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Manuel AM, Gottlieb A, Freeman L, Zhao Z. Montelukast as a repurposable additive drug for standard-efficacy multiple sclerosis treatment: Emulating clinical trials with retrospective administrative health claims data. Mult Scler 2024; 30:696-706. [PMID: 38660773 PMCID: PMC11073911 DOI: 10.1177/13524585241240398] [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] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective and safe treatment options for multiple sclerosis (MS) are still needed. Montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) currently indicated for asthma or allergic rhinitis, may provide an additional therapeutic approach. OBJECTIVE The study aimed to evaluate the effects of montelukast on the relapses of people with MS (pwMS). METHODS In this retrospective case-control study, two independent longitudinal claims datasets were used to emulate randomized clinical trials (RCTs). We identified pwMS aged 18-65 years, on MS disease-modifying therapies concomitantly, in de-identified claims from Optum's Clinformatics® Data Mart (CDM) and IQVIA PharMetrics® Plus for Academics. Cases included 483 pwMS on montelukast and with medication adherence in CDM and 208 in PharMetrics Plus for Academics. We randomly sampled controls from 35,330 pwMS without montelukast prescriptions in CDM and 10,128 in PharMetrics Plus for Academics. Relapses were measured over a 2-year period through inpatient hospitalization and corticosteroid claims. A doubly robust causal inference model estimated the effects of montelukast, adjusting for confounders and censored patients. RESULTS pwMS treated with montelukast demonstrated a statistically significant 23.6% reduction in relapses compared to non-users in 67.3% of emulated RCTs. CONCLUSION Real-world evidence suggested that montelukast reduces MS relapses, warranting future clinical trials and further research on LTRAs' potential mechanism in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid M Manuel
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX
| | - Assaf Gottlieb
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX
| | - Leorah Freeman
- Neurology Department, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, TX
| | - Zhongming Zhao
- Center for Precision Health, McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX
- Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX
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2
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Magni G, Riboldi B, Ceruti S. Human Glial Cells as Innovative Targets for the Therapy of Central Nervous System Pathologies. Cells 2024; 13:606. [PMID: 38607045 PMCID: PMC11011741 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070606] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
In vitro and preclinical in vivo research in the last 35 years has clearly highlighted the crucial physiopathological role of glial cells, namely astrocytes/microglia/oligodendrocytes and satellite glial cells/Schwann cells in the central and peripheral nervous system, respectively. Several possible pharmacological targets to various neurodegenerative disorders and painful conditions have therefore been successfully identified, including receptors and enzymes, and mediators of neuroinflammation. However, the translation of these promising data to a clinical setting is often hampered by both technical and biological difficulties, making it necessary to perform experiments on human cells and models of the various diseases. In this review we will, therefore, summarize the most relevant data on the contribution of glial cells to human pathologies and on their possible pharmacological modulation based on data obtained in post-mortem tissues and in iPSC-derived human brain cells and organoids. The possibility of an in vivo visualization of glia reaction to neuroinflammation in patients will be also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stefania Ceruti
- Laboratory of Pain Therapy and Neuroimmunology, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.M.); (B.R.)
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Muluhie M, Castiglioni L, Rzemieniec J, Mercuriali B, Gelosa P, Sironi L. Montelukast, an available and safe anti-asthmatic drug, prevents maladaptive remodelling and maintains cardiac functionality following myocardial infarction. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3371. [PMID: 38337010 PMCID: PMC10858037 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53936-x] [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: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Preclinical and clinical data indicate that the 5-lipoxygenase pathway becomes activated in cardiovascular diseases suggesting an important role of CysLTs in atherosclerosis and in its ischemic complications. This study aims to investigate the effects of montelukast, a CysLTR-1 antagonist, in a mouse model of myocardial infarction (MI). C57BL/6N female mice were subjected to coronary artery ligation and received montelukast (10 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal) or vehicle. Montelukast exerted beneficial effects in the infarcted area, decreasing mRNA expression of inflammatory genes, such Il1β and Ccl2 (p < 0.05), at 48 h after MI, and reducing infarct size and preventing ischemic wall thinning (p < 0.05) at 4 weeks. Furthermore, montelukast counteracted maladaptive remodelling of whole heart. Indeed, montelukast reduced LV mass (p < 0.05) and remote wall thickening (p < 0.05), and improved cardiac pumping function, as evidenced by increased global ejection fraction (p < 0.01), and regional contractility in infarcted (p < 0.05) and in remote non-infarcted (p < 0.05) myocardium. Finally, montelukast prevented cardiomyocytes hypertrophy (p < 0.05) in remote myocardium, reducing the phosphorylation of GSK3β, a regulator of hypertrophic pathway (p < 0.05). Our data strongly demonstrate the ability of montelukast to contrast the MI-induced maladaptive conditions, thus sustaining cardiac contractility. The results provide evidences for montelukast "repurposing" in cardiovascular diseases and in particular in myocardial infarction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majeda Muluhie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via G. Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Castiglioni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via G. Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Joanna Rzemieniec
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via G. Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Benedetta Mercuriali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via G. Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Gelosa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via G. Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Luigi Sironi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via G. Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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Lu W, Wen J. H 2S-RhoA/ROCK Pathway and Glial Cells in Axonal Remyelination After Ischemic Stroke. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:5493-5504. [PMID: 37322287 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03422-8] [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: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is one of the main reasons of disability and death. Stroke-induced functional deficits are mainly due to the secondary degeneration of the white matter characterized by axonal demyelination and injury of axon-glial integrity. Enhancement of the axonal regeneration and remyelination could promote the neural functional recovery. However, cerebral ischemia-induced activation of RhoA/Rho kinase (ROCK) pathway plays a crucial and harmful role in the process of axonal recovery and regeneration. Inhibition of this pathway could promote the axonal regeneration and remyelination. In addition, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has the significant neuroprotective role during the recovery of ischemic stroke via inhibiting the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, regulating astrocyte function, promoting the differentiation of endogenous oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) to mature oligodendrocyte. Among all of these effects, promoting the formation of mature oligodendrocyte is a crucial part of axonal regeneration and remyelination. Furthermore, numerous studies have uncovered the crosstalk between astrocytes and oligodendrocyte, microglial cells and oligodendrocyte in the axonal remyelination following ischemic stroke. The purpose of this review was to discuss the relationship among H2S, RhoA/ROCK pathway, astrocytes, and microglial cells in the axonal remyelination following ischemic stroke to reveal new strategies for preventing and treating this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhuo Lu
- Medical Branch, Hefei Technology College, Hefei, China
