1
|
Yasamineh S, Mehrabani FJ, Derafsh E, Danihiel Cosimi R, Forood AMK, Soltani S, Hadi M, Gholizadeh O. Potential Use of the Cholesterol Transfer Inhibitor U18666A as a Potent Research Tool for the Study of Cholesterol Mechanisms in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:3503-3527. [PMID: 37995080 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03798-7] [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: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol is an essential component of mammalian cell membranes and a precursor for crucial signaling molecules. The brain contains the highest level of cholesterol in the body, and abnormal cholesterol metabolism links to many neurodegenerative disorders. The results indicate that faulty cholesterol metabolism is a common feature among people living with neurodegenerative conditions. The researchers suggest that restoring cholesterol levels may become a beneficial new strategy in treating certain neurodegenerative conditions. Several neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Niemann-Pick type C (NPC) disease, and Parkinson's disease (PD), have been connected to abnormalities in brain cholesterol metabolism. Consequently, using a lipid research tool is vital to study further and understand the effect of lipids in neurodegenerative disorders such as NPC, AD, PD, and Huntington's disease (HD). U18666A, also known as 3-(2-(diethylamino) ethoxy) androst-5-en-17-one, is a pharmaceutical drug that suppresses cholesterol trafficking and is a well-known class-2 amphiphile. U18666A has performed many functions, allowing for essential discoveries in lipid studies and shedding light on the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, U18666A prevented the downregulation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors that are induced by LDL and led to the buildup of cholesterol in lysosomes. Numerous studies show that U18666A impacts the function of cholesterol trafficking to control the metabolism and transport of amyloid precursor proteins (APPs). Treating cortical neurons with U18666A may provide a new in vitro model system for studying the underlying molecular process of NPC, AD, HD, and PD. In this article, we review the mechanism and function of U18666A as a vital tool for studying cholesterol mechanisms in neurological diseases related to abnormal cholesterol metabolism, such as AD, NPC, HD, and PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ehsan Derafsh
- Windsor University School of Medicine, Cayon, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | | | | | - Siamak Soltani
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meead Hadi
- Department Of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Tehran Central Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Öz-Arslan D, Durer ZA, Kan B. G protein-coupled receptor-mediated autophagy in health and disease. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38501194 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16345] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute the largest and most diverse superfamily of mammalian transmembrane proteins. These receptors are involved in a wide range of physiological functions and are targets for more than a third of available drugs in the market. Autophagy is a cellular process involved in degrading damaged proteins and organelles and in recycling cellular components. Deficiencies in autophagy are involved in a variety of pathological conditions. Both GPCRs and autophagy are essential in preserving homeostasis and cell survival. There is emerging evidence suggesting that GPCRs are direct regulators of autophagy. Additionally, autophagic machinery is involved in the regulation of GPCR signalling. The interplay between GPCR and autophagic signalling mechanisms significantly impacts on health and disease; however, there is still an incomplete understanding of the underlying mechanisms and therapeutic implications in different tissues and disease contexts. This review aims to discuss the interactions between GPCR and autophagy signalling. Studies on muscarinic receptors, beta-adrenoceptors, taste receptors, purinergic receptors and adhesion GPCRs are summarized, in relation to autophagy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devrim Öz-Arslan
- Department of Biophysics, Acibadem MAA University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Aslıhan Durer
- Department of Biophysics, Acibadem MAA University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Biochemistry, Acibadem MAA University, School of Pharmacy, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Beki Kan
- Department of Biophysics, Acibadem MAA University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chaptal MC, Maraninchi M, Musto G, Mancini J, Chtioui H, Dupont-Roussel J, Marlinge M, Fromonot J, Lalevee N, Mourre F, Beliard S, Guieu R, Valero R, Mottola G. Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Decreases the Expression of Adenosine A 2A Receptor and Lipid Rafts-Protein Flotillin-1: Insights on Cardiovascular Risk of Hypercholesterolemia. Cells 2024; 13:488. [PMID: 38534331 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060488] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
