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Sadowski J, Klaudel T, Rombel-Bryzek A, Bułdak RJ. Cognitive dysfunctions in the course of SARS‑CoV‑2 virus infection, including NeuroCOVID, frontal syndrome and cytokine storm (Review). Biomed Rep 2024; 21:103. [PMID: 38800038 PMCID: PMC11117100 DOI: 10.3892/br.2024.1791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, cognitive impairment of varying degrees of severity began to be observed in a significant percentage of patients. The present study discussed the impact of immunological processes on structural and functional changes in the central nervous system and the related cognitive disorders. The purpose of the present review was to analyse and discuss available information from the scientific literature considering the possible relationship between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viral infection and cognitive impairment, including NeuroCOVID, frontal syndrome and cytokine storm. A systematic literature review was conducted using: Google Scholar, Elsevier and the PubMed database. When searching for materials, the following keywords were used: 'cognitive dysfunctions', 'SARS-CoV-2', 'COVID-19', 'Neuro-SARS2', 'NeuroCOVID', 'frontal syndrome', 'cytokine storm', 'Long COVID-19'. A total of 96 articles were included in the study. The analysis focused on the characteristics of each study's materials, methods, results and conclusions. SARS-CoV-2 infection may induce or influence existing cognitive disorders of various nature and severity. The influence of immunological factors related to the response against SARS-CoV-2 on the disturbance of cerebral perfusion, the functioning of nerve cells and the neuroprotective effect has been demonstrated. Particular importance is attached to the cytokine storm and the related difference between pro- and anti-inflammatory effects, oxidative stress, disturbances in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the stress response of the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Sadowski
- Student Scientific Society of Clinical Biochemistry and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45-050 Opole, Poland
| | - Tomasz Klaudel
- Student Scientific Society of Clinical Biochemistry and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45-050 Opole, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Rombel-Bryzek
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45-050 Opole, Poland
| | - Rafał Jakub Bułdak
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, 45-050 Opole, Poland
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Rommel FR, Tumala S, Urban AL, Siebenhaar F, Kruse J, Gieler U, Peters EMJ. Stress Affects Mast Cell Proteases in Murine Skin in a Model of Atopic Dermatitis-like Allergic Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5738. [PMID: 38891925 PMCID: PMC11171663 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115738] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Stress exposure worsens allergic inflammatory diseases substantially. Mast cells (MCs) play a key role in peripheral immune responses to neuroendocrine stress mediators such as nerve growth factor (NGF) and substance P (SP). Mast cell proteases (MCPs) and cholinergic factors (Chrna7, SLURP1) were recently described to modulate MC stress response. We studied MCPs and Chrna7/SLURP1 and their interplay in a mouse model for noise induced stress (NiS) and atopic dermatitis-like allergic inflammation (AlD) and in cultured MC lacking Chrna7. We found that the cholinergic stress axis interacts with neuroendocrine stress mediators and stress-mediator cleaving enzymes in AlD. SP-cleaving mMCP4+ MC were upregulated in AlD and further upregulated by stress in NiS+AlD. Anti-NGF neutralizing antibody treatment blocked the stress-induced upregulation in vivo, and mMCP4+ MCs correlated with measures of AlD disease activity. Finally, high mMCP4 production in response to SP depended on Chrna7/SLURP1 in cultured MCs. In conclusion, mMCP4 and its upstream regulation by Chrna7/SLURP1 are interesting novel targets for the treatment of allergic inflammation and its aggravation by stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank R. Rommel
- Psychoneuroimmunology Laboratory, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - Susanne Tumala
- Psychoneuroimmunology Laboratory, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Urban
- Psychoneuroimmunology Laboratory, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - Frank Siebenhaar
- Institute of Allergology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 12203 Berlin, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Immunology and Allergology, 12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Johannes Kruse
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - Uwe Gieler
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Eva M. J. Peters
- Psychoneuroimmunology Laboratory, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany
- Charité Center 12 for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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3
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Theoharides TC, Twahir A, Kempuraj D. Mast cells in the autonomic nervous system and potential role in disorders with dysautonomia and neuroinflammation. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2024; 132:440-454. [PMID: 37951572 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2023.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Mast cells (MC) are ubiquitous in the body, and they are critical for not only in allergic diseases but also in immunity and inflammation, including having potential involvement in the pathophysiology of dysautonomias and neuroinflammatory disorders. MC are located perivascularly close to nerve endings and sites such as the carotid bodies, heart, hypothalamus, the pineal gland, and the adrenal gland that would allow them not only to regulate but also to be affected by the autonomic nervous system (ANS). MC are stimulated not only by allergens but also many other triggers including some from the ANS that can affect MC release of neurosensitizing, proinflammatory, and vasoactive mediators. Hence, MC may be able to regulate homeostatic functions that seem to be dysfunctional in many conditions, such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, and Long-COVID syndrome. The evidence indicates that there is a possible association between these conditions and diseases associated with MC activation. There is no effective treatment for any form of these conditions other than minimizing symptoms. Given the many ways MC could be activated and the numerous mediators released, it would be important to develop ways to inhibit stimulation of MC and the release of ANS-relevant mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C Theoharides
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Assma Twahir
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
| | - Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
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4
