Sigma-1 receptor activation ameliorates LPS-induced NO production and ROS formation through the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in cultured astrocytes

Endoplasmic reticulum stress and the unfolded protein response: emerging regulators in progression of traumatic brain injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common trauma with high mortality and disability rates worldwide. However, the current management of this disease is still unsatisfactory. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the pathophysiological mechanisms of TBI in depth to improve the treatment options. In recent decades, abundant evidence has highlighted the significance of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) in advancing central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including TBI. ERS following TBI leads to the accumulation of unfolded proteins, initiating the unfolded protein response (UPR). Protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK), inositol-requiring protein 1 (IRE1), and activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) are the three major pathways of UPR initiation that determine whether a cell survives or dies. This review focuses on the dual effects of ERS on TBI and discusses the underlying mechanisms. It is suggested that ERS may crosstalk with a series of molecular cascade responses, such as mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, autophagy, and cell death, and is thus involved in the progression of secondary injury after TBI. Hence, ERS is a promising candidate for the management of TBI.

18 kDa Translocator Protein TSPO Is a Mediator of Astrocyte Reactivity

An increase in astrocyte reactivity has been described in Alzheimer's disease and seems to be related to the presence of a pro-inflammatory environment. Reactive astrocytes show an increase in the density of the 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO), but TSPO involvement in astrocyte functions remains poorly understood. The goal of this study was to better characterize the mechanisms leading to the increase in TSPO under inflammatory conditions and the associated consequences. For this purpose, the C6 astrocytic cell line was used in the presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or TSPO overexpression mediated by the transfection of a plasmid encoding TSPO. The results show that nonlethal doses of LPS induced TSPO expression at mRNA and protein levels through a STAT3-dependent mechanism and increased the number of mitochondria per cell. LPS stimulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and decreased glucose consumption (quantified by the [18F]FDG uptake), and these effects were diminished by FEPPA, a TSPO antagonist. The transfection-mediated overexpression of TSPO induced ROS production, and this effect was blocked by FEPPA. In addition, a synergistic effect of overexpression of TSPO and LPS on ROS production was observed. These data show that the increase of TSPO in astrocytic cells is involved in the regulation of glucose metabolism and in the pro-inflammatory response. These data suggest that the overexpression of TSPO by astrocytes in Alzheimer's disease would have rather deleterious effects by promoting the pro-inflammatory response.

Chaperone-Dependent Mechanisms as a Pharmacological Target for Neuroprotection

Modern pharmacotherapy of neurodegenerative diseases is predominantly symptomatic and does not allow vicious circles causing disease development to break. Protein misfolding is considered the most important pathogenetic factor of neurodegenerative diseases. Physiological mechanisms related to the function of chaperones, which contribute to the restoration of native conformation of functionally important proteins, evolved evolutionarily. These mechanisms can be considered promising for pharmacological regulation. Therefore, the aim of this review was to analyze the mechanisms of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) and unfolded protein response (UPR) in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Data on BiP and Sigma1R chaperones in clinical and experimental studies of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Huntington's disease are presented. The possibility of neuroprotective effect dependent on Sigma1R ligand activation in these diseases is also demonstrated. The interaction between Sigma1R and BiP-associated signaling in the neuroprotection is discussed. The performed analysis suggests the feasibility of pharmacological regulation of chaperone function, possibility of ligand activation of Sigma1R in order to achieve a neuroprotective effect, and the need for further studies of the conjugation of cellular mechanisms controlled by Sigma1R and BiP chaperones.

Ishige okamurae Attenuates Neuroinflammation and Cognitive Deficits in Mice Intracerebroventricularly Injected with LPS via Regulating TLR-4/MyD88-Dependent Pathways

Neuroinflammation is one of the critical causes of neuronal loss and cognitive impairment. We aimed to evaluate the anti-neuroinflammatory properties of Ishige okamuae using mice intracerebroventricularly injected with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and LPS-treated C6 glioma cells. We found that the short- and long-term memory deficits of LPS-injected mice were improved by oral administration of Ishige okamurae extracts (IOE). LPS-induced neuronal loss, increase in amyloid-β plaque, and expression of COX-2 and iNOS were restored by IOE. In addition, LPS-induced activation of Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) and its downstream molecules, such as MyD88, NFκB, and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), were significantly attenuated in the brains of mice fed with IOE. We found that pretreatment of IOE to C6 glioma cells ameliorated LPS-induced expression of TLR-4 and its inflammatory cascades, such as MyD88 expression, reactive oxygen species production, MAPKs phosphorylation, and NFκB phosphorylation with consequent downregulation of COX-2, iNOS, proinflammatory cytokines, and nitric oxide expression. Furthermore, IOE (0.2 µg/mL) was found to have equivalent efficacy with 10 μM of MyD88 inhibitor in preventing LPS-induced inflammatory responses in C6 glioma cells. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that IOE could be developed as a promising anti-neuroinflammatory agent which is able to control the TLR-4/MyD88-dependent signaling pathways.