High blood levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol (LDL-C) are associated with atherosclerosis, mainly by promoting foam cell accumulation in vessels. As cholesterol is an essential component of cell plasma membranes and a regulator of several signaling pathways, LDL-C excess may have wider cardiovascular toxicity. We examined, in untreated hypercholesterolemia (HC) patients, selected regardless of the cause of LDL-C accumulation, and in healthy participants (HP), the expression of the adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR), an anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory protein with cholesterol-dependent modulation, and Flotillin-1, protein marker of cholesterol-enriched plasma membrane domains. Blood cardiovascular risk and inflammatory biomarkers were measured. A2AR and Flotillin-1 expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was lower in patients compared to HP and negatively correlated to LDL-C blood levels. No other differences were observed between the two groups apart from transferrin and ferritin concentrations. A2AR and Flotillin-1 proteins levels were positively correlated in the whole study population. Incubation of HP PBMCs with LDL-C caused a similar reduction in A2AR and Flotillin-1 expression. We suggest that LDL-C affects A2AR expression by impacting cholesterol-enriched membrane microdomains. Our results provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying cholesterol toxicity, and may have important clinical implication for assessment and treatment of cardiovascular risk in HC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Charlotte Chaptal
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Marie Maraninchi
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Giorgia Musto
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Julien Mancini
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Hedi Chtioui
- Department of Nutrition, Metabolic Diseases and Endocrinology, Hospital La Conception, APHM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Janine Dupont-Roussel
- Department of Nutrition, Metabolic Diseases and Endocrinology, Hospital La Conception, APHM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Marion Marlinge
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
- Secteur de Biochimie, Biogenopôle, Hôpital de la Timone, APHM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Julien Fromonot
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
- Secteur de Biochimie, Biogenopôle, Hôpital de la Timone, APHM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Nathalie Lalevee
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Florian Mourre
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
- Department of Nutrition, Metabolic Diseases and Endocrinology, Hospital La Conception, APHM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Sophie Beliard
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
- Department of Nutrition, Metabolic Diseases and Endocrinology, Hospital La Conception, APHM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Régis Guieu
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
- Secteur de Biochimie, Biogenopôle, Hôpital de la Timone, APHM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - René Valero
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
- Department of Nutrition, Metabolic Diseases and Endocrinology, Hospital La Conception, APHM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Giovanna Mottola
- Centre de Recherche en Cardiovasculaire et Nutrition (C2VN), Aix-Marseille Université, INSERM 1263, INRAE 1260, 13005 Marseille, France
- Secteur de Biochimie, Biogenopôle, Hôpital de la Timone, APHM, 13005 Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Skopál A, Ujlaki G, Gerencsér AT, Bankó C, Bacsó Z, Ciruela F, Virág L, Haskó G, Kókai E. Adenosine A 2A Receptor Activation Regulates Niemann-Pick C1 Expression and Localization in Macrophages. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:4948-4969. [PMID: 37367064 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45060315] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Adenosine plays an important role in modulating immune cell function, particularly T cells and myeloid cells, such as macrophages and dendritic cells. Cell surface adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR) regulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, as well as the proliferation, differentiation, and migration of immune cells. In the present study, we expanded the A2AR interactome and provided evidence for the interaction between the receptor and the Niemann-Pick type C intracellular cholesterol transporter 1 (NPC1) protein. The NPC1 protein was identified to interact with the C-terminal tail of A2AR in RAW 264.7 and IPMФ cells by two independent and parallel proteomic approaches. The interaction between the NPC1 protein and the full-length A2AR was further validated in HEK-293 cells that permanently express the receptor and RAW264.7 cells that endogenously express A2AR. A2AR activation reduces the expression of NPC1 mRNA and protein density in LPS-activated mouse IPMФ cells. Additionally, stimulation of A2AR negatively regulates the cell surface expression of NPC1 in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Furthermore, stimulation of A2AR also altered the density of lysosome-associated membrane protein 2 (LAMP2) and early endosome antigen 1 (EEA1), two endosomal markers associated with the NPC1 protein. Collectively, these results suggested a putative A2AR-mediated regulation of NPC1 protein function in macrophages, potentially relevant for the Niemann-Pick type C disease when mutations in NPC1 protein result in the accumulation of cholesterol and other lipids in lysosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrienn Skopál
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gyula Ujlaki
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Attila Tibor Gerencsér
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Csaba Bankó
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Bacsó
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Francisco Ciruela
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Neuropharmacology and Pain Group, Neuroscience Program, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - László Virág
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- MTA-DE Cell Biology and Signaling Research Group, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - György Haskó
- Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Endre Kókai