| | - Jiyue Wen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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Mrowetz H, Kotob MH, Forster J, Aydin I, Unger MS, Lubec J, Hussein AM, Malikovic J, Feyissa DD, Korz V, Höger H, Lubec G, Aigner L. Leukotriene signaling as molecular correlate for cognitive heterogeneity in aging: an exploratory study. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1140708. [PMID: 37600518 PMCID: PMC10433382 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1140708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Aging is in general associated with a decline in cognitive functions. Looking more closely, there is a huge heterogeneity in the extent of cognitive (dys-)abilities in the aged population. It ranges from the population of resistant, resilient, cognitively unimpaired individuals to patients with severe forms of dementias. Besides the known genetic, environmental and life style factors that shape the cognitive (dys-)abilities in aging, the underlying molecular mechanisms and signals related to cognitive heterogeneity are completely unknown. One putative mechanism underlying cognitive heterogeneity might be neuroinflammation, exerted through microglia, the brain's innate immune cells, as neuroinflammation is central to brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, leukotrienes (LTs), i.e., small lipid mediators of inflammation produced by microglia along aging and neurodegeneration, got in the focus of geroscience as they might determine cognitive dysfunctions in aging. Methods Here, we analyzed the brain's expression of key components of the LT synthesis pathway, i.e., the expression of 5-lipoxygenase (5-Lox), the key enzyme in LT production, and 5-lipoxygenase-activating protein (FLAP) in young and aged rats. More specifically, we used a cohort of rats, which, although grown up and housed under identical conditions, developed into aged cognitively unimpaired and aged cognitively impaired traits. Results Expression of 5-Lox was increased within the brain of aged rats with the highest levels detected in cognitively impaired animals. The number of microglia cells was higher in the aged compared to the young brains with, again, the highest numbers of 5-Lox expressing microglia in the aged cognitively impaired rats. Remarkably, lower cognitive scores in the aged rats associated with higher numbers of 5-Lox positive microglia in the animals. Similar data were obtained for FLAP, at least in the cortex. Our data indicate elevated levels of the LT system in the brain of cognitively impaired animals. Discussion We conclude that 5-Lox expressing microglia potentially contribute to the age-related cognitive decline in the brain, while low levels of the LT system might indicate and foster higher cognitive functions and eventually cognitive reserve and resilience in aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heike Mrowetz
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Mohamed H. Kotob
- Programme for Proteomics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Jennifer Forster
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Iren Aydin
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Michael Stefan Unger
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Jana Lubec
- Programme for Proteomics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ahmed M. Hussein
- Programme for Proteomics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Asyut, Egypt
| | - Jovana Malikovic
- Core Unit of Biomedical Research, Division of Laboratory Animal Science and Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Himberg, Austria
| | | | - Volker Korz
- Programme for Proteomics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Harald Höger
- Core Unit of Biomedical Research, Division of Laboratory Animal Science and Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Himberg, Austria
| | - Gert Lubec
- Programme for Proteomics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ludwig Aigner
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
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Wang H, Li J, Zhang H, Wang M, Xiao L, Wang Y, Cheng Q. Regulation of microglia polarization after cerebral ischemia. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1182621. [PMID: 37361996 PMCID: PMC10285223 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1182621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Stroke ranks second as a leading cause of death and permanent disability globally. Microglia, innate immune cells in the brain, respond rapidly to ischemic injury, triggering a robust and persistent neuroinflammatory reaction throughout the disease's progression. Neuroinflammation plays a critical role in the mechanism of secondary injury in ischemic stroke and is a significant controllable factor. Microglia activation takes on two general phenotypes: the pro-inflammatory M1 type and the anti-inflammatory M2 type, although the reality is more complex. The regulation of microglia phenotype is crucial to controlling the neuroinflammatory response. This review summarized the key molecules and mechanisms of microglia polarization, function, and phenotypic transformation following cerebral ischemia, with a focus on the influence of autophagy on microglia polarization. The goal is to provide a reference for the development of new targets for the treatment for ischemic stroke treatment based on the regulation of microglia polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Province Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jingjing Li
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Province Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Han Zhang
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Mengyao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Province Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Lifang Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Province Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yitong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Province Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Qiong Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Province Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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Boccazzi M, Raffaele S, Zanettin T, Abbracchio MP, Fumagalli M. Altered Purinergic Signaling in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Focus on P2 Receptors. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13050856. [PMID: 37238724 DOI: 10.3390/biom13050856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
With the umbrella term 'neurodevelopmental disorders' (NDDs) we refer to a plethora of congenital pathological conditions generally connected with cognitive, social behavior, and sensory/motor alterations. Among the possible causes, gestational and perinatal insults have been demonstrated to interfere with the physiological processes necessary for the proper development of fetal brain cytoarchitecture and functionality. In recent years, several genetic disorders caused by mutations in key enzymes involved in purine metabolism have been associated with autism-like behavioral outcomes. Further analysis revealed dysregulated purine and pyrimidine levels in the biofluids of subjects with other NDDs. Moreover, the pharmacological blockade of specific purinergic pathways reversed the cognitive and behavioral defects caused by maternal immune activation, a validated and now extensively used rodent model for NDDs. Furthermore, Fragile X and Rett syndrome transgenic animal models as well as models of premature birth, have been successfully utilized to investigate purinergic signaling as a potential pharmacological target for these diseases. In this review, we examine results on the role of the P2 receptor signaling in the etiopathogenesis of NDDs. On this basis, we discuss how this evidence could be exploited to develop more receptor-specific ligands for future therapeutic interventions and novel prognostic markers for the early detection of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Boccazzi
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Raffaele
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Thomas Zanettin
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria P Abbracchio
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Fumagalli
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
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McCarthy MW. Montelukast as a potential treatment for COVID-19. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:551-555. [PMID: 36927284 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2192866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Montelukast is a leukotriene inhibitor that is widely used to treat chronic asthma and allergic rhinitis. The drug interferes with molecular signaling pathways produced by leukotrienes in a variety of cells and tissues throughout the human body that lead to tightening of airway muscles, production of aberrant pulmonary fluid (airway edema), and in some cases, pulmonary inflammation. AREAS COVERED Montelukast has also been noted to have anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting it may have a role in the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which has been noted to induce misfiring of the immune system in some patients. A literature search of PubMed was performed to identify all relevant studies of montelukast and SARS-CoV-2 through 27 January 2023. EXPERT OPINION Montelukast has been the subject of small studies of SARS-CoV-2 and will be included in a large, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of outpatients with COVID-19 sponsored by the United States National Institutes of Health known as Accelerating COVID-19 Therapeutic Interventions and Vaccines-6. This paper reviews what is known about montelukast, an inexpensive, well-tolerated, and widely available medication, and examines the rationale for using this drug to potentially treat patients with COVID-19.
