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Mohammadi-Bardbori A, Shadboorestan A, Niknahad H, Noorafshan A, Fardid R, Nadimi E, Bakhtari A, Omidi M. Disrupting Development: Unraveling the Interplay of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR) and Wnt/β-Catenin Pathways in Kidney Development Under the Influence of Environmental Pollutants. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023:10.1007/s12011-023-04009-z. [PMID: 38117383 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-04009-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the intricate molecular mechanisms governing aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and Wnt/β-Catenin pathways crosstalk is of paramount importance for elucidating normal development. We investigated the repercussions of aberrant activation of these signaling pathways on kidney development. HEK-293 cells were subjected to AHR and Wnt activators and inhibitors for 3 and 24 h. Subsequently, pregnant adult female BALB/c mice were administered treatments at gestation day 9 (GD-9), and embryos were analyzed at GD-18 using a combination of cellular, molecular, stereological, and histopathological techniques. Our results demonstrated a noteworthy escalation in oxidative stress and gene expression endpoints associated with apoptosis. Moreover, stereological analyses exhibited alterations in cortex, proximal tubule, and kidney tissue vessels volumes. Remarkably, co-treatment with 6-formylindolo [3,2-b] carbazole (FICZ) and cadmium (Cd) resulted in a significant reduction in glomerulus volume, while elevating the volumes of distal tubule, Henle loop, and connective tissue, compared to the control group. Histopathological investigations further confirmed structural changes in the loop of Henle and proximal tubule, alongside a decline in glomerular volume. Additionally, the expression levels of AHR and Ctnnb1 genes significantly increased in the Cd-treated group compared to the control group. Enhanced expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bcl-x, Bax, and Caspase3, along with alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential and cytochrome C release, was observed. In contrast, Gsk3 gene expression was significantly decreased. Our findings robustly establish that chemical pollutants, such as Cd, disrupt the AHR and Wnt/β-Catenin physiological roles during developmental stages by inhibiting the metabolic degradation of FICZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afshin Mohammadi-Bardbori
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Shadboorestan
- Depertment of Toxicology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Niknahad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Noorafshan
- Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Departments of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Fardid
- Department of Radiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elham Nadimi
- Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Azizollah Bakhtari
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Omidi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran.
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Alluli A, Rijnbout St James W, Eidelman DH, Baglole CJ. Dynamic relationship between the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and long noncoding RNA balances cellular and toxicological responses. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 216:115745. [PMID: 37597813 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115745] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a cytosolic transcription factor activated by endogenous ligands and xenobiotic chemicals. Once the AhR is activated, it translocates to the nucleus, dimerizes with the AhR nuclear translator (ARNT) and binds to xenobiotic response elements (XRE) to promote gene transcription, notably the cytochrome P450 CYP1A1. The AhR not only mediates the toxic effects of environmental chemicals, but also has numerous putative physiological functions. This dichotomy in AhR biology may be related to reciprocal regulation of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA). lncRNA are defined as transcripts more than 200 nucleotides in length that do not encode a protein but are implicated in many physiological processes such as cell differentiation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. lncRNA are also linked to disease pathogenesis, particularly the development of cancer. Recent studies have revealed that AhR activation by environmental chemicals affects the expression and function of lncRNA. In this article, we provide an overview of AhR signaling pathways activated by diverse ligands and highlight key differences in the putative biological versus toxicological response of AhR activation. We also detail the functions of lncRNA and provide current data on their regulation by the AhR. Finally, we outline how overlap in function between AhR and lncRNA may be one way in which AhR can be both a regulator of endogenous functions but also a mediator of toxicological responses to environmental chemicals. Overall, more research is still needed to fully understand the dynamic interplay between the AhR and lncRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aeshah Alluli
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, McGill University, Canada; Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Canada; Department of Pathology, McGill University, Canada
| | - Willem Rijnbout St James
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, McGill University, Canada; Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Canada; Department of Pathology, McGill University, Canada
| | - David H Eidelman
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, McGill University, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Canada
| | - Carolyn J Baglole
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, McGill University, Canada; Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Canada; Department of Pathology, McGill University, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Canada.