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Section of Dental Biochemistry, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Qi C, Feng Y, Jiang Y, Chen W, Vakal S, Chen JF, Zheng W. A 2AR antagonist treatment for multiple sclerosis: Current progress and future prospects. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 170:185-223. [PMID: 37741692 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that both selective and non-selective Adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) antagonists could effectively protect mice from experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), which is the most commonly used animal model for multiple sclerosis (MS) research. Meanwhile, the recent FDA approval of Nourianz® (istradefylline) in 2019 as an add-on treatment to levodopa in Parkinson's disease (PD) with "OFF" episodes, along with its proven clinical safety, has prompted us to explore the potential of A2AR antagonists in treating multiple sclerosis (MS) through clinical trials. However, despite promising findings in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the complex and contradictory role of A2AR signaling in EAE pathology has raised concerns about the feasibility of using A2AR antagonists as a therapeutic approach for MS. This review addresses the potential effect of A2AR antagonists on EAE/MS in both the peripheral immune system (PIS) and the central nervous system (CNS). In brief, A2AR antagonists had a moderate effect on the proliferation and inflammatory response, while exhibiting a potent anti-inflammatory effect in the CNS through their impact on microglia, astrocytes, and the endothelial cells/epithelium of the blood-brain barrier. Consequently, A2AR signaling remains an essential immunomodulator in EAE/MS, suggesting that A2AR antagonists hold promise as a drug class for treating MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenxing Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, P.R. China; Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yijia Feng
- Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Aging, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Yiwei Jiang
- Alberta Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wangchao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, P.R. China
| | - Serhii Vakal
- Structural Bioinformatics Laboratory, Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Jiang-Fan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, P.R. China; Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, P.R. China; Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Garcia CP, Licht-Murava A, Orr AG. Effects of adenosine A 2A receptors on cognitive function in health and disease. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 170:121-154. [PMID: 37741689 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.04.006] [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: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Adenosine A2A receptors have been studied extensively in the context of motor function and movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease. In addition to these roles, A2A receptors have also been increasingly implicated in cognitive function and cognitive impairments in diverse conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, acute brain injury, and stress. We review the roles of A2A receptors in cognitive processes in health and disease, focusing primarily on the effects of reducing or enhancing A2A expression levels or activities in animal models. Studies reveal that A2A receptors in neurons and astrocytes modulate multiple aspects of cognitive function, including memory and motivation. Converging evidence also indicates that A2A receptor levels and activities are aberrantly increased in aging, acute brain injury, and chronic disorders, and these increases contribute to neurocognitive impairments. Therapeutically targeting A2A receptors with selective modulators may alleviate cognitive deficits in diverse neurological and neuropsychiatric conditions. Further research on the exact neural mechanisms of these effects as well as the efficacy of selective A2A modulators on cognitive alterations in humans are important areas for future investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cinthia P Garcia
- Appel Alzheimer's Disease Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Pharmacology Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Avital Licht-Murava
- Appel Alzheimer's Disease Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Anna G Orr
- Appel Alzheimer's Disease Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pfrieger FW. The Niemann-Pick type diseases – A synopsis of inborn errors in sphingolipid and cholesterol metabolism. Prog Lipid Res 2023; 90:101225. [PMID: 37003582 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2023.101225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Disturbances of lipid homeostasis in cells provoke human diseases. The elucidation of the underlying mechanisms and the development of efficient therapies represent formidable challenges for biomedical research. Exemplary cases are two rare, autosomal recessive, and ultimately fatal lysosomal diseases historically named "Niemann-Pick" honoring the physicians, whose pioneering observations led to their discovery. Acid sphingomyelinase deficiency (ASMD) and Niemann-Pick type C disease (NPCD) are caused by specific variants of the sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase 1 (SMPD1) and NPC intracellular cholesterol transporter 1 (NPC1) or NPC intracellular cholesterol transporter 2 (NPC2) genes that perturb homeostasis of two key membrane components, sphingomyelin and cholesterol, respectively. Patients with severe forms of these diseases present visceral and neurologic symptoms and succumb to premature death. This synopsis traces the tortuous discovery of the Niemann-Pick diseases, highlights important advances with respect to genetic culprits and cellular mechanisms, and exposes efforts to improve diagnosis and to explore new therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
