1
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Oner M, Chen MC, Cheng PT, Li YH, Cheng YC, Celik A, Soong SW, Hsu LW, Lin DY, Hossain Prince GMS, Dhar T, Cheng HC, Tang PC, Lin H. Impact of metformin on neocortical development during pregnancy: Involvement of ERK and p35/CDK5 pathways. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 358:142124. [PMID: 38677614 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Metformin, the most commonly prescribed drug for the treatment of diabetes, is increasingly used during pregnancy to address various disorders such as diabetes, obesity, preeclampsia, and metabolic diseases. However, its impact on neocortex development remains unclear. Here, we investigated the direct effects of metformin on neocortex development, focusing on ERK and p35/CDK5 regulation. Using a pregnant rat model, we found that metformin treatment during pregnancy induces small for gestational age (SGA) and reduces relative cortical thickness in embryos and neonates. Additionally, we discovered that metformin inhibits neural progenitor cell proliferation in the sub-ventricular zone (SVZ)/ventricular zone (VZ) of the developing neocortex, a process possibly mediated by ERK inactivation. Furthermore, metformin induces neuronal apoptosis in the SVZ/VZ area of the developing neocortex. Moreover, metformin retards neuronal migration, cortical lamination, and differentiation, potentially through p35/CDK5 inhibition in the developing neocortex. Remarkably, compensating for p35 through in utero electroporation partially rescues metformin-impaired neuronal migration and development. In summary, our study reveals that metformin disrupts neocortex development by inhibiting neuronal progenitor proliferation, neuronal migration, cortical layering, and cortical neuron maturation, likely via ERK and p35/CDK5 inhibition. Consequently, our findings advocate for caution in metformin usage during pregnancy, given its potential adverse effects on fetal brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammet Oner
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chih Chen
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Pang-Ting Cheng
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsuan Li
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chiao Cheng
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan
| | - Ayse Celik
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan
| | - Shiuan-Woei Soong
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wen Hsu
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan
| | - Din-You Lin
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan
| | | | - Trayee Dhar
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan
| | - Hsu-Chen Cheng
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Chi Tang
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan
| | - Ho Lin
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 40227, Taiwan.
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2
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Loan A, Syal C, Lui M, He L, Wang J. Promising use of metformin in treating neurological disorders: biomarker-guided therapies. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1045-1055. [PMID: 37862207 PMCID: PMC10749596 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385286] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders are a diverse group of conditions that affect the nervous system and include neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease), cerebrovascular conditions (stroke), and neurodevelopmental disorders (autism spectrum disorder). Although they affect millions of individuals around the world, only a limited number of effective treatment options are available today. Since most neurological disorders express mitochondria-related metabolic perturbations, metformin, a biguanide type II antidiabetic drug, has attracted a lot of attention to be repurposed to treat neurological disorders by correcting their perturbed energy metabolism. However, controversial research emerges regarding the beneficial/detrimental effects of metformin on these neurological disorders. Given that most neurological disorders have complex etiology in their pathophysiology and are influenced by various risk factors such as aging, lifestyle, genetics, and environment, it is important to identify perturbed molecular functions that can be targeted by metformin in these neurological disorders. These molecules can then be used as biomarkers to stratify subpopulations of patients who show distinct molecular/pathological properties and can respond to metformin treatment, ultimately developing targeted therapy. In this review, we will discuss mitochondria-related metabolic perturbations and impaired molecular pathways in these neurological disorders and how these can be used as biomarkers to guide metformin-responsive treatment for the targeted therapy to treat neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Loan
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Charvi Syal
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Margarita Lui
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ling He
- Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medical School, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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3
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Froldi G. View on Metformin: Antidiabetic and Pleiotropic Effects, Pharmacokinetics, Side Effects, and Sex-Related Differences. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:478. [PMID: 38675438 PMCID: PMC11054066 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040478] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metformin is a synthetic biguanide used as an antidiabetic drug in type 2 diabetes mellitus, achieved by studying the bioactive metabolites of Galega officinalis L. It is also used off-label for various other diseases, such as subclinical diabetes, obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome, etc. In addition, metformin is proposed as an add-on therapy for several conditions, including autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Although metformin has been used for many decades, it is still the subject of many pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic studies in light of its extensive use. Metformin acts at the mitochondrial level by inhibiting the respiratory chain, thus increasing the AMP/ATP ratio and, subsequently, activating the AMP-activated protein kinase. However, several other mechanisms have been proposed, including binding to presenilin enhancer 2, increasing GLP1 release, and modification of microRNA expression. Regarding its pharmacokinetics, after oral administration, metformin is absorbed, distributed, and eliminated, mainly through the renal route, using transporters for cationic solutes, since it exists as an ionic molecule at physiological pH. In this review, particular consideration has been paid to literature data from the last 10 years, deepening the study of clinical trials inherent to new uses of metformin, the differences in effectiveness and safety observed between the sexes, and the unwanted side effects. For this last objective, metformin safety was also evaluated using both VigiBase and EudraVigilance, respectively, the WHO and European databases of the reported adverse drug reactions, to assess the extent of metformin side effects in real-life use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guglielmina Froldi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
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4
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Gilbert EAB, Livingston J, Flores EG, Khan M, Kandavel H, Morshead CM. Metformin treatment reduces inflammation, dysmyelination and disease severity in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Brain Res 2024; 1822:148648. [PMID: 37890574 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148648] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation, death or damage of oligodendrocytes, and axonal degeneration. Current MS treatments are non-curative, associated with undesired side-effects, and expensive, highlighting the need for expanded therapeutic options for patients. There is great interest in developing interventions using drugs or therapeutics to reduce symptom onset and protect pre-existing myelin. Metformin is a well-tolerated drug used to treat Type 2 diabetes that has pleiotropic effects in the central nervous system (CNS), including reducing inflammation, enhancing oligodendrogenesis, increasing the survival/proliferation of neural stem cells (NSCs), and increasing myelination. Here, we investigated whether metformin administration could improve functional outcomes, modulate oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), and reduce inflammation in a well-established mouse model of MS- experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Male and female mice received metformin treatment at the time of EAE induction ("acute") or upon presentation of disease symptoms ("delayed"). We found that acute metformin treatment improved functional outcomes, concomitant with reduced microglia numbers and decreased dysmyelination. Conversely, delayed metformin treatment did not improve functional outcomes. Our findings reveal that metformin administration can improve EAE outcomes when administered before symptom onset in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A B Gilbert
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Jessica Livingston
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Emilio Garcia Flores
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Monoleena Khan
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Harini Kandavel
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Cindi M Morshead
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada; Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada.
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Khodabakhsh P, Asgari Taei A, Shafaroodi H, Pournajaf S, Dargahi L. Effect of Metformin on Epidermal Neural Crest Stem Cells and Their Potential Application in Ameliorating Paclitaxel-induced Neurotoxicity Phenotype. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:394-412. [PMID: 37924435 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10642-x] [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] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Epidermal Neural Crest Stem Cells (EPI-NCSCs) have emerged as prospective ideal candidates to meet the fundamental requirements of cell-based therapies in neurodegenerative disorders. The present study aimed to identify the potential of metformin in driving EPI-NCSCs to neuronal/glial differentiation and express neurotrophic factors as well as assess their therapeutic potential for mitigating the main behavioral manifestations of chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity (CIN). MAIN METHODS EPI-NCSCs were extracted from the bulge region of hair follicle. Following expansion, transcript and protein expression profiles of key markers for stemness (Nestin, EGR-1, SOX-2 and 10), neurotrophic activity (BDNF, GDNF, NGF, FGF-2, and IL-6), and neuronal (TUB3, DCX, NRF and NeuN) and glial (PDGFRα, NG2, GFAP, and MBP) differentiation were determined on days 1 and 7 post-treatment with 10 and 100 μM metformin using real time-PCR and immunocytochemistry methods. Then, the in vivo function of metformin-treated stem cells was evaluated in the context of paclitaxel CIN. To do so, thermal hyperalgesia, mechanical allodynia, and spatial learning and memory tests were evaluated by Hotplate, Von Frey, and Morris water maze tests. KEY FINDINGS Our result indicated that exposure of EPI-NCSCs to metformin was associated with progressive decline in stemness markers and enhanced expression levels of several neurotrophic, neuron and oligodendrocyte-specific markers. Further, it was observed that intranasal metformin-treated EPI-NCSCs improved the cognitive impairment, and mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity induced by paclitaxel in rats. SIGNIFICANCE Collectively, we reasoned that metformin pretreatment of EPI-NCSCs might further enhance their therapeutic benefits against CIN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Institute of Physiology, Department Neurophysiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Afsaneh Asgari Taei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Shafaroodi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Safura Pournajaf
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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6
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Greco A, Coperchini F, Croce L, Magri F, Teliti M, Rotondi M. Drug repositioning in thyroid cancer treatment: the intriguing case of anti-diabetic drugs. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1303844. [PMID: 38146457 PMCID: PMC10749369 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1303844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer represents the main cause of death worldwide. Thyroid cancer (TC) shows an overall good rate of survival, however there is a percentage of patients that do not respond or are refractory to common therapies. Thus new therapeutics strategies are required. In the past decade, drug repositioning become very important in the field of cancer therapy. This approach shows several advantages including the saving of: i) time, ii) costs, iii) de novo studies regarding the safety (just characterized) of a drug. Regarding TC, few studies considered the potential repositioning of drugs. On the other hand, certain anti-diabetic drugs, were the focus of interesting studies on TC therapy, in view of the fact that they exhibited potential anti-tumor effects. Among these anti-diabetic compounds, not all were judjed as appropriate for repositioning, in view of well documented side effects. However, just to give few examples biguanides, DPP-4-inhibitors and Thiazolidinediones were found to exert strong anti-cancer effects in TC. Indeed, their effects spaced from induction of citotoxicity and inhibition of metastatic spread, to induction of de-differentiation of TC cells and modulation of TC microenvironment. Thus, the multifacial anti-cancer effect of these compounds would make the basis also for combinatory strategies. The present review is aimed at discuss data from studies regarding the anti-cancer effects of several anti-diabetic drugs recently showed in TC in view of their potential repositioning. Specific examples of anti-diabetic repositionable drugs for TC treatment will also be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Greco
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Coperchini
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Laura Croce
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Flavia Magri
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marsida Teliti
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mario Rotondi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
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7
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Martin DE, Cadar AN, Bartley JM. Old drug, new tricks: the utility of metformin in infection and vaccination responses to influenza and SARS-CoV-2 in older adults. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2023; 4:1272336. [PMID: 37886013 PMCID: PMC10598609 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2023.1272336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
In the face of global pathogens such as influenza (flu) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), strategies beyond standard vaccines and virus-specific treatments are critically needed for older populations who are more susceptible to severe disease and death from these infections due to age-related immune dysregulation. Thus, complimentary therapeutics are needed to address the increased risk of complications and death in older adults. Metformin, an FDA approved diabetes drug, is an attractive therapeutic candidate to improve immune defenses and resilience in older adults facing viral challenge. Metformin is already a candidate anti-aging drug, but its benefits have potential to span beyond this and improve specific immune responses. Metformin can target multiple aging hallmarks as well as directly impact innate and adaptive immune cell subsets. Both retrospective and prospective studies have demonstrated metformin's efficacy in improving outcomes after SARS-CoV-2 or flu infections. Moreover, evidence from clinical trials has also suggested that metformin treatment can improve vaccination responses. In totality, these findings suggest that metformin can improve age-related declines in immunological resilience. Strategies to improve outcomes after infection or improve vaccine-induced protection are invaluable for older adults. Moreover, the ability to repurpose an already FDA approved drug has significant advantages in terms of necessary time and resources. Thus, metformin has great potential as a therapeutic to improve age-related immune dysregulation during flu and SARS-CoV-2 infections and should be further explored to confirm its ability to improve overall immunological resilience in older adults.
