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Zhu X, Potterfield R, Gruber KA, Zhang E, Newton SD, Norgard MA, Levasseur PR, Bai P, Chen X, Gu Q, Grossberg AJ, Marks DL. Melanocortin-4 receptor antagonist TCMCB07 alleviates chemotherapy-induced anorexia and weight loss in rats. J Clin Invest 2024; 135:e181305. [PMID: 39509261 DOI: 10.1172/jci181305] [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: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 10/29/2024] [Indexed: 11/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy often experience anorexia and weight loss that substantially deteriorates overall health, reduces treatment tolerance and quality of life, and worsens oncologic outcomes. There are currently few effective therapeutic options to mitigate these side effects. The central melanocortin system, which plays a pivotal role in regulating appetite and energy homeostasis, presents a logical target for treating anorexia and weight loss. In this preclinical study, we evaluated the efficacy of TCMCB07, a synthetic antagonist of the melanocortin-4 receptor, in mitigating anorexia and weight loss in several rat models of chemotherapy: cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and a combination of irinotecan and 5-fluorouracil. Our results indicate that peripheral administration of TCMCB07 improved appetite, stabilized body weight, preserved fat and heart mass, and slightly protected lean mass after multiple cycles of chemotherapy. Furthermore, combining TCMCB07 with a growth differentiation factor 15 antibody enhanced treatment effectiveness. Similar effects from TCMCB07 treatment were observed in a rat tumor model following combination chemotherapy. No notable adverse effects nor increased chemotherapy-related toxicities were observed with TCMCB07 treatment. These findings suggest that peripheral administration of TCMCB07 holds promise as a therapeutic approach for alleviating chemotherapy-induced anorexia and weight loss, potentially benefiting numerous patients undergoing chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxia Zhu
- Papé Family Pediatric Research Institute and
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Kenneth A Gruber
- Endevica Bio, Northbrook, Illinois, USA
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology and the Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | | | | | | | - Peter R Levasseur
- Papé Family Pediatric Research Institute and
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Peng Bai
- In Vivo Pharmacology Unit, WuXi App Tec, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu Chen
- In Vivo Pharmacology Unit, WuXi App Tec, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingyang Gu
- In Vivo Pharmacology Unit, WuXi App Tec, Shanghai, China
| | - Aaron J Grossberg
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Weirath NA, Haskell-Luevano C. Recommended Tool Compounds for the Melanocortin Receptor (MCR) G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs). ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:2706-2724. [PMID: 39296259 PMCID: PMC11406693 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024]
Abstract
The melanocortin receptors are a centrally and peripherally expressed family of Class A GPCRs with physiological roles, including pigmentation, steroidogenesis, energy homeostasis, and others yet to be fully characterized. There are five melanocortin receptor subtypes that, apart from the melanocortin-2 receptor (MC2R), are stimulated by a shared set of endogenous agonists. Until 2020, X-ray crystallographic and cryo-electron microscopic (cryo-EM) structures of these receptors were unavailable, and the investigation of their mechanisms of action and putative ligand-receptor interactions was driven by site-directed mutagenesis studies of the receptors and targeted structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies of the endogenous and derivative synthetic ligands. Synthetic derivatives of the endogenous agonist ligand α-MSH have evolved into a suite of powerful ligands such as NDP-MSH (melanotan I), melanotan II (MTII), and SHU9119. This suite of tool compounds now enables the study of the melanocortin receptors and serves as scaffolds for FDA-approved drugs, means of validating stably expressing melanocortin receptor cell lines, core ligands in assessing cryo-EM structures of active and inactive receptor complexes, and essential references for high-throughput discovery and mechanism of action studies. Herein, we review the history and significance of a finite set of these essential tool compounds and discuss how they are being utilized to further the field's understanding of melanocortin receptor physiology and greater druggability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Weirath
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry & Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Carrie Haskell-Luevano
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry & Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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3