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Zhu C, Li S. The peripheral corticotropin releasing factor family's role in vasculitis. Vascul Pharmacol 2024; 154:107275. [PMID: 38184094 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2023.107275] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Corticotropin releasing factor family peptides (CRF peptides) include 4 members, corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), Urocortin (UCN1), UCN2 and UCN3. CRF peptides function via the two distinct receptors, CRF1 and CRF2. Among them, CRH/CRF1 has been recognized to influence immunity/inflammation peripherally. Both pro- and anti-inflammatory effects of CRH are reported. Likewise, UCNs, peripherally in cardiovascular system have been documented to have both potent protective and harmful effects, with UCN1 acting on both CRF1 & CRF2 and UCN2 & UCN3 on CRF2. We and others also observe protective and detrimental effects of CRF peptides/receptors on vasculature, with the latter of predominantly higher incidence, i.e., they play an important role in the development of vasculitis while in some cases they are found to counteract vascular inflammation. The pro-vasculitis effects of CRH & UCNs include increasing vascular endothelial permeability, interrupting endothelial adherens & tight junctions leading to hyperpermeability, stimulating immune/inflammatory cells to release inflammatory factors, and promoting angiogenesis by VEGF release while the anti-vasculitis effects may be just the opposite, depending on many factors such as different CRF receptor types, species and systemic conditions. Furthermore, CRF peptides' pro-vasculitis effects are found to be likely related to cPLA2 and S1P receptor signal pathway. This minireview will focus on summarizing the peripheral effects of CRF peptides on vasculature participating in the processes of vasculitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Avenue, 101, Nanjing, China
| | - Shengnan Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Avenue, 101, Nanjing, China.
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Theoharides TC, Kempuraj D. Potential Role of Moesin in Regulating Mast Cell Secretion. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12081. [PMID: 37569454 PMCID: PMC10418457 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512081] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mast cells have existed for millions of years in species that never suffer from allergic reactions. Hence, in addition to allergies, mast cells can play a critical role in homeostasis and inflammation via secretion of numerous vasoactive, pro-inflammatory and neuro-sensitizing mediators. Secretion may utilize different modes that involve the cytoskeleton, but our understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating secretion is still not well understood. The Ezrin/Radixin/Moesin (ERM) family of proteins is involved in linking cell surface-initiated signaling to the actin cytoskeleton. However, how ERMs may regulate secretion from mast cells is still poorly understood. ERMs contain two functional domains connected through a long α-helix region, the N-terminal FERM (band 4.1 protein-ERM) domain and the C-terminal ERM association domain (C-ERMAD). The FERM domain and the C-ERMAD can bind to each other in a head-to-tail manner, leading to a closed/inactive conformation. Typically, phosphorylation on the C-terminus Thr has been associated with the activation of ERMs, including secretion from macrophages and platelets. It has previously been shown that the ability of the so-called mast cell "stabilizer" disodium cromoglycate (cromolyn) to inhibit secretion from rat mast cells closely paralleled the phosphorylation of a 78 kDa protein, which was subsequently shown to be moesin, a member of ERMs. Interestingly, the phosphorylation of moesin during the inhibition of mast cell secretion was on the N-terminal Ser56/74 and Thr66 residues. This phosphorylation pattern could lock moesin in its inactive state and render it inaccessible to binding to the Soluble NSF attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) and synaptosomal-associated proteins (SNAPs) critical for exocytosis. Using confocal microscopic imaging, we showed moesin was found to colocalize with actin and cluster around secretory granules during inhibition of secretion. In conclusion, the phosphorylation pattern and localization of moesin may be important in the regulation of mast cell secretion and could be targeted for the development of effective inhibitors of secretion of allergic and inflammatory mediators from mast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C. Theoharides
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA;
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA;
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Papa V, Li Pomi F, Borgia F, Genovese S, Pioggia G, Gangemi S. "Mens Sana in Cute Sana"-A State of the Art of Mutual Etiopathogenetic Influence and Relevant Pathophysiological Pathways between Skin and Mental Disorders: An Integrated Approach to Contemporary Psychopathological Scenarios. Cells 2023; 12:1828. [PMID: 37508493 PMCID: PMC10377895 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The negative socioeconomic impact of mental health disorders and skin diseases has increased in part due to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has been a fertile ground for the emergence of psychopathologies. It is firmly established that there is a direct thread of etiopathogenetic communication between skin diseases and neuropsychiatric disorders, and the literature has tried to reveal the pathophysiological mechanisms governing such bidirectionality. This paper discusses this complex network of molecular pathways that are targeted by conventional and biological pharmacological agents that appear to impact two pathological spheres that previously seemed to have little connection. This molecular discussion is supplemented with a literature review, from a clinical viewpoint, regarding skin-brain etiopathogenetic bidirectionality. We focus on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can be considered for all intents and purposes a systemic inflammatory disease that also affects the skin. A brief overview is also provided on the diagnostic-therapeutic and follow-up potential of oxidative and inflammatory markers potentially involved in the pathophysiological mechanisms treated. The aim is to clarify how these mechanisms may be useful in defining different stress-coping strategies and thus individual phenotypes of stress sensitivity/resistance in order to promote personalized medicine in the field of psychodermatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Papa
- School and Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (V.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Federica Li Pomi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Francesco Borgia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Sara Genovese
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 98164 Messina, Italy; (S.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Giovanni Pioggia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 98164 Messina, Italy; (S.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- School and Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (V.P.); (S.G.)