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Balbi M, Bonanno G, Bonifacino T, Milanese M. The Physio-Pathological Role of Group I Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors Expressed by Microglia in Health and Disease with a Focus on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065240. [PMID: 36982315 PMCID: PMC10048889 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065240] [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: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia cells are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system. They act as the first-line immune guardians of nervous tissue and central drivers of neuroinflammation. Any homeostatic alteration that can compromise neuron and tissue integrity could activate microglia. Once activated, microglia exhibit highly diverse phenotypes and functions related to either beneficial or harmful consequences. Microglia activation is associated with the release of protective or deleterious cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors that can in turn determine defensive or pathological outcomes. This scenario is complicated by the pathology-related specific phenotypes that microglia can assume, thus leading to the so-called disease-associated microglia phenotypes. Microglia express several receptors that regulate the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory features, sometimes exerting opposite actions on microglial functions according to specific conditions. In this context, group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are molecular structures that may contribute to the modulation of the reactive phenotype of microglia cells, and this is worthy of exploration. Here, we summarize the role of group I mGluRs in shaping microglia cells' phenotype in specific physio-pathological conditions, including some neurodegenerative disorders. A significant section of the review is specifically focused on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) since it represents an entirely unexplored topic of research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilde Balbi
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
| | - Giambattista Bonanno
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bonifacino
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Milanese
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy
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Tassan Mazzocco M, Murtaj V, Martins D, Schellino R, Coliva A, Toninelli E, Vercelli A, Turkheimer F, Belloli S, Moresco RM. Exploring the neuroprotective effects of montelukast on brain inflammation and metabolism in a rat model of quinolinic acid-induced striatal neurotoxicity. J Neuroinflammation 2023; 20:34. [PMID: 36782185 PMCID: PMC9923670 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02714-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One intrastriatal administration of quinolinic acid (QA) in rats induces a lesion with features resembling those observed in Huntington's disease. Our aim is to evaluate the effects of the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist montelukast (MLK), which exhibited neuroprotection in different preclinical models of neurodegeneration, on QA-induced neuroinflammation and regional metabolic functions. METHODS The right and left striatum of Sprague Dawley and athymic nude rats were injected with QA and vehicle (VEH), respectively. Starting from the day before QA injection, animals were treated with 1 or 10 mg/kg of MLK or VEH for 14 days. At 14 and 30 days post-lesion, animals were monitored with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) using [18F]-VC701, a translocator protein (TSPO)-specific radiotracer. Striatal neuroinflammatory response was measured post-mortem in rats treated with 1 mg/kg of MLK by immunofluorescence. Rats treated with 10 mg/kg of MLK also underwent a [18F]-FDG PET study at baseline and 4 months after lesion. [18F]-FDG PET data were then used to assess metabolic connectivity between brain regions by applying a covariance analysis method. RESULTS MLK treatment was not able to reduce the QA-induced increase in striatal TSPO PET signal and MRI lesion volume, where we only detected a trend towards reduction in animals treated with 10 mg/kg of MLK. Post-mortem immunofluorescence analysis revealed that MLK attenuated the increase in striatal markers of astrogliosis and activated microglia in the lesioned hemisphere. We also found a significant increase in a marker of anti-inflammatory activity (MannR) and a trend towards reduction in a marker of pro-inflammatory activity (iNOS) in the lesioned striatum of MLK-compared to VEH-treated rats. [18F]-FDG uptake was significantly reduced in the striatum and ipsilesional cortical regions of VEH-treated rats at 4 months after lesion. MLK administration preserved glucose metabolism in these cortical regions, but not in the striatum. Finally, MLK was able to counteract changes in metabolic connectivity and measures of network topology induced by QA, in both lesioned and non-lesioned hemispheres. CONCLUSIONS Overall, MLK treatment produced a significant neuroprotective effect by reducing neuroinflammation assessed by immunofluorescence and preserving regional brain metabolism and metabolic connectivity from QA-induced neurotoxicity in cortical and subcortical regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Tassan Mazzocco
- PhD Program in Neuroscience, Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Nuclear Medicine Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Murtaj
- PhD Program in Neuroscience, Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Nuclear Medicine Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Daniel Martins
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Roberta Schellino
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini" and Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Angela Coliva
- Nuclear Medicine Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Toninelli
- Nuclear Medicine Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vercelli
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini" and Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Federico Turkheimer
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sara Belloli
- Nuclear Medicine Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
- Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology (IBFM), CNR, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Moresco
- Nuclear Medicine Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute (IRCCS), Milan, Italy.
- Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology (IBFM), CNR, Milan, Italy.
- Technomed Foundation and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.
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Yates AG, Kislitsyna E, Alfonso Martin C, Zhang J, Sewell AL, Goikolea-Vives A, Cai V, Alkhader LF, Skaland A, Hammond B, Dimitrova R, Batalle D, Fernandes C, Edwards AD, Gressens P, Thornton C, Stolp HB. Montelukast reduces grey matter abnormalities and functional deficits in a mouse model of inflammation-induced encephalopathy of prematurity. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:265. [PMID: 36309753 PMCID: PMC9617353 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02625-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Encephalopathy of prematurity (EoP) affects approximately 30% of infants born < 32 weeks gestation and is highly associated with inflammation in the foetus. Here we evaluated the efficacy of montelukast, a cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist widely used to treat asthma in children, to ameliorate peripheral and central inflammation, and subsequent grey matter neuropathology and behaviour deficits in a mouse model of EoP. Male CD-1 mice were treated with intraperitoneal (i.p.) saline or interleukin-1beta (IL-1β, 40 μg/kg, 5 μL/g body weight) from postnatal day (P)1-5 ± concomitant montelukast (1-30 mg/kg). Saline or montelukast treatment was continued for a further 5 days post-injury. Assessment of systemic and central inflammation and short-term neuropathology was performed from 4 h following treatment through to P10. Behavioural testing, MRI and neuropathological assessments were made on a second cohort of animals from P36 to 54. Montelukast was found to attenuate both peripheral and central inflammation, reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory molecules (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF) in the brain. Inflammation induced a reduction in parvalbumin-positive interneuron density in the cortex, which was normalised with high-dose montelukast. The lowest effective dose, 3 mg/kg, was able to improve anxiety and spatial learning deficits in this model of inflammatory injury, and alterations in cortical mean diffusivity were not present in animals that received this dose of montelukast. Repurposed montelukast administered early after preterm birth may, therefore, improve grey matter development and outcome in EoP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abi G Yates
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elena Kislitsyna
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Carla Alfonso Martin
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jiaying Zhang
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Amy L Sewell
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ane Goikolea-Vives
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London, NW1 0TU, UK
| | - Valerie Cai
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London, NW1 0TU, UK
| | - Lama F Alkhader
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Aleksander Skaland
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Basil Hammond
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ralica Dimitrova
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Science, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Dafnis Batalle
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Science, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Cathy Fernandes
- SGDP Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopment Disorders, King's College London, London, UK
| | - A David Edwards
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Claire Thornton
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London, NW1 0TU, UK
| | - Helen B Stolp
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London, NW1 0TU, UK.
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12
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Wicks EE, Ran KR, Kim JE, Xu R, Lee RP, Jackson CM. The Translational Potential of Microglia and Monocyte-Derived Macrophages in Ischemic Stroke. Front Immunol 2022; 13:897022. [PMID: 35795678 PMCID: PMC9251541 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.897022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune response to ischemic stroke is an area of study that is at the forefront of stroke research and presents promising new avenues for treatment development. Upon cerebral vessel occlusion, the innate immune system is activated by danger-associated molecular signals from stressed and dying neurons. Microglia, an immune cell population within the central nervous system which phagocytose cell debris and modulate the immune response via cytokine signaling, are the first cell population to become activated. Soon after, monocytes arrive from the peripheral immune system, differentiate into macrophages, and further aid in the immune response. Upon activation, both microglia and monocyte-derived macrophages are capable of polarizing into phenotypes which can either promote or attenuate the inflammatory response. Phenotypes which promote the inflammatory response are hypothesized to increase neuronal damage and impair recovery of neuronal function during the later phases of ischemic stroke. Therefore, modulating neuroimmune cells to adopt an anti-inflammatory response post ischemic stroke is an area of current research interest and potential treatment development. In this review, we outline the biology of microglia and monocyte-derived macrophages, further explain their roles in the acute, subacute, and chronic stages of ischemic stroke, and highlight current treatment development efforts which target these cells in the context of ischemic stroke.
