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Barabutis N, Fakir S. Growth hormone-releasing hormone beyond cancer. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2024; 51:40-41. [PMID: 37750473 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - Saikat Fakir
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
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Kubra KT, Barabutis N. Ceapin-A7 potentiates lipopolysaccharide-induced endothelial injury. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23460. [PMID: 37431958 PMCID: PMC10782819 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Barrier dysfunction is the hallmark of severe lung injury, including acute respiratory distress syndrome. Efficient medical countermeasures to counteract endothelial hyperpermeability do not exist, hence the mortality rates of disorders related to barrier abnormalities are unacceptable high. The unfolded protein response is a highly conserved mechanism, which aims to support the cells against endoplasmic reticulum stress, and ATF6 is a protein sensor that triggers its activation. In the current study, we investigate the effects of ATF6 suppression in LPS-induced endothelial inflammation. Our observations suggest that Ceapin-A7, which is an ATF6 suppressor, potentiates LPS-induced STAT3 and JAK2 activation. Hence ATF6 activation may serve as a new therapeutic possibility toward diseases related to barrier dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana 71201, USA
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Barabutis N, Kubra KT, Akhter MS. Growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonists protect against hydrochloric acid-induced endothelial injury in vitro. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 99:104113. [PMID: 36940786 PMCID: PMC10111240 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) regulates the synthesis of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary gland, and it is involved in inflammatory responses. On the other hand, GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) exhibit the opposite effects, resulting in endothelial barrier enhancement. Exposure to hydrochloric acid (HCL) is associated with acute and chronic lung injury. In this study, we investigate the effects of GHRHAnt in HCL-induced endothelial barrier dysfunction, utilizing commercially available bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (BPAEC). Cell viability was measured by utilizing 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol2-yl)- 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Moreover, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran was used to assess barrier function. Our observations suggest that GHRHAnt exert protective effects against HCL-induced endothelial breakdown, since those peptides counteract HCL-triggered paracellular hyperpermeability. Based on those findings, we propose that GHRHAnt represent a new therapeutic approach towards HCL-induced endothelial injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA.
| | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
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Akhter MS, Kubra KT, Barabutis N. Protective effects of GHRH antagonists against hydrogen peroxide-induced lung endothelial barrier disruption. Endocrine 2023; 79:587-592. [PMID: 36261700 PMCID: PMC9581763 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03226-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) is a hypothalamic hormone, which regulates growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary gland. GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) are anticancer agents, which also exert robust anti-inflammatory activities in malignancies. GHRHAnt exhibit anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects in vascular endothelial cells, indicating their potential use against disorders related to barrier dysfunction (e.g. sepsis). Herein, we aim to investigate the effects of GHRHAnt against lung endothelial hyperpermeability. METHODS The in vitro effects of GHRHAnt in H2O2-induced endothelial barrier dysfunction were investigated in bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (BPAEC). Electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) was utilized to measure transendothelial resistance, an indicator of barrier function. RESULTS Our results demonstrate that GHRHAnt protect against H2O2-induced endothelial barrier disruption via P53 and cofilin modulation. Both proteins are crucial modulators of vascular integrity. Moreover, GHRHAnt prevent H2O2 - induced decrease in transendothelial resistance. CONCLUSIONS GHRHAnt represent a promising therapeutic intervention towards diseases related to lung endothelial hyperpermeability, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome - related or not to COVID-19 - and sepsis. Targeted medicine for those potentially lethal disorders does not exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA.
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Barabutis N, Akhter MS, Kubra KT, Jackson K. Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone in Endothelial Inflammation. Endocrinology 2022; 164:6887354. [PMID: 36503995 PMCID: PMC9923806 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of hypothalamic hormones propelled exciting advances in pharmacotherapy and improved life quality worldwide. Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) is a crucial element in homeostasis maintenance, and regulates the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary gland. Accumulating evidence suggests that this neuropeptide can also promote malignancies, as well as inflammation. Our review is focused on the role of that 44 - amino acid peptide (GHRH) and its antagonists in inflammation and vascular function, summarizing recent findings in the corresponding field. Preclinical studies demonstrate the protective role of GHRH antagonists against endothelial barrier dysfunction, suggesting that the development of those peptides may lead to new therapies against pathologies related to vascular remodeling (eg, sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome). Targeted therapies for those diseases do not exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- Correspondence: Nektarios Barabutis, MSc, PhD, School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Dr, Monroe, LA 71201, USA.
| | | | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
| | - Keith Jackson
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
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Kubra KT, Barabutis N. P53 in endothelial function and unfolded protein response regulation. Cell Biol Int 2022; 46:2257-2261. [PMID: 35998257 PMCID: PMC9669132 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Vascular barrier dysfunction due to endothelial hyperpermeability has been associated with the pathophysiology of sepsis and severe lung injury, which may inflict acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Our group is focused on the mechanisms operating towards the regulation of endothelial permeability, to contribute in the development of efficient and targeted countermeasures against ARDS. Unfortunately, the number of ARDS-related deaths in the intensive care units has dramatically increased during the COVID-19 era. The findings described herein inform the corresponding scientific and medical community on the relation of P53 and stress responses in barrier function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadeja -Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
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Kubra KT, Akhter MS, Apperley K, Barabutis N. Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Antagonist JV-1-36 Suppresses Reactive Oxygen Species Generation in A549 Lung Cancer Cells. ENDOCRINES 2022; 3:813-820. [PMID: 36540765 PMCID: PMC9762825 DOI: 10.3390/endocrines3040067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and its receptors are expressed in a variety of human cancers, and have been involved in malignancies. GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) were developed to suppress tumor progression and metastasis. Previous studies demonstrate the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cancer progression. Herein, we investigate the effect of a commercially available GHRH antagonist, namely JV-1-36, in the redox status of the A549 human cancer cell line. Our results suggest that this peptide significantly reduces ROS production in those cells in a time-dependent manner and counteracts H2O2-induced ROS. Our study supports the anti-oxidative effects of JV-1-36 and contributes in our knowledge towards the in vitro effects of GHRHAnt in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Mohammad S. Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Apperley
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
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Kubra KT, Akhter MS, Saini Y, Kousoulas KG, Barabutis N. Activating transcription factor 6 protects against endothelial barrier dysfunction. Cell Signal 2022; 99:110432. [PMID: 35933031 PMCID: PMC10413362 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endothelial hyperpermeability is associated with sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The identification of molecular pathways involved in barrier dysfunction; may reveal promising therapeutic targets to combat ARDS. Unfolded protein response (UPR) is a highly conserved molecular pathway, which ameliorates endoplasmic reticulum stress. The present work focuses on the effects of ATF6, which is a UPR sensor, in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced endothelial hyperpermeability. METHODS The in vitro effects of AA147 and Ceapin-A7 in LPS-induced endothelial barrier dysfunction were investigated in bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (BPAEC). Small interfering (si) RNA was utilized to "silence" ATF6, and electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) measured transendothelial resistance. Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran assay was utilized to assess paracellular permeability. Protein expression levels were evaluated with Western blotting, and cell viability with MTT assay. RESULTS We demonstrated that AA147 prevents LPS-induced barrier disruption by counteracting Cofilin and myosin light chain 2 (MLC2) activation, as well as VE-Cadherin phosphorylation. Moreover, this ATF6 inducer opposed LPS-triggered decrease in transendothelial resistance (TEER), as well as LPS-induced paracellular hyperpermeability. On the other hand, ATF6 suppression due to Ceapin-A7 or small interfering RNA exerted the opposite effects, and potentiated LPS-induced endothelial barrier disruption. Moderate concentrations of both ATF6 modulators did not affect cell viability. CONCLUSIONS ATF6 activation protects against endothelial barrier function, suggesting that this UPR sensor may serve as a therapeutic target for sepsis and ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Yogesh Saini
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Konstantin G Kousoulas
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA.
