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Yang K, Yan Y, Yu A, Zhang R, Zhang Y, Qiu Z, Li Z, Zhang Q, Wu S, Li F. Mitophagy in neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:998-1005. [PMID: 37862201 PMCID: PMC10749592 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are critical cellular energy resources and are central to the life of the neuron. Mitophagy selectively clears damaged or dysfunctional mitochondria through autophagic machinery to maintain mitochondrial quality control and homeostasis. Mature neurons are postmitotic and consume substantial energy, thus require highly efficient mitophagy pathways to turn over damaged or dysfunctional mitochondria. Recent evidence indicates that mitophagy is pivotal to the pathogenesis of neurological diseases. However, more work is needed to study mitophagy pathway components as potential therapeutic targets. In this review, we briefly discuss the characteristics of nonselective autophagy and selective autophagy, including ERphagy, aggrephagy, and mitophagy. We then introduce the mechanisms of Parkin-dependent and Parkin-independent mitophagy pathways under physiological conditions. Next, we summarize the diverse repertoire of mitochondrial membrane receptors and phospholipids that mediate mitophagy. Importantly, we review the critical role of mitophagy in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Last, we discuss recent studies considering mitophagy as a potential therapeutic target for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Together, our review may provide novel views to better understand the roles of mitophagy in neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kan Yang
- Department of Developmental and Behavioural Pediatric & Child Primary Care, Brain and Behavioural Research Unit of Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research and MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory for Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Key Laboratory of Primate Neurobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Engineering, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yuqing Yan
- School of Medicine, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Anni Yu
- College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Engineering, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, China
| | - Ru Zhang
- College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Engineering, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yuefang Zhang
- Songjiang Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zilong Qiu
- Songjiang Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengyi Li
- Neurosurgery Department, Kunming Yenan Hospital, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Qianlong Zhang
- Department of Developmental and Behavioural Pediatric & Child Primary Care, Brain and Behavioural Research Unit of Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research and MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory for Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shihao Wu
- School of Medicine, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Developmental and Behavioural Pediatric & Child Primary Care, Brain and Behavioural Research Unit of Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research and MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory for Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Romano MZ, Boccella S, Venditti M, Maione S, Minucci S. Morphological and molecular changes in the Harderian gland of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 339:915-924. [PMID: 37522474 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Using a rat model of type 1 diabetes (T1D) obtained by treatment with streptozotocin, an antibiotic that destroys pancreatic β-cells, we evaluated the influence of subsequent hyperglycemia on the morphology and physiology of the Harderian gland (HG). HG is located in the medial corner of the orbit of many terrestrial vertebrates and, in rodents, is characterized by the presence of porphyrins, which being involved in the phototransduction, through photo-oxidation, produce reactive oxygen species activating the autophagy pathway. The study focused on the expression of some morphological markers involved in cell junction formation (occludin, connexin-43, and α-tubulin) and mast cell number (MCN), as well as autophagic and apoptotic pathways. The expression of enzymes involved in steroidogenesis [steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD)] and the level of lipid peroxidation by thiobarbituric acid reactive species assay were also evaluated. The results strongly indicate, for the first time, that T1D has a negative impact on the pathophysiology of rat HG, as evidenced by increased oxidative stress, morphological and biochemical alterations, hyperproduction and secretion of porphyrins, increased MCN, reduced protein levels of StAR and 3β-HSD, and, finally, induced autophagy and apoptosis. All the combined data support the use of the rat HG as a suitable experimental model to elucidate the molecular damage/survival pathways elicited by stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Serena Boccella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Sabatino Maione
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
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Araujo ASL, Simões MDJ, Araujo-Jr OP, Simões RS, Baracat EC, Nader HB, Soares-Jr JM, Gomes RCT. Hyperprolactinemia modifies extracellular matrix components associated with collagen fibrillogenesis in harderian glands of non- and pregnant female mice. Exp Eye Res 2023; 235:109612. [PMID: 37580001 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109612] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