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Gimenez LE, Martin C, Yu J, Hollanders C, Hernandez CC, Wu Y, Yao D, Han GW, Dahir NS, Wu L, Van der Poorten O, Lamouroux A, Mannes M, Zhao S, Tourwé D, Stevens RC, Cone RD, Ballet S. Novel Cocrystal Structures of Peptide Antagonists Bound to the Human Melanocortin Receptor 4 Unveil Unexplored Grounds for Structure-Based Drug Design. J Med Chem 2024; 67:2690-2711. [PMID: 38345933 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4-R) antagonists are actively sought for treating cancer cachexia. We determined the structures of complexes with PG-934 and SBL-MC-31. These peptides differ from SHU9119 by substituting His6 with Pro6 and inserting Gly10 or Arg10. The structures revealed two subpockets at the TM7-TM1-TM2 domains, separated by N2857.36. Two peptide series based on the complexed peptides led to an antagonist activity and selectivity SAR study. Most ligands retained the SHU9119 potency, but several SBL-MC-31-derived peptides significantly enhanced MC4-R selectivity over MC1-R by 60- to 132-fold. We also investigated MC4-R coupling to the K+ channel, Kir7.1. Some peptides activated the channel, whereas others induced channel closure independently of G protein coupling. In cell culture studies, channel activation correlated with increased feeding, while a peptide with Kir7.1 inhibitory activity reduced eating. These results highlight the potential for targeting the MC4-R:Kir7.1 complex for treating positive and restrictive eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis E Gimenez
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Charlotte Martin
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, Brussels B-1050, Belgium
| | - Jing Yu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Ren Building, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Charlie Hollanders
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, Brussels B-1050, Belgium
| | - Ciria C Hernandez
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Yiran Wu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Ren Building, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Deqiang Yao
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Ren Building, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Gye Won Han
- Departments of Biological Sciences and Chemistry, Bridge Institute, USC Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
| | - Naima S Dahir
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Lijie Wu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Ren Building, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Olivier Van der Poorten
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, Brussels B-1050, Belgium
| | - Arthur Lamouroux
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, Brussels B-1050, Belgium
| | - Morgane Mannes
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, Brussels B-1050, Belgium
| | - Suwen Zhao
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Ren Building, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Dirk Tourwé
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, Brussels B-1050, Belgium
| | - Raymond C Stevens
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Ren Building, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Pudong, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Roger D Cone
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Steven Ballet
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, Brussels B-1050, Belgium
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Hernandez CC, Gimenez LE, Cone RD. Automated Patch Clamp Recordings of GPCR-Gated Ion Channels: Targeting the MC4-R/Kir7.1 Potassium Channel Complex. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2796:229-248. [PMID: 38856905 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3818-7_14] [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] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Automated patch clamp recording is a valuable technique in drug discovery and the study of ion channels. It allows for the precise measurement and manipulation of channel currents, providing insights into their function and modulation by drugs or other compounds. The melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4-R) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) crucial to appetite regulation, energy balance, and body weight. MC4-R signaling is complex and involves interactions with other receptors and neuropeptides in the appetite-regulating circuitry. MC4-Rs, like other GPCRs, are known to modulate ion channels such as Kir7.1, an inward rectifier potassium channel, in response to ligand binding. This modulation is critical for controlling ion flow across the cell membrane, which can influence membrane potential, excitability, and neurotransmission. The MC4-R is the target for the anti-obesity drug Imcivree. However, this drug is known to lack optimal potency and also has side effects. Using high-throughput techniques for studying the MC4-R/Kir7.1 complex allows researchers to rapidly screen many compounds or conditions, aiding the development of drugs that target this system. Additionally, automated patch clamp recording of this receptor-channel complex and its ligands can provide valuable functional and pharmacological insights supporting the development of novel therapeutic strategies. This approach can be generalized to other GPCR-gated ion channel functional complexes, potentially accelerating the pace of research in different fields with the promise to uncover previously unknown aspects of receptor-ion channel interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciria C Hernandez
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Center for Chemical Genomics, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Luis E Gimenez
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Roger D Cone