The role of mitochondria-associated membranes mediated ROS on NLRP3 inflammasome in cardiovascular diseases

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism is essential for the homeostasis of cells. Appropriate production of ROS is an important signaling molecule, but excessive ROS production can damage cells. ROS and ROS-associated proteins can act as damage associated molecular pattern molecules (DAMPs) to activate the NACHT, LRR, and PYD domains-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in cardiovascular diseases. Previous studies have shown that there are connected sites, termed mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs), between mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. In cardiovascular disease progression, MAMs play multiple roles, the most important of which is the ability to mediate ROS generation, which further activates the NLPR3 inflammasome, exacerbating the progression of disease. In this review, the following topics will be covered: 1. Molecular structures on MAMs that can mediate ROS generation; 2. Specific mechanisms of molecule-mediated ROS generation and the molecules' roles in cardiovascular disease, 3. The effects of MAMs-mediated ROS on the NLRP3 inflammasome in cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this review is to provide a basis for subsequent clinical treatment development.

MiR-182 Inhibition Protects Against Experimental Stroke in vivo and Mitigates Astrocyte Injury and Inflammation in vitro via Modulation of Cortactin Activity

Ischemic stroke remains a devastating cerebrovascular disease that accounts for a high proportion of mortality and disability worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that are responsible for regulation of post-transcriptional gene expression, and growing evidence supports a role for miRNAs in stroke injury and recovery. The current study examined the role of miR-182 in experimental stroke using both in vitro and in vivo models of ischemic injury. Brain levels of miR-182 significantly increased after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in mice and in primary astrocyte cultures subjected to combined oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) injury. In vivo, stroke volume and neurological score were significantly improved by pre-treatment with miR-182 antagomir. Astrocyte cultures stressed with OGD/R resulted in mitochondrial fragmentation and downregulation of cortactin, an actin-binding protein. Inhibition of miR-182 significantly preserved cortactin expression, reduced mitochondrial fragmentation and improved astrocyte survival after OGD/R. In parallel, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric-oxide release in astrocyte cultures was significantly reduced by miR-182 inhibition, translating to reduced injury in primary neuronal cultures subjected to conditioned medium from LPS-treated astrocytes. These findings identify miR-182 and/or cortactin as potential clinical targets to preserve mitochondrial structure and mitigate neuroinflammation and cell death after ischemic stroke.

Selective Xi reactivation and alternative methods to restore MECP2 function in Rett syndrome

The human X-chromosome harbors only 4% of our genome but carries over 20% of genes associated with intellectual disability. Given that they inherit only one X-chromosome, males are more frequently affected by X-linked neurodevelopmental genetic disorders than females. However, despite inheriting two X-chromosomes, females can also be affected because X-chromosome inactivation enables only one of two X-chromosomes to be expressed per cell. For Rett syndrome and similar X-linked disorders affecting females, disease-specific treatments have remained elusive. However, a cure may be found within their own cells because every sick cell carries a healthy copy of the affected gene on the inactive X (Xi). Therefore, selective Xi reactivation may be a viable approach that would address the root cause of various X-linked disorders. Here, we discuss Rett syndrome and compare current approaches in the pharmaceutical pipeline to restore MECP2 function. We then focus on Xi reactivation and review available methods, lessons learned, and future directions.