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13
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Zhang L, Zhou H, Wang S, Guan Y, Zhang C, Fang D. Changes in microglia during drug treatment of stroke. IBRAIN 2022; 8:227-240. [PMID: 37786889 PMCID: PMC10528798 DOI: 10.1002/ibra.12037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Microglia are the main immune cells in the brain and the first defense barrier of the nervous system. Microglia play a complex role in the process of stroke. A growing number of studies focus on the mechanism of action of drugs functions and how to regulate microglia. Therefore, we talk about the pathophysiological mechanisms of stroke and elaborate on the microglia signaling pathways of drug action in stroke models and how these drugs play a role in stroke treatment in this review. Understanding how drugs modulate proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses of microglia may be critical to implementing therapeutic strategies using immune interventions in stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling‐Jing Zhang
- Department of AnesthesiaZunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
| | - Hong‐Su Zhou
- Department of AnesthesiaGraduate School of Zunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
| | - Shi‐Ya Wang
- Department of AnesthesiaZunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
| | - Yi‐Huan Guan
- Department of AnesthesiaZunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of AnesthesiologyAffiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
| | - De‐Rong Fang
- Department of Family PlanningAffiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
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14
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Drug repurposing for stroke intervention. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:1974-1982. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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15
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Brain Abnormalities in Pontine Infarction: A Longitudinal Diffusion Tensor Imaging and Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging study. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2021; 31:106205. [PMID: 34879300 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2021.106205] [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: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to make a reasonable and accurate assessment of the prognosis of patients with pontine infarction. We assessed the changes in structure and function in the whole brain after pontine infarction from the acute to chronic phase using diffustion tensor imaging and functional magnetic resonance imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixteen individuals with a recent pontine infarction and sixteen healthy controls were recruited and underwent 3.0T DTI, resting-state fMRI and upper extremity Fugl-Myer (UE-FM) functional evaluation at five time points: within one week (T1), half a month (T2), one month (T3), three months (T4), and six months (T5) after onset. Tract-based spatial statistics was used to conduct a voxelwise analysis. RESULTS The fractional anisotropy (FA) values were significantly lower in the pontine infarction group than in the control group. Then, specific ROIs were analyzed. The FA values of 10 regions of interest were significantly increased at T2 compared with those at T1. The FA value of the corticospinal tract was significantly increased at T3 compared with that at T2. Regional brain activity results showed that the amplitude of low frequency fluctuations value of the frontal lobe decreased at T1, then increased. Finally, The UE-FM scores showed the same increased trend. CONCLUSION These findings show that the microstructure changes most significantly within half a month after pontine infarction and stabilizes after one month. The recovery of motor function in the later period is mainly caused by changes in the cortex. This facilitates more treatment options.
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Braune M, Scherf N, Heine C, Sygnecka K, Pillaiyar T, Parravicini C, Heimrich B, Abbracchio MP, Müller CE, Franke H. Involvement of GPR17 in Neuronal Fibre Outgrowth. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111683. [PMID: 34769111 PMCID: PMC8584086 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Characterization of new pharmacological targets is a promising approach in research of neurorepair mechanisms. The G protein-coupled receptor 17 (GPR17) has recently been proposed as an interesting pharmacological target, e.g., in neuroregenerative processes. Using the well-established ex vivo model of organotypic slice co-cultures of the mesocortical dopaminergic system (prefrontal cortex (PFC) and substantia nigra/ventral tegmental area (SN/VTA) complex), the influence of GPR17 ligands on neurite outgrowth from SN/VTA to the PFC was investigated. The growth-promoting effects of Montelukast (MTK; GPR17- and cysteinyl-leukotriene receptor antagonist), the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and of two potent, selective GPR17 agonists (PSB-16484 and PSB-16282) were characterized. Treatment with MTK resulted in a significant increase in mean neurite density, comparable with the effects of GDNF. The combination of MTK and GPR17 agonist PSB-16484 significantly inhibited neuronal growth. qPCR studies revealed an MTK-induced elevated mRNA-expression of genes relevant for neuronal growth. Immunofluorescence labelling showed a marked expression of GPR17 on NG2-positive glia. Western blot and RT-qPCR analysis of untreated cultures suggest a time-dependent, injury-induced stimulation of GPR17. In conclusion, MTK was identified as a stimulator of neurite fibre outgrowth, mediating its effects through GPR17, highlighting GPR17 as an interesting therapeutic target in neuronal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Braune
- Rudolf Boehm Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; (M.B.); (C.H.); (K.S.)
| | - Nico Scherf
- Methods and Development Group Neural Data Analysis and Statistical Computing, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Stephanstraße 1A, 04103 Leipzig, Germany;
| | - Claudia Heine
- Rudolf Boehm Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; (M.B.); (C.H.); (K.S.)
| | - Katja Sygnecka
- Rudolf Boehm Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; (M.B.); (C.H.); (K.S.)
| | - Thanigaimalai Pillaiyar
- Department of Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany; (T.P.); (C.E.M.)
| | - Chiara Parravicini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.P.); (M.P.A.)
| | - Bernd Heimrich
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Center for Basics in NeuroModulation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstr. 23, 79104 Freiburg, Germany;
| | - Maria P. Abbracchio
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.P.); (M.P.A.)
| | - Christa E. Müller
- Department of Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany; (T.P.); (C.E.M.)
| | - Heike Franke
- Rudolf Boehm Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; (M.B.); (C.H.); (K.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-(0)341-9724602; Fax: +49-(0)341-9724609
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17
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Trost A, Motloch K, Koller A, Bruckner D, Runge C, Schroedl F, Bogner B, Kaser-Eichberger A, Strohmaier C, Ladek AM, Preishuber-Pfluegl J, Brunner SM, Aigner L, Reitsamer HA. Inhibition of the cysteinyl leukotriene pathways increases survival of RGCs and reduces microglial activation in ocular hypertension. Exp Eye Res 2021; 213:108806. [PMID: 34715090 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. This multifactorial, neurodegenerative group of diseases is characterized by the progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons, leading to irreversible visual impairment and blindness. There is a huge unmet and urging need for the development of new and translatable strategies and treatment options to prevent this progressive loss of RGC. Accumulating evidence points towards a critical role of neuroinflammation, in particular microglial cells, in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Leukotrienes are mediators of neuroinflammation and are involved in many neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, we tested the leukotriene receptors CysLT1R/GPR17-selective antagonist Montelukast (MTK) for its efficacy to modulate the reactive state of microglia in order to ameliorate RGCs loss in experimental glaucoma. Ocular hypertension (OHT) was induced unilaterally by injection of 8 μm magnetic microbead (MB) into the anterior chamber of female Brown Norway rats. The contralateral, untreated eye served as control. Successful induction of OHT was verified by daily IOP measurement using a TonoLab rebound tonometer. Simultaneously to OHT induction, one group received daily MTK treatment and the control group vehicle solution by oral gavage. Animals were sacrificed 13-15 days after MB injection. Retina and optic nerves (ON) of OHT and contralateral eyes were analyzed by immunofluorescence with specific markers for RGCs (Brn3a), microglial cells/macrophages (Iba1 and CD68), and cysteinyl leukotriene pathway receptors (CysLT1R and GPR17). Protein labeling was documented by confocal microscopy and analyzed with ImageJ plugins. Further, mRNA expression of genes of the inflammatory and leukotriene pathway was analyzed in retinal tissue. MTK treatment resulted in a short-term IOP reduction at day 2, which dissipated by day 5 of OHT induction in MTK treated animals. Furthermore, MTK treatment resulted in a decreased activation of Iba1+ microglial cells in the retina and ON, and in a significantly increased RGC survival in OHT eyes. Within the retina, GPR17 and CysLT1R expression was demonstrated in single RCGs and in microglial cells respectively. Further, increased mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory genes was detected in OHT induced retinas. In the ON, OHT induction increased the number of GPR17+ cells, showing a trend of reduction following MTK treatment. This study shows for the first time a significantly increased RGC survival in an acute OHT model following treatment with the leukotriene receptor antagonist MTK. These results strongly suggest a neuroprotective effect of MTK and a potential new therapeutic strategy for glaucoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Trost
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Karolina Motloch
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Andreas Koller
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Daniela Bruckner
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christian Runge
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Falk Schroedl
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria; Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology - Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Barbara Bogner