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7
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Theoharides TC, Kempuraj D. Role of SARS-CoV-2 Spike-Protein-Induced Activation of Microglia and Mast Cells in the Pathogenesis of Neuro-COVID. Cells 2023; 12:688. [PMID: 36899824 PMCID: PMC10001285 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). About 45% of COVID-19 patients experience several symptoms a few months after the initial infection and develop post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), referred to as "Long-COVID," characterized by persistent physical and mental fatigue. However, the exact pathogenetic mechanisms affecting the brain are still not well-understood. There is increasing evidence of neurovascular inflammation in the brain. However, the precise role of the neuroinflammatory response that contributes to the disease severity of COVID-19 and long COVID pathogenesis is not clearly understood. Here, we review the reports that the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can cause blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction and damage neurons either directly, or via activation of brain mast cells and microglia and the release of various neuroinflammatory molecules. Moreover, we provide recent evidence that the novel flavanol eriodictyol is particularly suited for development as an effective treatment alone or together with oleuropein and sulforaphane (ViralProtek®), all of which have potent anti-viral and anti-inflammatory actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C. Theoharides
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
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Konstantinou GN, Konstantinou GN, Koulias C, Petalas K, Makris M. Further Understanding of Neuro-Immune Interactions in Allergy: Implications in Pathophysiology and Role in Disease Progression. J Asthma Allergy 2022; 15:1273-1291. [PMID: 36117919 PMCID: PMC9473548 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s282039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The complicated interaction between the central and the autonomic (sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric) nervous systems on the one hand and the immune system and its components, on the other hand, seems to substantially contribute to allergy pathophysiology, uncovering an under-recognized association that could have diagnostic and therapeutic potentials. Neurons connect directly with and regulate the function of many immune cells, including mast cells, the cells that have a leading role in allergic disorders. Proinflammatory mediators such as cytokines, neurotrophins, chemokines, and neuropeptides are released by immune cells, which stimulate sensory neurons. The release of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides caused by the activation of these neurons directly impacts the functional activity of immune cells and vice versa, playing a decisive role in this communication. Successful application of Pavlovian conditioning in allergic disorders supports the existence of a psychoneuroimmunological interplay in classical allergic hypersensitivity reactions. Activation of neuronal homeostatic reflexes, like sneezing in allergic rhinitis, coughing in allergic asthma, and vomiting in food allergy, offers additional evidence of a neuroimmunological interaction that aims to maintain homeostasis. Dysregulation of this interaction may cause overstimulation of the immune system that will produce profound symptoms and exaggerated hemodynamic responses that will lead to severe allergic pathophysiological events, including anaphylaxis. In this article, we have systematically reviewed and discussed the evidence regarding the role of the neuro-immune interactions in common allergic clinical modalities like allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, allergic asthma, food allergy, atopic dermatitis, and urticaria. It is essential to understand unknown – to most of the immunology and allergy experts – neurological networks that not only physiologically cooperate with the immune system to regulate homeostasis but also pathogenetically interact with more or less known immunological pathways, contribute to what is known as neuroimmunological inflammation, and shift homeostasis to instability and disease clinical expression. This understanding will provide recognition of new allergic phenotypes/endotypes and directions to focus on specialized treatments, as the era of personalized patient-centered medicine, is hastening apace.