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8
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Dagsuyu E, Koroglu P, Gul IB, Bulan OK, Yanardag R. Oxidative brain and cerebellum injury in diabetes and prostate cancer model: Protective effect of metformin. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23440. [PMID: 37354076 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23440] [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: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The body can host the spread of prostate cancer cells. Metastases from prostate cancer are more frequently seen in the brain, liver, lungs, and lymph nodes. A well-known antidiabetic drug, metformin, is also known to have antitumor effects. Our study focuses on the evaluation of potential metformin protective effects on brain and cerebellum damage in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic and Dunning prostate cancer models. In this investigation, six groups of male Copenhagen rats were created: control, diabetic (D), cancer (C), diabetic + cancer (DC), cancer + metformin, and diabetic + cancer + metformin. The brain and cerebellum tissues of the rats were taken after sacrifice. Oxidative stress markers including reduced glutathione level, lipid peroxidation, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, catalase, superoxide dismutase activities, reactive oxygen species, total oxidant and total antioxidant status, lactate dehydrogenase, xanthine oxidase, acetylcholinesterase activities, protein carbonyl contents, nitric oxide and OH-proline levels, sodium potassium ATPase, carbonic anhydrase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities; glycoprotein levels including hexose, hexosamine, fucose, and sialic acid levels; and histone deacetylase activity as a cancer marker were determined. Oxidative stress markers were impaired and glycoprotein levels and histone deacetylase activity were increased in the D, C, and DC groups. Metformin therapy reversed these effects. Metformin was found to protect the brain and cerebellum of STZ-induced diabetic rats with Dunning prostate cancer from harm caused by MAT-Lylu metastatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eda Dagsuyu
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Pınar Koroglu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Halic University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ilknur B Gul
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Omur K Bulan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Refiye Yanardag
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
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9
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Chen J, Wang L, Tian GG, Wang X, Li X, Wu J. Metformin Promotes Proliferation of Mouse Female Germline Stem Cells by Histone Acetylation Modification of Traf2. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2329-2340. [PMID: 37354386 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10575-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Female germline stem cells (FGSCs) are adult stem cells that can both self-renew and differentiate into mature oocytes. Although small-molecule compounds are capable of regulating the development of FGSCs, the effects and mechanisms of action of metformin, a commonly used drug for diabetes, on FGSCs are largely unknown. Here, we found that metformin promoted the viability and proliferation of FGSCs through H3K27ac modification. To elucidate the mechanism by which metformin promoted FGSCs proliferation, Chromatin Immunoprecipitation Sequencing of histone 3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac) in FGSCs was performed with or without metformin-treatment. The results indicate that metformin modulates FGSCs via the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, and tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor 2 (Traf2) was identified as an important target gene for H3K27ac modification during FGSCs proliferation. Subsequent experiments showed metformin promoted FGSCs proliferation by H3K27ac modification of Traf2 to regulate MAPK signaling. Our findings deepen understanding of how H3K27ac modifications regulate FGSCs development and provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of premature ovarian failure, polycystic ovary syndrome, infertility, and related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Geng G Tian
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental & Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyong Li
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental & Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Ji Wu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental & Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
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10
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Sritawan N, Sirichoat A, Aranarochana A, Pannangrong W, Wigmore P, Welbat JU. Protective effect of metformin on methotrexate induced reduction of rat hippocampal neural stem cells and neurogenesis. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114613. [PMID: 37001179 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis is a process in which the adult neural stem cells produce newborn neurons that are implicated in terms of learning and memory. Methotrexate (MTX) is a chemotherapeutic drug, which has a negative effect on memory and hippocampal neurogenesis in animal models. Metformin is an antidiabetic drug with strong antioxidant capacities. We found that metformin ameliorates MTX induced deteriorations of memory and hippocampal neurogenesis in adult rats. In this study, we focus to investigate neural stem cells, biomarkers of apoptosis, and the protein for synaptogenesis, which involves in the transcription factors of the hippocampus in rats that received metformin and MTX. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were composed of control, MTX, metformin, and MTX+metformin groups. MTX (75 mg/kg, i.v.) was given on days 7 and 14, whereas metformin (200 mg/kg, i.p.) was given for 14 days. Hippocampal neural stem cells in the subgranular zone (SGZ) were quantified using immunofluorescence staining of Sox2 and nestin. Protein expression including PSD95, Casepase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, CREB, and pCREB were determined using Western blotting. MTX-treated rats displayed decreases in Sox2 and nestin-positive cells in the SGZ. Increases in Caspase-3 and Bax levels and decreases in PSD95, Bcl-2, CREB, and pCREB protein expressions in the hippocampus were also detected. However, these negative impacts of MTX were ameliorated by co-treatment with metformin. These consequences postulate that metformin has a potential to increase neural stem cells, synaptic plasticity, decreased apoptotic activities, and transcription factors, resulting in upregulation of hippocampal neurogenesis in MTX-treated rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataya Sritawan
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Neurogenesis Research Group, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Apiwat Sirichoat
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Neurogenesis Research Group, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Anusara Aranarochana
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Neurogenesis Research Group, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Wanassanan Pannangrong
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Neurogenesis Research Group, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Peter Wigmore
- School of Life Sciences, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
| | - Jariya Umka Welbat
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Neurogenesis Research Group, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
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11
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Wang X, Tian GG, Cheng W, Yu X, Li X, Wu J. Metformin promotes female germline stem cell proliferation by upregulating Gata-binding protein 2 with histone β-hydroxybutyrylation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:144. [PMID: 37231495 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03360-1] [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: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metformin as a first-line clinical anti-diabetic agent prolongs the lifespan of model animals and promotes cell proliferation. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the proliferative phenotype, especially in epigenetics, have rarely been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the physiological effects of metformin on female germline stem cells (FGSCs) in vivo and in vitro, uncover β-hydroxybutyrylation epigenetic modification roles of metformin and identify the mechanism of histone H2B Lys5 β-hydroxybutyrylation (H2BK5bhb) in Gata-binding protein 2 (Gata2)-mediated proliferation promotion of FGSCs. METHODS The physiological effects of metformin were evaluated by intraperitoneal injection and histomorphology. The phenotype and mechanism studies were explored by cell counting, cell viability, cell proliferation assay and protein modification omics, transcriptomics, chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing in FGSCs in vitro. RESULTS We found that metformin treatment increased the number of FGSCs, promoted follicular development in mouse ovaries and enhanced the proliferative activity of FGSCs in vitro. Quantitative omics analysis of protein modifications revealed that H2BK5bhb was increased after metformin treatment of FGSCs. In combination with H2BK5bhb chromatin immunoprecipitation and transcriptome sequencing, we found that Gata2 might be a target gene for metformin to regulate FGSC development. Subsequent experiments showed that Gata2 promoted FGSC proliferation. CONCLUSION Our results provide novel mechanistic understanding of metformin in FGSCs by combining histone epigenetics and phenotypic analyses, which highlight the role of the metformin-H2BK5bhb-Gata2 pathway in cell fate determination and regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Geng G Tian
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Weiwei Cheng
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Xiaoli Yu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
| | - Xiaoyong Li
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Ji Wu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
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Gilbert EAB, Livingston J, Garcia-Flores E, Kehtari T, Morshead CM. Metformin Improves Functional Outcomes, Activates Neural Precursor Cells, and Modulates Microglia in a Sex-Dependent Manner After Spinal Cord Injury. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023:7174953. [PMID: 37209417 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in devastating patient outcomes with few treatment options. A promising approach to improve outcomes following SCI involves the activation of endogenous precursor populations including neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) which are located in the periventricular zone (PVZ), and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) found throughout the parenchyma. In the adult spinal cord, resident NSPCs are primarily mitotically quiescent and aneurogenic, while OPCs contribute to ongoing oligodendrogenesis into adulthood. Each of these populations is responsive to SCI, increasing their proliferation and migration to the site of injury; however, their activation is not sufficient to support functional recovery. Previous work has shown that administration of the FDA-approved drug metformin is effective at promoting endogenous brain repair following injury, and this is correlated with enhanced NSPC activation. Here, we ask whether metformin can promote functional recovery and neural repair following SCI in both males and females. Our results reveal that acute, but not delayed metformin administration improves functional outcomes following SCI in both sexes. The functional improvement is concomitant with OPC activation and oligodendrogenesis. Our data also reveal sex-dependent effects of metformin following SCI with increased activation of NSPCs in females and reduced microglia activation in males. Taken together, these findings support metformin as a viable therapeutic strategy following SCI and highlight its pleiotropic effects in the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A B Gilbert
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jessica Livingston
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Emilio Garcia-Flores
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tarlan Kehtari
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cindi M Morshead
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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13
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Zhang Q, Liu J, Chen L, Zhang M. Promoting Endogenous Neurogenesis as a Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:1353-1368. [PMID: 36445633 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-03145-2] [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: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most universal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss and cognitive impairment. AD is biologically defined by production and aggregation of misfolded protein including extracellular amyloid β (Aβ) peptide and intracellular microtubule-associated protein tau tangles in neurons, leading to irreversible neuronal loss. At present, regulation of endogenous neurogenesis to supplement lost neurons has been proposed as a promising strategy for treatment of AD. However, the exact underlying mechanisms of impaired neurogenesis in AD have not been fully explained and effective treatments targeting neurogenesis for AD are limited. In this review, we mainly focus on the latest research of impaired neurogenesis in AD. Then we discuss the factors affecting stages of neurogenesis and the interplay between neural stem cells (NSCs) and neurogenic niche under AD pathological conditions. This review aims to explore potential therapeutic strategies that promote endogenous neurogenesis for AD treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jingyue Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China. .,School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China.
