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Ishii H, Minegishi K, Nagatsu K, Nengaki N, Zhang MR. Novel synthesis of 11C-labeled imidazolines via Pd(0)-mediated 11C-carbomethoxylation using [ 11C]CO and arylborons. J Labelled Comp Radiopharm 2024; 67:227-234. [PMID: 37957035 DOI: 10.1002/jlcr.4072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
A labeling technique was developed for the imidazoline I2 receptor ligand 2-(3-fluoro-tolyl)-4, 5-dihydro-1H-imidazole (FTIMD) using Pd(0)-mediated 11C-carbomethoxylation with [11C]CO, followed by imidazoline ring formation with ethylenediamine-trimethylaluminium (EDA-AlMe3). To achieve this, [11C]CO was passed through a methanol (MeOH) solution containing 3-fluoro-4-methylphenylboronic acid (1), palladium (II) acetate (Pd [OAc]2), triphenylphosphine (PPh3), and p-benzoquinone (PBQ). The mixture was then heated at 65°C for 5 min. EDA was introduced into the reaction mixture, and MeOH was completely evaporated at temperatures exceeding 100°C. The dried reaction mixture was combined with an EDA-AlMe (1:1) toluene solution and heated at 145°C for 10 min. Portions of the reaction mixture were analyzed through high-performance liquid chromatography, resulting in [11C]FTIMD with 26% (n = 2) decay-corrected radiochemical yield (RCY). This method could be utilized for various arylborons to produce [2-11C]imidazolines 4a-h with RCYs ranging from low to moderate. Notably, [2-11C]benazoline was obtained with a moderate RCY of 65%. The proposed technique serves as an alternative to the Grignard method, which uses [11C]CO to generate a [2-11C]-labeled imidazoline ring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Ishii
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
| | - Katsuyuki Minegishi
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kotaro Nagatsu
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
| | - Nobuki Nengaki
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
- SHI Accelerator Service Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ming-Rong Zhang
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
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Mackiewicz J, Lisek M, Boczek T. Targeting CaN/NFAT in Alzheimer's brain degeneration. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1281882. [PMID: 38077352 PMCID: PMC10701682 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1281882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a progressive loss of cognitive functions. While the exact causes of this debilitating disorder remain elusive, numerous investigations have characterized its two core pathologies: the presence of β-amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Additionally, multiple studies of postmortem brain tissue, as well as results from AD preclinical models, have consistently demonstrated the presence of a sustained inflammatory response. As the persistent immune response is associated with neurodegeneration, it became clear that it may also exacerbate other AD pathologies, providing a link between the initial deposition of β-amyloid plaques and the later development of neurofibrillary tangles. Initially discovered in T cells, the nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) is one of the main transcription factors driving the expression of inflammatory genes and thus regulating immune responses. NFAT-dependent production of inflammatory mediators is controlled by Ca2+-dependent protein phosphatase calcineurin (CaN), which dephosphorylates NFAT and promotes its transcriptional activity. A substantial body of evidence has demonstrated that aberrant CaN/NFAT signaling is linked to several pathologies observed in AD, including neuronal apoptosis, synaptic deficits, and glia activation. In view of this, the role of NFAT isoforms in AD has been linked to disease progression at different stages, some of which are paralleled to diminished cognitive status. The use of classical inhibitors of CaN/NFAT signaling, such as tacrolimus or cyclosporine, or adeno-associated viruses to specifically inhibit astrocytic NFAT activation, has alleviated some symptoms of AD by diminishing β-amyloid neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation. In this article, we discuss the recent findings related to the contribution of CaN/NFAT signaling to the progression of AD and highlight the possible benefits of targeting this pathway in AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tomasz Boczek
- Department of Molecular Neurochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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3
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Saha P, Panda S, Holkar A, Vashishth R, Rana SS, Arumugam M, Ashraf GM, Haque S, Ahmad F. Neuroprotection by agmatine: Possible involvement of the gut microbiome? Ageing Res Rev 2023; 91:102056. [PMID: 37673131 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102056] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Agmatine, an endogenous polyamine derived from L-arginine, elicits tremendous multimodal neuromodulant properties. Alterations in agmatinergic signalling are closely linked to the pathogeneses of several brain disorders. Importantly, exogenous agmatine has been shown to act as a potent neuroprotectant in varied pathologies, including brain ageing and associated comorbidities. The antioxidant, anxiolytic, analgesic, antidepressant and memory-enhancing activities of agmatine may derive from its ability to regulate several cellular pathways; including cell metabolism, survival and differentiation, nitric oxide signalling, protein translation, oxidative homeostasis and neurotransmitter signalling. This review briefly discusses mammalian metabolism of agmatine and then proceeds to summarize our current understanding of neuromodulation and neuroprotection mediated by agmatine. Further, the emerging exciting bidirectional links between agmatine and the resident gut microbiome and their implications for brain pathophysiology and ageing are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Saha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Subhrajita Panda
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Aayusha Holkar
- Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Rahul Vashishth
- Department of Biosciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Sandeep Singh Rana
- Department of Biosciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Mohanapriya Arumugam
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- University of Sharjah, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon; Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Faraz Ahmad
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India.