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3
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Opitz CA, Holfelder P, Prentzell MT, Trump S. The complex biology of aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation in cancer and beyond. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 216:115798. [PMID: 37696456 PMCID: PMC10570930 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115798] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) signaling pathway is a complex regulatory network that plays a critical role in various biological processes, including cellular metabolism, development, and immune responses. The complexity of AHR signaling arises from multiple factors, including the diverse ligands that activate the receptor, the expression level of AHR itself, and its interaction with the AHR nuclear translocator (ARNT). Additionally, the AHR crosstalks with the AHR repressor (AHRR) or other transcription factors and signaling pathways and it can also mediate non-genomic effects. Finally, posttranslational modifications of the AHR and its interaction partners, epigenetic regulation of AHR and its target genes, as well as AHR-mediated induction of enzymes that degrade AHR-activating ligands may contribute to the context-specificity of AHR activation. Understanding the complexity of AHR signaling is crucial for deciphering its physiological and pathological roles and developing therapeutic strategies targeting this pathway. Ongoing research continues to unravel the intricacies of AHR signaling, shedding light on the regulatory mechanisms controlling its diverse functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane A Opitz
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Division of Metabolic Crosstalk in Cancer and the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), DKFZ Core Center Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Pauline Holfelder
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Division of Metabolic Crosstalk in Cancer and the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), DKFZ Core Center Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Bioscience, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mirja Tamara Prentzell
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Division of Metabolic Crosstalk in Cancer and the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), DKFZ Core Center Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Bioscience, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Saskia Trump
- Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité and the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Berlin, a partnership between DKFZ and Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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4
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Brinkmann V, Romeo M, Larigot L, Hemmers A, Tschage L, Kleinjohann J, Schiavi A, Steinwachs S, Esser C, Menzel R, Giani Tagliabue S, Bonati L, Cox F, Ale-Agha N, Jakobs P, Altschmied J, Haendeler J, Coumoul X, Ventura N. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor-Dependent and -Independent Pathways Mediate Curcumin Anti-Aging Effects. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:613. [PMID: 35453298 PMCID: PMC9024831 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11040613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor whose activity can be modulated by polyphenols, such as curcumin. AhR and curcumin have evolutionarily conserved effects on aging. Here, we investigated whether and how the AhR mediates the anti-aging effects of curcumin across species. Using a combination of in vivo, in vitro, and in silico analyses, we demonstrated that curcumin has AhR-dependent or -independent effects in a context-specific manner. We found that in Caenorhabditis elegans, AhR mediates curcumin-induced lifespan extension, most likely through a ligand-independent inhibitory mechanism related to its antioxidant activity. Curcumin also showed AhR-independent anti-aging activities, such as protection against aggregation-prone proteins and oxidative stress in C. elegans and promotion of the migratory capacity of human primary endothelial cells. These AhR-independent effects are largely mediated by the Nrf2/SKN-1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Brinkmann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Diagnostic, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstr 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (V.B.); (M.R.); (A.S.); (F.C.); (N.A.-A.); (P.J.); (J.A.); (J.H.)
- IUF—Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (A.H.); (L.T.); (J.K.); (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Margherita Romeo
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Diagnostic, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstr 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (V.B.); (M.R.); (A.S.); (F.C.); (N.A.-A.); (P.J.); (J.A.); (J.H.)
- IUF—Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (A.H.); (L.T.); (J.K.); (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Lucie Larigot
- Faculté des Sciences Fondamentales et Biomédicales, Université de Paris, 45 Rue des Saints-Pères, F-75006 Paris, France; (L.L.); (X.C.)
| | - Anne Hemmers
- IUF—Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (A.H.); (L.T.); (J.K.); (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Lisa Tschage
- IUF—Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (A.H.); (L.T.); (J.K.); (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Jennifer Kleinjohann
- IUF—Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (A.H.); (L.T.); (J.K.); (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Alfonso Schiavi
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Diagnostic, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstr 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (V.B.); (M.R.); (A.S.); (F.C.); (N.A.-A.); (P.J.); (J.A.); (J.H.)
- IUF—Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (A.H.); (L.T.); (J.K.); (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Swantje Steinwachs
- IUF—Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (A.H.); (L.T.); (J.K.); (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Charlotte Esser
- IUF—Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (A.H.); (L.T.); (J.K.); (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Ralph Menzel
- Institute of Biology, Humboldt-University Berlin, Philippstr. 13, 10115 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Sara Giani Tagliabue
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy; (S.G.T.); (L.B.)
| | - Laura Bonati
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy; (S.G.T.); (L.B.)
| | - Fiona Cox
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Diagnostic, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstr 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (V.B.); (M.R.); (A.S.); (F.C.); (N.A.-A.); (P.J.); (J.A.); (J.H.)