The harderian gland (HG) is a gland located at the base of the nictating membrane and fills the inferomedial aspect of the orbit in rodents. It is under the influence of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and, because of its hormone receptors, it is a target tissue for prolactin (PRL) and sex steroid hormones (estrogen and progesterone). In humans and murine, the anterior surface of the eyes is protected by a tear film synthesized by glands associated with the eye. In order to understand the endocrine changes caused by hyperprolactinemia in the glands responsible for the formation of the tear film, we used an animal model with metoclopramide-induced hyperprolactinemia (HPRL). Given the evidences that HPRL can lead to a process of cell death and tissue fibrosis, the protein expression of small leucine-rich proteoglycans (SLRPs) was analyzed through immunohistochemistry in the HG of the non- and the pregnant female mice with hyperprolactinemia. The SRLPs are related to collagen fibrillogenesis and they participate in pro-apoptotic signals. Our data revealed that high prolactin levels and changes in steroid hormones (estrogen and progesterone) can lead to an alteration in the amount of collagen, and in the structure of type I and III collagen fibers through changes in the amounts of lumican and decorin, which are responsible for collagen fibrillogenesis. This fact can lead to the impaired functioning of the HG by excessive apoptosis in the HG of the non- and the pregnant female mice with HPRL and especially in the HG of pregnancy-associated hyperprolactinemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariadne S L Araujo
- Morphology and Genetics Department, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Brazil
| | - Manuel de J Simões
- Morphology and Genetics Department, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Brazil; Faculty of Medicine University of São Paulo, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, FMUSP, Brazil; Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Brazil
| | - Osvaldo P Araujo-Jr
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo S Simões
- Faculty of Medicine University of São Paulo, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, FMUSP, Brazil; Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Brazil
| | - Edmund C Baracat
- Faculty of Medicine University of São Paulo, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, FMUSP, Brazil; Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Brazil
| | - Helena B Nader
- Molecular Biology Division of the Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José M Soares-Jr
- Faculty of Medicine University of São Paulo, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, FMUSP, Brazil; Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Brazil
| | - Regina C T Gomes
- Morphology and Genetics Department, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Brazil; Faculty of Medicine University of São Paulo, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, FMUSP, Brazil; Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Brazil.
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4
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Wang Z, Wang X, Chen Y, Wang C, Chen L, Jiang M, Liu X, Zhang X, Feng Y, Xu J. Loss and recovery of myocardial mitochondria in mice under different tail suspension time: Apoptosis and mitochondrial fission, fusion and autophagy. Exp Physiol 2023; 108:1189-1202. [PMID: 37565298 PMCID: PMC10988507 DOI: 10.1113/ep090518] [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: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Long-term weightlessness in animals can cause changes in myocardial structure and function, in which mitochondria play an important role. Here, a tail suspension (TS) Kunming mouse (Mus musculus) model was used to simulate the effects of weightlessness on the heart. We investigated the effects of 2 and 4 weeks of TS (TS2 and TS4) on myocardial mitochondrial ultrastructure and oxidative respiratory function and on the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis and mitochondrial fission, autophagy and fusion-related signalling. Our study revealed significant changes in the ultrastructural features of cardiomyocytes in response to TS. The results showed: (1) mitochondrial swelling and disruption of cristae in TS2, but mitochondrial recovery and denser cristae in TS4; (2) an increase in the total number of mitochondria and number of sub-mitochondria in TS4; (3) no significant changes in the nuclear ultrastructure or DNA fragmentation among the two TS groups and the control group; (4) an increase in the bax/bcl-2 protein levels in the two TS groups, indicating increased activation of the bax-mediated apoptosis pathway; (5) no change in the phosphorylation ratio of dynamin-related protein 1 in the two TS groups; (6) an increase in the protein levels of optic atrophy 1 and mitofusin 2 in the two TS groups; and (7) in comparison to the TS2 group, an increase in the phosphorylation ratio of parkin and the ratio of LC3II to LC3I in TS4, suggesting an increase in autophagy. Taken together, these findings suggest that mitochondrial autophagy and fusion levels increased after 4 weeks of TS, leading to a restoration of the bax-mediated myocardial apoptosis pathway observed after 2 weeks of TS. NEW FINDINGS: What is the central question of this study? What are the effects of 2 and 4 weeks of tail suspension on myocardial mitochondrial ultrastructure and oxidative respiratory function and on the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis and mitochondrial fission, autophagy and fusion-related signalling? What is the main finding and its importance? Increased mitochondrial autophagy and fusion levels after 4 weeks of tail suspension help to reshape the morphology and increase the number of myocardial mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Wang
- College of Life SciencesQufu Normal UniversityQufuShandongChina
| | - Xing‐Chen Wang
- College of Life SciencesQufu Normal UniversityQufuShandongChina
| | - Ya‐Fei Chen
- College of Life SciencesQufu Normal UniversityQufuShandongChina
| | - Chuan‐Li Wang
- College of Life SciencesQufu Normal UniversityQufuShandongChina
| | - Le Chen
- College of Life SciencesQufu Normal UniversityQufuShandongChina
| | - Ming‐Yue Jiang