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Affiliation(s)
- George N Konstantinou
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 424 General Military Training Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Gerasimos N Konstantinou
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Centre of Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher Koulias
- Allergy Unit, 2nd Department of Dermatology and Venereology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Attikon" University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michael Makris
- Allergy Unit, 2nd Department of Dermatology and Venereology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Attikon" University Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Bayat AH, Azimi H, Hassani Moghaddam M, Ebrahimi V, Fathi M, Vakili K, Mahmoudiasl GR, Forouzesh M, Boroujeni ME, Nariman Z, Abbaszadeh HA, Aryan A, Aliaghaei A, Abdollahifar MA. COVID-19 causes neuronal degeneration and reduces neurogenesis in human hippocampus. Apoptosis 2022; 27:852-868. [PMID: 35876935 PMCID: PMC9310365 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-022-01754-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Recent investigations of COVID-19 have largely focused on the effects of this novel virus on the vital organs in order to efficiently assist individuals who have recovered from the disease. In the present study we used hippocampal tissue samples extracted from people who died after COVID-19. Utilizing histological techniques to analyze glial and neuronal cells we illuminated a massive degeneration of neuronal cells and changes in glial cells morphology in hippocampal samples. The results showed that in hippocampus of the studied brains there were morphological changes in pyramidal cells, an increase in apoptosis, a drop in neurogenesis, and change in spatial distribution of neurons in the pyramidal and granular layer. It was also demonstrated that COVID-19 alter the morphological characteristics and distribution of astrocyte and microglia cells. While the exact mechanism(s) by which the virus causes neuronal loss and morphology in the central nervous system (CNS) remains to be determined, it is necessary to monitor the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on CNS compartments like the hippocampus in future investigations. As a result of what happened in the hippocampus secondary to COVID-19, memory impairment may be a long-term neurological complication which can be a predisposing factor for neurodegenerative disorders through neuroinflammation and oxidative stress mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir-Hossein Bayat
- Department of Basic Sciences, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - Helia Azimi
- Skull Base Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Hassani Moghaddam
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Ebrahimi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mobina Fathi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimia Vakili
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mahdi Forouzesh
- Legal Medicine Research Center, Iranian Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Eskandarian Boroujeni
- Laboratory of Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
| | - Zahra Nariman
- Skull Base Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hojjat-Allah Abbaszadeh
- Laser Application in Medical Sciences Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arefeh Aryan
- Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Abbas Aliaghaei
- Skull Base Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad-Amin Abdollahifar
- Skull Base Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Ádám D, Arany J, Tóth KF, Tóth BI, Szöllősi AG, Oláh A. Opioidergic Signaling-A Neglected, Yet Potentially Important Player in Atopic Dermatitis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:4140. [PMID: 35456955 PMCID: PMC9027603 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common skin diseases, the prevalence of which is especially high among children. Although our understanding about its pathogenesis has substantially grown in recent years, and hence, several novel therapeutic targets have been successfully exploited in the management of the disease, we still lack curative treatments for it. Thus, there is an unmet societal demand to identify further details of its pathogenesis to thereby pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches with favorable side effect profiles. It is commonly accepted that dysfunction of the complex cutaneous barrier plays a central role in the development of AD; therefore, the signaling pathways involved in the regulation of this quite complex process are likely to be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease and can provide novel, promising, yet unexplored therapeutic targets. Thus, in the current review, we aim to summarize the available potentially AD-relevant data regarding one such signaling pathway, namely cutaneous opioidergic signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorottya Ádám
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (D.Á.); (J.A.); (K.F.T.); (B.I.T.)
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - József Arany
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (D.Á.); (J.A.); (K.F.T.); (B.I.T.)
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Kinga Fanni Tóth
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (D.Á.); (J.A.); (K.F.T.); (B.I.T.)
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Balázs István Tóth
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (D.Á.); (J.A.); (K.F.T.); (B.I.T.)
| | - Attila Gábor Szöllősi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Attila Oláh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (D.Á.); (J.A.); (K.F.T.); (B.I.T.)