Sigma-1 Receptor in Retina: Neuroprotective Effects and Potential Mechanisms

Retinal degenerative diseases are the major factors leading to severe visual impairment and even irreversible blindness worldwide. The therapeutic approach for retinal degenerative diseases is one extremely urgent and hot spot in science research. The sigma-1 receptor is a novel, multifunctional ligand-mediated molecular chaperone residing in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes and the ER-associated mitochondrial membrane (ER-MAM); it is widely distributed in numerous organs and tissues of various species, providing protective effects on a variety of degenerative diseases. Over three decades, considerable research has manifested the neuroprotective function of sigma-1 receptor in the retina and has attempted to explore the molecular mechanism of action. In the present review, we will discuss neuroprotective effects of the sigma-1 receptor in retinal degenerative diseases, mainly in aspects of the following: the localization in different types of retinal neurons, the interactions of sigma-1 receptors with other molecules, the correlated signaling pathways, the influence of sigma-1 receptors to cellular functions, and the potential therapeutic effects on retinal degenerative diseases.

Chronic Sigma 1 receptor activation alleviates right ventricular dysfunction secondary to pulmonary arterial hypertension

Sigma 1 receptor (S1R) has shown a preferable protective effect on left ventricular function, but whether it protects right ventricular (RV) function is still elusive.This study aimed to determine the effects of S1R on RV dysfunction secondary to pulmonary arterial hypertension.Sixty wild-type male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into the control group, the fluvoxamine group, the pulmonary arterial hypertension group and the pulmonary arterial hypertension combined with fluvoxamine group. Monocrotaline (60 mg/kg) was administered to induce pulmonary arterial hypertension, and fluvoxamine was given for 21 consecutive days to activate S1R after one week of monocrotaline administration. Echocardiographic, serologic, and histologic parameters, qRT-PCR, and western blotting were conducted after 4 weeks of monocrotaline administration.The expression of S1R was decreased in the right ventricle in pulmonary arterial hypertension. TAPSE, and the FAC of the right ventricle were significantly decreased, and RV EDP and the plasma concentration of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide was increased in the pulmonary arterial hypertension group, but fluvoxamine partly restored those abnormalities (all P < 0.05). Moreover, pulmonary arteriole remodeling, and fibrosis and hypertrophy in the RV were shown in the pulmonary arterial hypertension group; interestingly, fluvoxamine recovered RV structural remodeling (all P < 0.05) but neither alleviated pulmonary arteriole remodeling nor reduced pulmonary artery pressure. Furthermore, S1R activation protects RV function by upgrading the NRF 2/HO 1-mediated antioxidant stress pathway. In conclusion, chronic S1R activation ameliorates structural remodeling and RV dysfunction secondary to pulmonary arterial hypertension without altering pulmonary artery pressure.

Revisiting the sigma-1 receptor as a biological target to treat affective and cognitive disorders

Depression and cognitive disorders are diseases with complex and not-fully understood etiology. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically increased the prevalence of both conditions. Since the current treatments are inadequate in many patients, there is a constant need for discovering new compounds, which will be more effective in ameliorating depressive symptoms and treating cognitive decline. Proteins attracting much attention as potential targets for drugs treating these conditions are sigma-1 receptors. Sigma-1 receptors are multi-functional proteins localized in endoplasmic reticulum membranes, which play a crucial role in cellular signal transduction by interacting with receptors, ion channels, lipids, and kinases. Changes in their functions and expression may lead to various diseases, including depression or memory impairments. Thus, sigma-1 receptor modulation might be useful in treating these central nervous system diseases. Importantly, two sigma-1 receptor ligands entered clinical trials, showing that this compound group possesses therapeutic potential. Therefore, based on preclinical studies, this review discusses whether the sigma-1 receptor could be a promising target for drugs treating affective and cognitive disorders.

Emerging Benefits: Pathophysiological Functions and Target Drugs of the Sigma-1 Receptor in Neurodegenerative Diseases

The sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) is encoded by the SIGMAR1 gene and is a nonopioid transmembrane receptor located in the mitochondrial-associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane (MAM). It helps to locate endoplasmic reticulum calcium channels, regulates calcium homeostasis, and acts as a molecular chaperone to control cell fate and participate in signal transduction. It plays an important role in protecting neurons through a variety of signaling pathways and participates in the regulation of cognition and motor behavior closely related to neurodegenerative diseases. Based on its neuroprotective effects, Sig-1R has now become a breakthrough target for alleviating Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. This article reviews the most cutting-edge research on the function of Sig-1R under normal or pathologic conditions and target drugs of the sigma-1 receptor in neurodegenerative diseases.