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Mirzaei N, Davis N, Chau TW, Sastre M. Astrocyte Reactivity in Alzheimer's Disease: Therapeutic Opportunities to Promote Repair. Curr Alzheimer Res 2021; 19:1-15. [PMID: 34719372 DOI: 10.2174/1567205018666211029164106] [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: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are fast climbing the ladder of importance in neurodegenerative disorders, particularly in Alzheimer's disease (AD), with the prominent presence of reactive astrocytes sur- rounding amyloid β- plaques, together with activated microglia. Reactive astrogliosis, implying morphological and molecular transformations in astrocytes, seems to precede neurodegeneration, suggesting a role in the development of the disease. Single-cell transcriptomics has recently demon- strated that astrocytes from AD brains are different from "normal" healthy astrocytes, showing dys- regulations in areas such as neurotransmitter recycling, including glutamate and GABA, and im- paired homeostatic functions. However, recent data suggest that the ablation of astrocytes in mouse models of amyloidosis results in an increase in amyloid pathology as well as in the inflammatory profile and reduced synaptic density, indicating that astrocytes mediate neuroprotective effects. The idea that interventions targeting astrocytes may have great potential for AD has therefore emerged, supported by a range of drugs and stem cell transplantation studies that have successfully shown a therapeutic effect in mouse models of AD. In this article, we review the latest reports on the role and profile of astrocytes in AD brains and how manipulation of astrocytes in animal mod- els has paved the way for the use of treatments enhancing astrocytic function as future therapeutic avenues for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazanin Mirzaei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 127 S. San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90048. United States
| | - Nicola Davis
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammer-smith Hospital, Du Cane Road, LondonW12 0NN. United Kingdom
| | - Tsz Wing Chau
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammer-smith Hospital, Du Cane Road, LondonW12 0NN. United Kingdom
| | - Magdalena Sastre
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammer-smith Hospital, Du Cane Road, LondonW12 0NN. United Kingdom
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Quan J, Ma C, Wang Y, Hu B, Zhang D, Zhang Z, Wang J, Cheng M. Repurposing of cefpodoxime proxetil as potent neuroprotective agent through computational prediction and in vitro validation. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2021; 39:3975-3985. [PMID: 32448083 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2020.1772884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
In recent reports, NR2B-NMDA receptor antagonists showed more research value because of its strong targeting ability and less side effects potential. In 2016, EVT-101 was reported to bind in an almost entirely new binding region of this target. Whether strikingly different binding modes can improve targeting and reduce side effects is worth studying. In our preliminary work, we explored the binding patterns of ifenprodil and EVT-101, found the key amino acids and summarized the pharmacophores, hoping to find such antagonists that target the two binding modes simultaneously. In this study, we developed a scalable virtual screening workflow in the FDA-approved drugs library to identify novel NR2B-NMDAR antagonists based on the combination of two pharmacophores. Cefpodoxime proxetil (5) was identified as the hit compound, and it was found for the first time that 5 might have neuroprotective activity as a NR2B-NMDAR antagonist. This result interested us to make further study, the ligand-receptor interactions modeled by molecular docking studies showed that the compound could perfectly merge both the pharmacophore characteristics of ifenprodil and EVT-101 at the binding cavity between the ATDs of GluN1 and GluN2B. The accuracy of molecular docking results and binding stability of ligand-receptor complexes were validated through 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation and binding free energy calculation. Afterwards, MTT assay (49.8%±0.1%, 5 μM) on NMDA injured SH-SY5Y cells and evidence of the effect on attenuating Ca2+ influx induced by NMDA were applied to validate the computational results, further investigation showed that 5 could suppress the NR2B upregulation induced by NMDA. [Formula: see text] Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jishun Quan
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Ma
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Wang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Baichun Hu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongping Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuo Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Maosheng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
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Xia N, Hua Y, Li J, Chen Y, Li X, Lin J, Xu H, Xie C, Wang X. 2-(2-Benzofuranyl)-2-Imidazoline Attenuates the Disruption of the Blood-Brain Barrier in EAE via NMDAR. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:1674-1685. [PMID: 33772673 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03304-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption has been recognized as an early hallmark of multiple sclerosis (MS) pathology. Our previous studies have shown that 2-(2-Benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI) protected against experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a classic animal model of MS. However, the potential effects of 2-BFI on BBB permeability have not yet been evaluated in the context of EAE. Herein, we aimed to investigate the effect of 2-BFI on BBB permeability in both an animal model and an in vitro BBB model using TNF-α to imitate the inflammatory damage to the BBB in MS. In the animal model, 2-BFI reduced neurological deficits and BBB permeability in EAE mice compared with saline treatment. The Western blot results indicated that 2-BFI not only alleviated the loss of the tight junction protein occludin caused by EAE but also inhibited the activation of the NR1-ERK signaling pathway. In an in vitro BBB model, 2-BFI (100 μM) alleviated the TNF-α-induced increase in permeability and reduction in expression of occludin in monolayer bEnd.3 cells. Similar protective effects were also observed after treatment with the NMDAR antagonist MK801. The Western blot results showed that the TNF-α-induced BBB breakdown and increase in NMDAR subunit 1 (NR1) levels and ERK phosphorylation could be blocked by pretreatment with 2-BFI or MK801. However, no additional effect was observed on BBB permeability or the expression of occludin and p-ERK after pretreatment with both 2-BFI and MK801. Our study indicates that 2-BFI alleviates the disruption of BBB in the context of inflammatory injury similar to that of MS by targeting NMDAR1, as well as by likely activating the subsequent ERK signaling pathway. These results provide further evidence for 2-BFI as a potential drug for the treatment of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niange Xia
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, South Baixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yingjie Hua
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, South Baixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, South Baixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, South Baixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueying Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, South Baixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiahe Lin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, South Baixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huiqin Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, South Baixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chenglong Xie
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, South Baixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinshi Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, South Baixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, 325003, Zhejiang, China.
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7
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Benzofuranyl-2-imidazoles as imidazoline I 2 receptor ligands for Alzheimer's disease. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 222:113540. [PMID: 34118720 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Recent findings unveil the pharmacological modulation of imidazoline I2 receptors (I2-IR) as a novel strategy to face unmet medical neurodegenerative diseases. In this work, we report the chemical characterization, three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) and ADMET in silico of a family of benzofuranyl-2-imidazoles that exhibit affinity against human brain I2-IR and most of them have been predicted to be brain permeable. Acute treatment in mice with 2-(2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazole, known as LSL60101 (garsevil), showed non-warning properties in the ADMET studies and an optimal pharmacokinetic profile. Moreover, LSL60101 induced hypothermia in mice while decreased pro-apoptotic FADD protein in the hippocampus. In vivo studies in the familial Alzheimer's disease 5xFAD murine model with the representative compound, revealed significant decreases in the protein expression levels of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in hippocampus. Overall, LSL60101 plays a neuroprotective role by reducing apoptosis and modulating oxidative stress.
