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Kim AT, Li S, Kim Y, You YJ, Park Y. Food preference-based screening method for identification of effectors of substance use disorders using Caenorhabditis elegans. Life Sci 2024; 345:122580. [PMID: 38514005 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Substance use disorder (SUD) affects over 48 million Americans aged 12 and over. Thus, identifying novel chemicals contributing to SUD will be critical for developing efficient prevention and mitigation strategies. Considering the complexity of the actions and effects of these substances on human behavior, a high-throughput platform using a living organism is ideal. We developed a quick and easy screening assay using Caenorhabditis elegans. C. elegans prefers high-quality food (Escherichia coli HB101) over low-quality food (Bacillus megaterium), with a food preference index of approximately 0.2, defined as the difference in the number of worms at E. coli HB101 and B. megaterium over the total worm number. The food preference index was significantly increased by loperamide, a μ-opioid receptor (MOPR) agonist, and decreased by naloxone, a MOPR antagonist. These changes depended on npr-17, a C. elegans homolog of opioid receptors. In addition, the food preference index was significantly increased by arachidonyl-2'-chloroethylamide, a cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) agonist, and decreased by rimonabant, a CB1R inverse agonist. These changes depended on npr-19, a homolog of CB1R. These results suggest that the conserved opioid and endocannabinoid systems modulate the food preference behaviors of C. elegans. Finally, the humanoid C. elegans strains where npr-17 was replaced with human MOPR and where npr-19 was replaced with human CB1R phenocopied the changes in food preference by the drug treatment. Together, the current results show that this method can be used to rapidly screen the potential effectors of MOPR and CB1R to yield results highly translatable to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Taehwan Kim
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Sida Li
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Yoo Kim
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Young-Jai You
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Yeonhwa Park
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA.
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2
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Bietar B, Tanner S, Lehmann C. Neuroprotection and Beyond: The Central Role of CB1 and CB2 Receptors in Stroke Recovery. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16728. [PMID: 38069049 PMCID: PMC10705908 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system, with its intricate presence in numerous cells, tissues, and organs, offers a compelling avenue for therapeutic interventions. Central to this system are the cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1R and CB2R), whose ubiquity can introduce complexities in targeted treatments due to their wide-ranging physiological influence. Injuries to the central nervous system (CNS), including strokes and traumatic brain injuries, induce localized pro-inflammatory immune responses, termed neuroinflammation. Research has shown that compensatory immunodepression usually follows, and these mechanisms might influence immunity, potentially affecting infection risks in patients. As traditional preventive treatments like antibiotics face challenges, the exploration of immunomodulatory therapies offers a promising alternative. This review delves into the potential neuroprotective roles of the cannabinoid receptors: CB1R's involvement in mitigating excitotoxicity and CB2R's dual role in promoting cell survival and anti-inflammatory responses. However, the potential of cannabinoids to reduce neuroinflammation must be weighed against the risk of exacerbating immunodepression. Though the endocannabinoid system promises numerous therapeutic benefits, understanding its multifaceted signaling mechanisms and outcomes remains a challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashir Bietar
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (B.B.); (S.T.)
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management, and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Sophie Tanner
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (B.B.); (S.T.)
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management, and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Christian Lehmann
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (B.B.); (S.T.)
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management, and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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3
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van der Heijden AR, Houben T. Lipids in major depressive disorder: new kids on the block or old friends revisited? Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1213011. [PMID: 37663599 PMCID: PMC10469871 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1213011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a psychiatric mood disorder that results in substantial functional impairment and is characterized by symptoms such as depressed mood, diminished interest, impaired cognitive function, and vegetative symptoms such as disturbed sleep. Although the exact etiology of MDD is unclear, several underlying mechanisms (disturbances in immune response and/or stress response) have been associated with its development, with no single mechanism able to account for all aspects of the disorder. Currently, about 1 in 3 patients are resistant to current antidepressant therapies. Providing an alternative perspective on MDD could therefore pave the way for new, unexplored diagnostic and therapeutic solutions. The central nervous system harbors an enormous pool of lipids and lipid intermediates that have been linked to a plethora of its physiological functions. The aim of this review is therefore to provide an overview of the implications of lipids in MDD and highlight certain MDD-related underlying mechanisms that involve lipids and/or their intermediates. Furthermore, we will also focus on the bidirectional relationship between MDD and the lipid-related disorders obesity and type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tom Houben
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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4
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Oddi S, Fiorenza MT, Maccarrone M. Endocannabinoid signaling in adult hippocampal neurogenesis: A mechanistic and integrated perspective. Prog Lipid Res 2023; 91:101239. [PMID: 37385352 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2023.101239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Dentate gyrus of the hippocampus continuously gives rise to new neurons, namely, adult-born granule cells, which contribute to conferring plasticity to the mature brain throughout life. Within this neurogenic region, the fate and behavior of neural stem cells (NSCs) and their progeny result from a complex balance and integration of a variety of cell-autonomous and cell-to-cell-interaction signals and underlying pathways. Among these structurally and functionally diverse signals, there are endocannabinoids (eCBs), the main brain retrograde messengers. These pleiotropic bioactive lipids can directly and/or indirectly influence adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) by modulating, both positively and negatively, multiple molecular and cellular processes in the hippocampal niche, depending on the cell type or stage of differentiation. Firstly, eCBs act directly as cell-intrinsic factors, cell-autonomously produced by NSCs following their stimulation. Secondly, in many, if not all, niche-associated cells, including some local neuronal and nonneuronal elements, the eCB system indirectly modulates the neurogenesis, linking neuronal and glial activity to regulating distinct stages of AHN. Herein, we discuss the crosstalk of the eCB system with other neurogenesis-relevant signal pathways and speculate how the hippocampus-dependent neurobehavioral effects elicited by (endo)cannabinergic medications are interpretable in light of the key regulatory role that eCBs play on AHN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Oddi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy; European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Teresa Fiorenza