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China.
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14
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Metformin enhances neural precursor cells migration and functional recovery after ischemic stroke in mice. Exp Brain Res 2023; 241:505-515. [PMID: 36611122 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-023-06547-3] [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: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Resident neural precursor cells (NPCs) activation is a promising therapeutic strategy for brain repair. This strategy involves stimulating multiple stages of NPCs development, including proliferation, self-renewal, migration, and differentiation. Metformin, an FDA-approved diabetes drug, has been shown to promote the proliferation and differentiation of NPCs. However, it is still unclear whether metformin promotes the migration of NPCs. EVOS living cell imaging system was used for observing the migration for primary NPCs dynamically in vitro after metformin treatment. For in vivo study, a mouse model of ischemic stroke was established through middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). To label the proliferating cell in subventricular zone, BrdU was injected intraperitoneally into the mice. After co-staining with BrdU and doublecortin (DCX), a marker for NPCs, the migration of Brdu and DCX double positive NPCs was detected along the rostral migratory stream (RMS) and around the infarct area using frozen brain sections. Finally, the rotarod test, corner test and beam walking were performed to evaluate the motor functions of the mice after stroke in different groups. The results showed that metformin enhanced NPCs migration in vivo and in vitro by promoting F-actin assembly and lamellipodia formation. What's more, metformin treatment also significantly reduced the infarct volume and alleviated functional dysfunction after stroke. Mechanistically, metformin promoted NPCs migration via up-regulating the CDC42 expression. Taken together, metformin represents an optimal candidate agent for neural repair that is capable of not only expanding the adult NPC population but also subsequently driving them toward the destination for neuronal differentiation.
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15
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Mechanism of metformin regulation in central nervous system: Progression and future perspectives. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 156:113686. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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16
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Qiu-Yue X, Tian-Yuan Y, Xiao-Long W, Dong-Mei Q, Xiao-Rui C. Effects of metformin on modulating the expression of brain-related genes of APP/PS1 transgenic mice based on Single Cell Sequencing. Curr Alzheimer Res 2022; 19:CAR-EPUB-127961. [PMID: 36464874 DOI: 10.2174/1567205020666221201143323] [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: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting millions of people worldwide. METHODS Here, we analyzed the effects of metformin on APP/PS1 transgenic mice by behavioral test and single-cell sequencing. Results showed that metformin can improve the spatial learning, memory function, and anxiety mood of APP/PS1 transgenic mice. We identified transcriptionally distinct subpopulations of nine major brain cell types. Metformin increased the differentiation of stem cells, decreased the proportion of cells in the G2 phase, enhanced the generation of neural stem cells and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, and the tendency of neural stem cells to differentiate into astrocytes. Notably, 253 genes expressed abnormally in APP/PS1 transgenic mice and were reversed by metformin. Ttr, Uba52, and Rps21 are the top 3 genes in the cell-gene network with the highest node degree. Moreover, histochemistry showed the expressions of RPS15, UBA52, and RPL23a were consistent with the data from single-cell sequencing. Pathway and biological process enrichment analysis indicated metformin was involved in nervous system development and negative regulation of the apoptotic process. CONCLUSION Overall, metformin might play an important role in the differentiation and development and apoptotic process of the central nervous system by regulating the expression of Ttr, Uba52, Rps21, and other genes to improve cognition of APP/PS1 transgenic mice. These results provided a clue for elaborating on the molecular and cellular basis of metformin on AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Qiu-Yue
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Ye Tian-Yuan
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Wang Xiao-Long
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Qi Dong-Mei
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Cheng Xiao-Rui
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
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17
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Therapeutic Antiaging Strategies. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102515. [PMID: 36289777 PMCID: PMC9599338 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging constitutes progressive physiological changes in an organism. These changes alter the normal biological functions, such as the ability to manage metabolic stress, and eventually lead to cellular senescence. The process itself is characterized by nine hallmarks: genomic instability, telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, loss of proteostasis, deregulated nutrient sensing, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, stem cell exhaustion, and altered intercellular communication. These hallmarks are risk factors for pathologies, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Emerging evidence has been focused on examining the genetic pathways and biological processes in organisms surrounding these nine hallmarks. From here, the therapeutic approaches can be addressed in hopes of slowing the progression of aging. In this review, data have been collected on the hallmarks and their relative contributions to aging and supplemented with in vitro and in vivo antiaging research experiments. It is the intention of this article to highlight the most important antiaging strategies that researchers have proposed, including preventive measures, systemic therapeutic agents, and invasive procedures, that will promote healthy aging and increase human life expectancy with decreased side effects.
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18
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Triggle CR, Mohammed I, Bshesh K, Marei I, Ye K, Ding H, MacDonald R, Hollenberg MD, Hill MA. Metformin: Is it a drug for all reasons and diseases? Metabolism 2022; 133:155223. [PMID: 35640743 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2022.155223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Metformin was first used to treat type 2 diabetes in the late 1950s and in 2022 remains the first-choice drug used daily by approximately 150 million people. An accumulation of positive pre-clinical and clinical data has stimulated interest in re-purposing metformin to treat a variety of diseases including COVID-19. In polycystic ovary syndrome metformin improves insulin sensitivity. In type 1 diabetes metformin may help reduce the insulin dose. Meta-analysis and data from pre-clinical and clinical studies link metformin to a reduction in the incidence of cancer. Clinical trials, including MILES (Metformin In Longevity Study), and TAME (Targeting Aging with Metformin), have been designed to determine if metformin can offset aging and extend lifespan. Pre-clinical and clinical data suggest that metformin, via suppression of pro-inflammatory pathways, protection of mitochondria and vascular function, and direct actions on neuronal stem cells, may protect against neurodegenerative diseases. Metformin has also been studied for its anti-bacterial, -viral, -malaria efficacy. Collectively, these data raise the question: Is metformin a drug for all diseases? It remains unclear as to whether all of these putative beneficial effects are secondary to its actions as an anti-hyperglycemic and insulin-sensitizing drug, or result from other cellular actions, including inhibition of mTOR (mammalian target for rapamycin), or direct anti-viral actions. Clarification is also sought as to whether data from ex vivo studies based on the use of high concentrations of metformin can be translated into clinical benefits, or whether they reflect a 'Paracelsus' effect. The environmental impact of metformin, a drug with no known metabolites, is another emerging issue that has been linked to endocrine disruption in fish, and extensive use in T2D has also raised concerns over effects on human reproduction. The objectives for this review are to: 1) evaluate the putative mechanism(s) of action of metformin; 2) analyze the controversial evidence for metformin's effectiveness in the treatment of diseases other than type 2 diabetes; 3) assess the reproducibility of the data, and finally 4) reach an informed conclusion as to whether metformin is a drug for all diseases and reasons. We conclude that the primary clinical benefits of metformin result from its insulin-sensitizing and antihyperglycaemic effects that secondarily contribute to a reduced risk of a number of diseases and thereby enhancing healthspan. However, benefits like improving vascular endothelial function that are independent of effects on glucose homeostasis add to metformin's therapeutic actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris R Triggle
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar; Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Ibrahim Mohammed
- Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Khalifa Bshesh
- Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Isra Marei
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Kevin Ye
- Department of Biomedical Physiology & Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Hong Ding
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar; Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ross MacDonald
- Distribution eLibrary, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Morley D Hollenberg
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, a Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Michael A Hill
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Medical Pharmacology & Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211, MO, USA
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Ghosh-Swaby OR, Reichelt AC, Sheppard PAS, Davies J, Bussey TJ, Saksida LM. Metabolic hormones mediate cognition. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 66:101009. [PMID: 35679900 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.101009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Recent biochemical and behavioural evidence indicates that metabolic hormones not only regulate energy intake and nutrient content, but also modulate plasticity and cognition in the central nervous system. Disruptions in metabolic hormone signalling may provide a link between metabolic syndromes like obesity and diabetes, and cognitive impairment. For example, altered metabolic homeostasis in obesity is a strong determinant of the severity of age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disease. Here we review the evidence that eating behaviours and metabolic hormones-particularly ghrelin, leptin, and insulin-are key players in the delicate regulation of neural plasticity and cognition. Caloric restriction and antidiabetic therapies, both of which affect metabolic hormone levels can restore metabolic homeostasis and enhance cognitive function. Thus, metabolic hormone pathways provide a promising target for the treatment of cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia R Ghosh-Swaby
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Neuroscience Program, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Amy C Reichelt
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Paul A S Sheppard
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jeffrey Davies
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Timothy J Bussey
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Neuroscience Program, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Lisa M Saksida
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Neuroscience Program, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
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20
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Neurogenic effects of rotarod walking exercise in subventricular zone, subgranular zone, and substantia nigra in MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease mice. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10544. [PMID: 35732806 PMCID: PMC9217938 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14823-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's disease, and its incidence is predicted to increase worldwide. Striatal dopamine depletion caused by substantia nigra (SN) degeneration is a pathological hallmark of PD and is strongly associated with cardinal motor and non-motor symptoms. Previous studies have reported that exercise increases neuroplasticity and promotes neurorestoration by increasing neurotrophic factors and synaptic strength and stimulating neurogenesis in PD. In the present study, we found that rotarod walking exercise, a modality of motor skill learning training, improved locomotor disturbances and reduced nigrostriatal degeneration in the subacute 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mouse model of PD. In addition, our exercise regimen improved MPTP-induced perturbation of adult neurogenesis in some areas of the brain, including the subventricular zone, subgranular zone, SN, and striatum. Moreover, rotarod walking activated the phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and induced brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in these regions. The results suggest that motor skill learning training using rotarod walking improves adult neurogenesis and restores motor performance by modulating the AMPK/BDNF pathway. Therefore, our findings provide evidence for neuroprotective effects and improved neuroplasticity in PD through motor skill learning training.