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alexandra Kaser-Eichberger
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria; Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology - Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Clemens Strohmaier
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria; Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
| | - Anja-Maria Ladek
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Julia Preishuber-Pfluegl
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Susanne Maria Brunner
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ludwig Aigner
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria; Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Austria
| | - Herbert Anton Reitsamer
- University Clinic of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Research Program for Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, 5020, Salzburg, Austria; Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Austria
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18
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Dong R, Huang R, Wang J, Liu H, Xu Z. Effects of Microglial Activation and Polarization on Brain Injury After Stroke. Front Neurol 2021; 12:620948. [PMID: 34276530 PMCID: PMC8280287 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.620948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. The subsequent development of neuroinflammation and brain edema dramatically increases the risks associated with stroke, leading to a substantial increase in mortality. Although considerable progress has been made in improving cerebral perfusion in the acute phase of stroke, effective treatment options for the subacute and chronic phases associated with cerebral infarction are limited. Microglia, the innate immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS), can be activated and polarized to take on different phenotypes in response to stimulations associated with stroke, including pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory phenotypes, which affect the prognosis of stroke. Therefore, investigation of the activation and polarizing mechanisms of microglia plays a critical role in treating stroke. The aim of this article was to investigate the significance of microglial phenotype regulation in stroke treatment by summarizing the activation, polarizing mechanisms, and general microglia characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Dong
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Renxuan Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiaoqi Wang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongyu Liu
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhongxin Xu
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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19
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Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, Almulaiky YQ, Cruz-Martins N, El-Saber Batiha G. Role of leukotriene pathway and montelukast in pulmonary and extrapulmonary manifestations of Covid-19: The enigmatic entity. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 904:174196. [PMID: 34004207 PMCID: PMC8123523 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the responsible agent for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), has its entry point through interaction with angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, highly expressed in lung type II alveolar cells and other tissues, like heart, pancreas, brain, and vascular endothelium. This review aimed to elucidate the potential role of leukotrienes (LTs) in the pathogenesis and clinical presentation of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and to reveal the critical role of LT pathway receptor antagonists and inhibitors in Covid-19 management. A literature search was done in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases to find the potential role of montelukast and other LT inhibitors in the management of pulmonary and extra-pulmonary manifestations triggered by SARS-CoV-2. Data obtained so far underline that pulmonary and extra-pulmonary manifestations in Covid-19 are attributed to a direct effect of SARS-CoV-2 in expressed ACE2 receptors or indirectly through NF-κB dependent induction of a cytokine storm. Montelukast can ameliorate extra-pulmonary manifestations in Covid-19 either directly through blocking of Cys-LTRs in different organs or indirectly through inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M Al-Kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, ALmustansiriyia University, Baghdad, Iraq.
| | - Ali I Al-Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, ALmustansiriyia University, Baghdad, Iraq.
| | - Yaaser Q Almulaiky
- University of Jeddah, College of Sciences and Arts at Khulis, Department of Chemistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Natália Cruz-Martins
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernani Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal; Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal; Laboratory of Neuropsychophysiology, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal.
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 22511, AlBeheira, Egypt.
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20
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Schwimmbeck F, Staffen W, Höhn C, Rossini F, Renz N, Lobendanz M, Reichenpfader P, Iglseder B, Aigner L, Trinka E, Höller Y. Cognitive Effects of Montelukast: A Pharmaco-EEG Study. Brain Sci 2021; 11:547. [PMID: 33925326 PMCID: PMC8145277 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Montelukast is a well-established antiasthmatic drug with little side effects. It is a leukotriene receptor antagonist and recent research suggests cognitive benefits from its anti-inflammatory actions on the central nervous system. However, changes in brain activity were not directly shown so far in humans. This study aims to document changes in brain activity that are associated with cognitive improvement during treatment with Montelukast. We recorded EEG and conducted neuropsychological tests in 12 asthma-patients aged 38-73 years before and after 8 weeks of treatment with Montelukast. We found no significant changes on neuropsychological scales for memory, attention, and mood. In the EEG, we found decreased entropy at follow up during rest (p < 0.005). During episodic memory acquisition we found decreased entropy (p < 0.01) and acceleration of the background rhythm (p < 0.05). During visual attention performance, we detected an increase in gamma power (p < 0.005) and slowing of the background rhythm (p < 0.05). The study is limited by its small sample size, young age and absence of baseline cognitive impairment of the participants. Unspecific changes in brain activity were not accompanied by cognitive improvement. Future studies should examine elderly patients with cognitive impairment in a double-blind study with longer-term treatment by Montelukast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Schwimmbeck
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.S.); (W.S.); (F.R.); (N.R.); (E.T.)
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience (CCNS), Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
| | - Wolfgang Staffen
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.S.); (W.S.); (F.R.); (N.R.); (E.T.)
- Neuroscience Institute, Christian Doppler University Hospital, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christopher Höhn
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience (CCNS), Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
- Laboratory for Sleep, Cognition and Consciousness Research, Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fabio Rossini
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.S.); (W.S.); (F.R.); (N.R.); (E.T.)
- Neuroscience Institute, Christian Doppler University Hospital, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Nora Renz
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.S.); (W.S.); (F.R.); (N.R.); (E.T.)
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
| | - Markus Lobendanz
- Medical Practice for Pulmonology Lobendanz, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
| | | | - Bernhard Iglseder
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
| | - Ludwig Aigner
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Eugen Trinka
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (F.S.); (W.S.); (F.R.); (N.R.); (E.T.)
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience (CCNS), Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
- Neuroscience Institute, Christian Doppler University Hospital, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner Institute for Neurorehabilitation and Space Neurology, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Yvonne Höller
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Akureyri, 600 Akureyri, Iceland
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21
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The Distribution of GPR17-Expressing Cells Correlates with White Matter Inflammation Status in Brain Tissues of Multiple Sclerosis Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094574. [PMID: 33925469 PMCID: PMC8123849 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In multiple sclerosis (MS), oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are recruited to the site of injury to remyelinate damaged axons; however, in patients this process is often ineffective due to defects in OPC maturation. The membrane receptor GPR17 timely regulates the early stages of OPC differentiation; however, after reaching its highest levels in immature oligodendrocytes, it has to be downregulated to allow terminal maturation. Since, in several animal models of disease GPR17 is upregulated, the aim of this work was to characterize GPR17 alterations in MS patients. We developed immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence procedures for the detection of GPR17 in human tissues and stained post-mortem MS brain lesions from patients with secondary progressive MS and control subjects. The inflammatory activity in each lesion was evaluated by immunohistochemistry for the myelin protein MOG and the HLA antigen to classify them as active, chronic inactive or chronic active. Hence, we assessed the distribution of GPR17-positive cells in these lesions compared to normal appearing white matter (NAWM) and white matter (WM) of control subjects. Our data have shown a marked increase of GPR17-expressing oligodendroglial cells accumulating at NAWM, in which moderate inflammation was also found. Furthermore, we identified two distinct subpopulations of GPR17-expressing oligodendroglial cells, characterized by either ramified or rounded morphology, that differently populate the WM of healthy controls and MS patients. We concluded that the coordinated presence of GPR17 in OPCs at the lesion sites and inflamed NAWM areas suggests that GPR17 could be exploited to support endogenous remyelination through advanced pharmacological approaches.