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Mirzaei N, Mota BC, Birch AM, Davis N, Romero-Molina C, Katsouri L, Palmer EOC, Golbano A, Riggall LJ, Nagy I, Tyacke R, Nutt DJ, Sastre M. Imidazoline ligand BU224 reverses cognitive deficits, reduces microgliosis and enhances synaptic connectivity in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 178:654-671. [PMID: 33140839 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Activation of type 2 imidazoline receptors has been shown to exhibit neuroprotective properties including anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects, suggesting a potential therapeutic value in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we explored the effects of the imidazoline-2 ligand BU224 in a model of amyloidosis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Six-month-old female transgenic 5XFAD and wild-type (WT) mice were treated intraperitoneally with 5-mg·kg-1 BU224 or vehicle twice a day for 10 days. Behavioural tests were performed for cognitive functions and neuropathological changes were investigated by immunohistochemistry, Western blot, elisa and qPCR. Effects of BU224 on amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing, spine density and calcium imaging were analysed in brain organotypic cultures and N2a cells. KEY RESULTS BU224 treatment attenuated spatial and perirhinal cortex-dependent recognition memory deficits in 5XFAD mice. Fear-conditioning testing revealed that BU224 also improved both associative learning and hippocampal- and amygdala-dependent memory in transgenic but not in WT mice. In the brain, BU224 reduced levels of the microglial marker Iba1 and pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α and increased the expression of astrocytic marker GFAP in 5XFAD mice. These beneficial effects were not associated with changes in amyloid pathology, neuronal apoptosis, mitochondrial density, oxidative stress or autophagy markers. Interestingly, ex vivo and in vitro studies suggested that BU224 treatment increased the size of dendritic spines and induced a threefold reduction in amyloid-β (Aβ)-induced functional changes in NMDA receptors. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Sub-chronic treatment with BU224 restores memory and reduces inflammation in transgenic AD mice, at stages when animals display severe pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazanin Mirzaei
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Bibiana C Mota
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Amy M Birch
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Nicola Davis
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Carmen Romero-Molina
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Loukia Katsouri
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Emily O C Palmer
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Arantxa Golbano
- Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura J Riggall
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Istvan Nagy
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Robin Tyacke
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - David J Nutt
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Magdalena Sastre
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
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Vasilopoulou F, Griñán-Ferré C, Rodríguez-Arévalo S, Bagán A, Abás S, Escolano C, Pallàs M. I 2 imidazoline receptor modulation protects aged SAMP8 mice against cognitive decline by suppressing the calcineurin pathway. GeroScience 2020; 43:965-983. [PMID: 33128688 PMCID: PMC8110656 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-020-00281-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain aging and dementia are current problems that must be solved. The levels of imidazoline 2 receptors (I2-IRs) are increased in the brain in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative diseases. We tested the action of the specific and selective I2-IR ligand B06 in a mouse model of accelerated aging and AD, the senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model. Oral administration of B06 for 4 weeks improved SAMP8 mouse behavior and cognition and reduced AD hallmarks, oxidative stress, and apoptotic and neuroinflammation markers. Likewise, B06 regulated glial excitatory amino acid transporter 2 and N-methyl-D aspartate 2A and 2B receptor subunit protein levels. Calcineurin (CaN) is a phosphatase that controls the phosphorylation levels of cAMP response element-binding (CREB), apoptotic mediator BCL-2-associated agonist of cell death (BAD) and GSK3β, among other molecules. Interestingly, B06 was able to reduce the levels of the CaN active form (CaN A). Likewise, CREB phosphorylation, BAD gene expression, and other factors were modified after B06 treatment. Moreover, phosphorylation of a target of CaN, nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 1 (NFATC1), was increased in B06-treated mice, impeding the transcription of genes related to neuroinflammation and neural plasticity. In summary, this I2 imidazoline ligand can exert its beneficial effects on age-related conditions by modulating CaN pathway action and affecting several molecular pathways, playing a neuroprotective role in SAMP8 mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Foteini Vasilopoulou
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Neurociencies, University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christian Griñán-Ferré
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Neurociencies, University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergio Rodríguez-Arévalo
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrea Bagán
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sònia Abás
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Escolano
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Pallàs
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Neurociencies, University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain.
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10
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Bousquet P, Hudson A, García-Sevilla JA, Li JX. Imidazoline Receptor System: The Past, the Present, and the Future. Pharmacol Rev 2020; 72:50-79. [PMID: 31819014 DOI: 10.1124/pr.118.016311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Imidazoline receptors historically referred to a family of nonadrenergic binding sites that recognize compounds with an imidazoline moiety, although this has proven to be an oversimplification. For example, none of the proposed endogenous ligands for imidazoline receptors contain an imidazoline moiety but they are diverse in their chemical structure. Three receptor subtypes (I1, I2, and I3) have been proposed and the understanding of each has seen differing progress over the decades. I1 receptors partially mediate the central hypotensive effects of clonidine-like drugs. Moxonidine and rilmenidine have better therapeutic profiles (fewer side effects) than clonidine as antihypertensive drugs, thought to be due to their higher I1/α 2-adrenoceptor selectivity. Newer I1 receptor agonists such as LNP599 [3-chloro-2-methyl-phenyl)-(4-methyl-4,5-dihydro-3H-pyrrol-2-yl)-amine hydrochloride] have little to no activity on α 2-adrenoceptors and demonstrate promising therapeutic potential for hypertension and metabolic syndrome. I2 receptors associate with several distinct proteins, but the identities of these proteins remain elusive. I2 receptor agonists have demonstrated various centrally mediated effects including antinociception and neuroprotection. A new I2 receptor agonist, CR4056 [2-phenyl-6-(1H-imidazol-1yl) quinazoline], demonstrated clear analgesic activity in a recently completed phase II clinical trial and holds great promise as a novel I2 receptor-based first-in-class nonopioid analgesic. The understanding of I3 receptors is relatively limited. Existing data suggest that I3 receptors may represent a binding site at the Kir6.2-subtype ATP-sensitive potassium channels in pancreatic β-cells and may be involved in insulin secretion. Despite the elusive nature of their molecular identities, recent progress on drug discovery targeting imidazoline receptors (I1 and I2) demonstrates the exciting potential of these compounds to elicit neuroprotection and to treat various disorders such as hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Bousquet
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France (P.B.); Department of Pharmacology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (A.H.); Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, University Research Institute on Health Sciences, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Malllorca, Spain (J.A.G.-S.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York (J.-X.L.)
| | - Alan Hudson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France (P.B.); Department of Pharmacology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (A.H.); Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, University Research Institute on Health Sciences, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Malllorca, Spain (J.A.G.-S.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York (J.-X.L.)
| | - Jesús A García-Sevilla
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France (P.B.); Department of Pharmacology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (A.H.); Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, University Research Institute on Health Sciences, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Malllorca, Spain (J.A.G.-S.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York (J.-X.L.)
| | - Jun-Xu Li
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France (P.B.); Department of Pharmacology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (A.H.); Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, University Research Institute on Health Sciences, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Malllorca, Spain (J.A.G.-S.); and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York (J.-X.L.)