|
8
|
Gray J, Fernández-Suárez ME, Falah M, Smith D, Smith C, Kaya E, Palmer AM, Fog CK, Kirkegaard T, Platt FM. Heat shock protein amplification improves cerebellar myelination in the Npc1 nih mouse model. EBioMedicine 2022; 86:104374. [PMID: 36455410 PMCID: PMC9713282 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC) is a rare prematurely fatal lysosomal lipid storage disease with limited therapeutic options. The prominent neuropathological hallmarks include hypomyelination and cerebellar atrophy. We previously demonstrated the efficacy of recombinant human heat shock protein 70 (rhHSP70) in preclinical models of the disease. It reduced glycosphingolipid levels in the central nervous system (CNS), improving cerebellar myelination and improved behavioural phenotypes in Npc1nih (Npc1-/-) mice. Furthermore, treatment with arimoclomol, a well-characterised HSP amplifier, attenuated lysosomal storage in NPC patient fibroblasts and improved neurological symptoms in Npc1-/- mice. Taken together, these findings prompted the investigation of the effects of HSP amplification on CNS myelination. METHODS We administered bimoclomol daily or rhHSP70 6 times per week to Npc1-/- (BALB/cNctr-Npc1m1N/J, also named Npc1nih) mice by intraperitoneal injection from P7 through P34 to investigate the impact on CNS myelination. The Src-kinase inhibitor saracatinib was administered with/without bimoclomol twice daily to explore the contribution of Fyn kinase to bimoclomol's effects. FINDINGS Treatment with either bimoclomol or rhHSP70 improved myelination and increased the numbers of mature oligodendrocytes (OLs) as well as the ratio of active-to-inactive forms of phosphorylated Fyn kinase in the cerebellum of Npc1-/- mice. Additionally, treatment with bimoclomol preserved cerebellar weight, an effect that was abrogated when co-administered with saracatinib, an inhibitor of Fyn kinase. Bimoclomol-treated mice also exhibited increased numbers of immature OLs within the cortex. INTERPRETATION These data increase our understanding of the mechanisms by which HSP70 regulates myelination and provide further support for the clinical development of HSP-amplifying therapies in the treatment of NPC. FUNDING Funding for this study was provided by Orphazyme A/S (Copenhagen, Denmark) and a Pathfinder Award from The Wellcome Trust.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Gray
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK
| | | | - Maysa Falah
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK
| | - David Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK
| | - Claire Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK
| | - Ecem Kaya
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK
| | - Ashley M Palmer
- Orphazyme A/S, Ole Maaloes Vej 3, Copenhagen DK-2200, Denmark
| | - Cathrine K Fog
- Orphazyme A/S, Ole Maaloes Vej 3, Copenhagen DK-2200, Denmark
| | | | - Frances M Platt
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Passarella D, Ronci M, Di Liberto V, Zuccarini M, Mudò G, Porcile C, Frinchi M, Di Iorio P, Ulrich H, Russo C. Bidirectional Control between Cholesterol Shuttle and Purine Signal at the Central Nervous System. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158683. [PMID: 35955821 PMCID: PMC9369131 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have highlighted the mechanisms controlling the formation of cerebral cholesterol, which is synthesized in situ primarily by astrocytes, where it is loaded onto apolipoproteins and delivered to neurons and oligodendrocytes through interactions with specific lipoprotein receptors. The “cholesterol shuttle” is influenced by numerous proteins or carbohydrates, which mainly modulate the lipoprotein receptor activity, function and signaling. These molecules, provided with enzymatic/proteolytic activity leading to the formation of peptide fragments of different sizes and specific sequences, could be also responsible for machinery malfunctions, which are associated with neurological, neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. In this context, we have pointed out that purines, ancestral molecules acting as signal molecules and neuromodulators at the central nervous system, can influence the homeostatic machinery of the cerebral cholesterol turnover and vice versa. Evidence gathered so far indicates that purine receptors, mainly the subtypes P2Y2, P2X7 and A2A, are involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Niemann–Pick C diseases, by controlling the brain cholesterol homeostasis; in addition, alterations in cholesterol turnover can hinder the purine receptor function. Although the precise mechanisms of these interactions are currently poorly understood, the results here collected on cholesterol–purine reciprocal control could hopefully promote further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Passarella
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Maurizio Ronci
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Liberto
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Mariachiara Zuccarini
- Department of Medical Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Mudò
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Carola Porcile
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Monica Frinchi
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Patrizia Di Iorio
- Department of Medical Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Henning Ulrich
- Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-060, Brazil
| | - Claudio Russo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-087-440-4897