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22
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Mechanistic insight on the role of leukotriene receptors in ischemic-reperfusion injury. Pharmacol Rep 2021; 73:1240-1254. [PMID: 33818747 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-021-00258-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Leukotrienes (LT) are a class of inflammatory mediators produced by the 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) enzyme from arachidonic acid (AA). We discussed the various LT inhibitors and downstream pathway modulators, such as Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases (MAPK), Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/Protein Kinase B (PI3K/Akt), 5'-Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK), Protein Kinase C (PKC), Nitric Oxide (NO), Bradykinin, Early Growth Response-1 (Egr-1), Nuclear Factor-κB (NF-κB), and Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-α), which in turn regulate various metabolic and physiological processes involving I/R injury. A systematic literature review of Bentham, Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and EMBASE (Elsevier) databases was carried out to understand the nature and mechanistic interventions of the leukotriene receptor modulations in ischemic injury. In the pathophysiology of I/R injuries, LT has been found to play an important role. I/R injury affects most of the vital organs and is characterized by inflammation, oxidative stress, cell death, and apoptosis leading to morbidity and mortality. sThis present review focuses on the various LT receptors, i.e., CysLT, LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4, involved in developing I/R injury in organs, such as the brain, spinal cord, heart, kidney, liver, and intestine.
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23
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Raffaele S, Boccazzi M, Fumagalli M. Oligodendrocyte Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030565. [PMID: 33807572 PMCID: PMC8000560 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelin is the lipid-rich structure formed by oligodendrocytes (OLs) that wraps the axons in multilayered sheaths, assuring protection, efficient saltatory signal conduction and metabolic support to neurons. In the last few years, the impact of OL dysfunction and myelin damage has progressively received more attention and is now considered to be a major contributing factor to neurodegeneration in several neurological diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Upon OL injury, oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) of adult nervous tissue sustain the generation of new OLs for myelin reconstitution, but this spontaneous regeneration process fails to successfully counteract myelin damage. Of note, the functions of OPCs exceed the formation and repair of myelin, and also involve the trophic support to axons and the capability to exert an immunomodulatory role, which are particularly relevant in the context of neurodegeneration. In this review, we deeply analyze the impact of dysfunctional OLs in ALS pathogenesis. The possible mechanisms underlying OL degeneration, defective OPC maturation, and impairment in energy supply to motor neurons (MNs) have also been examined to provide insights on future therapeutic interventions. On this basis, we discuss the potential therapeutic utility in ALS of several molecules, based on their remyelinating potential or capability to enhance energy metabolism.
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24
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Michael J, Bessa de Sousa D, Conway J, Gonzalez-Labrada E, Obeid R, Tevini J, Felder T, Hutter-Paier B, Zerbe H, Paiement N, Aigner L. Improved Bioavailability of Montelukast through a Novel Oral Mucoadhesive Film in Humans and Mice. Pharmaceutics 2020; 13:E12. [PMID: 33374646 PMCID: PMC7822410 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13010012] [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: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The leukotriene receptor antagonist Montelukast (MTK) is an approved medication for the treatment of asthma and allergic rhinitis. The existing marketed tablet forms of MTK exhibit inconsistent uptake and bioavailability, which partially explains the presence of a significant proportion of MTK low- and non-responders in the population. Besides that, tablets are suboptimal formulations for patients suffering from dysphagia, for example, seen in patients with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, a disease with increasing interest in repurposing of MTK. This, and the need for an improved bioavailability, triggered us to reformulate MTK. Our aim was to develop a mucoadhesive MTK film with good safety and improved pharmacological features, i.e., an improved bioavailability profile in humans as well as in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. We tested dissolution of the MTK mucoadhesive film and assessed pharmacoexposure and kinetics after acute and chronic oral application in mice. Furthermore, we performed a Phase I analysis in humans, which included a comparison with the marketed tablet form as well as a quantitative analysis of the MTK levels in the cerebrospinal fluid. The novel MTK film demonstrated significantly improved bioavailability compared to the marketed tablet in the clinical Phase 1a study. Furthermore, there were measurable amounts of MTK present in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In mice, MTK was detected in serum and CSF after acute and chronic exposure in a dose-dependent manner. The mucoadhesive film of MTK represents a promising alternative for the tablet delivery. The oral film might lower the non-responder rate in patients with asthma and might be an interesting product for repurposing of MTK in other diseases. As we demonstrate Blood-Brain-Barrier (BBB) penetrance in a preclinical model, as well as in a clinical study, the oral film of MTK might find its use as a therapeutic for acute and chronic neurodegenerative diseases such as dementias and stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Michael
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.M.); (D.B.d.S.)
| | - Diana Bessa de Sousa
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.M.); (D.B.d.S.)
| | - Justin Conway
- IntelgenX Corp., Saint-Laurent, QC H4S 1Y2, Canada; (J.C.); (E.G.-L.); (R.O.); (H.Z.)
| | | | - Rodolphe Obeid
- IntelgenX Corp., Saint-Laurent, QC H4S 1Y2, Canada; (J.C.); (E.G.-L.); (R.O.); (H.Z.)
| | - Julia Tevini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.T.); (T.F.)
| | - Thomas Felder
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.T.); (T.F.)
| | | | - Horst Zerbe
- IntelgenX Corp., Saint-Laurent, QC H4S 1Y2, Canada; (J.C.); (E.G.-L.); (R.O.); (H.Z.)
| | - Nadine Paiement
- IntelgenX Corp., Saint-Laurent, QC H4S 1Y2, Canada; (J.C.); (E.G.-L.); (R.O.); (H.Z.)
| | - Ludwig Aigner
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.M.); (D.B.d.S.)