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11
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Zhang L, Xu S, Wu X, Chen J, Guo X, Cao Y, Zhang Z, Yan J, Cheng J, Han Z. Combined Treatment With 2-(2-Benzofu-Ranyl)-2-Imidazoline and Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator Protects Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity in a Rat Model of Embolic Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:801. [PMID: 32595494 PMCID: PMC7303334 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) is used to treat acute ischemic stroke but is only effective if administered within 4.5 h after stroke onset. Delayed rt-PA treatment causes blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption and hemorrhagic transformation. The compound 2-(-2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI), a newly discovered antagonist of high-affinity postsynaptic N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, has been shown to have neuroprotective effects in ischemia. Here, we investigated whether combining 2-BFI and rt-PA can ameliorate BBB disruption and prolong the therapeutic window in a rat model of embolic middle cerebral artery occlusion (eMCAO). Ischemia was induced in male Sprague Dawley rats by eMCAO, after which they were treated with 2-BFI (3 mg/kg) at 0.5 h in combination with rt-PA (10 mg/kg) at 6 or 8 h. Control rats were treated with saline or 2-BFI or rt-PA. Combined therapy with 2-BFI and rt-PA (6 h) reduced the infarct volume, denatured cell index, BBB permeability, and brain edema. This was associated with increased expression of aquaporin 4 (AQP4) and tight junction proteins (occludin and ZO-1) and downregulation of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 (MMP2 and MMP9). We conclude that 2-BFI protects the BBB from damage caused by delayed rt-PA treatment in ischemia. 2-BFI may therefore extend the therapeutic window up to 6 h after stroke onset in rats and may be a promising therapeutic strategy for humans. However, mechanisms to explain the effects oberved in the present study are not yet elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of General Intensive Care Unit, The Second Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shasha Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiaou Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoling Guo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Center of Scientific Research, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yungang Cao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jueyue Yan
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Cheng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhao Han
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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12
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Lin X, Zhu J, Ni H, Rui Q, Sha W, Yang H, Li D, Chen G. Treatment With 2-BFI Attenuated Spinal Cord Injury by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Neuronal Apoptosis via the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:567. [PMID: 31920564 PMCID: PMC6932985 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous reports showed that 2-(-2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI) has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects on neuroprotection in numerous disorders. However, the precise mechanisms remain elusive. The nuclear factor c factor 2 (Nrf2)/antioxidant response element (ARE) signaling pathway plays an important and essential role in the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses of the cell. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the potential neuroprotective effects of 2-BFI in a rat model of spinal cord injury (SCI) and to determine whether its neuroprotective effects are associated with the activation of Nrf2. To test this hypothesis, we examined the potential roles of 2-BFI in SCI models which were established in rats using a clip-compression injury method. Our results showed that treatment with 2-BFI twice daily improved locomotion recovery from SCI, which increased Nrf2 expression in both neurons and astrocytes, meanwhile, the level of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) also significantly enhanced. In addition, after the treatment with 2-BFI increased levels of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) indicated the antioxidant effect of the drug. Furthermore, the upregulation of Bcl-2 and downregulation of Bax and caspase-3 implied antiapoptotic effects on neuroprotection of 2-BFI, which were verified by the Fluoro-Jade B (FJB) staining and TUNEL staining. Collectively, these results add to a growing body of evidence supporting that 2-BFI may attenuate SCI mediated by activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Lin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Zhangjiagang, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Zhangjiagang, China
| | - Haibo Ni
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Zhangjiagang, China
| | - Qin Rui
- Department of Laboratory, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Zhangjiagang, China
| | - Weiping Sha
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Zhangjiagang, China
| | - Huilin Yang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Di Li
- Department of Translational Medicine Center, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Zhangjiagang, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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13
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Griñán-Ferré C, Vasilopoulou F, Abás S, Rodríguez-Arévalo S, Bagán A, Sureda FX, Pérez B, Callado LF, García-Sevilla JA, García-Fuster MJ, Escolano C, Pallàs M. Behavioral and Cognitive Improvement Induced by Novel Imidazoline I 2 Receptor Ligands in Female SAMP8 Mice. Neurotherapeutics 2019; 16:416-431. [PMID: 30460457 PMCID: PMC6554384 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-018-00681-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As populations increase their life expectancy, age-related neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease have become more common. I2-Imidazoline receptors (I2-IR) are widely distributed in the central nervous system, and dysregulation of I2-IR in patients with neurodegenerative diseases has been reported, suggesting their implication in cognitive impairment. This evidence indicates that high-affinity selective I2-IR ligands potentially contribute to the delay of neurodegeneration. In vivo studies in the female senescence accelerated mouse-prone 8 mice have shown that treatment with I2-IR ligands, MCR5 and MCR9, produce beneficial effects in behavior and cognition. Changes in molecular pathways implicated in oxidative stress, inflammation, synaptic plasticity, and apoptotic cell death were also studied. Furthermore, treatments with these I2-IR ligands diminished the amyloid precursor protein processing pathway and increased Aβ degrading enzymes in the hippocampus of SAMP8 mice. These results collectively demonstrate the neuroprotective role of these new I2-IR ligands in a mouse model of brain aging through specific pathways and suggest their potential as therapeutic agents in brain disorders and age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Griñán-Ferré
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Foteini Vasilopoulou
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sònia Abás
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergio Rodríguez-Arévalo
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrea Bagán
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesc X Sureda
- Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rovira and Virgili, C./St. Llorenç 21, 43201, Reus, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Belén Pérez
- Departament of Pharmacology, Therapeutic and Toxicology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis F Callado
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain
| | - Jesús A García-Sevilla
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, IUNICS and IdISBa, University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), Cra. Valldemossa km 7.5, 07122, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - M Julia García-Fuster