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Wang X, Kong C, Liu P, Zhou B, Geng W, Tang H. Therapeutic Effects of Retinoic Acid in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction: Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation. J Inflamm Res 2022; 15:4963-4979. [PMID: 36105385 PMCID: PMC9467448 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s358374] [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: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Sepsis, which is deemed as a systemic inflammation reaction syndrome in the face of infectious stimuli, is the primary cause of death in ICUs. Sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC) may derive from systemic inflammation reaction and oxidative stress. Retinoic acid (RA) is recognized by its beneficial roles in terms of the immunoresponse to infections and antioxygen actions. However, the treatment efficacy and potential causal links of RA in SIC are still elusive. Methods By virtue of the STITCH database, we identified the targets of RA. Differentially expressed genes in SIC were acquired from the GEO database. The PPI network of intersected targets was established. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was completed. Hub genes were analyzed by cytoHubba plug-in. In the process of experimental validation, a mouse sepsis model was established by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and the treated mice were intraperitoneally injected with RA or Dexamethasone (DEX) 60 min prior to LPS injections. Survival conditions, cardiac functions and antioxidant levels of the mice were assessed. Cardiac inflammation and injury were detected by HE and TUNEL. The levels of key genes and signal pathway expression were analyzed by RT-PCR and Western blot. Results PPARA, ITGAM, VCAM-1, IGF-1 and IL-6 were identified as key therapeutic targets of RA by network pharmacology. PI3K-Akt signaling pathway is the main regulatory pathway of RA. In vivo researches unraveled that RA can improve the survival rate and cardiac function of LPS-treated mice, inhibit inflammatory factors and myocardial injury, and regulate the expression of key therapeutic targets and key pathways, which is PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Conclusion Network pharmacological method offers a predicative strategy to explore the treatment efficacy and causal links of RA in endotoxemic myocarditis. Through experimental verification, we discover that RA can reduce lipopolysaccharide-induced cardiac dysfunction by regulating the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and key genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Wang
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Perioperative Medicine, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chang Kong
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pan Liu
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Perioperative Medicine, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Baofeng Zhou
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Perioperative Medicine, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wujun Geng
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Perioperative Medicine, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongli Tang
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Perioperative Medicine, Wenzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Hongli Tang; Wujun Geng, Doctor’s Degree, Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Nanbaixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 13587436057; +86 15325502139, Fax +86 0577-88069555, Email ;
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Zheng Q, Zou Y, Teng P, Chen Z, Wu Y, Dai X, Li X, Hu Z, Wu S, Xu Y, Zou W, Song H, Ma L. Mechanosensitive Channel PIEZO1 Senses Shear Force to Induce KLF2/4 Expression via CaMKII/MEKK3/ERK5 Axis in Endothelial Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142191. [PMID: 35883633 PMCID: PMC9317998 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Shear stress exerted by the blood stream modulates endothelial functions through altering gene expression. KLF2 and KLF4, the mechanosensitive transcription factors, are promoted by laminar flow to maintain endothelial homeostasis. However, how the expression of KLF2/4 is regulated by shear stress is poorly understood. Here, we showed that the activation of PIEZO1 upregulates the expression of KLF2/4 in endothelial cells. Mice with endothelial-specific deletion of Piezo1 exhibit reduced KLF2/4 expression in thoracic aorta and pulmonary vascular endothelial cells. Mechanistically, shear stress activates PIEZO1, which results in a calcium influx and subsequently activation of CaMKII. CaMKII interacts with and activates MEKK3 to promote MEKK3/MEK5/ERK5 signaling and ultimately induce the transcription of KLF2/4. Our data provide the molecular insight into how endothelial cells sense and convert mechanical stimuli into a biological response to promote KLF2/4 expression for the maintenance of endothelial function and homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
| | - Yonggang Zou
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
| | - Peng Teng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
| | - Zhenghua Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
| | - Yuefeng Wu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
| | - Xiaoyi Dai
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
| | - Xiya Li
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
| | - Zonghao Hu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
| | - Shengjun Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
| | - Yanhua Xu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
| | - Weiguo Zou
- CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- Correspondence: (W.Z.); (H.S.); (L.M.)
| | - Hai Song
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
- Correspondence: (W.Z.); (H.S.); (L.M.)
| | - Liang Ma
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
- Correspondence: (W.Z.); (H.S.); (L.M.)