Sigma-1 Receptor: A Potential Therapeutic Target for Traumatic Brain Injury

The sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) is a chaperone receptor that primarily resides at the mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane (MAM) and acts as a dynamic pluripotent modulator regulating cellular pathophysiological processes. Multiple pharmacological studies have confirmed the beneficial effects of Sig-1R activation on cellular calcium homeostasis, excitotoxicity modulation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) clearance, and the structural and functional stability of the ER, mitochondria, and MAM. The Sig-1R is expressed broadly in cells of the central nervous system (CNS) and has been reported to be involved in various neurological disorders. Traumatic brain injury (TBI)-induced secondary injury involves complex and interrelated pathophysiological processes such as cellular apoptosis, glutamate excitotoxicity, inflammatory responses, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Thus, given the pluripotent modulation of the Sig-1R in diverse neurological disorders, we hypothesized that the Sig-1R may affect a series of pathophysiology after TBI. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the Sig-1R, its mechanistic role in various pathophysiological processes of multiple CNS diseases, and its potential therapeutic role in TBI.

Sigma-1R Protects Retinal Ganglion Cells in Optic Nerve Crush Model for Glaucoma

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the Sigma-1R (σ-1r) on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival following optic nerve crush (ONC) and the signaling mechanism involved in the σ-1r protection.

Methods

The overall strategy was to induce injury by ONC and mitigate RGC death by increasing σ-1r expression and/or activate σ-1r activity in σ-1r K/O mice and wild type (WT) mice. AAV2-σ-1r vector was used to increase σ-1r expression and σ-1r agonist used to activate the σ-1r and RGCs were counted. Immunohistochemical and Western blot analysis determined phosphorylated (p)-c-Jun, c-Jun, and Caspase-3. Pattern electroretinography (PERG) determined RGC activity.

Results

RGC counts and function were similar in pentazocine-treated WT mice when compared to untreated mice and in WT mice when compared with σ-1r K/O mice. Pentazocine-induced effects and the effects of σ-1r K/O were only observable after ONC. ONC resulted in decreased RGC counts and activity in both WT and σ-1r K/O mice, with σ-1r K/O mice experiencing significant decreases compared with WT mice. The σ-1r transgenic expression resulted in increased RGC counts and activity following ONC. In WT mice, treatment with σ-1r agonist pentazocine resulted in increased RGC counts and increased activity when compared with untreated WT mice. There were time-dependent increases in c-jun, p-c-jun, and caspase-3 expression in ONC mice that were mitigated with pentazocine-treatment.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the apoptotic pathway is involved in RGC losses seen in an ONC model. The σ-1r offers neuroprotection, as activation and/or transgenic expression of σ-1r attenuated the apoptotic pathway and restored RGCs number and function following ONC.

GYY4137 protected the integrity of the blood-brain barrier via activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway in mice with sepsis

Injury to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a vital role in sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE), which is one of the most common complications of sepsis. GYY4137, a new synthetic compound of hydrogen sulfide (H₂ S), has extensive biological benefits. In this study, we focused on the protective effects of GYY4137 on the BBB in septic mice and the underlying mechanisms. The results suggested that whether administrated at the same time or 3 hours after LPS injection, GYY4137 both significantly alleviated the clinical symptoms and the long-term prognosis. Besides, GYY4137 improved the pathological abnormalities of septic mice. Moreover, the degradation of tight junctions in the BBB was considerably inhibited by GYY4137. In addition, GYY4137 significantly attenuated inflammation and apoptosis in the brain. Furthermore, GYY4137 activated the Nrf2/ARE pathway through the sulfhydrylation of Keap1 and inhibited oxidative stress. ML385, the specific inhibitor of Nrf2, significantly reversed the protective effects of GYY4137 in sepsis mice. In conclusion, this study indicated that through the sulfhydrylation of Keap1, GYY4137 activated the Nrf2/ARE pathway and exerted anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and antioxidant effects in septic mice that consequently protected the integrity of the BBB and improved the clinical outcome of sepsis. Our findings suggest that GYY4137 might be a promising agent for the treatment of SAE.