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, IUNICS and IdISBa, University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), Cra. Valldemossa km 7.5, 07122, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Carmen Escolano
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Pallàs
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
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14
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Zhang Z, Yang JL, Zhang LL, Chen ZZ, Chen JO, Cao YG, Qu M, Lin XD, Ji XM, Han Z. 2-(2-Benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline treatment within 5 hours after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion protects the brain. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:2111-2118. [PMID: 30323139 PMCID: PMC6199951 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.241461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that administering 2-(2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazolin (2-BFI), an imidazoline I2 receptor agonist, immediately after ischemia onset can protect the brain from ischemic insult. However, immediate administration after stroke is difficult to realize in the clinic. Thus, the therapeutic time window of 2-BFI should be determined. Sprague-Dawley rats provided by Wenzhou Medical University in China received right middle cerebral artery occlusion for 120 minutes, and were treated with 2-BFI (3 mg/kg) through the caudal vein at 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 hours after reperfusion. Neurological function was assessed using the Longa's method. Infarct volume was measured by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride assay. Morphological changes in the cortical penumbra were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining under transmission electron microscopy . The apoptosis levels in the ipsilateral cortex were examined with terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling (TUNEL) assay. The protein expression of Bcl-2 and BAX was detected using immunohistochemistry. We found the following: Treatment with 2-BFI within 5 hours after reperfusion obviously improved neurological function. Administering 2-BFI within 9 hours after ischemia/reperfusion decreased infarct volume and alleviated apoptosis. 2-BFI administration at different time points after reperfusion alleviated the pathological damage of the ischemic penumbra and reduced the number of apoptotic neurons, but the protective effect was more obvious when administered within 5 hours. Administration of 2-BFI within 5 hours after reperfusion remarkably increased Bcl-2 expression and decreased BAX expression. To conclude, 2-BFI shows potent neuroprotective effects when administered within 5 hours after reperfusion, seemingly by up-regulating Bcl-2 and down-regulating BAX expression. The time window provided clinical potential for ischemic stroke by 2-BFI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Long Yang
- Department of Neurology, Shan Xian Central Hospital, Heze, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lin-Lei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Chen
- Department of Children Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jia-Ou Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yun-Gang Cao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Man Qu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xin-Da Lin
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xun-Ming Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Han
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
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15
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Guo X, Zhang L, Chen J, Cao Y, Zhang Z, Li L, Han Z. Protective effects of 2-(2-benzonfuranyl)-2-imidazoline combined with tissue plasminogen activator after embolic stroke in rats. Brain Res 2018; 1699:142-149. [PMID: 30170015 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.08.027] [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: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/26/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Stroke is the third leading cause of death and disability in developing countries. The effective therapy for acute ischemic stroke is thrombolysis with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) within 4.5 h of stroke onset. An effective post-ischemic neuroprotectant would extend the advantages of rt-PA, and protect against complications of thrombolysis. We previously reported that 2-(2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI), a newly discovered ligand for high-affinity type 2 imidazoline receptor (I2R), provides neuroprotection against ischemic stroke in rats. Here we investigated the protective effects of 2-BFI in combination with delayed intravenous rt-PA after stroke induced by embolic middle cerebral artery occlusion (eMCAO) in rats. Infarct size was determined using 2,3,5-triphenyltrazolium chloride staining, while neurological deficit was assessed based on neurological score. Numbers of apoptotic cells in vivo were estimated using TUNEL stain, and expression of the pro-apoptotic protein BAX and anti-apoptotic protein BCL-2 were quantified by Western blotting. The results showed that 2-BFI (3 mg/kg) administered at 0.5 h after embolic MCAO combined with rt-PA (10 mg/kg) administered at 6 h reduced brain infarct size, mitigated neurological deficit, decreased the number of TUNEL-positive cells, down-regulated BAX expression, and up-regulated BCL-2 expression. These findings suggest that 2-BFI may extend the therapeutic window of rt-PA to 6 h after embolic stroke onset in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Guo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China; Center of Scientific Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Linlei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiaou Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yungang Cao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhao Han
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
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16
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Tian JS, Zhai QJ, Zhao Y, Chen R, Zhao LD. 2-(2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI) improved the impairments in AD rat models by inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. J Integr Neurosci 2018; 16:385-400. [PMID: 28891528 DOI: 10.3233/jin-170032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is one of the commonest neural degeneration in aging population, and has become a global health challenge. 2-(2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI) was reported to effectively improved the damage of patients with neuropathological disorders. In the present study, we investigated the effect of 2-BFI on the improvement of antioxidative, inflammation, and apoptosis in AD rats. Sprague-Dawley rats (2 months old, n=40) were used in this study and after injection of Aβ1-42 into hippocampal CA1 (Cornu Ammonis) region, the rats were given high, moderate and low dose of 2-BFI though intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection. Then spatial memory and navigation ability were analyzed by Morrize Water Maze. For the molecular testing, chemical colorimetry, ELISA and immunoblotting were performed to measure the activities of antioxidative enzymes, the abundance of immune cytokines and expression of apoptotic proteins, respectively. Hematoxylin and Eosin staining was used to analyze the pathological changes. We observed that 2-BFI significantly ameliorated the learning and memory abilities in rat models with AD by dosage treatment, as demonstrated by the shorten learning latency and greater times of travel across the platform quadrant. Additionally, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), were decreased after treatment of 2-BFI with dosage dependency, while the activities of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and (GPX) Glutathione peroxidase were in turn enhanced, suggesting that 2-BFI could protect the antioxidative enzymes and reduce the oxidative stress in the hippocampus. Moreover, the expression of inflammatory factors including TNF-a and IL-1β were decreased after 2-BFI treatment. Additionally, the neuronal apoptosis was also attenuated, as shown by Western blot results. Taken together, the cognitive impairment in AD rats could be significantly improved by 2-BFI in a dose-dependent manner through suppressing oxidants accumulation, inhibiting of inflammatory response, as well as enhancing the neural viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Sha Tian