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital and Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstr 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Niloofar Ale-Agha
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Diagnostic, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstr 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (V.B.); (M.R.); (A.S.); (F.C.); (N.A.-A.); (P.J.); (J.A.); (J.H.)
| | - Philipp Jakobs
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Diagnostic, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstr 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (V.B.); (M.R.); (A.S.); (F.C.); (N.A.-A.); (P.J.); (J.A.); (J.H.)
| | - Joachim Altschmied
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Diagnostic, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstr 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (V.B.); (M.R.); (A.S.); (F.C.); (N.A.-A.); (P.J.); (J.A.); (J.H.)
- IUF—Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (A.H.); (L.T.); (J.K.); (S.S.); (C.E.)
| | - Judith Haendeler
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Diagnostic, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstr 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (V.B.); (M.R.); (A.S.); (F.C.); (N.A.-A.); (P.J.); (J.A.); (J.H.)
| | - Xavier Coumoul
- Faculté des Sciences Fondamentales et Biomédicales, Université de Paris, 45 Rue des Saints-Pères, F-75006 Paris, France; (L.L.); (X.C.)
| | - Natascia Ventura
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Diagnostic, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Moorenstr 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (V.B.); (M.R.); (A.S.); (F.C.); (N.A.-A.); (P.J.); (J.A.); (J.H.)
- IUF—Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (A.H.); (L.T.); (J.K.); (S.S.); (C.E.)
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5
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Wu R, Li S, Hudlikar R, Wang L, Shannar A, Peter R, Chou PJ, Kuo HCD, Liu Z, Kong AN. Redox signaling, mitochondrial metabolism, epigenetics and redox active phytochemicals. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 179:328-336. [PMID: 33359432 PMCID: PMC8222414 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Biological redox signaling plays an important role in many diseases. Redox signaling involves reductive and oxidative mechanisms. Oxidative stress occurs when reductive mechanism underwhelms oxidative challenges. Cellular oxidative stress occurs when reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (RO/NS) exceed the cellular reductive/antioxidant capacity. Endogenously produced RO/NS from mitochondrial metabolic citric-acid-cycle coupled with electron-transport-chain or exogenous stimuli trigger cellular signaling events leading to homeostatic response or pathological damage. Recent evidence suggests that RO/NS also modulate epigenetic machinery driving gene expression. RO/NS affect DNA methylation/demethylation, histone acetylation/deacetylation or histone methylation/demethylation. Many health beneficial phytochemicals possess redox capability that counteract RO/NS either by directly scavenging the radicals or via inductive mechanism of cellular defense antioxidant/reductive enzymes. Amazingly, these phytochemicals also possess epigenetic modifying ability. This review summarizes the latest advances on the interactions between redox signaling, mitochondrial metabolism, epigenetics and redox active phytochemicals and the future challenges of integrating these events in human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renyi Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Shanyi Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Rasika Hudlikar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Lujing Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Ahmad Shannar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Rebecca Peter
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Pochung Jordan Chou
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Hsiao-Chen Dina Kuo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Zhigang Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Ah-Ng Kong
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA.