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhang S, Zhao J, Quan Z, Li H, Qing H. Mitochondria and Other Organelles in Neural Development and Their Potential as Therapeutic Targets in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:853911. [PMID: 35450015 PMCID: PMC9016280 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.853911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The contribution of organelles to neural development has received increasing attention. Studies have shown that organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), lysosomes, and endosomes play important roles in neurogenesis. Specifically, metabolic switching, reactive oxygen species production, mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy, mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, and the interaction between mitochondria and the ER all have roles in neurogenesis. Lysosomes and endosomes can regulate neurite growth and extension. Moreover, metabolic reprogramming represents a novel strategy for generating functional neurons. Accordingly, the exploration and application of mechanisms underlying metabolic reprogramming will be beneficial for neural conversion and regenerative medicine. There is adequate evidence implicating the dysfunction of cellular organelles—especially mitochondria—in neurodegenerative disorders, and that improvement of mitochondrial function may reverse the progression of these diseases through the reinforcement of adult neurogenesis. Therefore, these organelles have potential as therapeutic targets for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss the function of these organelles, especially mitochondria, in neural development, focusing on their potential as therapeutic targets in neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuyuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Zhao
- Aerospace Medical Center, Aerospace Center Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenzhen Quan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hui Li,
| | - Hong Qing
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Hong Qing,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Repurposing Dipyridamole in Niemann Pick Type C Disease: A Proof of Concept Study. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073456. [PMID: 35408815 PMCID: PMC8999038 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Niemann Pick type C disease (NPC) is a rare disorder characterized by lysosomal lipid accumulation that damages peripheral organs and the central nervous system. Currently, only miglustat is authorized for NPC treatment in Europe, and thus the identification of new therapies is necessary. The hypothesis addressed in this study is that increasing adenosine levels may represent a new therapeutic approach for NPC. In fact, a reduced level of adenosine has been shown in the brain of animal models of NPC; moreover, the compound T1-11, which is able to weakly stimulate A2A receptor and to increase adenosine levels by blocking the equilibrative nucleoside transporter ENT1, significantly ameliorated the pathological phenotype and extended the survival in a mouse model of the disease. To test our hypothesis, fibroblasts from NPC1 patients were treated with dipyridamole, a clinically-approved drug with inhibitory activity towards ENT1. Dipyridamole significantly reduced cholesterol accumulation in fibroblasts and rescued mitochondrial deficits; the mechanism elicited by dipyridamole relies on activation of the adenosine A2AR subtype subsequent to the increased levels of extracellular adenosine due to the inhibition of ENT1. In conclusion, our results provide the proof of concept that targeting adenosine tone could be beneficial in NPC.
Collapse
|
12
|
Bernardo A, Malara M, Bertuccini L, De Nuccio C, Visentin S, Minghetti L. The Antihypertensive Drug Telmisartan Protects Oligodendrocytes from Cholesterol Accumulation and Promotes Differentiation by a PPAR-γ-Mediated Mechanism. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179434. [PMID: 34502342 PMCID: PMC8431237 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Our previous studies have demonstrated that specific peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) agonists play a fundamental role in oligodendrocyte progenitor (OP) differentiation, protecting them against oxidative and inflammatory damage. The antihypertensive drug Telmisartan (TLM) was shown to act as a PPAR-γ modulator. This study investigates the TLM effect on OP differentiation and validates its capability to restore damage in a pharmacological model of Niemann-Pick type C (NPC) disease through a PPAR-γ-mediated mechanism. For the first time in purified OPs, we demonstrate that TLM-induced PPAR-γ activation downregulates the type 1 angiotensin II receptor (AT1), the level of which naturally decreases during differentiation. Like other PPAR-γ agonists, we show that TLM promotes peroxisomal proliferation and promotes OP differentiation. Furthermore, TLM can offset the OP maturation arrest induced by a lysosomal cholesterol transport inhibitor (U18666A), which reproduces an NPC1-like phenotype. In the NPC1 model, TLM also reduces cholesterol accumulation within peroxisomal and lysosomal compartments and the contacts between lysosomes and peroxisomes, revealing that TLM can regulate intracellular cholesterol transport, crucial for myelin formation. Altogether, these data indicate a new potential use of TLM in hypomyelination pathologies such as NPC1, underlining the possible repositioning of the drug already used in other pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Bernardo
- National Center for Research and Preclinical and Clinical Evaluation of Drugs, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00169 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-4990-2927
| | | | - Lucia Bertuccini
- Core Facilities, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00169 Rome, Italy;
| | - Chiara De Nuccio
- Research Coordination and Support Service, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00169 Rome, Italy; (C.D.N.); (L.M.)