- College of Life SciencesQufu Normal UniversityQufuShandongChina
| | - Xi‐Wei Liu
- College of Life SciencesQufu Normal UniversityQufuShandongChina
| | - Xiao‐Xuan Zhang
- College of Life SciencesQufu Normal UniversityQufuShandongChina
| | - Yong‐Zhen Feng
- College of Life SciencesQufu Normal UniversityQufuShandongChina
| | - Jin‐Hui Xu
- College of Life SciencesQufu Normal UniversityQufuShandongChina
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Abstract
SQSTM1/p62 (sequestosome 1) is a well-established indicator of macroautophagic/autophagic flux. It was initially characterized as the ubiquitin-binding autophagic receptor in aggrephagy, the selective autophagy of ubiquitinated protein aggregates. Recently, several studies correlated its levels with the abundance of intracellular lipid droplets (LDs). In the absence of a bona fide receptor for the selective autophagy of LDs (lipophagy), a few studies demonstrated the role of SQSTM1 in lipophagy. Our analysis of these studies shows that SQSTM1 colocalizes with LDs, bridges them with phagophores, is co-degraded with them in the lysosomes, and affects LD abundance in a variety of cells and under diverse experimental conditions. Although only one study reported all these functions together, the overwhelming and complementary evidence from other studies suggests that the role of SQSTM1 in lipophagy via tagging, movement, aggregation/clustering and sequestration of LDs is rather a common phenomenon in mammalian cells. As ubiquitination of the LD-associated proteins under stress conditions is increasingly recognized as another common phenomenon, some other ubiquitin-binding autophagic receptors, such as NBR1 and OPTN, might soon join SQSTM1 on a list of the non-exclusive lipophagy receptors.Abbreviations: LD: lipid droplet; LIR: LC3-interacting region; PAT: Perilipin, ADRP and TIP47 domain; SAR: selective autophagy receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Shroff
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Taras Y. Nazarko
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA,CONTACT Taras Y. Nazarko Department of Biology, Georgia State University, P.O. Box 4010, Atlanta, GA30303-4010, USA
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Chieffi Baccari G, Falvo S, Di Fiore MM, Cioffi F, Giacco A, Santillo A. High-fat diet affects autophagy and mitochondrial compartment in rat Harderian gland. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:1025-1038. [PMID: 35927786 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The Harderian gland (HG) of Rattus norvegicus is an orbital gland secreting lipids that accumulate in excess under condition of increased lipid metabolism. To study the response elicitated by lipid overload in rat HG, we housed the animals in thermoneutral conditions (28-30°C) in association to high fat diet (HFD). In HFD rats alterated blood lipid levels result in lipid accumulation in HG as demonstrated by the increased gland weight and histochemical/ultrastructural analyses. The HFD-caused oxidative stress forces the gland to trigger antioxidant defense mechanisms and autophagic process, such as lipophagy and mitophagy. Induction of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage and repair was stronger in HFD-rat HGs. An increase in marker expression levels of mitochondrial biogenesis, fission, and fusion occurred to counteract mtDNA copy number reduction and mitophagy. Therefore, the results demonstrate that rat HG activates autophagy as survival strategy under conditions of increased lipid metabolism and suggest a key role for mitophagy and membrane dynamics in the mitochondrial adaptive response to HFD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria M Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Federica Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie, Università degli studi del Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Antonia Giacco
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie, Università degli studi del Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
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Ramos L, Mares L. Hamster DAX1: Molecular insights, specific expression, and its role in the Harderian gland. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2021; 263:111096. [PMID: 34653610 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.111096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
DAX1 plays an essential role in the differentiation and physiology of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal-Gonadal (HPAG) axis during embryogenesis. However, in adult tissues, in addition to the HPAG axis, evidence has not been found for its differential expression and function. We isolated the DAX1 cDNA to analyze its tissue localization and gene expression profiles in male and female hamsters' Harderian glands (HGs), Mesocricetus auratus. The isolated cDNA clone contains 1848 base pairs (bp), and a 1428-bp open reading frame (ORF) encodes a 476 amino acid protein. Sequence alignments and the phylogenetic tree display a relevant percentage of similarity with human (66%), rat (81%), and mouse (84%) sequences. In adult tissues, the mRNA distribution demonstrated that DAX1 is present in testis, ovaries, and male and female HGs. The highest expression profiles were identified in the adrenal glands, where females exhibit higher mRNA levels than males. The sexually dimorphic expression of DAX1 in adrenals suggests that its presence could be associated with regulating, functioning, and maintaining this endocrine tissue. These findings indicate that the DAX1 gene is limitedly expressed in adult tissues. In the HGs, we demonstrate the absence of sexually dimorphic gene expression. Our results suggest that DAX1 might have an additional physiological function outside of the HPAG axis, specifically in the HG, which may be required for the regulation of intracrine steroidogenesis, secretion, and maintenance of exocrine tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Ramos
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, México City, Mexico.