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Binlateh T, Reudhabibadh R, Prommeenate P, Hutamekalin P. Investigation of mechanisms underlying the inhibitory effects of metformin against proliferation and growth of neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2022; 83:105410. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2022.105410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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22
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Culig L, Chu X, Bohr VA. Neurogenesis in aging and age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 78:101636. [PMID: 35490966 PMCID: PMC9168971 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis, the process by which neurons are generated in certain areas of the adult brain, declines in an age-dependent manner and is one potential target for extending cognitive healthspan. Aging is a major risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases and, as lifespans are increasing, these health challenges are becoming more prevalent. An age-associated loss in neural stem cell number and/or activity could cause this decline in brain function, so interventions that reverse aging in stem cells might increase the human cognitive healthspan. In this review, we describe the involvement of adult neurogenesis in neurodegenerative diseases and address the molecular mechanistic aspects of neurogenesis that involve some of the key aggregation-prone proteins in the brain (i.e., tau, Aβ, α-synuclein, …). We summarize the research pertaining to interventions that increase neurogenesis and regulate known targets in aging research, such as mTOR and sirtuins. Lastly, we share our outlook on restoring the levels of neurogenesis to physiological levels in elderly individuals and those with neurodegeneration. We suggest that modulating neurogenesis represents a potential target for interventions that could help in the fight against neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luka Culig
- Section on DNA Repair, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Xixia Chu
- Section on DNA Repair, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Vilhelm A Bohr
- Section on DNA Repair, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Xiong S, Liu W, Song Y, Du J, Wang T, Zhang Y, Huang Z, He Q, Dong C, Yu Z, Ma X. Metformin Promotes Mechanical Stretch-Induced Skin Regeneration by Improving the Proliferative Activity of Skin-Derived Stem Cells. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:813917. [PMID: 35685420 PMCID: PMC9170926 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.813917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Skin expansion by mechanical stretch is an essential and widely used treatment for tissue defects in plastic and reconstructive surgery; however, the regenerative capacity of mechanically stretched skin limits clinical treatment results. Here, we propose a strategy to enhance the regenerative ability of mechanically stretched skin by topical application of metformin. Methods We established a mechanically stretched scalp model in male rats (n = 20), followed by their random division into two groups: metformin-treated (n = 10) and control (n = 10) groups. We measured skin thickness, collagen volume fraction, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis to analyze the effects of topical metformin on mechanically stretched skin, and immunofluorescence staining was performed to determine the contents of epidermal stem cells and hair follicle bulge stem cells in mechanically stretched skin. Western blot was performed to detect the protein expression of skin-derived stem cell markers. Results Compared with the control group, metformin treatment was beneficial to mechanical stretch-induced skin regeneration by increasing the thicknesses of epidermis (57.27 ± 10.24 vs. 31.07 ± 9.06 μm, p < 0.01) and dermis (620.2 ± 86.17 vs. 402.1 ± 22.46 μm, p < 0.01), number of blood vessels (38.30 ± 6.90 vs. 17.00 ± 3.10, p < 0.01), dermal collagen volume fraction (60.48 ± 4.47% vs. 41.28 ± 4.14%, p < 0.01), and number of PCNA+, Aurora B+, and pH3+ cells. Additionally, we observed significant elevations in the number of proliferating hair follicle bulge stem cells [cytokeratin (CK)15+/proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)+] (193.40 ± 35.31 vs. 98.25 ± 23.47, p < 0.01) and epidermal stem cells (CK14+/PCNA+) (83.00 ± 2.38 vs. 36.38 ± 8.96, p < 0.01) in the metformin-treated group, and western blot results confirmed significant increases in CK14 and CK15 expression following metformin treatment. Conclusion Topical application of metformin enhanced the regenerative capacity of mechanically stretched skin, with the underlying mechanism possibly attributed to improvements in the proliferative activity of skin-derived stem cells.
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Regulating Endogenous Neural Stem Cell Activation to Promote Spinal Cord Injury Repair. Cells 2022; 11:cells11050846. [PMID: 35269466 PMCID: PMC8909806 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) affects millions of individuals worldwide. Currently, there is no cure, and treatment options to promote neural recovery are limited. An innovative approach to improve outcomes following SCI involves the recruitment of endogenous populations of neural stem cells (NSCs). NSCs can be isolated from the neuroaxis of the central nervous system (CNS), with brain and spinal cord populations sharing common characteristics (as well as regionally distinct phenotypes). Within the spinal cord, a number of NSC sub-populations have been identified which display unique protein expression profiles and proliferation kinetics. Collectively, the potential for NSCs to impact regenerative medicine strategies hinges on their cardinal properties, including self-renewal and multipotency (the ability to generate de novo neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes). Accordingly, endogenous NSCs could be harnessed to replace lost cells and promote structural repair following SCI. While studies exploring the efficacy of this approach continue to suggest its potential, many questions remain including those related to heterogeneity within the NSC pool, the interaction of NSCs with their environment, and the identification of factors that can enhance their response. We discuss the current state of knowledge regarding populations of endogenous spinal cord NSCs, their niche, and the factors that regulate their behavior. In an attempt to move towards the goal of enhancing neural repair, we highlight approaches that promote NSC activation following injury including the modulation of the microenvironment and parenchymal cells, pharmaceuticals, and applied electrical stimulation.
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25
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Icarisid
II
rescues cognitive dysfunction via activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway promoting hippocampal neurogenesis in
APP
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PS1
transgenic mice. Phytother Res 2022; 36:2095-2108. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Zhang L, Li Q, Wang H, Wu Y, Ye X, Gong Z, Li Q, Xuan A. Gadd45g, a novel antidepressant target, mediates metformin-induced neuronal differentiation of neural stem cells via DNA demethylation. Stem Cells 2022; 40:59-73. [DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxab001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Increased neurogenesis elicits antidepressive-like effects. The antidiabetic drug metformin (Met) reportedly promotes hippocampal neurogenesis, which ameliorates spatial memory deficits and depression-like behaviors. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underpinning Met-induced neuronal differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) remain unclear. We showed that Met enhanced neuronal differentiation of NSCs via Gadd45g but not Gadd45a and Gadd45b. We further found that Gadd45g increased demethylation of neurogenic differentiation 1 (NeuroD1) promoter by regulating the activity of passive and active DNA demethylation enzymes through an AMPK-independent mechanism in Met-treated NSCs. Importantly, genetic deficiency of Gadd45g decreased hippocampal neurogenesis, which could contribute to spatial memory decline, and depression-like behaviors in the adult mice, whereas forced expression of Gadd45g alleviated the depressive-like behaviors. Our findings provide a model that Gadd45g-mediated DNA demethylation contributes to Met-induced neuronal genesis and its antidepressant-like effects, and propose the concept that targeting Gadd45g regulation of neurogenesis might serve as a novel antidepressant strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Zhang
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Function and Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Function and Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Function and Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanfei Wu
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Function and Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiujuan Ye
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Function and Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuo Gong
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Function and Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingqing Li
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Function and Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Aiguo Xuan
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Function and Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Guangzhou, China
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Rosiglitazone Ameliorates Spinal Cord Injury via Inhibiting Mitophagy and Inflammation of Neural Stem Cells. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:5583512. [PMID: 35028008 PMCID: PMC8752267 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5583512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, and traumatic brain and spinal cord injury (SCI) are prevalent in clinical practice. Inhibition of hyperactive inflammation and proliferation of endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) is a promising treatment strategy for SCI. Our previous studies demonstrated the beneficial effects of rosiglitazone (Rosi) on SCI, but its roles in inflammation inhibition and proliferation of NSCs are unknown. METHODS SCI in a rat model was established, and the effects of Rosi on motor functions were assessed. The effects of Rosi on NSC proliferation and the underlying mechanisms were explored in details. RESULTS We showed that Rosi ameliorated impairment of moto functions in SCI rats, inhibited inflammation, and promoted proliferation of NSCs in vivo. Rosi increased ATP production through enhancing glycolysis but not oxidative phosphorylation. Rosi reduced mitophagy by downregulating PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) transcription to promote NSC proliferation, which was effectively reversed by an overexpression of PINK1 in vitro. Through KEGG analysis and experimental validations, we discovered that Rosi reduced the expression of forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1) which was a critical transcription factor of PINK1. Three FOXO1 consensus sequences (FCSs) were found in the first intron of the PINK1 gene, which could be potentially binding to FOXO1. The proximal FCS (chr 5: 156680169-156680185) from the translation start site exerted a more significant influence on PINK1 transcription than the other two FCSs. The overexpression of FOXO1 entirely relieved the inhibition of PINK1 transcription in the presence of Rosi. CONCLUSIONS Besides inflammation inhibition, Rosi suppressed mitophagy by reducing FOXO1 to decrease the transcription of PINK1, which played a pivotal role in accelerating the NSC proliferation.