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy; Department of Psychology, Division of Neuroscience and "Daniel Bovet" Neurobiology Research Center, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Sardi 70, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy; Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio Snc, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
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5
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Szala-Rycaj J, Szewczyk A, Zagaja M, Kaczmarczyk-Ziemba A, Maj M, Andres-Mach M. The Influence of Topinambur and Inulin Preventive Supplementation on Microbiota, Anxious Behavior, Cognitive Functions and Neurogenesis in Mice Exposed to the Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress. Nutrients 2023; 15:2041. [PMID: 37432210 DOI: 10.3390/nu15092041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Daily living and functioning under stress can lead to mental health problems such as anxiety or depression. Over the past decades, a number of studies have been conducted to determine the relationship between the central nervous system (CNS), intestinal flora and bidirectional communication along the gut brain axis (GBA) in the maintaining of homeostasis. One of the most important factors regulating GBA functioning in exposure to stress may be a proper diet enriched in the supplementation with pre-, pro-and synbiotics. In the present study, we examined whether a 10-week oral preventive supplementation with natural prebiotics: topinambur powder (TPB) and chicory root inulin (INU) influenced an anxiety, depressive behavior and cognition in mice exposed to the chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). Additionally, a fluoxetine (FLU) has been used as a reference antidepressive drug. Furthermore, we assessed the effect of TPB, INU and FLU administration on neurogenesis in mice exposed to CUMS and finally analyzed fecal microbiota for possible changes after TPB and INU supplementation in CUMS induced mice. Results obtained from the behavioral studies (elevated plaze maze, forced swim and Morris water maze test) indicated, that 10 week supplementation with TPB (250 mg/kg) and INU (66 mg/kg), similarly to FLU (12 mg/kg), significantly mitigated an anxiety and stress as well as protected learning and memory functions in the CUMS induced mice compared to the control stressed group. Additionally, TPB and INU CUMS mice showed significantly higher level of neurogenesis in comparison to control CUMS group. Interestingly, results obtained from the fecal microbiota analysis showed a beneficial effect of TPB and INU supplementation against CUMS-induced intestinal dysbiosis in mice. In conclusion, the obtained results showed that a long-term, preventive supplementation with TPB or INU alleviates the negative effects such as anxiety, cognitive disorders or dysbiosis in mice exposed to chronic unpredictable stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Szala-Rycaj
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Szewczyk
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mirosław Zagaja
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk-Ziemba
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics and Biosystematics, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, WitaStwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maciej Maj
- Department of Biopharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4A, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Andres-Mach
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
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6
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Szewczyk A, Andres-Mach M, Zagaja M, Kaczmarczyk-Ziemba A, Maj M, Szala-Rycaj J. The Effect of a Diet Enriched with Jerusalem artichoke, Inulin, and Fluoxetine on Cognitive Functions, Neurogenesis, and the Composition of the Intestinal Microbiota in Mice. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:2561-2579. [PMID: 36975538 PMCID: PMC10047150 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45030168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to assess the effect of long-term administration of natural prebiotics: Jerusalem artichoke (topinambur, TPB) and inulin (INU) as well as one of the most popular antidepressants, fluoxetine (FLU), on the proliferation of neural stem cells, learning and memory functions, and the composition of the intestinal microbiota in mice. Cognitive functions were assessed using the Morris Water Maze (MWM)Test. Cells were counted using a confocal microscope and ImageJ software. We performed 16S rRNA sequencing to assess changes in the gut microbiome of the mice. The obtained results showed that the 10-week supplementation with TPB (250 mg/kg) and INU (66 mg/kg) stimulates the growth of probiotic bacteria, does not affect the learning and memory process, and does not disturb the proliferation of neural stem cells in the tested animals. Based on this data, we can assume that both TPB and INU seem to be safe for the proper course of neurogenesis. However, 2-week administration of FLU confirmed an inhibitory impact on Lactobacillus growth and negatively affected behavioral function and neurogenesis in healthy animals. The above studies suggest that the natural prebiotics TPB and INU, as natural supplements, may have the potential to enrich the diversity of intestinal microbiota, which may be beneficial for the BGM axis, cognitive functions, and neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Szewczyk
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Andres-Mach
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mirosław Zagaja
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kaczmarczyk-Ziemba
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics and Biosystematics, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maciej Maj
- Department of Biopharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4A, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Joanna Szala-Rycaj
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
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7
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Cannabinoid and endocannabinoid system: a promising therapeutic intervention for multiple sclerosis. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:5117-5131. [PMID: 35182322 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07223-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and complex neurodegenerative disease, distinguished by the presence of lesions in the central nervous system (CNS) due to exacerbated immunological responses that inflict oligodendrocytes and the myelin sheath of axons. In recent years, studies have focused on targeted therapeutics for MS that emphasize the role of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), specifically cannabinoids receptors. Clinical studies have suggested the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids derived from Cannabis sativa in relieving pain, tremors and spasticity. Cannabinoids also appear to prevent exaggerated immune responses in CNS due to compromised blood-brain barrier. Both, endocannabinoid system (ECS) modulators and cannabinoid ligands actively promote oligodendrocyte survival by regulating signaling, migration and myelination of nerve cells. The cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) of ECS are the main ones in focus for therapeutic intervention of MS. Various CB1/CB2 receptors agonists have been experimentally studied which showed anti-inflammatory properties and are considered to be effective as potential therapeutics for MS. In this review, we focused on the exacerbated immune attack on nerve cells and the role of the cannabinoids and its interaction with the ECS in CNS during MS pathology.