Sigma 1 Receptor Co-Localizes with NRF2 in Retinal Photoreceptor Cells

Sigma 1 receptor (Sig1R), a modulator of cell survival, has emerged as a novel target for retinal degenerative disease. Studies have shown that activation of Sig1R, using the high affinity ligand (+)-pentazocine ((+)-PTZ), improves cone function in a severe retinopathy model. The rescue is accompanied by normalization of levels of NRF2, a key transcription factor that regulates the antioxidant response. The interaction of Sig1R with a number of proteins has been investigated; whether it interacts with NRF2, however, is not known. We used co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP), proximity ligation assay (PLA), and electron microscopy (EM) immunodetection methods to investigate this question in the 661W cone photoreceptor cell line. For co-IP experiments, immune complexes were precipitated by protein A/G agarose beads and immunodetected using anti-NRF2 antibody. For PLA, cells were incubated with anti-Sig1R polyclonal and anti-NRF2 monoclonal antibodies, then subsequently with (−)-mouse and (+)-rabbit PLA probes. For EM analysis, immuno-EM gold labeling was performed using nanogold-enhanced labeling with anti-NRF2 and anti-Sig1R antibodies, and data were confirmed using colloidal gold labeling. The co-IP experiment suggested that NRF2 was bound in a complex with Sig1R. The PLA assays detected abundant orange fluorescence in cones, indicating that Sig1R and NRF2 were within 40 nm of each other. EM immunodetection confirmed co-localization of Sig1R with NRF2 in cells and in mouse retinal tissue. This study is the first to report co-localization of Sig1R-NRF2 and supports earlier studies implicating modulation of NRF2 as a mechanism by which Sig1R mediates retinal neuroprotection.

Involvement of Chaperone Sigma1R in the Anxiolytic Effect of Fabomotizole

Sigma-1 receptor (chaperone Sigma1R) is an intracellular protein with chaperone functions, which is expressed in various organs, including the brain. Sigma1R participates in the regulation of physiological mechanisms of anxiety (Su, T. P. et al., 2016) and reactions to emotional stress (Hayashi, T., 2015). In 2006, fabomotizole (ethoxy-2-[2-(morpholino)-ethylthio]benzimidazole dihydrochloride) was registered in Russia as an anxiolytic (Seredenin S. and Voronin M., 2009). The molecular targets of fabomotizole are Sigma1R, NRH: quinone reductase 2 (NQO2), and monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) (Seredenin S. and Voronin M., 2009). The current study aimed to clarify the dependence of fabomotizole anxiolytic action on its interaction with Sigma1R and perform a docking analysis of fabomotizole interaction with Sigma1R. An elevated plus maze (EPM) test revealed that the anxiolytic-like effect of fabomotizole (2.5 mg/kg i.p.) administered to male BALB/c mice 30 min prior EPM exposition was blocked by Sigma1R antagonists BD-1047 (1.0 mg/kg i.p.) and NE-100 (1.0 mg/kg i.p.) pretreatment. Results of initial in silico study showed that fabomotizole locates in the active center of Sigma1R, reproducing the interactions with the site's amino acids common for established Sigma1R ligands, with the ΔGbind value closer to that of agonist (+)-pentazocine in the 6DK1 binding site.

The novel Nrf2 activator CDDO-EA attenuates cerebral ischemic injury by promoting microglia/macrophage polarization toward M2 phenotype in mice

The aim of present study was to explore whether 2‐cyano‐3, 12‐dioxooleana‐1, 9‐dien‐28‐oic acid (CDDO)‐ethylamide (CDDO‐EA) attenuates cerebral ischemic injury and its possible mechanisms using a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model in C57BL/6 mice. Our results showed that intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) of CDDO‐EA (2 and 4 mg/kg) augmented NFE2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) expression in ischemic cortex after MCAO. Moreover, CDDO‐EA (2 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly enhanced Nrf2 nuclear accumulation, associated with increased cytosolic HO‐1 expression, reduced neurological deficit and infarct volume as well as neural apoptosis, and shifted polarization of microglia/macrophages toward an antiinflammatory M2 phenotype in ischemic cortex after MCAO. Using an in vitro model, we confirmed that CDDO‐EA (100 μg/mL) increased HO‐1 expression and primed microglial polarization toward M2 phenotype under inflammatory stimulation in BV2 microglial cells. These findings suggest that a novel Nrf2 activator CDDO‐EA confers neuroprotection against ischemic injury.