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Fame RM, Lehtinen MK. Mitochondria in Early Forebrain Development: From Neurulation to Mid-Corticogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:780207. [PMID: 34888312 PMCID: PMC8650308 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.780207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Function of the mature central nervous system (CNS) requires a substantial proportion of the body’s energy consumption. During development, the CNS anlage must maintain its structure and perform stage-specific functions as it proceeds through discrete developmental stages. While key extrinsic signals and internal transcriptional controls over these processes are well appreciated, metabolic and mitochondrial states are also critical to appropriate forebrain development. Specifically, metabolic state, mitochondrial function, and mitochondrial dynamics/localization play critical roles in neurulation and CNS progenitor specification, progenitor proliferation and survival, neurogenesis, neural migration, and neurite outgrowth and synaptogenesis. With the goal of integrating neurodevelopmental biologists and mitochondrial specialists, this review synthesizes data from disparate models and processes to compile and highlight key roles of mitochondria in the early development of the CNS with specific focus on forebrain development and corticogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryann M Fame
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Maria K Lehtinen
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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Landry T, Huang H. Mini review: The relationship between energy status and adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Neurosci Lett 2021; 765:136261. [PMID: 34562518 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The ability to generate new hippocampal neurons throughout adulthood and successfully integrate them into existing neural networks is critical to cognitive function, while disordered regulation of this process results in neurodegenerative or psychiatric disease. Consequently, identifying the molecular mechanisms promoting homeostatic hippocampal neurogenesis in adults is essential to understanding the etiologies of these disorders and developing therapeutic interventions. For example, recent evidence identifies a strong association between metabolic function and adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Hippocampal neural stem cell (NSC) fate dynamically fluctuates with changes in substrate availability and energy status (AMP/ATP and NAD+/NADH ratios). Furthermore, many metabolic hormones, such as insulin, insulin-like growth factors, and leptin exhibit dual functions also modulating hippocampal neurogenesis and neuron survivability. These diverse metabolic inputs to NSC's from various tissues seemingly suggest the existence of a system in which energy status can finely modulate hippocampal neurogenesis. Supporting this hypothesis, interventions promoting energy balance, such as caloric restriction, intermittent fasting, and exercise, have shown encouraging potential enhancing hippocampal neurogenesis and cognitive function. Overall, there is a clear relationship between whole body energy status, adult hippocampal neurogenesis, and neuron survival; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are multifaceted. Thus, the aim of this review is to analyze the literature investigating energy status-mediated regulation of adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus, highlight the neurocircuitry and intracellular signaling involved, and propose impactful future directions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Landry
- East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA; Department of Kinesiology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA; Human Performance Laboratory, College of Human Performance and Health, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
| | - Hu Huang
- East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA; Department of Kinesiology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA; Human Performance Laboratory, College of Human Performance and Health, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA; Department of Physiology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
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Wang XF, Xiao HH, Wu YT, Kong L, Chen JC, Yang JX, Hu XL. Active constituent of Polygala tenuifolia attenuates cognitive deficits by rescuing hippocampal neurogenesis in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. BMC Complement Med Ther 2021; 21:267. [PMID: 34696749 PMCID: PMC8543956 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-021-03437-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common dementia worldwide, and there is still no satisfactory drug or therapeutic strategy. Polygala tenuifolia is a traditional Chinese medicine with multiple neuroprotective effects. In present study, we investigated the effects of three active constituents [3,6'-disinapoyl sucrose (DISS), onjisaponin B (OB) and tenuifolin (TEN)] of Polygala tenuifolia (PT) on the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) to identify the potential active constituent of PT promoting hippocampal neurogenesis. METHODS NSCs were isolated from hippocampi of newborn C57BL/6 mice, and transfected with mutant amyloid precursor protein (APP) gene to establish an AD cell model (APP-NSCs). 3-(4,5- Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays were performed, and the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs were assessed by neurosphere formation assay, 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation assay and immunofluorescence (IF) staining analysis. APP/PS1 transgenic mice were administrated with the potential active constituent DISS for 4 weeks. Morris water maze (MWM), Nissl staining assay and IF staining assays were carried out to evaluate the cognitive function, neural damages and hippocampal neurogenesis, respectively. RESULTS DISS exerted the optimal ability to strengthen APP-NSCs proliferation and neuronal differentiation, followed by OB and TEN. Furthermore, DISS treatment for 4 weeks strikingly rescued the cognitive deficits, neuronal injures, and neurogenesis disorder in adult APP/PS1 transgenic mice. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated that DISS is the constituent of PT that triggers the most potent increase of hippocampal neurogenesis in our mouse model of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Feng Wang
- Center for Neuromedicine of Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, 42 Xuegong Street, Shahekou District, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116033, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-He Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116600, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Tong Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116600, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Kong
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116600, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji-Cong Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116600, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Xian Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116600, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiao-le Hu
- Center for Neuromedicine of Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, 42 Xuegong Street, Shahekou District, Dalian, Liaoning Province, 116033, People's Republic of China.
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Shoshan-Barmatz V, Anand U, Nahon-Crystal E, Di Carlo M, Shteinfer-Kuzmine A. Adverse Effects of Metformin From Diabetes to COVID-19, Cancer, Neurodegenerative Diseases, and Aging: Is VDAC1 a Common Target? Front Physiol 2021; 12:730048. [PMID: 34671273 PMCID: PMC8521008 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.730048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin has been used for treating diabetes mellitus since the late 1950s. In addition to its antihyperglycemic activity, it was shown to be a potential drug candidate for treating a range of other diseases that include various cancers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetic kidney disease, neurodegenerative diseases, renal diseases, obesity, inflammation, COVID-19 in diabetic patients, and aging. In this review, we focus on the important aspects of mitochondrial dysfunction in energy metabolism and cell death with their gatekeeper VDAC1 (voltage-dependent anion channel 1) as a possible metformin target, and summarize metformin’s effects in several diseases and gut microbiota. We question how the same drug can act on diseases with opposite characteristics, such as increasing apoptotic cell death in cancer, while inhibiting it in neurodegenerative diseases. Interestingly, metformin’s adverse effects in many diseases all show VDAC1 involvement, suggesting that it is a common factor in metformin-affecting diseases. The findings that metformin has an opposite effect on various diseases are consistent with the fact that VDAC1 controls cell life and death, supporting the idea that it is a target for metformin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varda Shoshan-Barmatz
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel.,National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Uttpal Anand
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | | | - Marta Di Carlo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Shteinfer-Kuzmine
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
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Hong S, Nagayach A, Lu Y, Peng H, Duong QVA, Pham NB, Vuong CA, Bazan NG. A high fat, sugar, and salt Western diet induces motor-muscular and sensory dysfunctions and neurodegeneration in mice during aging: Ameliorative action of metformin. CNS Neurosci Ther 2021; 27:1458-1471. [PMID: 34510763 PMCID: PMC8611779 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims To explore the novel linkage between a Western diet combining high saturated fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) and neurological dysfunctions during aging as well as Metformin intervention, we assessed cerebral cortex abnormalities associated with sensory and motor dysfunctions and cellular and molecular insights in brains using HFSS‐fed mice during aging. We also explored the effect of Metformin treatment on these mice. Methods C57BL/6 mice were fed with HFSS and treated with metformin from 20 to 22 months of age, resembling human aging from 56 to 68 years of age (an entry phase of the aged portion of lifespan). Results The motor and sensory cortexes in mice during aging after HFSS diet showed: (A) decreased motor‐muscular and sensory functions; (B) reduced inflammation‐resolving Arg‐1+ microglia; (C) increased inflammatory iNOs+ microglia and TNFα levels; (D) enhanced abundance of amyloid‐β peptide and of phosphorylated Tau. Metformin attenuated these changes. Conclusion A HFSS‐combined diet caused motor‐muscular and sensory dysfunctions, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration, whereas metformin counteracted these effects. Our findings show neuroinflammatory consequences of a HFSS diet in aging. Metformin curbs the HFSS‐related neuroinflammation eliciting neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Hong
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Aarti Nagayach
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Yan Lu
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Hongying Peng
- Biostatistics, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Quoc-Viet A Duong
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Nicholas B Pham
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Christopher A Vuong
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Nicolas G Bazan
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
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33
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Poor SR, Ettcheto M, Cano A, Sanchez-Lopez E, Manzine PR, Olloquequi J, Camins A, Javan M. Metformin a Potential Pharmacological Strategy in Late Onset Alzheimer's Disease Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14090890. [PMID: 34577590 PMCID: PMC8465337 DOI: 10.3390/ph14090890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most devastating brain disorders. Currently, there are no effective treatments to stop the disease progression and it is becoming a major public health concern. Several risk factors are involved in the progression of AD, modifying neuronal circuits and brain cognition, and eventually leading to neuronal death. Among them, obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have attracted increasing attention, since brain insulin resistance can contribute to neurodegeneration. Consequently, AD has been referred to "type 3 diabetes" and antidiabetic medications such as intranasal insulin, glitazones, metformin or liraglutide are being tested as possible alternatives. Metformin, a first line antihyperglycemic medication, is a 5'-adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator hypothesized to act as a geroprotective agent. However, studies on its association with age-related cognitive decline have shown controversial results with positive and negative findings. In spite of this, metformin shows positive benefits such as anti-inflammatory effects, accelerated neurogenesis, strengthened memory, and prolonged life expectancy. Moreover, it has been recently demonstrated that metformin enhances synaptophysin, sirtuin-1, AMPK, and brain-derived neuronal factor (BDNF) immunoreactivity, which are essential markers of plasticity. The present review discusses the numerous studies which have explored (1) the neuropathological hallmarks of AD, (2) association of type 2 diabetes with AD, and (3) the potential therapeutic effects of metformin on AD and preclinical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saghar Rabiei Poor
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran;
- Institute for Brain and Cognition, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (P.R.M.)
| | - Miren Ettcheto
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (P.R.M.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Madrid, Spain; (A.C.); (E.S.-L.)
| | - Amanda Cano
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Madrid, Spain; (A.C.); (E.S.-L.)
- Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Sanchez-Lopez
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Madrid, Spain; (A.C.); (E.S.-L.)
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia Regina Manzine
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (P.R.M.)
- Department of Gerontology, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Jordi Olloquequi
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca 3467987, Chile;
| | - Antoni Camins
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (P.R.M.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Madrid, Spain; (A.C.); (E.S.-L.)
- Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca 3467987, Chile;
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (M.J.)
| | - Mohammad Javan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran;
- Institute for Brain and Cognition, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (M.J.)
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Induri SNR, Kansara P, Thomas SC, Xu F, Saxena D, Li X. The Gut Microbiome, Metformin, and Aging. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 62:85-108. [PMID: 34449247 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-051920-093829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Metformin has been extensively used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, and it may also promote healthy aging. Despite its widespread use and versatility, metformin's mechanisms of action remain elusive. The gut typically harbors thousands of bacterial species, and as the concentration of metformin is much higher in the gut as compared to plasma, it is plausible that microbiome-drug-host interactions may influence the functions of metformin. Detrimental perturbations in the aging gut microbiome lead to the activation of the innate immune response concomitant with chronic low-grade inflammation. With the effectiveness of metformin in diabetes and antiaging varying among individuals, there is reason to believe that the gut microbiome plays a role in the efficacy of metformin. Metformin has been implicated in the promotion and maintenance of a healthy gut microbiome and reduces many age-related degenerative pathologies. Mechanistic understanding of metformin in the promotion of a healthy gut microbiome and aging will require a systems-level approach. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Volume 62 is January 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Nitya Reddy Induri
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010, USA;
| | - Payalben Kansara
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010, USA;
| | - Scott C Thomas
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010, USA;
| | - Fangxi Xu
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010, USA;
| | - Deepak Saxena
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010, USA; .,Department of Surgery, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010, USA;
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Yu WD, Kim YJ, Cho MJ, Kim GJ, Kim SH, Kim MJ, Ko JJ, Lee JH. MIT-001 Restores Human Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Enhancing Mitochondrial Quiescence and Cytoskeletal Organization. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105062. [PMID: 34064719 PMCID: PMC8151078 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a major cause of several chronic diseases and is reported to be recovered by the immuno-modulation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). While most studies have focussed on the anti-inflammatory roles of MSCs in stem cell therapy, the impaired features of MSCs, such as the loss of homeostasis by systemic aging or pathologic conditions, remain incompletely understood. In this study, we investigated whether the altered phenotypes of human placenta-derived MSCs (hPD-MSCs) exposed to inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IFN-γ, could be protected by MIT-001, a small anti-inflammatory and anti-necrotic molecule. MIT-001 promoted the spindle-like shape and cytoskeletal organization extending across the long cell axis, whereas hPD-MSCs exposed to TNF-α/IFN-γ exhibited increased morphological heterogeneity with an abnormal cell shape and cytoskeletal disorganization. Importantly, MIT-001 improved mitochondrial distribution across the cytoplasm. MIT-001 significantly reduced basal respiration, ATP production, and cellular ROS levels and augmented the spare respiratory capacity compared to TNF-α/IFN-γ-exposed hPD-MSCs, indicating enhanced mitochondrial quiescence and homeostasis. In conclusion, while TNF-α/IFN-γ-exposed MSCs lost homeostasis and mitochondrial quiescence by becoming over-activated in response to inflammatory cytokines, MIT-001 was able to rescue mitochondrial features and cellular phenotypes. Therefore, MIT-001 has therapeutic potential for clinical applications to treat mitochondrion-related inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won Dong Yu
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Pocheon 11160, Korea; (W.D.Y.); (M.J.C.); (G.J.K.)
| | - Yu Jin Kim
- CHA Fertility Center, Seoul Station, Hangang-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul 04637, Korea;
| | - Min Jeong Cho
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Pocheon 11160, Korea; (W.D.Y.); (M.J.C.); (G.J.K.)
| | - Gi Jin Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Pocheon 11160, Korea; (W.D.Y.); (M.J.C.); (G.J.K.)
| | - Soon Ha Kim
- Mitoimmune Therapeutics Inc., Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06253, Korea;
| | - Myung Joo Kim
- CHA Fertility Center, Seoul Station, Hangang-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul 04637, Korea;
- Correspondence: (M.J.K.); (J.J.K.); (J.H.L.); Tel.: +82-2-2002-0406 (J.H.L.)
| | - Jung Jae Ko
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Pocheon 11160, Korea; (W.D.Y.); (M.J.C.); (G.J.K.)
- Correspondence: (M.J.K.); (J.J.K.); (J.H.L.); Tel.: +82-2-2002-0406 (J.H.L.)
| | - Jae Ho Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Pocheon 11160, Korea; (W.D.Y.); (M.J.C.); (G.J.K.)
- CHA Fertility Center, Seoul Station, Hangang-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul 04637, Korea;
- Correspondence: (M.J.K.); (J.J.K.); (J.H.L.); Tel.: +82-2-2002-0406 (J.H.L.)
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Xiao HH, Zhang MB, Xu JT, Deng Y, Li N, Gao P, Li Y, Kong L, Li WY, Chen JC, Li HY, Shan GS, Tai H, Yang JX. Icarisid II promotes proliferation and neuronal differentiation of neural stem cells via activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Phytother Res 2021; 35:2773-2784. [PMID: 33455039 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis plays a vital role in maintaining cognitive functions in mammals and human beings. Mobilization of hippocampal neurogenesis has been regarded as a promising therapeutic approach to restore injured neurons in neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Icarisid II (ICS II), an active ingredient derived from Epimedii Folium, has been reported to exhibit multiple neuroprotective effects. In the present study, we investigated the effects of ICS II on the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) and amyloid precusor protein (APP)-overexpressing NSCs (APP-NSCs) in vitro. Our results demonstrated that ICS II dose-dependently suppressed apoptosis and elevated viability of APP-NSCs. ICS II (1 μM) potently promoted proliferation and neuronal differentiation of NSCs and APP-NSCs. ICS II (1 μM) significantly upregulated Wnt-3a expression, increased the phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β and enhanced the nuclear transfer of β-catenin. Moreover, ICS II also promoted astrocytes to secrete Wnt-3a, which positively modulates Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. These findings demonstrate that ICS II promotes NSCs proliferation and neuronal differentiation partly by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-He Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Ming-Bo Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Jun-Ting Xu
- Psychiatry department, Dalian Seventh People' s Hospital, Dalian, China
| | - Yan Deng
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Ning Li
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Traditional Chinese Medicine Visera-State Theory and Application, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Liang Kong
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Wan-Yi Li
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Ji-Cong Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Hong-Yan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - Guo-Shun Shan
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
| | - He Tai
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Traditional Chinese Medicine Visera-State Theory and Application, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
| | - Jing-Xian Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China
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Derkach D, Kehtari T, Renaud M, Heidari M, Lakshman N, Morshead CM. Metformin pretreatment rescues olfactory memory associated with subependymal zone neurogenesis in a juvenile model of cranial irradiation. Cell Rep Med 2021; 2:100231. [PMID: 33948569 PMCID: PMC8080112 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2021.100231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Cranial irradiation (IR) is an effective adjuvant therapy in the treatment of childhood brain tumors but results in long-lasting cognitive deficits associated with impaired neurogenesis, as evidenced in rodent models. Metformin has been shown to expand the endogenous neural stem cell (NSC) pool and promote neurogenesis under physiological conditions and in response to neonatal brain injury, suggesting a potential role in neurorepair. Here, we assess whether metformin pretreatment, a clinically feasible treatment for children receiving cranial IR, promotes neurorepair in a mouse cranial IR model. Using immunofluorescence and the in vitro neurosphere assay, we show that NSCs are depleted by cranial IR but spontaneously recover, although deficits to proliferative neuroblasts persist. Metformin pretreatment enhances the recovery of neurogenesis, attenuates the microglial response, and promotes recovery of long-term olfactory memory. These findings indicate that metformin is a promising candidate for further preclinical and clinical investigations of neurorepair in childhood brain injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Derkach
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tarlan Kehtari
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Matthew Renaud
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohsen Heidari
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nishanth Lakshman
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cindi M. Morshead
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Büeler H. Mitochondrial and Autophagic Regulation of Adult Neurogenesis in the Healthy and Diseased Brain. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073342. [PMID: 33805219 PMCID: PMC8036818 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis is a highly regulated process during which new neurons are generated from neural stem cells in two discrete regions of the adult brain: the subventricular zone of the lateral ventricle and the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus in the hippocampus. Defects of adult hippocampal neurogenesis have been linked to cognitive decline and dysfunction during natural aging and in neurodegenerative diseases, as well as psychological stress-induced mood disorders. Understanding the mechanisms and pathways that regulate adult neurogenesis is crucial to improving preventative measures and therapies for these conditions. Accumulating evidence shows that mitochondria directly regulate various steps and phases of adult neurogenesis. This review summarizes recent findings on how mitochondrial metabolism, dynamics, and reactive oxygen species control several aspects of adult neural stem cell function and their differentiation to newborn neurons. It also discusses the importance of autophagy for adult neurogenesis, and how mitochondrial and autophagic dysfunction may contribute to cognitive defects and stress-induced mood disorders by compromising adult neurogenesis. Finally, I suggest possible ways to target mitochondrial function as a strategy for stem cell-based interventions and treatments for cognitive and mood disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hansruedi Büeler
- School of Life Sciences and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150080, China
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Mohammed I, Hollenberg MD, Ding H, Triggle CR. A Critical Review of the Evidence That Metformin Is a Putative Anti-Aging Drug That Enhances Healthspan and Extends Lifespan. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:718942. [PMID: 34421827 PMCID: PMC8374068 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.718942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The numerous beneficial health outcomes associated with the use of metformin to treat patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), together with data from pre-clinical studies in animals including the nematode, C. elegans, and mice have prompted investigations into whether metformin has therapeutic utility as an anti-aging drug that may also extend lifespan. Indeed, clinical trials, including the MILES (Metformin In Longevity Study) and TAME (Targeting Aging with Metformin), have been designed to assess the potential benefits of metformin as an anti-aging drug. Preliminary analysis of results from MILES indicate that metformin may induce anti-aging transcriptional changes; however it remains controversial as to whether metformin is protective in those subjects free of disease. Furthermore, despite clinical use for over 60 years as an anti-diabetic drug, the cellular mechanisms by which metformin exerts either its actions remain unclear. In this review, we have critically evaluated the literature that has investigated the effects of metformin on aging, healthspan and lifespan in humans as well as other species. In preparing this review, particular attention has been placed on the strength and reproducibility of data and quality of the study protocols with respect to the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of metformin. We conclude that despite data in support of anti-aging benefits, the evidence that metformin increases lifespan remains controversial. However, via its ability to reduce early mortality associated with various diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline and cancer, metformin can improve healthspan thereby extending the period of life spent in good health. Based on the available evidence we conclude that the beneficial effects of metformin on aging and healthspan are primarily indirect via its effects on cellular metabolism and result from its anti-hyperglycemic action, enhancing insulin sensitivity, reduction of oxidative stress and protective effects on the endothelium and vascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Mohammed
- Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Al-Rayyan, Qatar
- *Correspondence: Chris R. Triggle, ; Ibrahim Mohammed,
| | - Morley D. Hollenberg
- Inflammation Research Network and Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Hong Ding
- Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Al-Rayyan, Qatar
- Departments of Medical Education and Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Al-Rayyan, Qatar
| | - Chris R. Triggle
- Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Al-Rayyan, Qatar
- Departments of Medical Education and Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Al-Rayyan, Qatar
- *Correspondence: Chris R. Triggle, ; Ibrahim Mohammed,
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Jiang LL, Liu L. Effect of metformin on stem cells: Molecular mechanism and clinical prospect. World J Stem Cells 2020; 12:1455-1473. [PMID: 33505595 PMCID: PMC7789120 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v12.i12.1455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin is a first-line medication for type II diabetes. Numerous studies have shown that metformin not only has hypoglycemic effects, but also modulates many physiological and pathological processes ranging from aging and cancer to fracture healing. During these different physiological activities and pathological changes, stem cells usually play a core role. Thus, many studies have investigated the effects of metformin on stem cells. Metformin affects cell differentiation and has promising applications in stem cell medicine. It exerts anti-aging effects and can be applied to gerontology and regenerative medicine. The potential anti-cancer stem cell effect of metformin indicates that it can be an adjuvant therapy for cancers. Furthermore, metformin has beneficial effects against many other diseases including cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. In this review, we summarize the effects of metformin on stem cells and provide an overview of its molecular mechanisms and clinical prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Li Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
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Kosaraju J, Seegobin M, Gouveia A, Syal C, Sarma SN, Lu KJ, Ilin J, He L, Wondisford FE, Lagace D, De Repentigny Y, Kothary R, Wang J. Metformin promotes CNS remyelination and improves social interaction following focal demyelination through CBP Ser436 phosphorylation. Exp Neurol 2020; 334:113454. [PMID: 32877653 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2020.113454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with demyelinating diseases often experience difficulties during social interactions that are not well studied in preclinical models. Here, we describe a novel juvenile focal corpus callosum demyelination murine model exhibiting a social interaction deficit. Using this preclinical murine demyelination model, we discover that application of metformin, an FDA-approved drug, in this model promotes oligodendrocyte regeneration and remyelination and improves the social interaction. This beneficial effect of metformin acts through stimulating Ser436 phosphorylation in CBP, a histone acetyltransferase. In addition, we found that metformin acts through two distinct molecular pathways to enhance oligodendrocyte precursor (OPC) proliferation and differentiation, respectively. Metformin enhances OPC proliferation through early-stage autophagy inhibition, while metformin promotes OPC differentiation into mature oligodendrocytes through activating CBP Ser436 phosphorylation. In summary, we identify that metformin is a promising remyelinating agent to improve juvenile demyelination-associated social interaction deficits by promoting oligodendrocyte regeneration and remyelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayasankar Kosaraju
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Matthew Seegobin
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Ayden Gouveia
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Charvi Syal
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Sailendra Nath Sarma
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Kevin Jiaqi Lu
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Julius Ilin
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Ling He
- Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medical School, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Fredric E Wondisford
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Diane Lagace
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, Ottawa, ON K1G 5Z3, Canada
| | - Yves De Repentigny
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Rashmi Kothary
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Jing Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, Ottawa, ON K1G 5Z3, Canada.
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42
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Bonds JA, Shetti A, Stephen TKL, Bonini MG, Minshall RD, Lazarov O. Deficits in hippocampal neurogenesis in obesity-dependent and -independent type-2 diabetes mellitus mouse models. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16368. [PMID: 33004912 PMCID: PMC7530538 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73401-9] [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] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Hippocampal neurogenesis plays an important role in learning and memory function throughout life. Declines in this process have been observed in both aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a disorder characterized by insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism. T2DM often results in cognitive decline in adults, and significantly increases the risk of AD development. The pathways underlying T2DM-induced cognitive deficits are not known. Some studies suggest that alterations in hippocampal neurogenesis may contribute to cognitive deterioration, however, the fate of neurogenesis in these studies is highly controversial. To address this problem, we utilized two models of T2DM: (1) obesity-independent MKR transgenic mice expressing a mutated form of the human insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) in skeletal muscle, and (2) Obesity-dependent db/db mice harboring a mutation in the leptin receptor. Our results show that both models of T2DM display compromised hippocampal neurogenesis. We show that the number of new neurons in the hippocampus of these mice is reduced. Clone formation capacity of neural progenitor cells isolated from the db/db mice is deficient. Expression of insulin receptor and epidermal growth factor receptor was reduced in hippocampal neurospheres isolated from db/db mice. Results from this study warrant further investigation into the mechanisms underlying decreased neurogenesis in T2DM and its link to the cognitive decline observed in this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline A Bonds
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 578 CME (M/C 512), 808 South Wood Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Aashutosh Shetti
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 578 CME (M/C 512), 808 South Wood Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Terilyn K L Stephen
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 578 CME (M/C 512), 808 South Wood Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Marcelo G Bonini
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine and The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Richard D Minshall
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Orly Lazarov
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 578 CME (M/C 512), 808 South Wood Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
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Zhang S, Lachance BB, Moiz B, Jia X. Optimizing Stem Cell Therapy after Ischemic Brain Injury. J Stroke 2020; 22:286-305. [PMID: 33053945 PMCID: PMC7568970 DOI: 10.5853/jos.2019.03048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cells have been used for regenerative and therapeutic purposes in a variety of diseases. In ischemic brain injury, preclinical studies have been promising, but have failed to translate results to clinical trials. We aimed to explore the application of stem cells after ischemic brain injury by focusing on topics such as delivery routes, regeneration efficacy, adverse effects, and in vivo potential optimization. PUBMED and Web of Science were searched for the latest studies examining stem cell therapy applications in ischemic brain injury, particularly after stroke or cardiac arrest, with a focus on studies addressing delivery optimization, stem cell type comparison, or translational aspects. Other studies providing further understanding or potential contributions to ischemic brain injury treatment were also included. Multiple stem cell types have been investigated in ischemic brain injury treatment, with a strong literature base in the treatment of stroke. Studies have suggested that stem cell administration after ischemic brain injury exerts paracrine effects via growth factor release, blood-brain barrier integrity protection, and allows for exosome release for ischemic injury mitigation. To date, limited studies have investigated these therapeutic mechanisms in the setting of cardiac arrest or therapeutic hypothermia. Several delivery modalities are available, each with limitations regarding invasiveness and safety outcomes. Intranasal delivery presents a potentially improved mechanism, and hypoxic conditioning offers a potential stem cell therapy optimization strategy for ischemic brain injury. The use of stem cells to treat ischemic brain injury in clinical trials is in its early phase; however, increasing preclinical evidence suggests that stem cells can contribute to the down-regulation of inflammatory phenotypes and regeneration following injury. The safety and the tolerability profile of stem cells have been confirmed, and their potent therapeutic effects make them powerful therapeutic agents for ischemic brain injury patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Brittany Bolduc Lachance
- Program in Trauma, Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bilal Moiz
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Jia
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Orthopedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Xiao H, Li H, Song H, Kong L, Yan X, Li Y, Deng Y, Tai H, Wu Y, Ni Y, Li W, Chen J, Yang J. Shenzao jiannao oral liquid, an herbal formula, ameliorates cognitive impairments by rescuing neuronal death and triggering endogenous neurogenesis in AD-like mice induced by a combination of Aβ42 and scopolamine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 259:112957. [PMID: 32416248 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Alzheimer's disease (AD) is identified as "forgetfulness" or "dementia", and is mainly caused by "kidney essence deficiency" which ultimately induces "encephala reduction". Therefore, herbal formulas possessing the efficacy of nourishing kidney essence or replenishing brain marrow are commonly served as effective strategies for AD treatment. Shenzao jiannao oral liquid (SZJN), a traditional Chinese preparation approved by the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA), is used for the treatment of insomnia and mind fatigue at present for its efficacy of nourishing kidneys. In present study, we found that SZJN could improve cognitive function of AD-like mice. AIMS OF STUDY This study aims to investigate the effects of SJZN on ameliorating cognitive deficits of AD-like mouse model, and to illuminate the underlying mechanisms from the perspective of neuroprotection and neurogenesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Kunming mice (28 ± 2 g) were randomly allocated into seven groups: control, sham, model, donepezil and SZJN groups (low, middle and high). The AD mouse model was established by Aβ42 combined with scopolamine. SZJN were intragastrically administrated at doses of 0.3, 1.5 and 7.5 g/kg for 28 days. Morris water maze (MWM) test was applied to determine the cognitive function. Hematoxylin eosin (HE) and Nissl staining were carried out to evaluate pathological damages in the cortex and hippocampal tissues. To explore the protective effects of SZJN on multiple pathogenic factors of AD, protein levels of Aβ42, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, synaptophysin (SYP), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and neurogenesis related proteins were assessed using Immunofluorescence (IF) and western blot analysis. In vitro, the AD cell model was established by transduction of APP695swe genes into Neural stem cells (NSCs) isolated from the hippocampal tissues of neonatal C57BL/6 mice. Cell viability assay and neurosphere formation assay were carried out to verify the efficacy of SZJN on proliferation of NSCs. RESULTS Our results demonstrated that SZJN (1.5 g/kg and 7.5 g/kg) treatment significantly ameliorated cognitive deficits of AD-like mice. SZJN (7.5 g/kg) treatment significantly retarded the pathological damages including neuronal degeneration, neuronal apoptosis, Aβ peptides aggregation and reaction of astrocytes in AD-like mice. In addition, SZJN (7.5 g/kg) increased the expression of BDNF and SYP, and restored the abnormal level of MDA and SOD in the brain of AD-like mice. Furthermore, SZJN treatment for 28 days remarkably increased the proliferation of NSCs evidenced by more Nestin+ and BrdU+ cells in the hippocampal DG regions, and increased the amount of mature neurons marked by NeuN both in the cortex and hippocampal DG regions. In vitro, SZJN treatement (16, 32, 64 mg/ml) promoted the proliferation of NSCs evidenced by the increased amount and enlarged size of the neurospheres (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicated that SZJN could ameliorate cognitive deficits by protecting neurons from death and triggering endogenous neurogenesis. Therefore, SZJN may be considered as a promising agent to restore neuronal loss and deter the deterioration in AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honghe Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China.