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8
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Gallego-Landin I, García-Baos A, Castro-Zavala A, Valverde O. Reviewing the Role of the Endocannabinoid System in the Pathophysiology of Depression. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:762738. [PMID: 34938182 PMCID: PMC8685322 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.762738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is a high-impact, debilitating disease and it is currently considered the most prevalent mental illness. It is associated with disability, as well as increased morbidity and mortality. Despite its significant repercussions in our society, its exact pathophysiology remains unclear and therefore, available antidepressant treatment options are limited and, in some cases, ineffective. In the past years, research has focused on the development of a multifactorial theory of depression. Simultaneously, evidence supporting the role of the endocannabinoid system in the neurobiology of neuropsychiatric diseases has emerged. Studies have shown that the endocannabinoid system strongly impacts neurotransmission, and the neuroendocrine and neuroimmune systems, which are known to be dysfunctional in depressive patients. Accordingly, common antidepressants were shown to have a direct impact on the expression of cannabinoid receptors throughout the brain. Therefore, the relationship between the endocannabinoid system and major depressive disorder is worth consideration. Nevertheless, most studies focus on smaller pieces of what is undoubtedly a larger mosaic of interdependent processes. Therefore, the present review summarizes the existing literature regarding the role of the endocannabinoid system in depression aiming to integrate this information into a holistic picture for a better understanding of the relationship between the two.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Gallego-Landin
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alba García-Baos
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adriana Castro-Zavala
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Valverde
- Neurobiology of Behaviour Research Group (GReNeC—NeuroBio), Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
- Neuroscience Research Programme, IMIM-Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
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9
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Valeri A, Mazzon E. Cannabinoids and Neurogenesis: The Promised Solution for Neurodegeneration? Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26206313. [PMID: 34684894 PMCID: PMC8541184 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26206313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of neurons as irreplaceable cells does not hold true today. Experiments and evidence of neurogenesis, also, in the adult brain give hope that some compounds or drugs can enhance this process, helping to reverse the outcomes of diseases or traumas that once were thought to be everlasting. Cannabinoids, both from natural and artificial origins, already proved to have several beneficial effects (e.g., anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidants and analgesic action), but also capacity to increase neuronal population, by replacing the cells that were lost and/or regenerate a damaged nerve cell. Neurogenesis is a process which is not highly represented in literature as neuroprotection, though it is as important as prevention of nervous system damage, because it can represent a possible solution when neuronal death is already present, such as in neurodegenerative diseases. The aim of this review is to resume the experimental evidence of phyto- and synthetic cannabinoids effects on neurogenesis, both in vitro and in vivo, in order to elucidate if they possess also neurogenetic and neurorepairing properties.
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10
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Szewczyk A, Zagaja M, Szala-Rycaj J, Maj M, Andres-Mach M. Effect of Lacosamide and Ethosuximide Chronic Treatment on Neural Precursor Cells and Cognitive Functions after Pilocarpine Induced Status Epilepticus in Mice. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11081014. [PMID: 34439633 PMCID: PMC8392532 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11081014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Seizures in about 40% of patients with epilepsy fail to respond to anti-seizure medication (ASM) and may lead to uncontrolled and prolonged seizures often inducing status epilepticus (SE). The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of a long-term treatment with two different generation ASMs: ethosuximide (ETS, a classic ASM) and lacosamide (LCM, a 3rd generation ASM) on neural stem cells’ (NSCs’) proliferation and learning and memory functions after pilocarpine (PILO)-induced SE in mice. The following drugs were used: LCM (10 mg/kg), ETS (20 mg/kg), and PILO (300 mg/kg). Cell counting was done using confocal microscope and ImageJ software. Cognitive functions were evaluated with the Morris water maze (MWM) test. The level of several selected neurometabolites was measured with magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Obtained results indicated no significant impact of ETS treatment on the neurogenesis process in PILO mice. Interestingly, LCM significantly decreased the total amount of newborn neurons. The MWM test indicated no significant changes in the time and distance traveled by the ETS and LCM groups compared to PILO control mice, although all measured parameters were more favorable for the PILO mice treated with ASM. Conclusions: The presented results show that long term treatment with LCM and ETS seems to be safe for the cognitive functions and the proper course of neurogenesis in the mouse PILO-induced SE model, although one should remember that LCM administered chronically may act to reduce new neurons’ formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Szewczyk
- Isobolographic Analysis Laboratory, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (M.Z.); (J.S.-R.)
| | - Mirosław Zagaja
- Isobolographic Analysis Laboratory, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (M.Z.); (J.S.-R.)
| | - Joanna Szala-Rycaj
- Isobolographic Analysis Laboratory, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (M.Z.); (J.S.-R.)