| | - Sergio Visentin
- National Center for Research and Preclinical and Clinical Evaluation of Drugs, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00169 Rome, Italy;
| | - Luisa Minghetti
- Research Coordination and Support Service, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00169 Rome, Italy; (C.D.N.); (L.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bernardo A, De Nuccio C, Visentin S, Martire A, Minghetti L, Popoli P, Ferrante A. Myelin Defects in Niemann-Pick Type C Disease: Mechanisms and Possible Therapeutic Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168858. [PMID: 34445564 PMCID: PMC8396228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Niemann–Pick type C (NPC) disease is a wide-spectrum clinical condition classified as a neurovisceral disorder affecting mainly the liver and the brain. It is caused by mutations in one of two genes, NPC1 and NPC2, coding for proteins located in the lysosomes. NPC proteins are deputed to transport cholesterol within lysosomes or between late endosome/lysosome systems and other cellular compartments, such as the endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membrane. The first trait of NPC is the accumulation of unesterified cholesterol and other lipids, like sphingosine and glycosphingolipids, in the late endosomal and lysosomal compartments, which causes the blockade of autophagic flux and the impairment of mitochondrial functions. In the brain, the main consequences of NPC are cerebellar neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, and myelin defects. This review will focus on myelin defects and the pivotal importance of cholesterol for myelination and will offer an overview of the molecular targets and the pharmacological strategies so far proposed, or an object of clinical trials for NPC. Finally, it will summarize recent data on a new and promising pharmacological perspective involving A2A adenosine receptor stimulation in genetic and pharmacological NPC dysmyelination models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Bernardo
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.P.)
| | - Chiara De Nuccio
- Research Coordination and Support Service, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.D.N.); (L.M.)
| | - Sergio Visentin
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.P.)
| | - Alberto Martire
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.P.)
| | - Luisa Minghetti
- Research Coordination and Support Service, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (C.D.N.); (L.M.)
| | - Patrizia Popoli
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.P.)
| | - Antonella Ferrante
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (S.V.); (A.M.); (P.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-49902050
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Holzmann C, Witt M, Rolfs A, Antipova V, Wree A. Gender-Specific Effects of Two Treatment Strategies in a Mouse Model of Niemann-Pick Disease Type C1. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052539. [PMID: 33802605 PMCID: PMC7962008 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In a mouse model of Niemann-Pick disease type C1 (NPC1), a combination therapy (COMBI) of miglustat (MIGLU), the neurosteroid allopregnanolone (ALLO) and the cyclic oligosaccharide 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPßCD) has previously resulted in, among other things, significantly improved motor function. The present study was designed to compare the therapeutic effects of the COMBI therapy with that of MIGLU or HPßCD alone on body and brain weight and the behavior of NPC1−/− mice in a larger cohort, with special reference to gender differences. A total of 117 NPC1−/− and 123 NPC1+/+ mice underwent either COMBI, MIGLU only, HPßCD only, or vehicle treatment (Sham), or received no treatment at all (None). In male and female NPC1−/− mice, all treatments led to decreased loss of body weight and, partly, brain weight. Concerning motor coordination, as revealed by the accelerod test, male NPC1−/− mice benefited from COMBI treatment, whereas female mice benefited from COMBI, MIGLU, and HPßCD treatment. As seen in the open field test, the reduced locomotor activity of male and female NPC1−/− mice was not significantly ameliorated in either treatment group. Our results suggest that in NPC1−/− mice, each drug treatment scheme had a beneficial effect on at least some of the parameters evaluated compared with Sham-treated mice. Only in COMBI-treated male and female NPC+/+ mice were drug effects seen in reduced body and brain weights. Upon COMBI treatment, the increased dosage of drugs necessary for anesthesia in Sham-treated male and female NPC1−/− mice was almost completely reduced only in the female groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carsten Holzmann
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Rostock University Medical Center, D-18057 Rostock, Germany;
- Centre of Transdisciplinary Neuroscience Rostock, D-18147 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Martin Witt
- Centre of Transdisciplinary Neuroscience Rostock, D-18147 Rostock, Germany;
- Institute of Anatomy, Rostock University Medical Center, D-18057 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Arndt Rolfs
- Centogene AG, Rostock, Am Strande 7, 18055 Rostock, Germany;
- University of Rostock, 18055 Rostock, Germany
| | - Veronica Antipova
- Institute of Anatomy, Rostock University Medical Center, D-18057 Rostock, Germany;
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Macroscopic and Clinical Anatomy, Medical University of Graz, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Wree
- Centre of Transdisciplinary Neuroscience Rostock, D-18147 Rostock, Germany;
- Institute of Anatomy, Rostock University Medical Center, D-18057 Rostock, Germany;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-381-494-8429