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11
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Papadopulos JS, Mentis AFA, Liapi C. Social Pharmacology as an Underappreciated Field in Medical Education: A Single Medical School's Experience. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:714707. [PMID: 34531746 PMCID: PMC8438604 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.714707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexios-Fotios A Mentis
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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12
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Theoharides TC. Ways to Address Perinatal Mast Cell Activation and Focal Brain Inflammation, including Response to SARS-CoV-2, in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Pers Med 2021; 11:860. [PMID: 34575637 PMCID: PMC8465360 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11090860] [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: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) continues to increase, but no distinct pathogenesis or effective treatment are known yet. The presence of many comorbidities further complicates matters, making a personalized approach necessary. An increasing number of reports indicate that inflammation of the brain leads to neurodegenerative changes, especially during perinatal life, "short-circuiting the electrical system" in the amygdala that is essential for our ability to feel emotions, but also regulates fear. Inflammation of the brain can result from the stimulation of mast cells-found in all tissues including the brain-by neuropeptides, stress, toxins, and viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, leading to the activation of microglia. These resident brain defenders then release even more inflammatory molecules and stop "pruning" nerve connections, disrupting neuronal connectivity, lowering the fear threshold, and derailing the expression of emotions, as seen in ASD. Many epidemiological studies have reported a strong association between ASD and atopic dermatitis (eczema), asthma, and food allergies/intolerance, all of which involve activated mast cells. Mast cells can be triggered by allergens, neuropeptides, stress, and toxins, leading to disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and activation of microglia. Moreover, many epidemiological studies have reported a strong association between stress and atopic dermatitis (eczema) during gestation, which involves activated mast cells. Both mast cells and microglia can also be activated by SARS-CoV-2 in affected mothers during pregnancy. We showed increased expression of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-18 and its receptor, but decreased expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-38 and its receptor IL-36R, only in the amygdala of deceased children with ASD. We further showed that the natural flavonoid luteolin is a potent inhibitor of the activation of both mast cells and microglia, but also blocks SARS-CoV-2 binding to its receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). A treatment approach should be tailored to each individual patient and should address hyperactivity/stress, allergies, or food intolerance, with the introduction of natural molecules or drugs to inhibit mast cells and microglia, such as liposomal luteolin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite 304, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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13
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Fregoso DR, Hadian Y, Gallegos AC, Degovics D, Maaga J, Keogh CE, Kletenik I, Gareau MG, Isseroff RR. Skin-brain axis signaling mediates behavioral changes after skin wounding. Brain Behav Immun Health 2021; 15:100279. [PMID: 34589779 PMCID: PMC8474598 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with chronic wounds often have associated cognitive dysfunction and depression with an as yet unknown mechanism for this association. To address the possible causality of skin wounding inducing these changes, behavior and cognitive functions of female C57BL/6 mice with an excisional skin wound were compared to unwounded animals. At six days post wounding, animals exhibited anxiety-like behaviors, impaired recognition memory, and impaired coping behavior. Wounded animals also had concomitant increased hippocampal expression of Tnfa, the pattern recognition receptor (PRR) Nod2, the glucocorticoid receptors GR/Nr3c1 and Nr3c2. Prefrontal cortex serotonin and dopamine turnover were increased on day six post-wounding. In contrast to the central nervous system (CNS) findings, day six post -wounding serum catecholamines did not differ between wounded and unwounded animals, nor did levels of the stress hormone corticosterone, TNFα, or TGFβ. Serum IL6 levels were, however elevated in the wounded animals. These findings provide evidence of skin-to-brain signaling, mediated either by elevated serum IL6 or a direct neuronal signaling from the periphery to the CNS, independent of systemic mediators. Wounding in the periphery is associated with an altered expression of inflammatory mediators and PRR genes in the hippocampus, which may be responsible for the observed behavioral deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R. Fregoso
- University of California, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Davis, United States
| | - Yasmin Hadian
- University of California, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Davis, United States
| | - Anthony C. Gallegos
- University of California, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Davis, United States
| | - Doniz Degovics
- University of California, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Davis, United States
| | - John Maaga
- University of California, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Davis, United States
| | - Ciara E. Keogh
- University of California, School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, Davis, United States
| | - Isaiah Kletenik
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, And Division of Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Department of Neurology, United States
| | - Melanie G. Gareau
- University of California, School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, Davis, United States
| | - R. Rivkah Isseroff
- University of California, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Davis, United States
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14
