments it can be concluded that norharman induces sedation and muscle relaxation. A role in psychosis is unclear, a role in the pathogenesis in anxiety is possible, but has to be further substantiated. As current research suggests, norharman may be an important factor in addiction and withdrawal.
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Rommelspacher H, Dufeu P, Schmidt LG. Harman and norharman in alcoholism: correlations with psychopathology and long-term changes. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 1996; 20:3-8. [PMID: 8651457 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.1996.tb01034.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
In the search for mechanisms specific for alcoholism, it has become evident that beta-carbolines (BCs; e.g., harman and norharman) are compounds that may act on brain reward systems, thereby mediating an increase in voluntary ethanol (ETOH) drinking in animals. This study was undertaken to analyze relationships between these compounds and clinical variables (e.g., family history, personality data, and affect) in alcoholics and to trace the time course of blood concentrations in subjects abstaining from alcohol for at least 6 months. Nonalcoholics were investigated during sober and ETOH-loading conditions (1 g ETOH/kg body weight). Levels of harman were elevated in the chronically intoxicated alcoholics and correlated with the scores on the self-rating depression (SDS) and the self-rating anxiety (SAS) scales. The group of alcoholics with at least one alcoholic parent had higher levels than the group without such a history. Levels remained elevated for 6 months. Norharman levels were only slightly elevated on the day of admission. They were correlated to high harm avoidance and SDS scores. A family history of alcoholism and the severity of alcoholism as assessed by the number of ICD-10 criteria fulfilled were correlated with norharman levels. Long-term observation revealed elevated levels of norharman after 3 months of abstinence, but not after 6 months. The association of harman levels with anxiety and depression demonstrated in the present study suggests that alcoholics with high harman levels use alcoholic beverages as self-medication in an attempt to overcome possible anxiogenic/depressiogenic actions of harman. Norharman levels are less strongly associated with these mood states, but significantly correlated to harm avoidance tendencies. It has been suggested that the activity of the indolergic neurons is relatively high in individuals with a high harm avoidance score. Biosynthesis of norharman might be stimulated under these conditions (tryptamine serves as precursor).
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Affiliation(s)
- H Rommelspacher
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology, Free University, Berlin, Germany
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