| | - Maciej Maj
- Department of Biopharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4A, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Marta Andres-Mach
- Isobolographic Analysis Laboratory, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (M.Z.); (J.S.-R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-81-718-4488
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11
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C-11, a New Antiepileptic Drug Candidate: Evaluation of the Physicochemical Properties and Impact on the Protective Action of Selected Antiepileptic Drugs in the Mouse Maximal Electroshock-Induced Seizure Model. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26113144. [PMID: 34074008 PMCID: PMC8197310 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
C-11 is a hybrid compound derived from 2-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl) propanamide, with a wide spectrum of anticonvulsant activity and low neurotoxicity. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of C-11 on the protective action of various antiepileptic drugs (i.e., carbamazepine CBZ, lacosamide LCM, lamotrigine LTG, and valproate VPA) against maximal electroshock-induced seizures (MES) in mice, as well as its neuroprotective and physicochemical/pharmacokinetic properties. Results indicate that C-11 (30 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly enhanced the anticonvulsant action of LCM (p < 0.001) and VPA (p < 0.05) but not that of CBZ and LTG in the MES test. Neither C-11 (30 mg/kg) alone nor its combination with other anticonvulsant drugs (at their ED50 values from the MES test) affected motor coordination; skeletal muscular strength and long-term memory, as determined in the chimney; grip strength and passive avoidance tests, respectively. Pharmacokinetic characterization revealed that C-11 had no impact on total brain concentrations of LCM or VPA in mice. Qualitative analysis of neuroprotective properties of C-11, after a single administration of pilocarpine, revealed no protective effect of this substance in the tested animals. Determination of physicochemical descriptors showed that C-11 meets the drug-likeness requirements resulting from Lipinski and Veber’s rules and prediction of gastrointestinal absorption and brain penetration, which is extremely important for the CNS-active compounds.
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12
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Andres-Mach M, Szewczyk A, Zagaja M, Szala-Rycaj J, Lemieszek MK, Maj M, Abram M, Kaminski K. Preclinical Assessment of a New Hybrid Compound C11 Efficacy on Neurogenesis and Cognitive Functions after Pilocarpine Induced Status Epilepticus in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063240. [PMID: 33810180 PMCID: PMC8004689 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) is a frequent medical emergency that can lead to a variety of neurological disorders, including cognitive impairment and abnormal neurogenesis. The aim of the presented study was the in vitro evaluation of potential neuroprotective properties of a new pyrrolidine-2,5-dione derivatives compound C11, as well as the in vivo assessment of the impact on the neurogenesis and cognitive functions of C11 and levetiracetam (LEV) after pilocarpine (PILO)-induced SE in mice. The in vitro results indicated a protective effect of C11 (500, 1000, and 2500 ng/mL) on astrocytes under trophic stress conditions in the MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test. The results obtained from the in vivo studies, where mice 72 h after PILO SE were treated with C11 (20 mg/kg) and LEV (10 mg/kg), indicated markedly beneficial effects of C11 on the improvement of the neurogenesis compared to the PILO control and PILO LEV mice. Moreover, this beneficial effect was reflected in the Morris Water Maze test evaluating the cognitive functions in mice. The in vitro confirmed protective effect of C11 on astrocytes, as well as the in vivo demonstrated beneficial impact on neurogenesis and cognitive functions, strongly indicate the need for further advanced molecular research on this compound to determine the exact neuroprotective mechanism of action of C11.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Andres-Mach
- Isobolographic Analysis Laboratory, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (M.Z.); (J.S.-R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-81-718-4488
| | - Aleksandra Szewczyk
- Isobolographic Analysis Laboratory, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (M.Z.); (J.S.-R.)
| | - Mirosław Zagaja
- Isobolographic Analysis Laboratory, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (M.Z.); (J.S.-R.)
| | - Joanna Szala-Rycaj
- Isobolographic Analysis Laboratory, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (M.Z.); (J.S.-R.)
| | | | - Maciej Maj
- Department of Biopharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4A, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Michał Abram
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Cracow, Poland; (M.A.); (K.K.)
| | - Krzysztof Kaminski
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Cracow, Poland; (M.A.); (K.K.)
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Lourenço DM, Ribeiro-Rodrigues L, Sebastião AM, Diógenes MJ, Xapelli S. Neural Stem Cells and Cannabinoids in the Spotlight as Potential Therapy for Epilepsy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7309. [PMID: 33022963 PMCID: PMC7582633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common brain diseases worldwide, having a huge burden in society. The main hallmark of epilepsy is the occurrence of spontaneous recurrent seizures, having a tremendous impact on the lives of the patients and of their relatives. Currently, the therapeutic strategies are mostly based on the use of antiepileptic drugs, and because several types of epilepsies are of unknown origin, a high percentage of patients are resistant to the available pharmacotherapy, continuing to experience seizures overtime. Therefore, the search for new drugs and therapeutic targets is highly important. One key aspect to be targeted is the aberrant adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) derived from Neural Stem Cells (NSCs). Indeed, targeting seizure-induced AHN may reduce recurrent seizures and shed some light on the mechanisms of disease. The endocannabinoid system is a known modulator of AHN, and due to the known endogenous antiepileptic properties, it is an interesting candidate for the generation of new antiepileptic drugs. However, further studies and clinical trials are required to investigate the putative mechanisms by which cannabinoids can be used to treat epilepsy. In this manuscript, we will review how cannabinoid-induced modulation of NSCs may promote neural plasticity and whether these drugs can be used as putative antiepileptic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo M. Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Leonor Ribeiro-Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M. Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria J. Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (D.M.L.); (L.R.-R.); (A.M.S.); (M.J.D.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
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14
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An D, Peigneur S, Hendrickx LA, Tytgat J. Targeting Cannabinoid Receptors: Current Status and Prospects of Natural Products. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5064. [PMID: 32709050 PMCID: PMC7404216 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), as part of the endocannabinoid system, play a critical role in numerous human physiological and pathological conditions. Thus, considerable efforts have been made to develop ligands for CB1 and CB2, resulting in hundreds of phyto- and synthetic cannabinoids which have shown varying affinities relevant for the treatment of various diseases. However, only a few of these ligands are clinically used. Recently, more detailed structural information for cannabinoid receptors was revealed thanks to the powerfulness of cryo-electron microscopy, which now can accelerate structure-based drug discovery. At the same time, novel peptide-type cannabinoids from animal sources have arrived at the scene, with their potential in vivo therapeutic effects in relation to cannabinoid receptors. From a natural products perspective, it is expected that more novel cannabinoids will be discovered and forecasted as promising drug leads from diverse natural sources and species, such as animal venoms which constitute a true pharmacopeia of toxins modulating diverse targets, including voltage- and ligand-gated ion channels, G protein-coupled receptors such as CB1 and CB2, with astonishing affinity and selectivity. Therefore, it is believed that discovering novel cannabinoids starting from studying the biodiversity of the species living on planet earth is an uncharted territory.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N 2, Herestraat 49, P.O. Box 922, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.A.); (S.P.); (L.A.H.)