TBHQ-Overview of Multiple Mechanisms against Oxidative Stress for Attenuating Methamphetamine-Induced Neurotoxicity

Methamphetamine is a derivative of amphetamines, a highly addictive central stimulant with multiple systemic toxicity including the brain, heart, liver, lung, and spleen. It has adverse effects such as apoptosis and breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. Methamphetamine is a fatal and toxic chemical substance, and its lethal mechanism has been widely studied in recent years. The possible mechanism is that methamphetamine can cause cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity mainly by inducing oxidative stress so as to generate heat, eliminate people's hunger and thirst, and maintain a state of excitement so that people can continue to exercise. According to many research, there is no doubt that methamphetamine triggers neurotoxicity by inducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and redox imbalance. This review summarized the mechanisms of methamphetamine-induced neurotoxicity including apoptosis and blood-brain barrier breakdown through oxidative stress and analyzed several possible antioxidative mechanisms of tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) which is a kind of food additive with antioxidative effects. As a nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) agonist, TBHQ may inhibit neurotoxicity caused by oxidative stress through the following three mechanisms: the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase system, the astrocytes activation, and the glutathione pathway. The mechanism about methamphetamine's toxic effects and its antioxidative therapeutic drugs would become a research hotspot in this field and has very important research significance.

Activation of astrocytic sigma-1 receptor exerts antidepressant-like effect via facilitating CD38-driven mitochondria transfer

Despite sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) is a promising therapeutic target in depression, little is known regarding the cellular mechanisms underlying its antidepressant responses. Here, we demonstrated that astrocyte can be a direct cellular target of Sig-1R exerting antidepressant-like effect. In multiple behavioral models including forced swimming test (FST), tail suspension test (TST), open field test (OFT), and chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS), inhibition of astrocyte function blocked pharmacological Sig-1R activation-induced antidepressant-like effect, while specific activation of astrocytc Sig-1R by adeno-associated virus (AAV) was sufficient to produce antidepressant-like effect. In depression-related cellular tests, Sig-1R agonist or lentivirus-stimulated astrocyte conditioned medium (ACM) promoted neuronal neurite outgrowth, dendritic branch, and survival. Mechanismly, stimulation of Sig-1R enhanced the expression of CD38 via activation of extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2), resulting in facilitating mitochondrial transfer from astrocyte. Furthermore, blockage of CD38-driven astrocyte transferring mitochondria in vivo and in vitro reversed the antidepressant-like effect of pharmacological Sig-1R activation. Thus, this study sheds light on the cellular mechanism of Sig-1R activation producing antidepressant-like effect. These data present the first evidence that enhancement of Sig-1R action on astrocytes entirely exerts antidepressant-like effect, indicating that specific activation of astrocytic Sig-1R may provide a new approach for antidepressant drug development.

Sulforaphane Induces Glioprotection After LPS Challenge

Sulforaphane is a natural compound that presents anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, including in the central nervous system (CNS). Astroglial cells are involved in several functions to maintain brain homeostasis, actively participating in the inflammatory response and antioxidant defense systems. We, herein, investigated the potential mechanisms involved in the glioprotective effects of sulforaphane in the C6 astrocyte cell line, when challenged with the inflammogen, lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Sulforaphane prevented the LPS-induced increase in the expression and/or release of pro-inflammatory mediators, possibly due to nuclear factor κB and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α activation. Sulforaphane also modulated the expressions of the Toll-like and adenosine receptors, which often mediate inflammatory processes induced by LPS. Additionally, sulforaphane increased the mRNA levels of nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO1), both of which mediate several cytoprotective responses. Sulforaphane also prevented the increase in NADPH oxidase activity and the elevations of superoxide and 3-nitrotyrosine that were stimulated by LPS. In addition, sulforaphane and LPS modulated superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione metabolism. Interestingly, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of sulforaphane were blocked by HO1 pharmacological inhibition, suggesting its dependence on HO1 activity. Finally, in support of a glioprotective role, sulforaphane prevented the LPS-induced decrease in glutamate uptake, glutamine synthetase activity, and glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) levels, as well as the augmentations in S100B release and Na⁺, K⁺ ATPase activity. To our knowledge, this is the first study that has comprehensively explored the glioprotective effects of sulforaphane on astroglial cells, reinforcing the beneficial effects of sulforaphane on astroglial functionality.

TRPM8 Inhibition Regulates the Proliferation, Migration and ROS Metabolism of Bladder Cancer Cells

Introduction

Based on accumulating evidence, transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels may play important roles in the occurrence and the progression of cancer. TRP melastatin 8 (TRPM8), a member of the TRP family, functions as a Ca²⁺-permeable channel and regulates various physiological and pathological processes. However, the effects of TRPM8 on bladder cancer (BCa) and its underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated.