- QPS Neuropharmacology, 8074 Grambach/Graz, Austria;
- Austrian Cluster of Tissue Regeneration Affiliation, 1200 Vienna, Austria
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25
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Aigner L, Pietrantonio F, Bessa de Sousa DM, Michael J, Schuster D, Reitsamer HA, Zerbe H, Studnicka M. The Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist Montelukast as a Potential COVID-19 Therapeutic. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:610132. [PMID: 33392263 PMCID: PMC7773944 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.610132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence and global impact of COVID-19 has focused the scientific and medical community on the pivotal influential role of respiratory viruses as causes of severe pneumonia, on the understanding of the underlying pathomechanisms, and on potential treatment for COVID-19. The latter concentrates on four different strategies: (i) antiviral treatments to limit the entry of the virus into the cell and its propagation, (ii) anti-inflammatory treatment to reduce the impact of COVID-19 associated inflammation and cytokine storm, (iii) treatment using cardiovascular medication to reduce COVID-19 associated thrombosis and vascular damage, and (iv) treatment to reduce the COVID-19 associated lung injury. Ideally, effective COVID-19 treatment should target as many of these mechanisms as possible arguing for the search of common denominators as potential drug targets. Leukotrienes and their receptors qualify as such targets: they are lipid mediators of inflammation and tissue damage and well-established targets in respiratory diseases like asthma. Besides their role in inflammation, they are involved in various other aspects of lung pathologies like vascular damage, thrombosis, and fibrotic response, in brain and retinal damages, and in cardiovascular disease. In consequence, leukotriene receptor antagonists might be potential candidates for COVID-19 therapeutics. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the potential involvement of leukotrienes in COVID-19, and the rational for the use of the leukotriene receptor antagonist montelukast as a COVID-19 therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludwig Aigner
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.,Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.,Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Diana Marisa Bessa de Sousa
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.,Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Johanna Michael
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.,Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Daniela Schuster
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Herbert Anton Reitsamer
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, University Clinic Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.,Research Program of Experimental Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Michael Studnicka
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, University Clinic Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
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26
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Raffaele S, Gelosa P, Bonfanti E, Lombardi M, Castiglioni L, Cimino M, Sironi L, Abbracchio MP, Verderio C, Fumagalli M. Microglial vesicles improve post-stroke recovery by preventing immune cell senescence and favoring oligodendrogenesis. Mol Ther 2020; 29:1439-1458. [PMID: 33309882 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Contrasting myelin damage through the generation of new myelinating oligodendrocytes represents a promising approach to promote functional recovery after stroke. Here, we asked whether activation of microglia and monocyte-derived macrophages affects the regenerative process sustained by G protein-coupled receptor 17 (GPR17)-expressing oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), a subpopulation of OPCs specifically reacting to ischemic injury. GPR17-iCreERT2:CAG-eGFP reporter mice were employed to trace the fate of GPR17-expressing OPCs, labeled by the green fluorescent protein (GFP), after permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion. By microglia/macrophages pharmacological depletion studies, we show that innate immune cells favor GFP+ OPC reaction and limit myelin damage early after injury, whereas they lose their pro-resolving capacity and acquire a dystrophic "senescent-like" phenotype at later stages. Intracerebral infusion of regenerative microglia-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) restores protective microglia/macrophages functions, limiting their senescence during the post-stroke phase, and enhances the maturation of GFP+ OPCs at lesion borders, resulting in ameliorated neurological functionality. In vitro experiments show that EV-carried transmembrane tumor necrosis factor (tmTNF) mediates the pro-differentiating effects on OPCs, with future implications for regenerative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Raffaele
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Gelosa
- IRCCS Centro Cardiologico Monzino, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bonfanti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Laura Castiglioni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Cimino
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Urbino, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Luigi Sironi
- IRCCS Centro Cardiologico Monzino, 20138 Milan, Italy; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria P Abbracchio
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Marta Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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27
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Barré J, Sabatier JM, Annweiler C. Montelukast Drug May Improve COVID-19 Prognosis: A Review of Evidence. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1344. [PMID: 33013375 PMCID: PMC7500361 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
With the lack of effective therapy, chemoprevention and vaccination, focusing on the immediate repurposing of existing drugs gives hope of curbing the pandemic. Interestingly, montelukast, a drug usually used in asthma, may be proposed as a potential adjuvant therapy in COVID-19. The aim of the present article was to review the properties of montelukast that could be beneficial in COVID-19. Ten experimentally supported properties were retrieved, either related to SARS-CoV-2 (antiviral properties, prevention of endotheliitis and of neurological disorders linked to SARS-CoV-2), and/or related to the host (improvement of atherogenic vascular inflammation, limitation of the ischemia/reperfusion phenomenon, improvement of respiratory symptoms), and/or related to serious COVID-19 outcomes (limitation of the cytokine storm, mitigation of acute respiratory distress syndrome), and/or related to tissue sequelae (antioxidant properties, anti-fibrosis effects). Based on gathered theoretical evidence, we argue that montelukast should be further tested to prevent and treat COVID-19 outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Barré
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and Memory Clinic, Research Center on Autonomy and Longevity, University Hospital, Angers, France
| | - Jean-Marc Sabatier
- Aix-Marseille University, Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, UMR 7051, Marseille, France
| | - Cédric Annweiler
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and Memory Clinic, Research Center on Autonomy and Longevity, University Hospital, Angers, France.,UPRES EA 4638, Université d'Angers, Angers, France.,Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Robarts Research Institute, the University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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28
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Coppola G, Di Renzo A, Tinelli E, Petolicchio B, Di Lorenzo C, Parisi V, Serrao M, Calistri V, Tardioli S, Cartocci G, Caramia F, Di Piero V, Pierelli F. Patients with chronic migraine without history of medication overuse are characterized by a peculiar white matter fiber bundle profile. J Headache Pain 2020; 21:92. [PMID: 32682393 PMCID: PMC7368770 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-020-01159-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We investigated intracerebral fiber bundles using a tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) analysis of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data to verify microstructural integrity in patients with episodic (MO) and chronic migraine (CM). Methods We performed DTI in 19 patients with MO within interictal periods, 18 patients with CM without any history of drug abuse, and 18 healthy controls (HCs) using a 3 T magnetic resonance imaging scanner. We calculated diffusion metrics, including fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusion (AD), radial diffusion (RD), and mean diffusion (MD). Results TBSS revealed no significant differences in the FA, MD, RD, and AD maps between the MO and HC groups. In comparison to the HC group, the CM group exhibited widespread increased RD (bilateral superior [SCR] and posterior corona radiata [PCR], bilateral genu of the corpus callosum [CC], bilateral posterior limb of internal capsule [IC], bilateral superior longitudinal fasciculus [LF]) and MD values (tracts of the right SCR and PCR, right superior LF, and right splenium of the CC). In comparison to the MO group, the CM group showed decreased FA (bilateral SCR and PCR, bilateral body of CC, right superior LF, right forceps minor) and increased MD values (bilateral SCR and right PCR, right body of CC, right superior LF, right splenium of CC, and right posterior limb of IC). Conclusion Our results suggest that chronic migraine can be associated with the widespread disruption of normal white matter integrity in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Coppola
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome Polo Pontino, Latina, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Renzo
- IRCCS - Fondazione Bietti, Research Unit of Neurophysiology of Vision and Neuro-Ophthalmology, Via Livenza 3, 00198, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuele Tinelli
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Cherubino Di Lorenzo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome Polo Pontino, Latina, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Parisi
- IRCCS - Fondazione Bietti, Research Unit of Neurophysiology of Vision and Neuro-Ophthalmology, Via Livenza 3, 00198, Rome, Italy.
| | - Mariano Serrao
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome Polo Pontino, Latina, Italy
| | - Valentina Calistri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Tardioli
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gaia Cartocci
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Caramia
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Di Piero
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pierelli
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome Polo Pontino, Latina, Italy.,IRCCS - Neuromed, Pozzilli, IS, Italy
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29
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Gelosa P, Castiglioni L, Camera M, Sironi L. Drug repurposing in cardiovascular diseases: Opportunity or hopeless dream? Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 177:113894. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.113894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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30
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Marschallinger J, Altendorfer B, Rockenstein E, Holztrattner M, Garnweidner-Raith J, Pillichshammer N, Leister I, Hutter-Paier B, Strempfl K, Unger MS, Chishty M, Felder T, Johnson M, Attems J, Masliah E, Aigner L. The Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist Montelukast Reduces Alpha-Synuclein Load and Restores Memory in an Animal Model of Dementia with Lewy Bodies. Neurotherapeutics 2020; 17:1061-1074. [PMID: 32072462 PMCID: PMC7609773 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-020-00836-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) represents a huge medical need as it accounts for up to 30% of all dementia cases, and there is no cure available. The underyling spectrum of pathology is complex and creates a challenge for targeted molecular therapies. We here tested the hypothesis that leukotrienes are involved in the pathology of DLB and that blocking leukotrienes through Montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist and approved anti-asthmatic drug, might alleviate pathology and restore cognitive functions. Expression of 5-lipoxygenase, the rate-limiting enzyme for leukotriene production, was indeed elevated in brains with DLB. Treatment of cognitively deficient human alpha-synuclein overexpressing transgenic mice with Montelukast restored memory. Montelukast treatment resulted in modulation of beclin-1 expression, a marker for autophagy, and in a reduction in the human alpha-synulcein load in the transgenic mice. Reducing the protein aggregation load in neurodegenerative diseases might be a novel model of action of Montelukast. Moreover, this work presents leukotriene signaling as a potential drug target for DLB and shows that Montelukast might be a promising drug candidate for future DLB therapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Marschallinger
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Barbara Altendorfer
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Edward Rockenstein
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, USA
| | - Miriam Holztrattner
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Julia Garnweidner-Raith
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Nadine Pillichshammer
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Iris Leister
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Katharina Strempfl
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- QPS Austria GmbH, Neuropharmacology, Grambach, Austria
| | - Michael S Unger
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Thomas Felder
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Mary Johnson
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Johannes Attems
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Eliezer Masliah
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, USA
| | - Ludwig Aigner
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria.