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Kadakia KC, Hamilton-Reeves JM, Baracos VE. Current Therapeutic Targets in Cancer Cachexia: A Pathophysiologic Approach. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2023; 43:e389942. [PMID: 37290034 PMCID: PMC11019847 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_389942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Significant progress in our understanding of cancer cachexia has occurred in recent years. Despite these advances, no pharmacologic agent has achieved US Food and Drug Administration approval for this common and highly morbid syndrome. Fortunately, improved understanding of the molecular basis of cancer cachexia has led to novel targeted approaches that are in varying stages of drug development. This article reviews two major thematic areas that are driving these pharmacologic strategies, including those targeting signal mediators at the level of the CNS and skeletal muscle. Additionally, pharmacologic strategies are being tested in combination with targeted nutrients, nutrition therapy, and exercise to treat cancer cachexia. To this end, we highlight recently published and ongoing trials evaluating cancer cachexia therapies in these specific areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunal C. Kadakia
- Department of Solid Tumor Oncology, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC
- Department of Supportive Oncology, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC
| | - Jill M. Hamilton-Reeves
- Department of Urology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
- Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Vickie E. Baracos
- Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Mo H, Yu H, Li Y, Ezeorba TPC, Zhang Z, Yao M, Yu J, Xiong D, Liu H, Wang L. Molecular cloning and functional characterization of melanocortin-3 receptor in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella). FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2023; 49:155-167. [PMID: 36547499 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-022-01164-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The melanocortin-3-receptor (MC3R) plays an important role in mammals' food intake and energy homeostasis. However, its physiological role in bony fishes, such as grass carp, has not been well understood. This study reports the molecular cloning, tissue distribution, and pharmacological characterization of grass carp melanocortin-3-receptor (ciMC3R). Phylogenetic and chromosomal synteny analyses indicated that ciMC3R was closest to cyprinid fishes in evolution. Quantitative PCR experiments revealed that the mRNA of ciMC3R was highly expressed in the brain of grass carp. The cytological function of ciMC3R was investigated by the co-transfection of pcDNA3.1-ciMC3R and the signal-pathway-specific luciferase into the HEK293T cells. Results revealed that the four agonists, α-MSH, β-MSH, ACTH, and NDP-MSH, potentiate the activation of ciMC3R and further increase the production of cAMP and upregulate the MAPK/ERK signaling, respectively. Our study will provide basic data for exploring the physiological functions of grass carp MC3R, especially in energy homeostasis and food intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolin Mo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Huixia Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Timothy P C Ezeorba
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Nigeria, Ihe Nsukka, Nsukka, 41001, Nigeria
| | - Zhihao Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Mingxin Yao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiajia Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dongmei Xiong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haixia Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lixin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
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Micioni Di Bonaventura E, Botticelli L, Del Bello F, Giorgioni G, Piergentili A, Quaglia W, Romano A, Gaetani S, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Cifani C. Investigating the role of the central melanocortin system in stress and stress-related disorders. Pharmacol Res 2022; 185:106521. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Gruber KA, Ji RL, Gallazzi F, Jiang S, Van Doren SR, Tao YX, Newton Northup J. Development of a Therapeutic Peptide for Cachexia Suggests a Platform Approach for Drug-like Peptides. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:344-361. [PMID: 35592439 PMCID: PMC9112415 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
During the development of a melanocortin (MC) peptide drug to treat the condition of cachexia (a hypermetabolic state producing lean body mass wasting), we were confronted with the need for peptide transport across the blood-brain barrier (BBB): the MC-4 receptors (MC4Rs) for metabolic rate control are located in the hypothalamus, i.e., behind the BBB. Using the term "peptides with BBB transport", we screened the medical literature like a peptide library. This revealed numerous "hits"-peptides with BBB transport and/or oral activity. We noted several features common to most peptides in this class, including a dipeptide sequence of nonpolar residues, primary structure cyclization (whole or partial), and a Pro-aromatic motif usually within the cyclized region. Based on this, we designed an MC4R antagonist peptide, TCMCB07, that successfully treated many forms of cachexia. As part of our pharmacokinetic characterization of TCMCB07, we discovered that hepatobiliary extraction from blood accounted for a majority of the circulating peptide's excretion. Further screening of the literature revealed that TCMCB07 is a member of a long-forgotten peptide class, showing active transport by a multi-specific bile salt carrier. Bile salt transport peptides have predictable pharmacokinetics, including BBB transport, but rapid hepatic clearance inhibited their development as drugs. TCMCB07 shares the general characteristics of the bile salt peptide class but with a much longer half-life of hours, not minutes. A change in its C-terminal amino acid sequence slows hepatic clearance. This modification is transferable to other peptides in this class, suggesting a platform approach for producing drug-like peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A Gruber