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Cheng J, Li F, Lai Y, Chen J, Sun X, Xiang L, Jiang P, Wu S, Xiao Y, Zhou L, Luo R, Zhao X, Liu Y. Association of stress management skills and stressful life events with allergy risk: a case-control study in southern China. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1279. [PMID: 34193097 PMCID: PMC8247235 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11333-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychosocial stress and stressful life events are known to aggravate allergic diseases. Less is known about the impact of stress management skills on allergies. Here we sought to determine whether stress management skills are associated with the allergies and to assess the combined effects of stress management skills and stressful events on allergy risk. METHODS A survey on risk factors for self-reported allergic diseases was carried out among 28,144 southern Chinese people; 14 stressful life events and 8 stress management skills were retrospectively recorded in a case-control setting with multivariate logistic regression analysis. Multiplicative and additive interactions between stressful events and stress management skills were evaluated. RESULTS Stressful events significantly increased allergy risk. The odds ratio (OR) for allergies was 1.65 (95% confidence interval CI, 1.41-1.93) for those reporting one or two stressful events and 3.10 (95% CI, 2.55-3.79) for those reporting more than three stressful events compared to participants without stressful events. Stress management skills were adversely associated with allergic risk for people experiencing stressful events (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.53-0.97) when adjusted demographically, particularly "concentrate on pleasant thoughts at bedtime" (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.51-0.89), "pace myself to prevent tiredness" (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.54-0.83), "get enough sleep" (OR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.32-0.72) and "take some time for relaxation each day" (OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.37-0.80). But in people without stressful events, no association was observed. There was a significant linear trend for allergy risk from good stress management skills with no stressful events to poor stress management skills with stressful events (P < 0.001), with significant interaction in additive models (P = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS There are independent and antagonistic combined associations of stressful life events and stress management skills with allergy risk. The data supports the use of stress management skills in managing allergic disease among people with stressful life events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingru Cheng
- Department of Nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Fei Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Yigui Lai
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, People's Hospital of Yangjiang, Yangjiang, 529500, Guangdong, China
| | - Jieyu Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaomin Sun
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Lei Xiang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Pingping Jiang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Shengwei Wu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Ya Xiao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Endocrinology Department, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Ren Luo
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoshan Zhao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yanyan Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
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15
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Zhang Y, Zhang H, Jiang B, Tong X, Yan S, Lu J. Current views on neuropeptides in atopic dermatitis. Exp Dermatol 2021; 30:1588-1597. [PMID: 33963624 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease involving skin barrier dysfunction and immune imbalance. However, the mechanism of AD is not clear completely and may be related to heredity and environment. Neuropeptides are a class of peptides secreted by nerve endings, they may play roles in promoting vasodilation, plasma extravasation, chemotaxis of inflammatory cells and mediating pruritus. Since itching and immune cell infiltration are the main manifestations of atopic dermatitis, to further investigate the impact of neuropeptides on AD, our review summarized the mechanisms of several common neuropeptides in AD and hypothesized that neuropeptides may be the novel potential targets in AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hanyi Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Boyue Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoliang Tong
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Siyu Yan
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianyun Lu
- Department of Dermatology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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16
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Theoharides TC, Cholevas C, Polyzoidis K, Politis A. Long-COVID syndrome-associated brain fog and chemofog: Luteolin to the rescue. Biofactors 2021; 47:232-241. [PMID: 33847020 PMCID: PMC8250989 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 leads to severe respiratory problems, but also to long-COVID syndrome associated primarily with cognitive dysfunction and fatigue. Long-COVID syndrome symptoms, especially brain fog, are similar to those experienced by patients undertaking or following chemotherapy for cancer (chemofog or chemobrain), as well in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) or mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). The pathogenesis of brain fog in these illnesses is presently unknown but may involve neuroinflammation via mast cells stimulated by pathogenic and stress stimuli to release mediators that activate microglia and lead to inflammation in the hypothalamus. These processes could be mitigated by phytosomal formulation (in olive pomace oil) of the natural flavonoid luteolin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C. Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of ImmunologyTufts University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
- School of Graduate Biomedical SciencesTufts University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Internal MedicineTufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of PsychiatryTufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
- BrainGateThessalonikiGreece
| | | | | | - Antonios Politis
- First Department of PsychiatryEginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian UniversityAthensGreece
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17
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Kilinc E, Torun IE, Cetinkaya A, Tore F. Mast cell activation ameliorates pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures in rats: The potential role for serotonin. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 55:2912-2924. [PMID: 33565644 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Mast cells are multifunctional immune cells that are also activated by stress. The effects of activated mast cells on epileptogenesis are not yet known. This study investigated the effects and mechanisms of compound 48/80-stimulated mast cell activation on pentylenetetrazole-induced epileptic seizures in rats. Male Wistar rats were separated into seven groups (n = 12). Group-1(NS+PTZ) received intraperitoneal saline solution, while groups 2(C-48/80+PTZ-1), 3(C-48/80+PTZ-2), and 4(C-48/80+PTZ-3) received compound-48/80 at doses of 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg, respectively, 30 min before 45 mg/kg pentylenetetrazole administration. Similarly, Group-5(Cr+C-48/80+PTZ) received 10 mg/kg cromolyn plus 2 mg/kg compound-48/80 before pentylenetetrazole, and Group-6(MC Dep+C-48/80+PTZ) was exposed to a mast cell-depletion process, and then received 2 mg/kg compound-48/80. Group-7(5-HT+PTZ) received 10 mg/kg serotonin. Seizure stages were evaluated using Racine's scale. Compound-48/80 at 2 mg/kg induced anticonvulsive effects against pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures by extending onset-times of both myoclonic-jerk and generalized tonic-clonic seizures (p = 0.0001), and by shortening the duration of generalized tonic-clonic seizure (p = 0.008). These effects were reversed by cromolyn (p = 0.0001). These effects were not observed in mast cell-depleted rats. Similarly to compound 48/80, serotonin also exhibited anticonvulsive effects against seizures (p < 0.05). Compound 48/80 acts as an anticonvulsant by activating mast cells in a dose-dependent manner. The anticonvulsive effects of mast cell activation may be mediated by serotonin. Mast cell activation may therefore provide protective activity against seizures under appropriate circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erkan Kilinc
- Department of Physiology, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Bolu, Turkey
| | | | - Ayhan Cetinkaya
- Department of Physiology, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Bolu, Turkey
| | - Fatma Tore
- Department of Physiology, Istanbul Health and Technology University, Istanbul, Turkey
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18
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Wu Z, Stadler N, Abbaci A, Liu J, Boullier A, Marie N, Biondi O, Moldes M, Morichon R, Feve B, Melander O, Forgez P. Effect of Monoclonal Antibody Blockade of Long Fragment Neurotensin on Weight Loss, Behavior, and Metabolic Traits After High-Fat Diet Induced Obesity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:739287. [PMID: 34690932 PMCID: PMC8531653 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.739287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is a major public health problem of our time as a risk factor for cardiometabolic disease and the available pharmacological tools needed to tackle the obesity pandemic are insufficient. Neurotensin (NTS) is a 13 amino acid peptide, which is derived from a larger precursor hormone called proneurotensin or Long Form NTS (LF NTS). NTS modulates neuro-transmitter release in the central system nervous, and facilitates intestinal fat absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Mice lacking LF NTS are protected from high fat diet (HFD) induced obesity, hepatic steatosis and glucose intolerance. In humans, increased levels of LF NTS strongly and independently predict the development of obesity, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease and mortality. With the perspective to develop therapeutic tools to neutralize LF NTS, we developed a monoclonal antibody, specifically inhibiting the function of the LF NTS (LF NTS mAb). This antibody was tested for the effects on body weight, metabolic parameters and behavior in mice made obese by high-fat diet. METHODS C57bl/6j mice were subjected to high-fat diet (HFD) until they reached an obesity state, then food was switched to chow. Mice were treated with either PBS (control therapy) or LF NTS mAb at the dose of 5 mg/kg once a week (i.v.). Mice weight, plasma biochemical analysis, fat and muscle size and distribution and behavioral tests were performed during the losing weight period and the stabilization period. RESULTS Obese mice treated with the LF NTS mAb lost weight significantly faster than the control treated group. LF NTS mAb treatment also resulted in smaller fat depots, increased fecal cholesterol excretion, reduced liver fat and larger muscle fiber size. Moreover, mice on active therapy were also less stressed, more curious and more active, providing a possible explanation to their weight loss. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that in mice subjected to HFD-induced obesity, a blockade of LF NTS with a monoclonal antibody results in reduced body weight, adipocyte volume and increased muscle fiber size, possibly explained by beneficial effects on behavior. The underlying mechanisms as well as any future role of LF NTS mAb as an anti-obesity agent warrants further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zherui Wu
- Inserm UMRS 1124 T3S, Paris University, Paris, France
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | | | | | - Jin Liu
- Inserm UMRS 1124 T3S, Paris University, Paris, France
| | - Agnès Boullier
- MP3CV-UR7517, CURS-Université de Picardie Jules Verne & Laboratoire de Biochimie CHU Amiens-Picardie, Amiens, France
| | - Nicolas Marie
- Inserm UMRS 1124 T3S, Paris University, Paris, France
- CNRS, ERL 3649, Pharmacologie et thérapies des addictions, Paris, France
| | | | - Marthe Moldes
- Sorbonne University, INSERM UMRS 938, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
- Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Romain Morichon
- Sorbonne University, CRSA Cytométrie Imagerie Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Feve
- Institute of CardioMetabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
- AP-HP, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service Endocrinologie, CRMR PRISIS, Paris, France
| | - Olle Melander
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Emergency and Internal Medicine, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Patricia Forgez, ; Olle Melander,
| | - Patricia Forgez
- Inserm UMRS 1124 T3S, Paris University, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Patricia Forgez, ; Olle Melander,
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19
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Bhuiyan P, Wang YW, Sha HH, Dong HQ, Qian YN. Neuroimmune connections between corticotropin-releasing hormone and mast cells: novel strategies for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:2184-2197. [PMID: 33818491 PMCID: PMC8354134 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.310608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corticotropin-releasing hormone is a critical component of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, which plays a major role in the body’s immune response to stress. Mast cells are both sensors and effectors in the interaction between the nervous and immune systems. As first responders to stress, mast cells can initiate, amplify and prolong neuroimmune responses upon activation. Corticotropin-releasing hormone plays a pivotal role in triggering stress responses and related diseases by acting on its receptors in mast cells. Corticotropin-releasing hormone can stimulate mast cell activation, influence the activation of immune cells by peripheral nerves and modulate neuroimmune interactions. The latest evidence shows that the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone induces the degranulation of mast cells under stress conditions, leading to disruption of the blood-brain barrier, which plays an important role in neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, autism spectrum disorder and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Recent studies suggest that stress increases intestinal permeability and disrupts the blood-brain barrier through corticotropin-releasing hormone-mediated activation of mast cells, providing new insight into the complex interplay between the brain and gastrointestinal tract. The neuroimmune target of mast cells is the site at which the corticotropin-releasing hormone directly participates in the inflammatory responses of nerve terminals. In this review, we focus on the neuroimmune connections between corticotropin-releasing hormone and mast cells, with the aim of providing novel potential therapeutic targets for inflammatory, autoimmune and nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piplu Bhuiyan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yi-Wei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wuxi People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Huan-Huan Sha