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Keshavarzi M, Moradbeygi F, Mobini K, Ghaffarian Bahraman A, Mohammadi P, Ghaedi A, Mohammadi-Bardbori A. The interplay of aryl hydrocarbon receptor/WNT/CTNNB1/Notch signaling pathways regulate amyloid beta precursor mRNA/protein expression and effected the learning and memory of mice. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2021; 11:147-161. [PMID: 35237419 PMCID: PMC8882790 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfab120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The amyloid beta precursor protein (APP) plays a pathophysiological role in the development of Alzheimer's disease as well as a physiological role in neuronal growth and synaptogenesis. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)/WNT/Catenin Beta 1 (CTNNB1)/Notch signaling pathways stamp in many functions, including development and growth of neurons. However, the regulatory role of AhR-/WNT-/CTNNB1-/Notch-induced APP expression and its influence on hippocampal-dependent learning and memory deficits is not clear. Male BALB/C mice received 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (an AhR agonist), CH223191(an AhR antagonist), DAPT (an inhibitor of Notch signaling), and XAV-939 (a WNT pathway inhibitor) at a single dose of 100 μg/kg, 1, 5 , and 5 mg/kg of body weight, respectively, via intraperitoneal injection alone or in combination. Gene expression analyses and protein assay were performed on the 7th and 29th days. To assess the hippocampal-dependent memory, all six mice also underwent contextual fear conditioning on the 28th day after treatments. Our results showed that endogenous ligand of AhR has a regulatory effect on APP gene. Also, the interaction of AhR/WNT/CTNNB1 has a positive regulatory effect, but Notch has a negative regulatory effect on the mRNA and protein expression of APP, which have a correlation with mice's learning skills and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Keshavarzi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran,Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar 7146864685, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Moradbeygi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran
| | - Keivan Mobini
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran
| | - Ali Ghaffarian Bahraman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran,Occupational Environment Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Parisa Mohammadi
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar 7146864685, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Ghaedi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran
| | - Afshin Mohammadi-Bardbori
- Correspondence address. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran. Tel.: +98(71)32425374; Fax: +98(71)32424326; E-mail:
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7
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Cannon AS, Nagarkatti PS, Nagarkatti M. Targeting AhR as a Novel Therapeutic Modality against Inflammatory Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:288. [PMID: 35008717 PMCID: PMC8745713 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
For decades, activation of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) was excluded from consideration as a therapeutic approach due to the potential toxic effects of AhR ligands and the induction of the cytochrome P450 enzyme, Cyp1a1, following AhR activation. However, it is now understood that AhR activation not only serves as an environmental sensor that regulates the effects of environmental toxins, but also as a key immunomodulator where ligands induce a variety of cellular and epigenetic mechanisms to attenuate inflammation. Thus, the emergence of further in-depth research into diverse groups of compounds capable of activating this receptor has prompted reconsideration of its use therapeutically. The aim of this review is to summarize the body of research surrounding AhR and its role in regulating inflammation. Specifically, evidence supporting the potential of targeting this receptor to modulate the immune response in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases will be highlighted. Additionally, the opportunities and challenges of developing AhR-based therapies to suppress inflammation will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mitzi Nagarkatti
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209, USA; (A.S.C.); (P.S.N.)
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8
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Ghaffarian-Bahraman A, Arabnezhad MR, Keshavarzi M, Davani-Davari D, Jamshidzadeh A, Mohammadi-Bardbori A. Influence of cellular redox environment on aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands induced melanogenesis. Toxicol In Vitro 2021; 79:105282. [PMID: 34856342 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2021.105282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Many environmental pollutants, natural compounds, as well as endogenous chemicals exert their biological/toxicological effects by reacting with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Previous evidence shed new light on the role of AhR in skin physiology by regulating melanin production. In this study, we investigated the effect of oxidative imbalance induced by AhR ligands on the melanogenesis process in B16 murine melanoma cells. Exposure to 6-formylindolo[3,2-b] carbazole (FICZ) or benzo-α-pyrene (BαP) led to enhanced expression of CTNNB1, MITF, and TYR genes following increased tyrosinase enzyme activity and melanin content in an AhR-dependent manner. Analysis of the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as reduced glutathione (GSH) / oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio revealed that treatment with AhR ligands is associated with oxidative stress which can be ameliorated with NAC (N-acetyl cysteine) or diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI). On the other hand, NAC and DPI enhanced melanogenesis induced by AhR ligands by reducing the level of ROS. We have shown for the first time that a cellular redox status is a critical event during AhR ligand-induced melanogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ghaffarian-Bahraman
- Occupational Environment Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Arabnezhad
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Majid Keshavarzi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Dorna Davani-Davari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Akram Jamshidzadeh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Afshin Mohammadi-Bardbori
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran.