- John M. Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, and Department of Medical Pharmacology & Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211, United States.,Tensive Controls, Inc., Columbia, Missouri 65211, United States
| | - Ren-Lai Ji
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, Auburn University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, Alabama 36849, United States
| | - Fabio Gallazzi
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Interaction Core, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211, United States
| | - Shaokai Jiang
- Department of Chemistry and NMR Core, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211, United States
| | - Steven R Van Doren
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211, United States`
| | - Ya-Xiong Tao
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, Auburn University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, Alabama 36849, United States
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de Sousa LN, Sant'ana DSP, Siqueira dos Santos RG, dos Santos Ribeiro AEA, da Costa CF, de Oliveira AP, Almeida JRGDS, Jucá DM, da Silva MTB, dos Santos AA, Palheta Junior RC. Involvement of serotonergic pathways in gastric dysmotility induced by fat burning nutritional supplements in mice. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERY 2021; 2:100018. [PMID: 34909653 PMCID: PMC8663933 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphar.2021.100018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Fat burners are a category of nutritional supplements that are claimed to increase the metabolism and promote greater energy expenditure, leading to weight loss. However, little is known about the side effects on gastrointestinal motility. In this study, we evaluated the effect of ingestion with a fat burner named Thermbuterol® (THERM) on the gastric motility and food behavior of mice. THERM compounds were identified using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Mice received variable doses of THERM (10, 50, 100 or 300 mg/kg, p.o.) or NaCl 0.15 M (control). Gastric emptying (GE) was assessed using the phenol red technique. Another set of mice was pretreated with intraperitoneal administration of hexamethonium (HEXA, 10 mg/kg), prazosin (PRAZ, 0.25 mg/kg), propranolol (PROP, 2 mg/kg), parachlorophenylalanine (PCPA, 300 mg/kg) or ondansetron (ONDA, 50 μg/kg) 30 min before THERM treatment for evaluation of GE. We assessed the gastrointestinal responsiveness in vitro as well as THERM's effects on food behavior. Caffeine was the major compound of THERM, identified by NMR. THERM 100 and 300 mg/kg decreased GE compared to the respective controls. Pretreatment with PRAZ or PROP did not prevent gastric dysmotility induced by THERM 100 mg/kg. However, the pretreatment with HEXA, ONDA or PCPA prevented GE delay induced by THERM. In vitro, THERM relaxed contractions in strips of longitudinal gastric fundus and duodenum. THERM also increased food intake, which was prevented by PCPA and ONDA treatments. THERM decreased GE of a liquid and increased food intake in mice, a phenomenon mediated by the autonomic nicotinic receptors and serotoninergic receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Camila F. da Costa
- Federal University of São Francisco Valley, Petrolina, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | | | - Davi M. Jucá
- Belo Horizonte University Center, Cristiano Machado Campus. Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Moisés Tolentino Bento da Silva
- Laboratory of Exercise and Gastrointestinal Tract – Department of Physical Education, Federal University of Piauí, Teresina, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Armênio A. dos Santos
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
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Hypothalamic Pomc Neurons Innervate the Spinal Cord and Modulate the Excitability of Premotor Circuits. Curr Biol 2020; 30:4579-4593.e7. [PMID: 32976803 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2020.08.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Locomotion requires energy, yet animals need to increase locomotion in order to find and consume food in energy-deprived states. While such energy homeostatic coordination suggests brain origin, whether the central melanocortin 4 receptor (Mc4r) system directly modulates locomotion through motor circuits is unknown. Here, we report that hypothalamic Pomc neurons in zebrafish and mice have long-range projections into spinal cord regions harboring Mc4r-expressing V2a interneurons, crucial components of the premotor networks. Furthermore, in zebrafish, Mc4r activation decreases the excitability of spinal V2a neurons as well as swimming and foraging, while systemic or V2a neuron-specific blockage of Mc4r promotes locomotion. In contrast, in mice, electrophysiological recordings revealed that two-thirds of V2a neurons in lamina X are excited by the Mc4r agonist α-MSH, and acute inhibition of Mc4r signaling reduces locomotor activity. In addition, we found other Mc4r neurons in spinal lamina X that are inhibited by α-MSH, which is in line with previous studies in rodents where Mc4r agonists reduced locomotor activity. Collectively, our studies identify spinal V2a interneurons as evolutionary conserved second-order neurons of the central Mc4r system, providing a direct anatomical and functional link between energy homeostasis and locomotor control systems. The net effects of this modulatory system on locomotor activity can vary between different vertebrate species and, possibly, even within one species. We discuss the biological sense of this phenomenon in light of the ambiguity of locomotion on energy balance and the different living conditions of the different species.