Methods

BCa tissues and matched noncancerous tissues were collected to examine the expression of the TRPM8 mRNA and protein using qRT-PCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. Meanwhile, the effect of knockdown or inhibition of the activity of the TRPM8 protein on the proliferation, migration and ROS metabolism of bladder cancer cells was detected using the MTT assay, clonogenic survival assay, Transwell chamber migration assay, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection, respectively. Furthermore, a mouse model transplanted with BCa cells was established to assess tumor growth after TRPM8 expression was inhibited in vivo.

Results

Compared with the noncancerous tissues, the levels of TRPM8 in BCa tissues were significantly increased. Knockdown or inhibition of the activity of the TRPM8 protein in BCa cells reduced cell proliferation and migration. Moreover, the production of ROS was increased in cells treated with siTRPM8, which was accompanied by increased levels of Catalase, HO-1 and SOD2. Furthermore, a mouse model transplanted with the stable TRPM8-deficient T24 cell line was established, demonstrating that knockdown of TRPM8 delayed tumor growth in vivo.

Discussion

TRPM8 might play an essential for BCa tumor progression and metastasis by interfering with BCa cell proliferation, motility, ROS metabolism and migration.

Sigma 1 receptor as a therapeutic target for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult disease causing a progressive loss of upper and lower motoneurons, muscle paralysis and early death. ALS has a poor prognosis of 3-5 years after diagnosis with no effective cure. The aetiopathogenic mechanisms involved include glutamate excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, protein misfolding, mitochondrial alterations, disrupted axonal transport and inflammation. Sigma non-opioid intracellular receptor 1 (sigma 1 receptor) is a protein expressed in motoneurons, mainly found in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) on the mitochondria-associated ER membrane (MAM) or in close contact with cholinergic postsynaptic sites. MAMs are sites that allow the assembly of several complexes implicated in essential survival cell functions. The sigma 1 receptor modulates essential mechanisms for motoneuron survival including excitotoxicity, calcium homeostasis, ER stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. This review updates sigma 1 receptor mechanisms and its alterations in ALS, focusing on MAM modulation, which may constitute a novel target for therapeutic strategies. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Neurochemistry in Japan. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.6/issuetoc.

Tetrahydropyrimidines, ZL-5015 Alleviated Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-Induced Acute Pneumonia in Rats by Activating the NRF-2/HO-1 Pathway

BACKGROUND Acute pneumonia is a severe inflammatory disease of the respiratory system. Drugs used to treat acute pneumonia often have strong side effects. Recent studies have shown that tetrahydropyrimidines, ZL-5015 has anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects. However, whether ZL-5015 can relieve symptoms of acute pneumonia is unclear. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this study, we used lipo-polysaccharide (LPS) to stimulate SD rats to simulate conditions of acute pneumonia. Diverse doses of ZL-5015 were used for treatment of these rats. After the rates were sacrificed, serum, lung tissue, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were collected for the next study. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining then was used to detect pathologic changes in lung tissues. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to assess levels of inflammatory factors in serum. Commercial kits were used to assess levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. RESULTS Treatment of ZL-5015 relieved stenosis of the alveolar space and pulmonary edema. Furthermore, levels of inflammatory factors (TNF-alpha, IL-1ß and IL-18) in the lung tissues and serum were downregulated after treatment with ZL-5015. Production of ROS also was suppressed after application of ZL-5015. Moreover, inhibition of expression of NRF-2 and HO-1 was relieved after treatment with ZL-5015. The therapeutic effect of ZL-5015 showed a dose-response relationship. CONCLUSIONS ZL-5015 alleviated LPS-induced inflammatory injury and oxidative damage by activating the NRF-2/HO-1 pathway.