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bernardo A, Plumitallo C, De Nuccio C, Visentin S, Minghetti L. Curcumin promotes oligodendrocyte differentiation and their protection against TNF-α through the activation of the nuclear receptor PPAR-γ. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4952. [PMID: 33654147 PMCID: PMC7925682 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83938-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Curcumin is a compound found in the rhizome of Curcuma longa (turmeric) with a large repertoire of pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activities. The current study aims to assess the effects of this natural compound on oligodendrocyte progenitor (OP) differentiation, particularly in inflammatory conditions. We found that curcumin can promote the differentiation of OPs and to counteract the maturation arrest of OPs induced by TNF-α by a mechanism involving PPAR-γ (peroxisome proliferator activated receptor), a ligand-activated transcription factor with neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory capabilities. Furthermore, curcumin induces the phosphorylation of the protein kinase ERK1/2 known to regulate the transition from OPs to immature oligodendrocytes (OLs), by a mechanism only partially dependent on PPAR-γ. Curcumin is also able to raise the levels of the co-factor PGC1-α and of the cytochrome c oxidase core protein COX1, even when OPs are exposed to TNF-α, through a PPAR-γ-mediated mechanism, in line with the known ability of PPAR-γ to promote mitochondrial integrity and functions, which are crucial for OL differentiation to occur. Altogether, this study provides evidence for a further mechanism of action of curcumin besides its well-known anti-inflammatory properties and supports the suggested therapeutic potential of this nutraceutical in demyelinating diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Bernardo
- Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy. .,National Center for Research and Preclinical and Clinical Evaluation of Drugs, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Cristina Plumitallo
- Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara De Nuccio
- Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Research Coordination and Support Service, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Visentin
- Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.,National Center for Research and Preclinical and Clinical Evaluation of Drugs, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Minghetti
- Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Research Coordination and Support Service, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lecca D, Abbracchio MP, Fumagalli M. Purinergic Receptors on Oligodendrocyte Progenitors: Promising Targets for Myelin Repair in Multiple Sclerosis? Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:629618. [PMID: 33584312 PMCID: PMC7872961 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.629618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Davide Lecca
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria P Abbracchio
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cherchi F, Pugliese AM, Coppi E. Oligodendrocyte precursor cell maturation: role of adenosine receptors. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:1686-1692. [PMID: 33510056 PMCID: PMC8328763 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.306058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Oligodendrocyte-formed myelin sheaths allow fast synaptic transmission in the brain and their degeneration leads to demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Remyelination requires the differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells into mature oligodendrocytes but, in chronic neurodegenerative disorders, remyelination fails due to adverse environment. Therefore, a strategy to prompt oligodendrocyte progenitor cell differentiation towards myelinating oligodendrocytes is required. The neuromodulator adenosine, and its receptors (A1, A2A, A2B and A3 receptors: A1R, A2AR, A2BR and A3R), are crucial mediators in remyelination processes. It is known that A1Rs facilitate oligodendrocyte progenitor cell maturation and migration whereas the A3Rs initiates apoptosis in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells. Our group of research contributed to the field by demonstrating that A2AR and A2BR inhibit oligodendrocyte progenitor cell maturation by reducing voltage-dependent K+ currents necessary for cell differentiation. The present review summarizes the possible role of adenosine receptor ligands as potential therapeutic targets in demyelinating pathologies such as multiple sclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Cherchi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health-Neurofarba-Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Pugliese
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health-Neurofarba-Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Coppi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health-Neurofarba-Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Understanding and Treating Niemann-Pick Type C Disease: Models Matter. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21238979. [PMID: 33256121 PMCID: PMC7730076 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21238979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomedical research aims to understand the molecular mechanisms causing human diseases and to develop curative therapies. So far, these goals have been achieved for a small fraction of diseases, limiting factors being the availability, validity, and use of experimental models. Niemann–Pick type C (NPC) is a prime example for a disease that lacks a curative therapy despite substantial breakthroughs. This rare, fatal, and autosomal-recessive disorder is caused by defects in NPC1 or NPC2. These ubiquitously expressed proteins help cholesterol exit from the endosomal–lysosomal system. The dysfunction of either causes an aberrant accumulation of lipids with patients presenting a large range of disease onset, neurovisceral symptoms, and life span. Here, we note general aspects of experimental models, we describe the line-up used for NPC-related research and therapy development, and we provide an outlook on future topics.