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9
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Vuerich M, Wang N, Kalbasi A, Graham JJ, Longhi MS. Dysfunctional Immune Regulation in Autoimmune Hepatitis: From Pathogenesis to Novel Therapies. Front Immunol 2021; 12:746436. [PMID: 34650567 PMCID: PMC8510512 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.746436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by hypergammaglobulinemia, presence of serum autoantibodies and histological features of interface hepatitis. AIH therapeutic management still relies on the administration of corticosteroids, azathioprine and other immunosuppressants like calcineurin inhibitors and mycophenolate mofetil. Withdrawal of immunosuppression often results in disease relapse, and, in some cases, therapy is ineffective or associated with serious side effects. Understanding the mechanisms underlying AIH pathogenesis is therefore of paramount importance to develop more effective and well tolerated agents capable of restoring immunotolerance to liver autoantigens. Imbalance between effector and regulatory cells permits liver damage perpetuation and progression in AIH. Impaired expression and regulation of CD39, an ectoenzyme key to immunotolerance maintenance, have been reported in Tregs and effector Th17-cells derived from AIH patients. Interference with these altered immunoregulatory pathways may open new therapeutic avenues that, in addition to limiting aberrant inflammatory responses, would also reconstitute immune homeostasis. In this review, we highlight the most recent findings in AIH immunopathogenesis and discuss how these could inform and direct the development of novel therapeutic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Vuerich
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.,School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ahmadreza Kalbasi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jonathon J Graham
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Maria Serena Longhi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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10
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Lymphoid Organ Proteomes Identify Therapeutic Efficacy Biomarkers Following the Intracavitary Administration of Curcumin in a Highly Invasive Rat Model of Peritoneal Mesothelioma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168566. [PMID: 34445271 PMCID: PMC8395293 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify the proteomic changes produced by curcumin treatment following stimulation of the host immune system in a rat model of malignant mesothelioma. We analyzed the proteomes of secondary lymphoid organs from four normal rats, four untreated tumor-bearing rats, and four tumor-bearing rats receiving repeated intraperitoneal administrations of curcumin. Cross-comparing proteome analyses of histological sections of the spleen from the three groups first identified a list of eighty-three biomarkers of interest, thirteen of which corresponded to proteins already reported in the literature and involved in the anticancer therapeutic effects of curcumin. In a second step, comparing these data with proteomic analyses of histological sections of mesenteric lymph nodes revealed eight common biomarkers showing a similar pattern of changes in both lymphoid organs. Additional findings included a partial reduction of the increase in spleen-circulating biomarkers, a decrease in C-reactive protein and complement C3 in the spleen and lymph nodes, and an increase in lymph node purine nucleoside phosphorylase previously associated with liver immunodeficiency. Our results suggest some protein abundance changes could be related to the systemic, distant non-target antitumor effects produced by this phytochemical.
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11
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Akhtar S, Hourani S, Therachiyil L, Al-Dhfyan A, Agouni A, Zeidan A, Uddin S, Korashy HM. Epigenetic Regulation of Cancer Stem Cells by the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Pathway. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 83:177-196. [PMID: 32877761 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Compelling evidence has demonstrated that tumor bulk comprises distinctive subset of cells generally referred as cancer stem cells (CSCs) that have been proposed as a strong sustainer and promoter of tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance. These distinguished properties of CSCs have raised interest in understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern the maintenance of these cells. Numerous experimental and epidemiological studies have demonstrated that exposure to environmental toxins such as the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is strongly involved in cancer initiation and progression. The PAH-induced carcinogenesis is shown to be mediated through the activation of a cytosolic receptor, aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)/Cytochrome P4501A pathway, suggesting a possible direct link between AhR and CSCs. Several recent studies have investigated the role of AhR in CSCs self-renewal and maintenance, however the molecular mechanisms and particularly the epigenetic regulations of CSCs by the AhR/CYP1A pathway have not been reviewed before. In this review, we first summarize the crosstalk between AhR and cancer genetics, with a particular emphasis on the mechanisms relevant to CSCs such as Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, NF-κB, and PTEN-PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. The second part of this review discusses the recent advances and studies highlighting the epigenetic mechanisms mediated by the AhR/CYP1A pathway that control CSC gene expression, self-renewal, and chemoresistance in various human cancers. Furthermore, the review also sheds light on the importance of targeting the epigenetic pathways as a novel therapeutic approach against CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabah Akhtar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shireen Hourani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Lubna Therachiyil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Abdullah Al-Dhfyan