- Department of Neurology, Huai'an Second People's Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, 223002, PR China
| | - Qi-Jin Zhai
- Department of Neurology, Huai'an Second People's Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, 223002, PR China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Huai'an Second People's Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, 223002, PR China
| | - Rui Chen
- Department of Neurology, Huai'an Second People's Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, 223002, PR China
| | - Lian-Dong Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Huai'an Second People's Hospital, Huaian, Jiangsu, 223002, PR China
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17
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Effects of I 2 -imidazoline receptor (IR) alkylating BU99006 in the mouse brain: Upregulation of nischarin/I 1 -IR and μ-opioid receptor proteins and modulation of associated signalling pathways. Neurochem Int 2017; 108:169-176. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Abstract
Since first introduced more than two decades ago, the research in imidazoline I2 receptors has been steadily increasing. This review provides an update on the current status of I2 receptor pharmacology. Imidazoline I2 receptors or I2 binding sites refer to several (at least four) different proteins that bind to [3H]-idazoxan and [3H]-2-BFI with high affinity. The molecular identities of the proteins remain elusive. One of the proteins (45kD) seems to be consistent with the identity of brain creatine kinase. The biological functions of I2 receptors have been primarily unveiled by the studies of selective I2 receptor ligands. Accumulating evidence suggests that I2 receptor ligands are effective analgesics for persistent and chronic painful conditions such as inflammatory, neuropathic and postoperative pain. One selective I2 receptor ligand, CR4056, has been advanced to phase II clinical trial with the therapeutic indication of chronic inflammatory pain (osteoarthritis). The expansion to the treatment of other chronic pain conditions should be expected if CR4056 could eventually be approved as a new drug. I2 receptor ligands also demonstrate robust discriminative stimulus activity and induce a characteristic discriminative cue in animals. Biochemical and preclinical in vivo investigations also suggest that I2 receptor ligands have neuroprotective activity and modulate body temperature. The emerging discrepancies of a range of purported selective I2 receptor ligands suggest different pharmacological effects mediated by discrete I2 receptor components which likely attribute to the I2 receptor-related proteins. It is proposed that the I2 receptors represent an emerging drug target for the treatment of neurological disorders such as pain and stroke, and deserve more research attention to translate preclinical findings to pharmacotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Xu Li
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA.
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Keller B, García-Sevilla JA. Inhibitory effects of imidazoline receptor ligands on basal and kainic acid-induced neurotoxic signalling in mice. J Psychopharmacol 2016; 30:875-86. [PMID: 27302941 DOI: 10.1177/0269881116652579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This in vivo study assessed the potential of the imidazoline receptor (IR) ligands moxonidine (selective I1-IR), BU224 (selective I2-IR) and LSL61122 (mixed I1/I2-IR) to dampen excitotoxic signalling induced by kainic acid (KA; 45 mg/kg) in the mouse brain (hippocampus and cerebral cortex). KA triggered a strong behavioural syndrome (seizures; maximal at 60-90 minutes) and sustained stimulation (at 72 hours with otherwise normal mouse behaviour) of pro-apoptotic c-Jun-N-terminal kinases (JNK) and calpain with increased cleavage of p35 into neurotoxic p25 (cyclin-dependent kinase 5 [Cdk5] activators) in mouse hippocampus. Pretreatment (five days) with LSL61122 (10 mg/kg), but not moxonidine (1 mg/kg) or BU224 (20 mg/kg), attenuated the KA-induced behavioural syndrome, and all three IR ligands inhibited JNK and calpain activation, as well as p35/p25 cleavage after KA in the hippocampus (effects also observed after acute IR drug treatments). Efaroxan (I1-IR, 10 mg/kg) and idazoxan (I2-IR, 10 mg/kg), postulated IR antagonists, did not antagonise the effects of moxonidine and LSL61122 on KA targets (these IR ligands showed agonistic properties inhibiting pro-apoptotic JNK). Brain subcellular preparations revealed reduced synaptosomal postsynaptic density-95 protein contents (a mediator of JNK activation) and indicated increased p35/Cdk5 complexes (with pro-survival functions) after treatment with moxonidine, BU224 and LSL61122. These results showed that I1- and I2-IR ligands (moxonidine and BU224), and especially the mixed I1/I2-IR ligand LSL61122, are partly neuroprotective against KA-induced excitotoxic signalling. These findings suggest a therapeutic potential of IR drugs in disorders associated with glutamate-mediated neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Keller
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, IUNICS-IdISPa, University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), Palma de Mallorca, Spain Redes Temáticas de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud-Red de Trastornos Adictivos (RETICS-RTA), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús A García-Sevilla
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, IUNICS-IdISPa, University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), Palma de Mallorca, Spain Redes Temáticas de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud-Red de Trastornos Adictivos (RETICS-RTA), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
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20
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Li Y, Yue J, Yang C. Unraveling the role of Mg(++) in osteoarthritis. Life Sci 2016; 147:24-9. [PMID: 26800786 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 01/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Mg(++) is widely involved in human physiological processes that may play key roles in the generation and progression of diseases. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a complex joint disorder characterized by articular cartilage degradation, abnormal mineralization and inflammation. Magnesium deficiency is considered to be a major risk factor for OA development and progression. Magnesium deficiency is active in several pathways that have been implicated in OA, including increased inflammatory mediators, cartilage damage, defective chondrocyte biosynthesis, aberrant calcification and a weakened effect of analgesics. Abundant in vitro and in vivo evidence in animal models now suggests that the nutritional supplementation or local infiltration of Mg(++) represent effective therapies for OA. The goal of this review is to summarize the current understanding of the role of Mg(++) in OA with particular emphasis on the related molecular mechanisms involved in OA progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqiang Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China; School of medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaji Yue
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China; School of medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunxi Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China; School of medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