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31
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Peng Y, Zhuang J, Ying G, Zeng H, Zhou H, Cao Y, Chen H, Xu C, Fu X, Xu H, Li J, Cao S, Chen J, Gu C, Yan F, Chen G. Stimulator of IFN genes mediates neuroinflammatory injury by suppressing AMPK signal in experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:165. [PMID: 32450897 PMCID: PMC7247752 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01830-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroinflammation is closely associated with the poor prognosis in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients. This study was aimed to determine the role of stimulator of IFN genes (STING), an essential regulator to innate immunity, in the context of SAH. METHODS A total of 344 male C57BL/6 J mice were subjected to endovascular perforation to develop a model of SAH. Selective STING antagonist C-176 and STING agonist CMA were administered at 30 min or 1 h post-modeling separately. To investigate the underlying mechanism, the AMPK inhibitor compound C was administered intracerebroventricularly at 30 min before surgery. Post-SAH assessments included SAH grade, neurological test, brain water content, western blotting, RT-PCR, and immunofluorescence. Oxygenated hemoglobin was introduced into BV2 cells to establish a SAH model in vitro. RESULTS STING was mainly distributed in microglia, and microglial STING expression was significantly increased after SAH. Administration of C-176 substantially attenuated SAH-induced brain edema and neuronal injury. More importantly, C-176 significantly alleviated both short-term and persistent neurological dysfunction after SAH. Meanwhile, STING agonist CMA remarkably exacerbated neuronal injury and deteriorated neurological impairments. Mechanically, STING activation aggravated neuroinflammation via promoting microglial activation and polarizing into M1 phenotype, evidenced by microglial morphological changes, as well as the increased level of microglial M1 markers including IL-1β, iNOS, IL-6, TNF-α, MCP-1, and NLRP3 inflammasome, while C-176 conferred a robust anti-inflammatory effect. However, all the mentioned beneficial effects of C-176 including alleviated neuroinflammation, attenuated neuronal injury and the improved neurological function were reversed by AMPK inhibitor compound C. Meanwhile, the critical role of AMPK signal in C-176 mediated anti-inflammatory effect was also confirmed in vitro. CONCLUSION Microglial STING yielded neuroinflammation after SAH, while pharmacologic inhibition of STING could attenuate SAH-induced inflammatory injury at least partly by activating AMPK signal. These data supported the notion that STING might be a potential therapeutic target for SAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucong Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Jianfeng Zhuang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Guangyu Ying
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Hanhai Zeng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Hang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Yang Cao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Huaijun Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Chaoran Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Xiongjie Fu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Hangzhe Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Jianru Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Shenglong Cao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Jingyin Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Chi Gu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Feng Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China.
| | - Gao Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiefang Road 88th, Hangzhou, 310000, China.
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Abnormal Upregulation of GPR17 Receptor Contributes to Oligodendrocyte Dysfunction in SOD1 G93A Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072395. [PMID: 32244295 PMCID: PMC7177925 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive loss of motor neurons (MN). Importantly, MN degeneration is intimately linked to oligodendrocyte dysfunction and impaired capacity of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) to regenerate the myelin sheath enwrapping and protecting neuronal axons. Thus, improving OPC reparative abilities represents an innovative approach to counteract MN loss. A pivotal regulator of OPC maturation is the P2Y-like G protein-coupled receptor 17 (GPR17), whose role in ALS has never been investigated. In other models of neurodegeneration, an abnormal increase of GPR17 has been invariably associated to myelin defects and its pharmacological manipulation succeeded in restoring endogenous remyelination. Here, we analyzed GPR17 alterations in the SOD1G93A ALS mouse model and assessed in vitro whether this receptor could be targeted to correct oligodendrocyte alterations. Western-blot and immunohistochemical analyses showed that GPR17 protein levels are significantly increased in spinal cord of ALS mice at pre-symptomatic stage; this alteration is exacerbated at late symptomatic phases. Concomitantly, mature oligodendrocytes degenerate and are not successfully replaced. Moreover, OPCs isolated from spinal cord of SOD1G93A mice display defective differentiation compared to control cells, which is rescued by treatment with the GPR17 antagonist montelukast. These data open novel therapeutic perspectives for ALS management.
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Lecca D, Raffaele S, Abbracchio MP, Fumagalli M. Regulation and signaling of the GPR17 receptor in oligodendroglial cells. Glia 2020; 68:1957-1967. [PMID: 32086854 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Remyelination, namely, the formation of new myelin sheaths around denuded axons, counteracts axonal degeneration and restores neuronal function. Considerable advances have been made in understanding this regenerative process that often fails in diseases like multiple sclerosis, leaving axons demyelinated and vulnerable to damage, thus contributing to disease progression. The identification of the membrane receptor GPR17 on a subset of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), which mediate remyelination in the adult central nervous system (CNS), has led to a huge amount of evidence that validated this receptor as a new attractive target for remyelinating therapies. Here, we summarize the role of GPR17 in OPC function, myelination and remyelination, describing its atypical pharmacology, its downstream signaling, and the genetic and epigenetic factors modulating its activity. We also highlight crucial insights into GPR17 pathophysiology coming from the demonstration that oligodendrocyte injury, associated with inflammation in chronic neurodegenerative conditions, is invariably characterized by abnormal and persistent GPR17 upregulation, which, in turn, is accompanied by a block of OPCs at immature premyelinating stages. Finally, we discuss the current literature in light of the potential exploitment of GPR17 as a therapeutic target to promote remyelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Lecca
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Raffaele
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria P Abbracchio
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Chen Y, Li Y, Wang X, Zou P. Montelukast, an Anti-asthmatic Drug, Inhibits Zika Virus Infection by Disrupting Viral Integrity. Front Microbiol 2020; 10:3079. [PMID: 32082265 PMCID: PMC7002393 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.03079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The association of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection and severe complications including neurological sequelae especially fetal microcephaly has aroused global attentions since its outbreak in 2015. Currently, there are no vaccines or therapeutic drugs clinically approved for treatments of ZIKV infection, however. And the drugs used for treating ZIKV in pregnant women require a higher safety profile. Here, we identified an anti-asthmatic drug, montelukast, which is of safety profile for pregnant women and exhibited antiviral efficacy against ZIKV infection in vitro and in vivo. And we showed that montelukast could disrupt the integrity of the virions to release the viral genomic RNA, hence irreversibly inhibiting viral infectivity. In consideration of the neuro-protective activity that montelukast possessed, which was previously reported, it is promising that montelukast could be used for patients with ZIKV infection, particularly for pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Peng Zou
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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