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15
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Oláh A, Alam M, Chéret J, Kis NG, Hegyi Z, Szöllősi AG, Vidali S, Bíró T, Paus R. Mitochondrial energy metabolism is negatively regulated by cannabinoid receptor 1 in intact human epidermis. Exp Dermatol 2020; 29:616-622. [PMID: 32367548 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Epidermal energy metabolism is relevant to skin physiology, ageing and photodamage. While selected hormones stimulate epidermal keratinocyte mitochondrial activity, its negative regulation remains unknown. In several cell types, cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1 ) is expressed both on the cell membrane (cmCB1 ) and on the mitochondrial outer membrane (mtCB1 ), where its stimulation directly suppresses mitochondrial functions. In the current pilot study, we investigated if CB1 is a negative regulator of human epidermal energy metabolism under physiological conditions. Using organ-cultured full-thickness human skin specimens of healthy individuals, we showed that antagonizing the homeostatic CB1 signalling by the administration of the CB1 inverse agonist AM251 increased respiratory chain complex I and II/IV activity. The effect was CB1 -dependent, since the CB1 -selective agonist arachidonyl-2'-chloroethylamide could prevent the effect. Moreover, the phenomenon was also reproduced by siRNA-mediated down-regulation of CB1 . As revealed by the unaltered expression of several relevant markers (TFAM, VDAC1, MTCO1 and NDUFS4), modulation of CB1 signalling had no effect on the epidermal mitochondrial mass. Next, by using immunoelectron microscopy, we found that human epidermal keratinocytes express both cmCB1 and mtCB1 . Finally, by using equipotent extracellularly restricted (hemopressin) as well as cell-permeable (AM251) inverse agonists, we found that mitochondrial activity is most likely exclusively regulated by mtCB1 . Thus, our data identify mtCB1 as a novel negative regulator of keratinocyte mitochondrial activity in intact human epidermis, and raise the question, whether topical therapeutic interventions capable of selectively activating mtCB1 can reduce excessive mitochondrial ROS production resulting from dysregulated mitochondrial activity during skin ageing or photodamage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila Oláh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Majid Alam
- Monasterium Laboratory Skin & Hair Research Solutions GmbH, Münster, Germany.,Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Jérémy Chéret
- Monasterium Laboratory Skin & Hair Research Solutions GmbH, Münster, Germany.,Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Nikolett Gréta Kis
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Hegyi
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Attila Gábor Szöllősi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Silvia Vidali
- Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Tamás Bíró
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ralf Paus
- Monasterium Laboratory Skin & Hair Research Solutions GmbH, Münster, Germany.,Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Centre for Dermatology Research, NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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16
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Endocannabinoid system and adult neurogenesis: a focused review. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2019; 50:25-32. [PMID: 31864101 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (eCB) is a ubiquitous lipid signaling system composed of at least two receptors, their endogenous ligands, and the enzymes responsible for their synthesis and degradation. Within the brain, the eCB system is highly expressed in the hippocampus and controls basic biological processes, including neuronal proliferation, migration and differentiation, which are intimately linked with embryonal neurogenesis. Accumulated preclinical evidence has indicated that eCBs play a major role also in regulating adult neurogenesis. Increased cannabinoid receptor activity, either by increased eCB content or by pharmacological blockade of their degradation, produces neurogenic effects alongside rescue of phenotypes in animal models of different psychiatric and neurological disorders. Therefore, in the light of the higher therapeutic potential of adult neurogenesis compared to the embryonic one, here we sought to summarize the most recent evidence pointing towards a neurogenic role for eCBs in the adult brain, both under normal and pathological conditions.