- Stem Cell & Tissue Re-Engineering, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelali Agouni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Asad Zeidan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hesham M Korashy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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12
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Keshavarzi M, Khoshnoud MJ, Ghaffarian Bahraman A, Mohammadi-Bardbori A. An Endogenous Ligand of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor 6-Formylindolo[3,2-b]Carbazole (FICZ) Is a Signaling Molecule in Neurogenesis of Adult Hippocampal Neurons. J Mol Neurosci 2020; 70:806-817. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-020-01506-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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13
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Wu J, Frazier K, Zhang J, Gan Z, Wang T, Zhong X. Emerging role of m 6 A RNA methylation in nutritional physiology and metabolism. Obes Rev 2020; 21:e12942. [PMID: 31475777 PMCID: PMC7427634 DOI: 10.1111/obr.12942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
N6 -methyladenine (m6 A) is the most prevalent type of internal RNA methylation in eukaryotic mRNA and plays critical roles in regulating gene expression for fundamental cellular processes and diverse physiological functions. Recent evidence indicates that m6 A methylation regulates physiology and metabolism, and m6 A has been increasingly implicated in a variety of human diseases, including obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and cancer. Conversely, nutrition and diet can modulate or reverse m6 A methylation patterns on gene expression. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in the study of the m6 A methylation mechanisms and highlight the crosstalk between m6 A modification, nutritional physiology and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamin Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Katya Frazier
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jingfei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhending Gan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tian Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Zhong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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14
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Ghaedi A, Keshavarzi M, Ghafarian Bahraman A, Mohammadi-Bardbori A. Selective cytochrome P450 1A1 but not 1B1 promoterCpG island DNA methylation by 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ). J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2019; 34:e22414. [PMID: 31626383 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic alterations are essential for normal mammalian development and regulation of gene expression. In this study, we aimed to determine if an enigmatic endogenous ligand of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ), and methionine (Meth) have an epigenetic impact on AHR-regulated cytochrome P450 1A1 and B1 (CYP1A1 and CYP1B1) gene expression. Human hepatoma (HepG2-XRE-Luc and huh7) cells were exposed to FICZ in a medium with and without Meth supplementation. Selective and transient silencing of CYP1A1 but not CYP1B1 were seen by FICZ. Here we found that FICZ transiently represses CYP1A1 by targeting DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) and concomitant DNA methylation of the CYP1A1 promoter gene. Treatments with 5-aza-dC augmented CYP1A1 transcription activity. Our results reveal a new mechanism for transient activation of AHR by FICZ that can negatively and positively influence gene expression, and highlight the regulatory role of Meth on the CYP1A1 gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Ghaedi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Majid Keshavarzi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Ali Ghafarian Bahraman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Afshin Mohammadi-Bardbori
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
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15
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Mobini K, Banakar E, Tamaddon G, Mohammadi-Bardbori A. 6-Formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ) Enhances The Expression of Tumor Suppressor miRNAs, miR-22, miR-515-5p, and miR-124-3p in MCF-7 Cells. CELL JOURNAL 2019; 22:115-120. [PMID: 31606975 PMCID: PMC6791069 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2020.6549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective microRNAs (miRNAs) play bifunctional roles in the initiation and progression of cancer, and recent evidence
has confirmed that unusual expression of miRNAs is required for the progress of breast cancer. The regulatory role of
aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and its endogenous ligand, 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ) on the expression
of tumor suppressor miRNAs, miR-22, miR-515-5p and miR-124-3p, as well as their association with the estrogen
receptor alpha (ERα) were the aims of this study.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, the expression levels of miR-22, miR-515-5p, miR-124-3p and
miR-382-5p in MCF-7 cells were determined using the quantificational real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR)
assay.
Results Our results revealed that miR-22, miR-515-5p, and miR-124-3p expressions were significantly increased in
cells transfected with ERα siRNA. Our data also showed that miR-22, miR 515-5p, and miR-124-3p expression levels
were significantly increased following FICZ treatment. Here, we found that AhR/ERα cross-talk plays a critical role in
the expression of miR-22, miR-515-5p and miR-124-3p in MCF-7 cells.