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Arbo MD, Silva R, Barbosa DJ, Dias da Silva D, Silva SP, Teixeira JP, Bastos ML, Carmo H. In vitro neurotoxicity evaluation of piperazine designer drugs in differentiated human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. J Appl Toxicol 2015; 36:121-30. [PMID: 25900438 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2015] [Revised: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Abuse of synthetic drugs is widespread worldwide. Studies indicate that piperazine designer drugs act as substrates at dopaminergic and serotonergic receptors and/or transporters in the brain. This work aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity of N-benzylpiperazine, 1-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl)piperazine, 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)piperazine and 1-(3,4-methylenedioxybenzyl)piperazine in the differentiated human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line. Cytotoxicity was evaluated after 24 h incubations through the MTT reduction and neutral red uptake assays. Oxidative stress (reactive oxygen and nitrogen species production and glutathione content) and energetic (ATP content) parameters, as well as intracellular Ca(2+), mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA damage (comet assay) and cell death mode were also evaluated. Complete cytotoxicity curves were obtained after 24 h incubations with each drug. A significant decrease in intracellular total glutathione content was noted for all the tested drugs. All drugs caused a significant increase of intracellular free Ca(2+) levels, accompanied by mitochondrial hyperpolarization. However, ATP levels remained unchanged. The investigation of cell death mode revealed a predominance of early apoptotic cells. No genotoxicity was found in the comet assay. Among the tested drugs, 1-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl)piperazine was the most cytotoxic. Overall, piperazine designer drugs are potentially neurotoxic, supporting concerns on risks associated with the abuse of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Arbo
- REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - R Silva
- REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - D J Barbosa
- REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Cell Division Mechanisms Group, Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology - IBMC, Porto, Portugal
| | - D Dias da Silva
- REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - S P Silva
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Porto, Portugal
| | - J P Teixeira
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Porto, Portugal
| | - M L Bastos
- REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - H Carmo
- REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Toxicologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Brain Protection Conferred by Long-Term Administration of 2-(2-Benzofuranyl)-2-Imidazoline Against Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis. Neurochem Res 2014; 40:572-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-014-1502-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Revised: 12/06/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Idazoxan reduces blood-brain barrier damage during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mouse. Eur J Pharmacol 2014; 736:70-6. [PMID: 24797785 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2013] [Revised: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We have previously shown that Idazoxan (IDA), an imidazoline 2 receptor ligand, is neuroprotective against spinal cord injury caused by experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in mouse, an animal modal of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the protective mechanism remains unclear. Here, we provided evidence to show that IDA confers neuroprotection through reduction in blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage. EAE was induced by immunizing C57 BL/6 mice with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein35-55 amino acid peptide (MOG35-55). IDA was administrated for 14 days after MOG immunization at 2 mg/kg (i.p., bid). Significant reduction in BBB damage occurred in the IDA-treated group of mice compared with the saline-treated group, as evidenced by the reduction in Evan׳s blue content in the brain tissue and the reduced BBB tight junction damage viewed under a transmission electron microscope. Moreover, EAE-induced reductions in tight junction proteins (JAM-1, Occludin, Claudin-5 and ZO-1) were also significantly ameliorated in IDA-treated mice, all of which supported the notion that IDA reduced BBB damage. Interestingly, the expression levels of extracellular matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and the ratio of MMP-9 against tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), which is known to be associated with MS-induced BBB damage, were significantly reduced in IDA-treated group, lending further support to the hypothesis that IDA confers brain protection through reducing BBB damage. This study raised a possibility that IDA is a promising pro-drug for development against MS.
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Han Z, Yang JL, Jiang SX, Hou ST, Zheng RY. Fast, non-competitive and reversible inhibition of NMDA-activated currents by 2-BFI confers neuroprotection. PLoS One 2013; 8:e64894. [PMID: 23741413 PMCID: PMC3669129 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0064894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2013] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive activation of the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) type glutamate receptors (NMDARs) causes excitotoxicity, a process important in stroke-induced neuronal death. Drugs that inhibit NMDA receptor-mediated [Ca(2+)]i influx are potential leads for development to treat excitotoxicity-induced brain damage. Our previous studies showed that 2-(2-benzofu-ranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI), an immidazoline receptor ligand, dose-dependently protects rodent brains from cerebral ischemia injury. However, the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we found that 2-BFI transiently and reversibly inhibits NMDA, but not AMPA currents, in a dose-dependent manner in cultured rat cortical neurons. The mechanism of 2-BFI inhibition of NMDAR is through a noncompetitive fashion with a faster on (Kon = 2.19±0.33×10(-9) M(-1) sec(-1)) and off rate (Koff = 0.67±0.02 sec(-1)) than those of memantine, a gold standard for therapeutic inhibition NMDAR-induced excitotoxicity. 2-BFI also transiently and reversibly blocked NMDA receptor-mediated calcium entry to cultured neurons and provided long-term neuroprotection against NMDA toxicity in vitro. Collectively, these studies demonstrated a potential mechanism of 2-BFI-mediated neuroprotection and indicated that 2-BFI is an excellent candidate for repositioning as a drug for stroke treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Han
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Research Institute of Experimental Neurobiology, Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Jin-Long Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Research Institute of Experimental Neurobiology, Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Susan X. Jiang
- Institute for Biological Sciences, National Research Council of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sheng-Tao Hou
- Institute for Biological Sciences, National Research Council of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail: (STH); (RYZ)
| | - Rong-Yuan Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Research Institute of Experimental Neurobiology, Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
- * E-mail: (STH); (RYZ)