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Zhu X, Callahan MF, Gruber KA, Szumowski M, Marks DL. Melanocortin-4 receptor antagonist TCMCB07 ameliorates cancer- and chronic kidney disease-associated cachexia. J Clin Invest 2020; 130:4921-4934. [PMID: 32544087 PMCID: PMC7456235 DOI: 10.1172/jci138392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cachexia, a devastating wasting syndrome characterized by severe weight loss with specific losses of muscle and adipose tissue, is driven by reduced food intake, increased energy expenditure, excess catabolism, and inflammation. Cachexia is associated with poor prognosis and high mortality and frequently occurs in patients with cancer, chronic kidney disease, infection, and many other illnesses. There is no effective treatment for this condition. Hypothalamic melanocortins have a potent and long-lasting inhibitory effect on feeding and anabolism, and pathophysiological processes increase melanocortin signaling tone, leading to anorexia, metabolic changes, and eventual cachexia. We used 3 rat models of anorexia and cachexia (LPS, methylcholanthrene sarcoma, and 5/6 subtotal nephrectomy) to evaluate efficacy of TCMCB07, a synthetic antagonist of the melanocortin-4 receptor. Our data show that peripheral treatment using TCMCB07 with intraperitoneal, subcutaneous, and oral administration increased food intake and body weight and preserved fat mass and lean mass during cachexia and LPS-induced anorexia. Furthermore, administration of TCMCB07 diminished hypothalamic inflammatory gene expression in cancer cachexia. These results suggest that peripheral TCMCB07 treatment effectively inhibits central melanocortin signaling and therefore stimulates appetite and enhances anabolism, indicating that TCMCB07 is a promising drug candidate for treating cachexia.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Appetite/drug effects
- Cachexia/drug therapy
- Cachexia/etiology
- Cachexia/metabolism
- Cachexia/pathology
- Male
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 4/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 4/metabolism
- Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/complications
- Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/drug therapy
- Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/metabolism
- Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/pathology
- Sarcoma, Experimental/complications
- Sarcoma, Experimental/drug therapy
- Sarcoma, Experimental/metabolism
- Sarcoma, Experimental/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxia Zhu
- Papé Family Pediatric Research Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Michael F. Callahan
- Tensive Controls Inc., MU Life Sciences Business Incubator at Monsanto Place, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Kenneth A. Gruber
- Tensive Controls Inc., MU Life Sciences Business Incubator at Monsanto Place, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center and
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Marek Szumowski
- Papé Family Pediatric Research Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Daniel L. Marks
- Papé Family Pediatric Research Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Knight Cancer Institute and
- Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Mavrikaki M, Girardet C, Kern A, Faruzzi Brantley A, Miller CA, Macarthur H, Marks DL, Butler AA. Melanocortin-3 receptors in the limbic system mediate feeding-related motivational responses during weight loss. Mol Metab 2016; 5:566-579. [PMID: 27408780 PMCID: PMC4921936 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2016.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Appetitive responses to weight loss are mediated by a nutrient-sensing neural network comprised of melanocortin neurons. The role of neural melanocortin-3 receptors (MC3R) in mediating these responses is enigmatic. Mc3r knockout mice exhibit a paradoxical phenotype of obesity and reduced feeding-related behaviors in situations of nutrient scarcity. Here we examined whether MC3Rs expressed in mesolimbic neurons regulate feeding-related motivational responses. Methods Interactions between Mc3r genotype, cognitive function and energy balance on food self-administration were assessed using operant conditioning with fixed- and progressive ratio (FR1/PR1) settings. Inhibition of Mc3r transcription by a loxP-flanked transcriptional blocker (TB) in C57BL/6JN mice (Mc3rTB/TB) was reversed in mesolimbic neurons using DAT-Cre (DAT-MC3R). Results Caloric restriction (CR) caused 10–15% weight loss and increased motivation to acquire food rewards during training sessions. c-Fos-expression in the nucleus accumbens was increased 1 h following food presentation. While exhibiting weight loss, total food self-administration, enhanced motivation to self-administer food rewards in training sessions held during CR and c-Fos-activation in the nucleus accumbens following re-feeding were all markedly attenuated in Mc3rTB/TB mice. In contrast, cognitive abilities were normal in Mc3rTB/TB mice. Total food self-administration during FR1 sessions was not rescued in DAT-MC3R mice, however enhanced motivational responses to self-administer food rewards in PR1 conditions were restored. The nutrient-partitioning phenotype observed with Mc3r-deficiency was not rescued in DAT-MC3R mice. Conclusions Mesolimbic MC3Rs mediate enhanced motivational responses during CR. However, they are insufficient to restore normal caloric loading when food is presented during CR and do not affect metabolic conditions altering nutrient partitioning. Food-related motivational responses in mice increase with caloric restriction (CR). Melanocortin-3 receptors (MC3R) are required for food-related motivational responses. MC3Rs role in food-related motivational responses depends on metabolic condition. Mesolimbic MC3Rs increase food-related motivational responses during CR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mavrikaki
- Department of Metabolism and Aging, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA; Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Clemence Girardet
- Department of Metabolism and Aging, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA; Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Andras Kern
- Department of Metabolism and Aging, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Alicia Faruzzi Brantley
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA; Behavioral Core, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Courtney A Miller
- Department of Metabolism and Aging, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Heather Macarthur
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Daniel L Marks
- Papé Family Pediatric Research Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Andrew A Butler
- Department of Metabolism and Aging, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA; Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA.