Conclusion Overall, our data demonstrated that FICZ, as an AhR agonist could induce the expression of tumor
suppressor miRNAs, miR-22, miR-515-5p, and miR-124-3p; thus, FICZ might be regarded as a potential therapeutic
agent for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keivan Mobini
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elham Banakar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Tamaddon
- Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences and Technology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Afshin Mohammadi-Bardbori
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.ElectronicAddress:
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16
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Mohammadi-Bardbori A, Omidi M, Arabnezhad MR. Impact of CH223191-Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction on Its Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Agonistic and Antagonistic Activities. Chem Res Toxicol 2019; 32:691-697. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.8b00371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Afshin Mohammadi-Bardbori
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Omidi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Arabnezhad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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17
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Mobini K, Tamaddon G, Fardid R, Keshavarzi M, Mohammadi-Bardbori A. Aryl hydrocarbon-estrogen alpha receptor-dependent expression of miR-206, miR-27b, and miR-133a suppress cell proliferation and migration in MCF-7 cells. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2019; 33:e22304. [PMID: 30779469 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The underlying functions of miR-206, miR-133a, miR-27b, and miR-21, and their link to the estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling pathways remain largely unexplored. In this study, we detect the expression of miR-206, miR-133a, miR-27b, and miR-21 in MCF-7 through quantificational real-time polymerase chain reaction assay along with the activation/inhibition of ERα and AhR receptors. Aside from this, cell proliferation and migration as well as AhR-dependent CYP1A1 enzyme activity were measured. Here, we found that the forced increased expression of miR-206, miR-133a, and miR-27b were closely associated with the suppression of MCF-7 cell proliferation and migration. The anti-proliferative-metastatic effect of miR-206, miR-133a, and miR-27b was probably mediated by targeting the ERα and AhR signaling pathways. Considered together, our study indicated that the overexpression of miR-206, miR-133a, and miR-27b might be potential biomarkers for prognosis and therapeutic strategies in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keivan Mobini
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Tamaddon
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Shiraz, Iran.,Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences and Technology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Fardid
- Department of Radiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection Research Center (INIRPRC), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Majid Keshavarzi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Afshin Mohammadi-Bardbori
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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18
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Omidi M, Niknahad H, Noorafshan A, Fardid R, Nadimi E, Naderi S, Bakhtari A, Mohammadi-Bardbori A. Co-exposure to an Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Endogenous Ligand, 6-Formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ), and Cadmium Induces Cardiovascular Developmental Abnormalities in Mice. Biol Trace Elem Res 2019; 187:442-451. [PMID: 29808276 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-018-1391-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
6-Formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ) is a signal substance and an endogenous activator of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental pollutant that can activate both AHR and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways. We aimed to determine how dysregulated signaling through AHR-Wnt/β-catenin cross-talk can influence mice heart development. Mice fetuses were exposed to Cd alone or in combination with FICZ in gestation day (GD) 0. In GD18, fetuses were harvested and randomly divided into two parts for stereological and molecular studies. Stereological and tessellation results revealed that when fetuses were co-exposed with FICZ and Cd, abnormalities were synergistically raised. In the presence of FICZ, mRNA expression levels of Wnt/β-catenin target genes significantly enhanced, especially when animals co-treated with FICZ and Cd. Based on these findings, we propose that chemical pollutants can interfere with the normal function of AHR that has a physiological role in regulating Wnt/β-catenin during cardiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Omidi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hossein Niknahad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Noorafshan
- Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Departments of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Fardid
- Department of Radiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elham Nadimi
- Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Immunology, Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Samaneh Naderi
- Diagnostic Laboratory Science and Technology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Azizollah Bakhtari
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Afshin Mohammadi-Bardbori
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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19
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Rannug A, Rannug U. The tryptophan derivative 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole, FICZ, a dynamic mediator of endogenous aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling, balances cell growth and differentiation. Crit Rev Toxicol 2018; 48:555-574. [PMID: 30226107 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2018.1493086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is not essential to survival, but does act as a key regulator of many normal physiological events. The role of this receptor in toxicological processes has been studied extensively, primarily employing the high-affinity ligand 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). However, regulation of physiological responses by endogenous AHR ligands remains to be elucidated. Here, we review developments in this field, with a focus on 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ), the endogenous ligand with the highest affinity to the receptor reported to date. The binding of FICZ to different isoforms of the AHR seems to be evolutionarily well conserved and there is a feedback loop that controls AHR activity through metabolic degradation of FICZ via the highly inducible cytochrome P450 1A1. Several investigations provide strong evidence that FICZ plays a critical role in normal physiological processes and can ameliorate immune diseases with remarkable efficiency. Low levels of FICZ are pro-inflammatory, providing resistance to pathogenic bacteria, stimulating the anti-tumor functions, and promoting the differentiation of cancer cells by repressing genes in cancer stem cells. In contrast, at high concentrations FICZ behaves in a manner similar to TCDD, exhibiting toxicity toward fish and bird embryos, immune suppression, and activation of cancer progression. The findings are indicative of a dual role for endogenously activated AHR in barrier tissues, aiding clearance of infections and suppressing immunity to terminate a vicious cycle that might otherwise lead to disease. There is not much support for the AHR ligand-specific immune responses proposed, the differences between FICZ and TCDD in this context appear to be explained by the rapid metabolism of FICZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agneta Rannug