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17
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Evaluation of the impact of compound C11 a new anticonvulsant candidate on cognitive functions and hippocampal neurogenesis in mouse brain. Neuropharmacology 2019; 163:107849. [PMID: 31706991 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Searching for the new and effective anticonvulsants in our previous study we developed a new hybrid compound C-11 derived from 2-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl) propanamide. C11 revealed high efficacy in acute animal seizure models such as the maximal electroshock model (MES), the pentylenetetrazole model (PTZ) and the 6 Hz (6 Hz, 32 mA) seizure model, as well as in the kindling model of epilepsy induced by repeated injection of PTZ in mice. In the aim of further in vivo C11 characterization, in the current studies we evaluated its influence on cognitive functions, neurodegeneration and neurogenesis process in mice after chronical treatment. All experiments were performed on 6 weeks old male C57/BL mice. The following drugs were used: C11, levetiracetam (LEV), ethosuximide (ETS) and lacosamide (LCM). We analyzed proliferation, migration and differentiation of newborn cells as well as neurodegenerative changes in a mouse brain after long-term treatment with aforementioned AEDs. Additionally, we evaluated changes in learning and memory functions in response to chronic C11, LEV, LCM and ETS treatment. C11 as well as LEV and ETS did not disturb the proliferation of newborn cells compared to the control mice, whereas LCM treatment significantly decreased it. Chronic AEDs therapy did not induce significant neurodegenerative changes. Behavioral studies with using Morris Water Maze test did not indicate any disturbances in the spatial learning and memory after C11 as well as LEV and ETS treatment in comparison to the control group except LCM mice where significant dysfunctions in time, distance and direct swim to the platform were observed. Interestingly, results obtained from in vivo MRI spectroscopy showed a statistically significant increase of one of the neurometabolites- N-acetyloaspartate (NAA) for LCM and LEV mice. A new hybrid compound C11 in contrast to LCM has no negative impact on the process of neurogenesis and neurodegeneration in the mouse hippocampus. Furthermore, chronic treatment with C11 turned out to have no negative impact on cognitive functions of treated mice, which, is certainly of great importance for further more advanced preclinical and especially clinical trials.
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18
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何 玲, 石 晓, 徐 伟, 谭 辉, 王 键. [Effect of Naoluo Xintong on proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells and β-tubulin Ⅲ/GFAP]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2019; 39:964-971. [PMID: 31511218 PMCID: PMC6765604 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2019.08.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To observe the effects of Naoluo Xintong on the expression of β-tubulin Ⅲ and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and the proliferation and differentiation of murine neural stem cells (NSCs) in vitro. METHODS An immortalized murine NSC line was divided into model control (MC) group, 10% Naoluo Xintong drug-containing serum group (NLXT group), and 10% Naoluoxintong drug-containing serum with inhibitor Y27632 group (Y-27632 group) with corresponding treatments. The activity of the NSCs was detected after the treatments using MTT assay, and the migration of the cells was observed with Transwell assay. The expressions of β-tubulin Ⅲ, GFAP and MAP-2 proteins in the cells were detected with immunoblotting, and the expressions of DCX, NEUN, and β-tubulin Ⅲ were also detected with immunofluorescence assay. RESULTS Compared with that in MC group, the number of migrated cells in NLXT group and Y-27632 group increased significantly at 1 day and 3 days after induction (P < 0.05). The survival rate and the number of migrated cells in NLXT group and Y-27632 group increased significantly on day 7 (P < 0.01). Compared with those in MC group, the expressions of β-tubulin Ⅲ, MAP2 and GFAP protein in NLXT group and Y-27632 group were significantly increased on days 3 (P < 0.01) and 7 (P < 0.05). The numbers of β-tubulinⅢ/ GFAP, BrdU/DCX, and BrdU/NEUN labeled cells in the NLXT group and Y-27632 group were significantly greater than those in the MC group. CONCLUSIONS Naoluo Xintong promotes the proliferation and differentiation of murine NSCs in vitro by regulating the expressions of β-tubulinⅢ/GFAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- 玲 何
- 安徽中医药大学 新安医学教育部重点实验室,安徽 合肥 230021Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medical Education, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230021, China
| | - 晓倩 石
- 安徽中医药大学 药学院,安徽 合肥 230021College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230021, China
| | - 伟 徐
- 安徽中医药大学 医药信息工程学院,安徽 合肥 230021College of Information Engineering, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230021, China
| | - 辉 谭
- 安徽中医药大学 新安医学教育部重点实验室,安徽 合肥 230021Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medical Education, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230021, China
| | - 键 王
- 安徽中医药大学 新安医学教育部重点实验室,安徽 合肥 230021Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medical Education, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230021, China
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19
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Rodrigues RS, Lourenço DM, Paulo SL, Mateus JM, Ferreira MF, Mouro FM, Moreira JB, Ribeiro FF, Sebastião AM, Xapelli S. Cannabinoid Actions on Neural Stem Cells: Implications for Pathophysiology. Molecules 2019; 24:E1350. [PMID: 30959794 PMCID: PMC6480122 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24071350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increase of life expectancy, neurodegenerative disorders are becoming not only a health but also a social burden worldwide. However, due to the multitude of pathophysiological disease states, current treatments fail to meet the desired outcomes. Therefore, there is a need for new therapeutic strategies focusing on more integrated, personalized and effective approaches. The prospect of using neural stem cells (NSC) as regenerative therapies is very promising, however several issues still need to be addressed. In particular, the potential actions of pharmacological agents used to modulate NSC activity are highly relevant. With the ongoing discussion of cannabinoid usage for medical purposes and reports drawing attention to the effects of cannabinoids on NSC regulation, there is an enormous, and yet, uncovered potential for cannabinoids as treatment options for several neurological disorders, specifically when combined with stem cell therapy. In this manuscript, we review in detail how cannabinoids act as potent regulators of NSC biology and their potential to modulate several neurogenic features in the context of pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui S Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Diogo M Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Sara L Paulo