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Begriche K, Girardet C, McDonald P, Butler AA. Melanocortin-3 receptors and metabolic homeostasis. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2013; 114:109-46. [PMID: 23317784 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-386933-3.00004-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Attenuated activity of the central nervous melanocortin system causes obesity and insulin resistance. Obese rodents treated with melanocortins exhibit improvements in obesity and metabolic homeostasis that are not mutually dependent, suggesting metabolic actions that are independent of weight changes. These responses are generally thought to involve G-protein-coupled receptors expressed in the brain. Melanocortin-4 receptors (MC4Rs) regulate satiety and autonomic nervous system and thyroid function. MC3Rs are expressed in hypothalamic and limbic regions involved in controlling ingestive behaviors and autonomic function. Mc3r-/- mice exhibit increased adiposity and an accelerated diet-induced obesity. While this phenotype is not dependent on hyperphagia, data on the regulation of food intake by MC3Rs are inconsistent. Recent investigations by our laboratory suggest a unique combination of behavioral and metabolic disorders in Mc3r-/- mice. MC3Rs are critical for the expression of the anticipatory response and metabolic homeostasis when food intake occurs outside the normal voluntary rhythms driven by photoperiod. Using a Cre-Lox strategy, we can now investigate MC3Rs expressed in different brain regions and organ systems in the periphery. While focusing on the functions of neural MC3Rs, early results suggest an additional layer of complexity with central and peripheral MC3Rs involved in the defense of body weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karima Begriche
- Department of Metabolism and Aging, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida, USA
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Steinman J, DeBoer MD. Treatment of cachexia: melanocortin and ghrelin interventions. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2013; 92:197-242. [PMID: 23601426 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-410473-0.00008-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cachexia is a condition typified by wasting of fat and LBM caused by anorexia and further endocrinological modulation of energy stores. Diseases known to cause cachectic symptoms include cancer, chronic kidney disease, and chronic heart failure; these conditions are associated with increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines and increased resting energy expenditure. Early studies have suggested the central melanocortin system as one of the main mediators of the symptoms of cachexia. Pharmacological and genetic antagonism of these pathways attenuates cachectic symptoms in laboratory models; effects have yet to be studied in humans. In addition, ghrelin, an endogenous orexigenic hormone with receptors on melanocortinergic neurons, has been shown to ameliorate symptoms of cachexia, at least in part, by an increase in appetite via melanocortin modulation, in addition to its anticatabolic and anti-inflammatory effects. These effects of ghrelin have been confirmed in multiple types of cachexia in both laboratory and human studies, suggesting a positive future for cachexia treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Steinman
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, P.O. Box 800386, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Abstract
Melanocortin peptides, derived from POMC (pro-opiomelanocortin) are produced in the ARH (arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus) neurons and the neurons in the commissural NTS (nucleus of the solitary tract) of the brainstem, in anterior and intermediate lobes of the pituitary, skin and a wide range of peripheral tissues, including reproductive organs. A hypothetical model for functional roles of melanocortin receptors in maintaining energy balance was proposed in 1997. Since this time, there has been an extraordinary amount of knowledge gained about POMC-derived peptides in relation to energy homoeostasis. Development of a Pomc-null mouse provided definitive proof that POMC-derived peptides are critical for the regulation of energy homoeostasis. The melanocortin system consists of endogenous agonists and antagonists, five melanocortin receptor subtypes and receptor accessory proteins. The melanocortin system, as is now known, is far more complex than most of us could have imagined in 1997, and, similarly, the importance of this system for regulating energy homoeostasis in the general human population is much greater than we would have predicted. Of the known factors that can cause human obesity, or protect against it, the melanocortin system is by far the most significant. The present review is a discussion of the current understanding of the roles and mechanism of action of POMC, melanocortin receptors and AgRP (agouti-related peptide) in obesity and Type 2 diabetes and how the central and/or peripheral melanocortin systems mediate nutrient, leptin, insulin, gut hormone and cytokine regulation of energy homoeostasis.