| | - Hongyan Li
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China
| | - Huipeng Song
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China
| | - Liang Kong
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China
| | - Xin Yan
- Diaoyutai Pharmaceutical Group Jilin Tianqiang Pharmaceutical co. LTD, 309 Renmin Street, Tonghua, 135300, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China
| | - Yan Deng
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China
| | - He Tai
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Traditional Chinese Medicine Visera-State Theory and Application, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Huanggu District Chongshan Road No. 79, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110847, PR China
| | - Yutong Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China
| | - Yingnan Ni
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China
| | - Wanyi Li
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China
| | - Jicong Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China
| | - Jingxian Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life One Road, DD Port, Dalian, 116600, PR China.
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A geroscience perspective on immune resilience and infectious diseases: a potential case for metformin. GeroScience 2020; 43:1093-1112. [PMID: 32902818 PMCID: PMC7479299 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-020-00261-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We are in the midst of the global pandemic. Though acute respiratory coronavirus (SARS-COV2) that leads to COVID-19 infects people of all ages, severe symptoms and mortality occur disproportionately in older adults. Geroscience interventions that target biological aging could decrease risk across multiple age-related diseases and improve outcomes in response to infectious disease. This offers hope for a new host-directed therapeutic approach that could (i) improve outcomes following exposure or shorten treatment regimens; (ii) reduce the chronic pathology associated with the infectious disease and subsequent comorbidity, frailty, and disability; and (iii) promote development of immunological memory that protects against relapse or improves response to vaccination. We review the possibility of this approach by examining available evidence in metformin: a generic drug with a proven safety record that will be used in a large-scale multicenter clinical trial. Though rigorous translational research and clinical trials are needed to test this empirically, metformin may improve host immune defenses and confer protection against long-term health consequences of infectious disease, age-related chronic diseases, and geriatric syndromes.
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Spehar K, Pan A, Beerman I. Restoring aged stem cell functionality: Current progress and future directions. Stem Cells 2020; 38:1060-1077. [PMID: 32473067 PMCID: PMC7483369 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell dysfunction is a hallmark of aging, associated with the decline of physical and cognitive abilities of humans and other mammals [Cell 2013;153:1194]. Therefore, it has become an active area of research within the aging and stem cell fields, and various techniques have been employed to mitigate the decline of stem cell function both in vitro and in vivo. While some techniques developed in model organisms are not directly translatable to humans, others show promise in becoming clinically relevant to delay or even mitigate negative phenotypes associated with aging. This review focuses on diet, treatment, and small molecule interventions that provide evidence of functional improvement in at least one type of aged adult stem cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Spehar
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Aging Unit, Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, NIH, BRC, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrew Pan
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Isabel Beerman
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Aging Unit, Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, NIH, BRC, Baltimore, Maryland
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Lazarov O, Minshall RD, Bonini MG. Harnessing neurogenesis in the adult brain-A role in type 2 diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's disease. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 155:235-269. [PMID: 32854856 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2020.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Some metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are risk factors for the development of cognitive deficits and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Epidemiological studies suggest that in people with T2DM, the risk of developing dementia is 2.5 times higher than that in the non-diabetic population. The signaling pathways that underlie the increased risk and facilitate cognitive deficits are not fully understood. In fact, the cause of memory deficits in AD is not fully elucidated. The dentate gyrus of the hippocampus plays an important role in memory formation. Hippocampal neurogenesis is the generation of new neurons and glia in the adult brain throughout life. New neurons incorporate in the granular cell layer of the dentate gyrus and play a role in learning and memory and hippocampal plasticity. A large body of studies suggests that hippocampal neurogenesis is impaired in mouse models of AD and T2DM. Recent evidence shows that hippocampal neurogenesis is also impaired in human patients exhibiting mild cognitive impairment or AD. This review discusses the role of hippocampal neurogenesis in the development of cognitive deficits and AD, and considers inflammatory and endothelial signaling pathways in T2DM that may compromise hippocampal neurogenesis and cognitive function, leading to AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orly Lazarov
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.
| | - Richard D Minshall
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States; Department of Anesthesiology, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Marcelo G Bonini
- Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), Feinberg School of Medicine of Northwestern University and Basic Sciences Research, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Chicago, IL, United States
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Katila N, Bhurtel S, Park PH, Hong JT, Choi DY. Activation of AMPK/aPKCζ/CREB pathway by metformin is associated with upregulation of GDNF and dopamine. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 180:114193. [PMID: 32800853 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, which is characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, leading to a decrease in striatal dopamine. There is no antiparkinsonian therapy that offers a true disease-modifying treatment till date and there is an urgent need for a safe and effective neuroprotective or neurorestorative therapy. Our previous study demonstrated that metformin upregulated dopamine in the mouse brain and provided significant neuroprotection in animal model of PD. Therefore, we designed this study to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying such pharmacological effect of metformin. Herein, we found that metformin enhanced the phosphorylation of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) which was accompanied by increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and activation of their downstream signaling pathways in the mouse brain and SH-SY5Y cells. We further investigated the role of the neurotrophic factors in the activation of TH and observed that both BDNF and GDNF-induction were essential for metformin-induced TH activation. We found that the AMPK/aPKCζ/CREB pathway was essential for metformin-induced GDNF upregulation and TH activation. Thus, this study reveals the TH-activating property of metformin in the brain via induction of neurotrophic factors along with the signaling mechanism. These results potentiate the candidacy of metformin not only as a neuroprotective agent, but also as restorative therapy for the treatment of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita Katila
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunil Bhurtel
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Pil-Hoon Park
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Tae Hong
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, 194-21 Osongsaengmyeong1-ro, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160 Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Young Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541, Republic of Korea.
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Zhao Y, Zhou X, Zhao X, Yu X, Wang A, Chen X, Qi H, Han TL, Zhang H, Baker PN. Metformin administration during pregnancy attenuated the long-term maternal metabolic and cognitive impairments in a mouse model of gestational diabetes. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:14019-14036. [PMID: 32697764 PMCID: PMC7425475 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a metabolic disease that can have long-term adverse effects on the cognitive function of mothers. In our study, we explored the changes in metabolic health and cognitive function in mice of middle- and old- age after exposure to GDM, and whether metformin therapy during pregnancy provided long-term benefits. Results: Mice with GDM demonstrated significant cognitive impairment in old age, which was associated with insulin resistance. Gestational metformin therapy was shown to increase insulin sensitivity and improve cognition. The ovarian aging rate was also accelerated in mice exposed to GDM during pregnancy, which may be related to fatty acid metabolism in the ovaries. Conclusion: Treatment with metformin during pregnancy was shown to improve fatty acid metabolism in ovarian tissues. Method: During pregnancy, mice were fed with a high-fat diet (GDM group) or a low-fat diet (Control group), and a third group received metformin while receiving a high-fat diet (Treatment group). At 12 months old, the mice completed an oral glucose tolerance test, insulin tolerance test, Morris water maze test, female sex hormones were measured, and metabolite profiles of tissue from the ovaries, hypothalamus, and pituitary glands were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalan Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Obstetrics, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Xiaobo Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xue Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyang Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Andi Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuyang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongbo Qi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ting-Li Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Hua Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Philip N Baker
- College of Medicine, Biological Sciences and Psychology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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Kulkarni AS, Gubbi S, Barzilai N. Benefits of Metformin in Attenuating the Hallmarks of Aging. Cell Metab 2020; 32:15-30. [PMID: 32333835 PMCID: PMC7347426 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 86.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Biological aging involves an interplay of conserved and targetable molecular mechanisms, summarized as the hallmarks of aging. Metformin, a biguanide that combats age-related disorders and improves health span, is the first drug to be tested for its age-targeting effects in the large clinical trial-TAME (targeting aging by metformin). This review focuses on metformin's mechanisms in attenuating hallmarks of aging and their interconnectivity, by improving nutrient sensing, enhancing autophagy and intercellular communication, protecting against macromolecular damage, delaying stem cell aging, modulating mitochondrial function, regulating transcription, and lowering telomere attrition and senescence. These characteristics make metformin an attractive gerotherapeutic to translate to human trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameya S Kulkarni
- Institute for Aging Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Sriram Gubbi
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nir Barzilai
- Institute for Aging Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY, USA.
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