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Garau C, Miralles A, García-Sevilla JA. Chronic treatment with selective I2-imidazoline receptor ligands decreases the content of pro-apoptotic markers in rat brain. J Psychopharmacol 2013; 27:123-34. [PMID: 22719017 DOI: 10.1177/0269881112450785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Selective I(2)-imidazoline receptor ligands induce neuroprotection through various molecular mechanisms including blockade of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. To investigate new neuroprotective mechanisms associated with I(2)-imidazoline receptors, the effects of selective (2-styryl-2-imidazoline (LSL 61122), 2-(2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline (2-BFI), 2-(4,5-dihydroimidazol-2-yl) quinoline hydrochloride (BU-224)) and non-selective (idazoxan) I(2)-drugs on canonical apoptotic pathways were assessed in rat brain cortex. The acute treatment with LSL 61122 (10 mg/kg) reduced the content of mitochondrial (pro-apoptotic) Bax (-33%) and cytochrome c (-31%), which was prevented by idazoxan, an I(2)-receptor antagonist. The sustained stimulation of I(2)-imidazoline receptors with selective drugs (10 mg/kg, every 12 h for seven days) was associated with down-regulation of key components of the extrinsic (Fas receptor: -20%; Fas associated protein with death domain (FADD) adaptor: -47-54%) and/or intrinsic (Bax: -20-23%; cytochrome c: -22-28%) apoptotic signalling and/or up-regulation of survival anti-apoptotic factors (p-Ser194 FADD/FADD ratio: +1.6-2.5-fold; and/or Bcl-2/Bax ratio: +1.5-fold), which in the long-term could dampen cell death in the brain. Similar chronic treatments with LSL 60101 (the imidazole analogue of 2-BFI) and idazoxan (a mixed I(2)/α(2)-ligand) did not induce significant alterations of pro- or anti-apoptotic proteins. The disclosed anti-apoptotic mechanisms of selective I(2)-imidazoline drugs may work in concert with other molecular mechanisms of neuroprotection (e.g. blockade of NMDA receptors) that are engaged by I(2)-ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Garau
- Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Institut Universitari d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut (IUNICS), Universitat de les Illes Balears, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
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Montolio M, Gregori-Puigjané E, Pineda D, Mestres J, Navarro P. Identification of small molecule inhibitors of amyloid β-induced neuronal apoptosis acting through the imidazoline I(2) receptor. J Med Chem 2012; 55:9838-46. [PMID: 23098038 DOI: 10.1021/jm301055g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of signaling pathways plays a pivotal role in central nervous system disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Using a combination of virtual screening and experimental testing, novel small molecule inhibitors of tPA-mediated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk)1/2 activation were identified that provide higher levels of neuroprotection from Aβ-induced apoptosis than Memantine, the most recently FDA-approved drug for AD treatment. Subsequent target deconvolution efforts revealed that they all share low micromolar affinity for the imidazoline I(2) receptor, while being devoid of any significant affinity to a list of AD-relevant targets, including the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B). Targeting the imidazoline I(2) receptor emerges as a new mechanism of action to inhibit tPA-induced signaling in neurons for the treatment of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisol Montolio
- Cancer Research Program, IMIM-Hospital del Mar Research Institute and University Pompeu Fabra, Parc de Recerca Biomèdica (PRBB), Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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Li F, Zhang ZX, Liu YF, Xu HQ, Hou ST, Zheng RY. 2-BFI ameliorates EAE-induced mouse spinal cord damage: Effective therapeutic time window and possible mechanisms. Brain Res 2012; 1483:13-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2012] [Revised: 09/02/2012] [Accepted: 09/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Han Z, Cheng ZH, Liu S, Yang JL, Xiao MJ, Zheng RY, Hou ST. Neurovascular protection conferred by 2-BFI treatment during rat cerebral ischemia. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 424:544-8. [PMID: 22771326 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.06.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2012] [Accepted: 06/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Stroke is caused by vascular dysfunction and currently there are no effective therapeutics to stroke induced brain damage. In contrast to an intense emphasis on neuroprotection, relatively few studies have addressed means of vascular protection in cerebral ischemia. Here we discovered that the ligand to immidazolin receptor, 2-BFI, not only provided potent neuroprotection during middle cerebral artery occlusion in rat, which confirmed our previous reports, but also protected the integrity of the cerebral vasculature. Treatment with 2-BFI twice daily after the occlusion of the middle cerebral artery for 14 d significantly improved the neurological deficits, reduced brain infarction, and importantly, protected the cerebral vasculature as evidenced by the increased expression of an endothelial marker, von Willebrand factor, and better preservation of the cerebral vasculature, as viewed under a confocal microscope on rat brain perfused with FITC-labeled dextran. These results indicated that 2-BFI contributes to protection of neurovasculature. Understanding the molecular mechanisms could eventually lead to development of more effective therapies for stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Han
- Division of Stroke Medicine, Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Research Institute of Experimental Neurobiology, Wenzhou Medical College, No. 2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou City, Zhejiang Province 325000, PR China.
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Kostandy BB. The role of glutamate in neuronal ischemic injury: the role of spark in fire. Neurol Sci 2011; 33:223-37. [PMID: 22044990 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-011-0828-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2010] [Accepted: 10/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Although being a physiologically important excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate plays a pivotal role in various neurological disorders including ischemic neurological diseases. Its level is increased during cerebral ischemia with excessive neurological stimulation causing the glutamate-induced neuronal toxicity, excitotoxicity, and this is considered the triggering spark in the ischemic neuronal damage. The glutamatergic stimulation will lead to rise in the intracellular sodium and calcium, and the elevated intracellular calcium will lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, activation of proteases, accumulation of reactive oxygen species and release of nitric oxide. Interruption of the cascades of glutamate-induced cell death during ischemia may provide a way to prevent, or at least reduce, the ischemic damage. Various therapeutic options are suggested interrupting the glutamatergic pathways, e.g., inhibiting the glutamate synthesis or release, increasing its clearance, blocking of its receptors or preventing the rise in intracellular calcium. Development of these strategies may provide future treatment options in the management of ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Botros B Kostandy
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Assiut, Assiut 71526, Egypt.
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30
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Wang P, Wang ZW, Lin FH, Han Z, Hou ST, Zheng RY. 2-BFI attenuates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis-induced spinal cord injury with enhanced B-CK, CaATPase, but reduced calpain activity. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2011; 406:152-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2011.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2011] [Accepted: 02/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Han Z, Zhang HX, Tian JS, Zheng RY, Hou ST. 2-(-2-benzofuranyl)-2-imidazoline induces Bcl-2 expression and provides neuroprotection against transient cerebral ischemia in rats. Brain Res 2010; 1361:86-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2010.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2010] [Revised: 09/03/2010] [Accepted: 09/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Abscisic acid does not evoke calcium influx in murine primary microglia and immortalised murine microglial BV-2 and N9 cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2010; 401:435-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2010.09.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2010] [Accepted: 09/18/2010] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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