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Abstract
Endothelial barrier dysfunction is associated with sepsis and lung injury, both direct and indirect. We discuss the involvement of unfolded protein response in the protective effects of heat shock protein 90 inhibitors and growth hormone releasing hormone antagonists in the vascular barrier, to reveal new possibilities in acute respiratory distress syndrome treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
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Kubra KT, Uddin MA, Barabutis N. Tunicamycin Protects against LPS-Induced Lung Injury. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020134. [PMID: 35215247 PMCID: PMC8876572 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The pulmonary endothelium is a dynamic semipermeable barrier that orchestrates tissue-fluid homeostasis; regulating physiological and immunological responses. Endothelial abnormalities are caused by inflammatory stimuli interacting with intracellular messengers to remodel cytoskeletal junctions and adhesion proteins. Those phenomena are associated with sepsis, acute lung injury, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. The molecular processes beyond those responses are the main interest of our group. Unfolded protein response (UPR) is a highly conserved molecular pathway resolving protein-folding defects to counteract cellular threats. An emerging body of evidence suggests that UPR is a promising target against lung and cardiovascular disease. In the present study, we reveal that Tunicamycin (TM) (UPR inducer) protects against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced injury. The barrier function of the inflamed endothelium was evaluated in vitro (transendothelial and paracellular permeability); as well as in mice exposed to TM after LPS. Our study demonstrates that TM supports vascular barrier function by modulating actomyosin remodeling. Moreover, it reduces the internalization of vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin), enhancing endothelial integrity. We suggest that UPR activation may deliver novel therapeutic opportunities in diseases related to endothelial dysregulation.
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Akhter MS, Kubra KT, Uddin MA, Jois S, Barabutis N. An antagonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone protects against LPS-induced increase of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid protein concentration. Inflamm Res 2022; 71:183-185. [PMID: 34993559 PMCID: PMC8736306 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-021-01531-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) is a neuropeptide regulating the release of Growth Hormone (GH) from the anterior pituitary gland, and acts as a growth factor in a diverse variety of tissues. GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) have been developed to counteract those events, and the beneficial effects of those peptides toward homeostasis have been associated with anti-inflammatory activities. Our lab is interested in delineating the mechanisms governing endothelial barrier function. Our goal is to establish new grounds on the development of efficient countermeasures against Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), which has been associated with thousands of deaths worldwide due to COVID-19. Herein we demonstrate in vivo that GHRHAnt suppresses LPS-induced increase in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) protein concentration, thus protecting the lungs against edema and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Mohammad A Uddin
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Seetharama Jois
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA.
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Kubra KT, Uddin MA, Akhter MS, Leo AJ, Siejka A, Barabutis N. P53 mediates the protective effects of metformin in inflamed lung endothelial cells. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 101:108367. [PMID: 34794886 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The endothelial barrier regulates interstitial fluid homeostasis by transcellular and paracellular means. Dysregulation of this semipermeable barrier may lead to vascular leakage, edema, and accumulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inducing microvascular hyperpermeability. Investigating the molecular pathways involved in those events will most probably provide novel therapeutic possibilities in pathologies related to endothelial barrier dysfunction. Metformin (MET) is an anti-diabetic drug, opposes malignancies, inhibits cellular transformation, and promotes cardiovascular protection. In the current study, we assess the protective effects of MET in LPS-induced lung endothelial barrier dysfunction and evaluate the role of P53 in mediating the beneficial effects of MET in the vasculature. We revealed that this biguanide (MET) opposes the LPS-induced dysregulation of the lung microvasculature, since it suppressed the formation of filamentous actin stress fibers, and deactivated cofilin. To investigate whether P53 is involved in those phenomena, we employed the fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) - dextran permeability assay, to measure paracellular permeability. Our observations suggest that P53 inhibition increases paracellular permeability, and MET prevents those effects. Our results contribute towards the understanding of the lung endothelium and reveal the significant role of P53 in the MET-induced barrier enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Mohammad A Uddin
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Antoinette J Leo
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Agnieszka Siejka
- Department of Clinical Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA.