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Joana M Mateus
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Miguel F Ferreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Francisco M Mouro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - João B Moreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Filipa F Ribeiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
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20
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Zou M, Li D, Li L, Wu L, Sun C. Role of the endocannabinoid system in neurological disorders. Int J Dev Neurosci 2019; 76:95-102. [PMID: 30858029 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that begins in infancy. Although the etiology and pathogenesis are poorly understood, many studies have shown that ASD is closely related to structural and functional defects in the nervous system, especially synaptic transmission. The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is an important regulatory system of the central nervous system that regulates neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity and plays an important role in emotional and social responses and cognitive function. The relationship between eCB system and ASD has attracted increasing attention from scholars. In this review, we discuss the complex lipid signaling network of the eCB system, intracellular transport pathways, abnormal expression and association with various neurological diseases, and direct and indirect evidence for the link between eCB and ASD. Collectively, the findings to date indicate that the eCB system plays a key role in the pathophysiology of ASD and can provide new insights into potential interventions and rehabilitation strategies for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyang Zou
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Dexin Li
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Lijie Wu
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Caihong Sun
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
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21
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Levetiracetam combined with ACEA, highly selective cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist changes neurogenesis in mouse brain. Neurosci Lett 2018; 696:79-86. [PMID: 30552944 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of second generation antiepileptic drug levetiracetam (LEV) with arachidonyl-2'-chloroethylamide (ACEA) on proliferating neural precursor cells in mouse brain. Additionally, we established the relationship between treatment with ACEA in combination with LEV and hippocampal neurogenesis in mouse brain. All experiments were performed on male CB57/BL mice injected i.p. with LEV (10 mg/kg), ACEA (10 mg/kg) and PMSF (30 mg/kg) for 10 days. Experiments were provided in two stages: stage 1- an acute response of proliferating neural precursor cells to ACEA and LEV administration (Ki-67 staining), stage 2 - a long term response to ACEA and LEV administration (BrDU, NeuN, GFAP staining). Results indicate that ACEA + PMSF and ACEA + PMSF + LEV significantly increased the total number of Ki-67 positive cells comparing to the control group. PMSF and LEV administered alone and in combination had no significant impact on cell proliferation compared to the control group. Results from neurogenesis study indicated that ACEA + PMSF administered alone and in combination with LEV increased the total number of BrDU cells compared to the control group, although LEV on its own decreased the number of BrDU cells. Moreover, the combination of ACEA + PMSF + LEV significantly increased the total number of newborn neurons compared to the control group. In turn, LEV significantly decreased the process of neurogenesis. Astrocytes were considerably reduced in all treated groups as compare to the control mice. These data provide substantial evidence that LEV administered chronically decreases the proliferation and differentiation of newly born cells while combination of LEV + ACEA significantly increases the level of newborn neurons in the dentate subgranular zone.
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22
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Rezaei F, Tiraihi T, Abdanipour A, Hassoun HK, Taheri T. Immunocytochemical analysis of valproic acid induced histone H3 and H4 acetylation during differentiation of rat adipose derived stem cells into neuron-like cells. Biotech Histochem 2018; 93:589-600. [PMID: 30273059 DOI: 10.1080/10520295.2018.1511063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Valproic acid (VPA) is an inhibitor of histone deacetylases (HDACs) that can regulate differentiation and proliferation of stem cells by epigenetic mechanisms. We investigated VPA induced histone H3 and H4 acetylation in adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) transdifferentiated into neuron-like cells (NLCs). Rat ADSCs were transdifferentiated into neural stem cells (NSCs) that had been generated from neurospheres. The NSCs were differentiated into NLCs by induction with different concentrations of VPA at 24, 48 and 72 h. The NLCs were evaluated using anti-H3 and -H4 antibodies, and ADSCs, NSCs and NLCs were evaluated using immunofluorescence. The ADSCs were immunoreactive to CD90 and CD49d, but not to CD45 and CD31. Both the neurospheres and NSCs were immunostained with nestin and neurofilament 68. The neurospheres expressed Musashi1, Sox2 and Neu N genes as determined by RT-PCR. Our dose-response study indicated that the optimal concentration of VPA was 1 mM at 72 h. Histone acetylation levels of H3 and H4 immunostaining intensities in NLCs were significantly greater than for ADSCs and NSCs. VPA alters H4 and H3 acetylation immunoreactivities of ADSCs transdifferentiated into NLCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Rezaei
- a Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences , Tarbiat Modares University , Tehran , Iran
| | - T Tiraihi
- a Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences , Tarbiat Modares University , Tehran , Iran
| | - A Abdanipour
- b Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine , Zanjan University of Medical Sciences (ZUMS) , Zanjan , Iran
| | - H K Hassoun
- c Middle Euphrates Neuroscience Center, College of medicine , Kufa University , Kufa , Iraq
| | - T Taheri
- d Shefa Neuroscience Research Center , Khatam Alanbia Hospital , Tehran , Iran