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Begriche K, Sutton GM, Fang J, Butler AA. The role of melanocortin neuronal pathways in circadian biology: a new homeostatic output involving melanocortin-3 receptors? Obes Rev 2009; 10 Suppl 2:14-24. [PMID: 19849798 PMCID: PMC4834055 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-789x.2009.00662.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Obesity, insulin resistance and increased propensity for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease result from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure. The cloning of genes involved in energy homeostasis produced a simple feedback model for the homeostatic regulation of adipose mass. Serum leptin secreted from adipocytes signals nutrient sufficiency, curbing appetite and supporting energy expenditure. A rapid decline in leptin during nutrient scarcity instigates adaptive mechanisms, including increased appetite and reduced energy expenditure. Hypothalamic melanocortin neurons are important mediators of this response, integrating inputs of energy status from leptin with other peripheral signals. While this feedback response prolongs survival during fasting, other mechanisms allowing the prediction of nutrient availability also confer a selective advantage. This adaptation has been commonly studied in rodents using restricted feeding paradigms constraining food intake to limited periods at 24-h intervals. Restricted feeding rapidly elicits rhythmic bouts of activity and wakefulness anticipating food presentation. While the response exhibits features suggesting a clock-like mechanism, the neuromolecular mechanisms governing expression of food anticipatory behaviours are poorly understood. Here we discuss a model whereby melanocortin neurons regulating the homeostatic adaptation to variable caloric availability also regulate inputs into neural networks governing anticipatory rhythms in wakefulness, activity and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Begriche
- Department of Metabolism and Aging, The Scripps Research Institute, Scripps Florida, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
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Yang S, Liu A, Weidenhammer A, Cooksey RC, McClain D, Kim MK, Aguilera G, Abel ED, Chung JH. The role of mPer2 clock gene in glucocorticoid and feeding rhythms. Endocrinology 2009; 150:2153-60. [PMID: 19179447 PMCID: PMC2671901 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-0705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The circadian clock synchronizes the activity level of an organism to the light-dark cycle of the environment. Energy intake, as well as energy metabolism, also has a diurnal rhythm. Although the role of the clock genes in the sleep-wake cycle is well characterized, their role in the generation of the metabolic rhythms is poorly understood. Here, we use mice deficient in the clock protein mPer2 to study how the circadian clock regulates two critical metabolic rhythms: glucocorticoid and food intake rhythms. Our findings indicate that mPer2-/- mice do not have a glucocorticoid rhythm even though the corticosterone response to hypoglycemia, ACTH, and restraint stress is intact. In addition, the diurnal feeding rhythm is absent in mPer2-/- mice. On high-fat diet, they eat as much during the light period as they do during the dark period and develop significant obesity. The diurnal rhythm of neuroendocrine peptide alphaMSH, a major effector of appetite control, is disrupted in the hypothalamus of mPer2-/- mice even though the diurnal rhythm of ACTH, the alphaMSH precursor, is intact. Peripheral injection of alphaMSH, which has been shown to enter the brain, restored the feeding rhythm and induced weight loss in mPer2-/- mice. These findings emphasize the requirement of mPer2 in appetite control during the inactive period and the potential role of peripherally administered alphaMSH in restoring night-day eating pattern in individuals with circadian eating disorders such as night-eating syndrome, which is also associated with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shutong Yang
- Laboratory of Biochemical Genetics, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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Bossola M, Tazza L, Luciani G. Mechanisms and Treatment of Anorexia in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients on Hemodialysis. J Ren Nutr 2009; 19:2-9. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jrn.2008.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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