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15
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Uddin MA, Akhter MS, Kubra KT, Barabutis N. Induction of the NEK family of kinases in the lungs of mice subjected to cecal ligation and puncture model of sepsis. Tissue Barriers 2021; 9:1929787. [PMID: 34151722 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2021.1929787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial barrier dysfunction (EBD) is the hallmark of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), a potentially lethal respiratory disorder associated with the COVID-19 - related deaths. Herein, we employed a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) murine model of sepsis, to evaluate the effects of sepsis-induced EBD in the expression of the never in mitosis A (NIMA)-related kinases (NEKs). Members of that family of kinases regulate the activity and expression of the tumor suppressor P53, previously shown to modulate the actin cytoskeleton remodeling. Our results introduce the induction of NEK2, NEK3, NEK4, NEK7, and NEK9 in a CLP model of sepsis. Hence, we suggest that NEKs are involved in inflammatory processes and are holding the potential to serve as novel therapeutic targets for pathologies related to EBD, including ARDS and sepsis. Further studies will delineate the underlying molecular events and their interrelations with P53.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A Uddin
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana USA
| | - Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana USA
| | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana USA
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Akhter MS, Barabutis N. Suppression of reactive oxygen species in endothelial cells by an antagonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2021; 35:e22879. [PMID: 34369038 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) is a hypothalamic hormone, which regulates the secretion of growth hormone (GH) from the anterior pituitary gland. The effects of GHRH extend beyond the GH-insulin-like growth factor I axis, and that neuropeptide has been involved in the potentiation of several malignancies and other inflammatory disorders. The development of GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) delivers an exciting possibility to counteract the pathogenesis of the GHRH-related effects in human pathophysiology, especially when considered that GHRHAnt support endothelial barrier integrity. Those GHRHAnt-mediated effects are exerted at least in part due to the suppression of major inflammatory pathways, and the modulation of major cytoskeletal components. In the present study, we measured the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells, human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells, and human lung microvascular endothelial cells exposed to GHRH or a commercially available GHRHAnt. Our findings reveal the antioxidative effects of GHRHAnt in all three cell lines, which express GHRH receptors. The redox status of NIH/3T3 cells, which do not produce GHRH receptors, was not significantly affected by GHRH or GHRHAnt. Hence, the application of GHRHAnt in pathologies related to increased ROS production should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
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Akhter MS, Uddin MA, Kubra KT, Barabutis N. Elucidation of the Molecular Pathways Involved in the Protective Effects of AUY-922 in LPS-Induced Inflammation in Mouse Lungs. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14060522. [PMID: 34072430 PMCID: PMC8226636 DOI: 10.3390/ph14060522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) cause thousands of deaths every year and are associated with high mortality rates (~40%) due to the lack of efficient therapies. Understanding the molecular mechanisms associated with those diseases will most probably lead to novel therapeutics. In the present study, we investigated the effects of the Hsp90 inhibitor AUY-922 in the major inflammatory pathways of mouse lungs. Mice were treated with LPS (1.6 mg/kg) via intratracheal instillation for 24 h and were then post-treated intraperitoneally with AUY-922 (10 mg/kg). The animals were examined 48 h after AUY-922 injection. LPS activated the TLR4-mediated signaling pathways, which in turn induced the release of different inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. AUY-922 suppressed the LPS-induced inflammation by inhibiting major pro-inflammatory pathways (e.g., JAK2/STAT3, MAPKs), and downregulated the IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1 and TNFα. The expression levels of the redox regulator APE1/Ref1, as well as the DNA-damage inducible kinases ATM and ATR, were also increased after LPS treatment. Those effects were counteracted by AUY-922. Interestingly, this Hsp90 inhibitor abolished the LPS-induced pIRE1α suppression, a major component of the unfolded protein response. Our study elucidates the molecular pathways involved in the progression of murine inflammation and supports our efforts on the development of new therapeutics against lung inflammatory diseases and sepsis.
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Priyanka HP, Nair RS, Kumaraguru S, Saravanaraj K, Ramasamy V. Insights on neuroendocrine regulation of immune mediators in female reproductive aging and cancer. AIMS MOLECULAR SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.3934/molsci.2021010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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