- a Karolinska Institutet, Institute of Environmental Medicine , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Ulf Rannug
- b Department of Molecular Biosciences , The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University , Stockholm , Sweden
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20
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Omidi M, Ghafarian-Bahraman A, Mohammadi-Bardbori A. GSH/GSSG redox couple plays central role in aryl hydrocarbon receptor-dependent modulation of cytochrome P450 1A1. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2018; 32:e22164. [PMID: 29975444 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The redox regulation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) target genes such as the best characterized, cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) has not been known. Therefore the aim of this study was to explore how cellular redox state can influence on AHR-dependent modulation of CYP1A1 transcription and enzyme activities. Male BALB/c albino mice, HepG2 cells, and human hepatoma cell line (HepG2-XRE-Luc) carrying CYP1A1 response elements were exposed to suggested endogenous ligand of AHR,6-formylindolo[3,2-b] carbazole (FICZ) alone or in combination with, buthionine-(S,R)-sulfoximine (BSO) or N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC). A clear link between CYP1A1 transcription and enzyme activity and changes in the glutathione/oxidised glutathione (GSH/GSSG) redox couple was shown. In vivo and in vitro findings demonstrated that the time course of AHR activation/inhibition is characterized by an increase/decrease in the GSH/GSSG ratio. Based on these findings, we propose that many environmental pollutants and oxidants by alteration in the intracellular redox potential may interfere with the normal function of AHR target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Omidi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Ghafarian-Bahraman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Afshin Mohammadi-Bardbori
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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21
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Roman ÁC, Carvajal-Gonzalez JM, Merino JM, Mulero-Navarro S, Fernández-Salguero PM. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor in the crossroad of signalling networks with therapeutic value. Pharmacol Ther 2017; 185:50-63. [PMID: 29258844 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is well-known for its major contributions to the cellular responses against environmental toxins and carcinogens. Notably, AhR has also emerged as a key transcription factor controlling many physiological processes including cell proliferation and apoptosis, differentiation, adhesion and migration, pluripotency and stemness. These novel functions have broadened our understanding of the signalling pathways and molecular intermediates interacting with AhR under both homeostatic and pathological conditions. Recent discoveries link AhR with the function of essential organs such as liver, skin and gonads, and with complex organismal structures including the immune and cardiovascular systems. The identification of potential endogenous ligands able to regulate AhR activity, opens the possibility of designing ad hoc molecules with pharmacological and/or therapeutic value to treat human diseases in which AhR may have a causal role. Integration of experimental data from in vitro and in vivo studies with "omic" analyses of human patients affected with cancer, immune diseases, inflammation or neurological disorders will likely contribute to validate the clinical relevance of AhR and the possible benefits of modulating its activity by pharmacologically-driven strategies. In this review, we will highlight signalling pathways involved in human diseases that could be targetable by AhR modulators and discuss the feasibility of using such molecules in therapy. The pros and cons of AhR-aimed approaches will be also mentioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel C Roman
- Champalimaud Neuroscience Programme, Champalimoud Center for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José M Carvajal-Gonzalez
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Genética, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, 06071 Badajoz, Spain
| | - Jaime M Merino
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Genética, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, 06071 Badajoz, Spain
| | - Sonia Mulero-Navarro
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Genética, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, 06071 Badajoz, Spain.
| | - Pedro M Fernández-Salguero
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Genética, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, 06071 Badajoz, Spain.
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22
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Mohammadi-Bardbori A, Bastan F, Akbarizadeh AR. The highly bioactive molecule and signal substance 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ) plays bi-functional roles in cell growth and apoptosis in vitro. Arch Toxicol 2017; 91:3365-3372. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-017-1950-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Xue Z, Li D, Yu W, Zhang Q, Hou X, He Y, Kou X. Mechanisms and therapeutic prospects of polyphenols as modulators of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor. Food Funct 2017; 8:1414-1437. [DOI: 10.1039/c6fo01810f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Polyphenolic AhR modulators displayed concentration-, XRE-, gene-, species- and cell-specific agonistic/antagonistic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Xue
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300072
- China
| | - Dan Li
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300072
- China
| | - Wancong Yu
- Medical Plant Laboratory
- Tianjin Research Center of Agricultural Biotechnology
- Tianjin 3000381
- China
| | - Qian Zhang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300072
- China
| | - Xiaonan Hou
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300072
- China
| | - Yulong He
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300072
- China
| | - Xiaohong Kou
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300072
- China
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