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Rodrigues RS, Ribeiro FF, Ferreira F, Vaz SH, Sebastião AM, Xapelli S. Interaction between Cannabinoid Type 1 and Type 2 Receptors in the Modulation of Subventricular Zone and Dentate Gyrus Neurogenesis. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:516. [PMID: 28848435 PMCID: PMC5554396 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurogenesis in the adult mammalian brain occurs mainly in two neurogenic niches, the subventricular zone (SVZ) and the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the dentate gyrus (DG). Cannabinoid type 1 and 2 receptors (CB1R and CB2R) have been shown to differently modulate neurogenesis. However, low attention has been given to the interaction between CB1R and CB2R in modulating postnatal neurogenesis (proliferation, neuronal differentiation and maturation). We focused on a putative crosstalk between CB1R and CB2R to modulate neurogenesis and cultured SVZ and DG stem/progenitor cells from early postnatal (P1-3) Sprague-Dawley rats. Data showed that the non-selective cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN55,212-2 promotes DG cell proliferation (measured by BrdU staining), an effect blocked by either CB1R or CB2R selective antagonists. Experiments with selective agonists showed that facilitation of DG cell proliferation requires co-activation of both CB1R and CB2R. Cell proliferation in the SVZ was not affected by the non-selective receptor agonist, but it was enhanced by CB1R selective activation. However, either CB1R or CB2R selective antagonists abolished the effect of the CB1R agonist in SVZ cell proliferation. Neuronal differentiation (measured by immunocytochemistry against neuronal markers of different stages and calcium imaging) was facilitated by WIN55,212-2 at both SVZ and DG. This effect was mimicked by either CB1R or CB2R selective agonists and blocked by either CB1R or CB2R selective antagonists, cross-antagonism being evident. In summary, our findings indicate a tight interaction between CB1R and CB2R to modulate neurogenesis in the two major neurogenic niches, thus contributing to further unraveling the mechanisms behind the action of endocannabinoids in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui S Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal
| | - Filipa F Ribeiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal
| | - Filipa Ferreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal
| | - Sandra H Vaz
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de LisboaLisboa, Portugal
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A Long-Term Treatment with Arachidonyl-2'-Chloroethylamide Combined with Valproate Increases Neurogenesis in a Mouse Pilocarpine Model of Epilepsy. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18050900. [PMID: 28441341 PMCID: PMC5454813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18050900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rational polytherapy in the treatment of refractory epilepsy has been the main therapeutic modality for several years. In treatment with two or more antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), it is of particular importance that AEDs be selected based on their high anticonvulsant properties, minimal side effects, and impact on the formation of new neurons. The aim of the study was to conduct an in vivo evaluation of the relationship between treatments with synthetic cannabinoid arachidonyl-2′-chloroethylamide (ACEA) alone or in combination with valproic acid (VPA) and hippocampal neurogenesis in a mouse pilocarpine model of epilepsy. All studies were performed on adolescent male CB57/BL mice with using the following drugs: VPA (10 mg/kg), ACEA (10 mg/kg), phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF—a substance protecting ACEA against degradation by fatty acid hydrolase, 30 mg/kg), pilocarpine (PILO, a single dose of 290 mg/kg) and methylscopolamine (30 min before PILO to stop peripheral cholinergic effects of pilocarpine, 1 mg/kg). We evaluated the process of neurogenesis after a 10-day treatment with ACEA and VPA, alone and in combination. We observed a decrease of neurogenesis in the PILO control group as compared to the healthy control mice. Furthermore, ACEA + PMSF alone and in combination with VPA significantly increased neurogenesis compared to the PILO control group. In contrast, VPA 10-day treatment had no impact on the level of neurons in comparison to the PILO control group. The combination of ACEA, PMSF and VPA considerably stimulated the process of creating new cells, particularly neurons, while chronic administration of VPA itself had no influence on neurogenesis in the mouse pilocarpine model of epilepsy. The obtained results enabled an in vivo evaluation of neurogenesis after treatment with antiepileptic drugs in an experimental model of epilepsy.
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Gorantla VR, Pemminati S, Bond V, Meyers DG, Millis RM. Effects of Swimming Exercise on Learning and Memory in the Kainate-Lesion Model of Temporal Lobe Epilepsy. J Clin Diagn Res 2016; 10:CF01-CF05. [PMID: 28050361 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2016/22100.8835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION An aerobic exercise (Ex) augments neurogenesis and may ameliorate learning and memory deficits in the rat Kainic Acid (KA) model of temporal lobe epilepsy in the short-term but whether it reverses learning and memory deficits after a substantial period of delay remains unclear. AIM This study tests the hypothesis that aerobic Ex attenuates the learning and memory deficits associated with kainate seizures in the long-term. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 60 rats were subjected to chemical lesioning using KA and to an Ex intervention consisting of a 30 days period of daily swimming for 15 min, immediately after KA lesioning (immediate exposure) or after a 60 days period of normal activity (delayed exposure). We evaluated spatial learning on a T-maze test, expressed as percentage of correct responses. We evaluated memory on a passive-avoidance test, expressed as time spent in a compartment in which the rats were previously exposed to an aversive stimulus. RESULTS Ex increases the percentage of correct responses, percentage bias, and number of alternations, associated with the T-maze testing for the normal control, sham-operated control and kainate-lesioned animals after both immediate and delayed exposures to Ex. Ex decreased the time exposed to the aversive stimulus in the smaller compartment of the two-compartment passive-avoidance test, also for the normal control, sham-operated control and kainate-lesioned animals after both immediate and delayed exposures to Ex. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that, after temporal lobe epileptic seizures in rats, swimming exercise may attenuate the learning and memory deficits, even if the exercise treatment is delayed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasavi Rakesh Gorantla
- Assistant Professor, Department of Behavioural Sciences and Neuroscience, AUA College of Medicine and Manipal University, Antigua and Department of Anatomy, Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal University , Manipal, India
| | - Sudhakar Pemminati
- Associate Professor, Department of Medical Pharmacology, AUA College of Medicine , Antigua
| | - Vernon Bond
- Professor, Department of Recreation, Human Performance & Leisure Studies and Exercise Science & Human Nutrition Laboratory, Howard University Cancer Centre , Washington, DC 20060, United States of America
| | - Dewey G Meyers
- Professor, Department of Behavioural Science and Neuroscience, AUA College of Medicine , Antigua
| | - Richard Mark Millis
- Professor, Department of Medical Physiology, AUA College of Medicine , Antigua
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