Counteracting role of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway in Alzheimer's disease

A salient pathological features in Alzheimer's disease includes redox impairment and neuroinflammation. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-ҡB) are the two key transcription factors that regulate cellular responses to redox impairment and neuroinflammation respectively. An effective way to confer neuroprotection in central nervous system (CNS) is the activation of a transcription factor i.e Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). An enhancer element known as Antioxidant Response Element (ARE) mediates the expression of phase II detoxification enzymes. Nrf2 is a nuclear transcription factor that binds to ARE thereby transcribing expression of several antioxidant genes. Kelch ECH associating protein-1 (Keap1), a culin 3-based E3 ligase, polyubiquitinates Nrf2 and targets it for its degradation. Disruption in the interaction between Keap1/Nrf2 can increase the brain's endogenous antioxidant capacity and thereby responsible for cell defence against oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The current review discusses about Keap1-Nrf2-ARE structure and function with special emphasis on the various pathways involved in positive and negative modulation of Nrf2, namely Phosphoinositide 3- kinase (PI3K), Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), Nuclear factor kappa-b (NF-ҡb), Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT),Tumour Necrosis Factor- α (TNF-α), p38Mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38MAPK), Cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB) and intrinsic & extrinsic apoptotic pathway. Furthermore, this review highlights the miscellaneous Nrf2 activators as promising therapeutic agents for slowingdown the progression of AD.

ANAVEX®2-73 (blarcamesine), a Sigma-1 receptor agonist, ameliorates neurologic impairments in a mouse model of Rett syndrome

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder that is associated in most cases with mutations in the transcriptional regulator MECP2. At present, there are no effective treatments for the disorder. Despite recent advances in RTT genetics and neurobiology, most drug development programs have focused on compounds targeting the IGF-1 pathway and no pivotal trial has been completed as yet. Thus, testing novel drugs that can ameliorate RTT's clinical manifestations is a high priority. ANAVEX2-73 (blarcamesine) is a Sigma-1 receptor agonist and muscarinic receptor modulator with a strong safety record and preliminary evidence of efficacy in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Its role in calcium homeostasis and mitochondrial function, cellular functions that underlie pathological processes and compensatory mechanisms in RTT, makes blarcamesine an intriguing drug candidate for this disorder. Mice deficient in MeCP2 have a range of physiological and neurological abnormalities that mimic the human syndrome. We tested blarcamesine in female heterozygous mice carrying one null allele of Mecp2 (HET) using a two-tier approach, with age-appropriate tests. Administration of the drug to younger and older adult mice resulted in improvement in multiple motor, sensory, and autonomic phenotypes of relevance to RTT. The latter included motor coordination and balance, acoustic and visual responses, hindlimb clasping, and apnea in expiration. In line with previous animal and human studies, blarcamesine also showed a good safety profile in this mouse model of RTT. Clinical studies in RTT with blarcamesine are ongoing.

Achyranthes bidentata polypeptide k suppresses neuroinflammation in BV2 microglia through Nrf2-dependent mechanism

Background

Activated microglia play a critical role in regulating neuroinflammatory responses in central nervous system. Previous studies have shown that Achyranthes bidentata polypeptide k's (ABPPk's) neuroprotective effects are partly due to its anti-inflammatory effect, but the mechanism remains unknown. This study is aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of ABPPk on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated neuroinflammation in BV2 microglia.

Methods

We pretreated BV2 microglia with different concentrations of ABPPk (0.04-5 µg/mL) for 30 minutes, and then stimulated microglia with LPS for 24 hours. Pro-inflammatory mediators including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) production were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression levels were detected by western blot. Glutathione (GSH) level was measured by GSH-Glo™ Glutathione assay. Immunofluorescent staining was used to detect the nuclear translocation of NF-κB and Nrf2. BV2 microglia transfected with Nrf2 siRNA were used to investigate the effect of Nrf2 on the anti-inflammatory activity of ABPPk.

Results

ABPPk (0.2-5 µg/mL) reduced the iNOS mediated NO and COX-2 mediated PGE₂ production significantly in LPS-activated BV2 microglia. ABPPk (1 and 5 µg/mL) also suppressed the production of TNF-α and IL-6 significantly. NF-κB is phosphorylated and translocated into nuclear in LPS-activated BV2 microglia, but ABPPk is shown to inhibit the phosphorylation and translocation of NF-κB in a concentration-dependent way. ABPPk increased the protein expression levels of HO-1 and Nrf2, as well as the GSH content in BV2 microglia. Immunofluorescent staining showed that ABPPk also promoted nuclear translocation of Nrf2. After knocking down Nrf2 in BV2 cells with siRNA interference, ABPPk's inhibitory effect on pro-inflammatory mediators also disappeared.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that ABPPk inhibits neuroinflammation in BV2 microglia through Nrf2-dependent mechanism. This provides some strong evidence for the potential of this neuroprotective natural compound to treat neurodegenerative diseases such as ischemic stroke and Parkinson's disease.