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hong-Quan Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yan-Ning Qian
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
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20
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Xu H, Shi X, Li X, Zou J, Zhou C, Liu W, Shao H, Chen H, Shi L. Neurotransmitter and neuropeptide regulation of mast cell function: a systematic review. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:356. [PMID: 33239034 PMCID: PMC7691095 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-02029-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The existence of the neural control of mast cell functions has long been proposed. Mast cells (MCs) are localized in association with the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and the brain, where they are closely aligned, anatomically and functionally, with neurons and neuronal processes throughout the body. They express receptors for and are regulated by various neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and other neuromodulators. Consequently, modulation provided by these neurotransmitters and neuromodulators allows neural control of MC functions and involvement in the pathogenesis of mast cell–related disease states. Recently, the roles of individual neurotransmitters and neuropeptides in regulating mast cell actions have been investigated extensively. This review offers a systematic review of recent advances in our understanding of the contributions of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides to mast cell activation and the pathological implications of this regulation on mast cell–related disease states, though the full extent to which such control influences health and disease is still unclear, and a complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying the control is lacking. Future validation of animal and in vitro models also is needed, which incorporates the integration of microenvironment-specific influences and the complex, multifaceted cross-talk between mast cells and various neural signals. Moreover, new biological agents directed against neurotransmitter receptors on mast cells that can be used for therapeutic intervention need to be more specific, which will reduce their ability to support inflammatory responses and enhance their potential roles in protecting against mast cell–related pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaping Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xiaoyun Shi
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Xin Li
- School of Food Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Jiexin Zou
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, 461 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunyan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wenfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Huming Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Hongbing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Linbo Shi
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, 461 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China.
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21
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Kempuraj D, Selvakumar GP, Ahmed ME, Raikwar SP, Thangavel R, Khan A, Zaheer SA, Iyer SS, Burton C, James D, Zaheer A. COVID-19, Mast Cells, Cytokine Storm, Psychological Stress, and Neuroinflammation. Neuroscientist 2020; 26:402-414. [PMID: 32684080 DOI: 10.1177/1073858420941476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a new pandemic infectious disease that originated in China. COVID-19 is a global public health emergency of international concern. COVID-19 causes mild to severe illness with high morbidity and mortality, especially in preexisting risk groups. Therapeutic options are now limited to COVID-19. The hallmark of COVID-19 pathogenesis is the cytokine storm with elevated levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), chemokine (C-C-motif) ligand 2 (CCL2), and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). COVID-19 can cause severe pneumonia, and neurological disorders, including stroke, the damage to the neurovascular unit, blood-brain barrier disruption, high intracranial proinflammatory cytokines, and endothelial cell damage in the brain. Mast cells are innate immune cells and also implicated in adaptive immune response, systemic inflammatory diseases, neuroinflammatory diseases, traumatic brain injury and stroke, and stress disorders. SARS-CoV-2 can activate monocytes/macrophages, dendritic cells, T cells, mast cells, neutrophils, and induce cytokine storm in the lung. COVID-19 can activate mast cells, neurons, glial cells, and endothelial cells. SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause psychological stress and neuroinflammation. In conclusion, COVID-19 can induce mast cell activation, psychological stress, cytokine storm, and neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Department of Neurology, and the Center for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Govindhasamy Pushpavathi Selvakumar
- Department of Neurology, and the Center for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Mohammad Ejaz Ahmed
- Department of Neurology, and the Center for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Sudhanshu P Raikwar
- Department of Neurology, and the Center for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Ramasamy Thangavel
- Department of Neurology, and the Center for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Asher Khan
- Department of Neurology, and the Center for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Smita A Zaheer
- Department of Neurology, and the Center for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Shankar S Iyer
- Department of Neurology, and the Center for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Columbia, MO, USA
| | | | | | - Asgar Zaheer
- Department of Neurology, and the Center for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Columbia, MO, USA
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22
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Maron JL. Stress and Altered Immune Function: Programming Throughout the Lifespan. Clin Ther 2020; 42:959-960. [PMID: 32505494 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jill L Maron
- Mother Infant Research Institute, Tufts Medical University, Boston, MA, USA
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