Collapse
|
19
|
Carradori D, Chen H, Werner B, Shah AS, Leonardi C, Usuelli M, Mezzenga R, Platt F, Leroux JC. Investigating the Mechanism of Cyclodextrins in the Treatment of Niemann-Pick Disease Type C Using Crosslinked 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2020; 16:e2004735. [PMID: 33079457 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202004735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC) is a severe disorder that is characterized by intracellular transport abnormalities leading to cytoplasmic accumulation of lipids such as cholesterol and sphingolipids. The compound 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) has high cholesterol complexation capacity and is currently under clinical investigation for the NPC treatment. However, due to its short blood half-life, high doses are required to produce a therapeutic effect. In this work, stable polymerized HPβCD is generated to investigate their in vitro mechanisms of action and in vivo effects. Crosslinked CDs (8-312 kDa) display a ninefold greater cholesterol complexation capacity than monomeric HPβCD but are taken up to a lower extent, resulting in an overall comparable in vitro effect. In vivo, the 19.3 kDa HPβCD exhibits a longer half-life than the monomeric HPβCD but it does not increase the life span of Npc1 mice, possibly due to reduced brain penetration. This is circumvented by the application of magnetic resonance imaging-guided low intensity-pulsed focused ultrasound (MRIg-FUS), which increases the brain penetration of the CD. In conclusion, stable polymerized HPβCDs can elucidate CDs' mechanism of action while the use of MRIg-FUS warrants further investigation, as it may be key to harnessing CDs full therapeutic potential in the NPC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dario Carradori
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zürich, Zürich, 8049, Switzerland
| | - Hsintsung Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QT, UK
| | - Beat Werner
- Center for MR-Research, University Children's Hospital, Zürich, 8032, Switzerland
| | - Aagam S Shah
- Institute of Neuroinformatics, ETH Zürich and University of Zürich, Zürich, 8057, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Leonardi
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zürich, Zürich, 8049, Switzerland
| | - Mattia Usuelli
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Raffaele Mezzenga
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Frances Platt
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QT, UK
| | - Jean-Christophe Leroux
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zürich, Zürich, 8049, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Purinergic signaling orchestrating neuron-glia communication. Pharmacol Res 2020; 162:105253. [PMID: 33080321 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This review discusses the evidence supporting a role for ATP signaling (operated by P2X and P2Y receptors) and adenosine signaling (mainly operated by A1 and A2A receptors) in the crosstalk between neurons, astrocytes, microglia and oligodendrocytes. An initial emphasis will be given to the cooperation between adenosine receptors to sharpen information salience encoding across synapses. The interplay between ATP and adenosine signaling in the communication between astrocytes and neurons will then be presented in context of the integrative properties of the astrocytic syncytium, allowing to implement heterosynaptic depression processes in neuronal networks. The process of microglia 'activation' and its control by astrocytes and neurons will then be analyzed under the perspective of an interplay between different P2 receptors and adenosine A2A receptors. In spite of these indications of a prominent role of purinergic signaling in the bidirectional communication between neurons and glia, its therapeutical exploitation still awaits obtaining an integrated view of the spatio-temporal action of ATP signaling and adenosine signaling, clearly distinguishing the involvement of both purinergic signaling systems in the regulation of physiological processes and in the control of pathogenic-like responses upon brain dysfunction or damage.
Collapse
|
21
|
Adenosine and Adenosine A 2AReceptors as Targets for the Treatment of Niemann Pick Type C Disease. J Caffeine Adenosine Res 2019. [DOI: 10.1089/caff.2019.0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
|