| | - L Mares
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, México City, Mexico
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The Expanding Role of Mitochondria, Autophagy and Lipophagy in Steroidogenesis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10081851. [PMID: 34440620 PMCID: PMC8391558 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The fundamental framework of steroidogenesis is similar across steroidogenic cells, especially in initial mitochondrial steps. For instance, the START domain containing protein-mediated cholesterol transport to the mitochondria, and its conversion to pregnenolone by the enzyme P450scc, is conserved across steroidogenic cells. The enzyme P450scc localizes to the inner mitochondrial membrane, which makes the mitochondria essential for steroidogenesis. Despite this commonality, mitochondrial structure, number, and dynamics vary substantially between different steroidogenic cell types, indicating implications beyond pregnenolone biosynthesis. This review aims to focus on the growing roles of mitochondria, autophagy and lipophagy in cholesterol uptake, trafficking and homeostasis in steroidogenic cells and consequently in steroidogenesis. We will focus on these aspects in the context of the physiological need for different steroid hormones and cell-intrinsic inherent features in different steroidogenic cell types beyond mitochondria as a mere site for the beginning of steroidogenesis. The overall goal is to provide an authentic and comprehensive review on the expanding role of steroidogenic cell-intrinsic processes in cholesterol homeostasis and steroidogenesis, and to bring attention to the scientific community working in this field on these promising advancements. Moreover, we will discuss a novel mitochondrial player, prohibitin, and its potential role in steroidogenic mitochondria and cells, and consequently, in steroidogenesis.
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Leung E, Ayine-Tora DM, Santos-Ledo A, Korolchuk VI, Reynisson J. Identification of novel Atg3-Atg8 inhibitors using virtual screening for autophagy modulation. Bioorg Chem 2021; 114:105092. [PMID: 34147881 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.105092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A collection of 9050 natural products, their derivatives, and mimetics, was virtually screened against the human Atg3-Atg8 (Atg - autophagy) binding scaffold. By blocking this interaction, the lipidation of Atg8 does not occur and the formation of autophagosomes is inhibited. Forty-three (43) potential ligands were tested using enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein (eGFP) tagged LC3, the human ortholog of Atg8, in MCF7 breast cancer cells. Three hits showed single digit µM IC50 values with AT110, an isoflavone derivative, being the best at 1.2 ± 0.6 µM. Molecular modelling against Atg8 in conjunction with structural activity relationship (SAR) strongly supports the binding to this target. Testing in a panel of cancer cell lines showed little cytotoxic effect as compared to chloroquine. However, same concentration of AT110 was shown to be toxic to young zebrafish embryos. This can be explained in terms of the autophagy process being very active in the zebrafish embryos rendering them susceptible to AT110 whereas in the cancer cells tested the autophagy is not usually active. Nevertheless, AT110 blocks autophagy flux in the zebrafish confirming that the ligand is modulating autophagy. A small molecule non-cytotoxic autophagy inhibitor would open the door for adjunct therapies to bolster many established anticancer drugs, reducing their efficacious concentration thus limiting undesirable site effects. In addition, since many cancer types rely on the autophagy mechanism to survive a therapeutic regime, recurrence can potentially be reduced. The discovery of AT110 is an important step in establishing such an adjunct therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Euphemia Leung
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Adrián Santos-Ledo
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom
| | - Viktor I Korolchuk
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom
| | - Jóhannes Reynisson
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Keele University, Hornbeam Building, Newcastle under Lyme, Staffordshire ST5 5BG, United Kingdom.
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Santos-Ledo A, de Luxán-Delgado B, Caballero B, Potes Y, Rodríguez-González S, Boga JA, Coto-Montes A, García-Macia M. Melatonin Ameliorates Autophagy Impairment in a Metabolic Syndrome Model. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10050796. [PMID: 34069820 PMCID: PMC8157264 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10050796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome is a global health problem in adults and its prevalence among children and adolescents is rising. It is strongly linked to a lifestyle with high-caloric food, which causes obesity and lipid metabolism anomalies. Molecular damage due to excessive oxidative stress plays a major role during the development of metabolic syndrome complications. Among the different hormones, melatonin presents strong antioxidant properties, and it is used to treat metabolic diseases. However, there is not a consensus about its use as a metabolic syndrome treatment. The aim of this study was to identify melatonin effects in a metabolic syndrome model. Golden hamsters were fed with 60% fructose-enriched food to induce metabolic syndrome and were compared to hamsters fed with regular chow diet. Both groups were also treated with melatonin. Fructose-fed hamsters showed altered blood lipid levels (increased cholesterol and LDL) and phenotypes restored with the melatonin treatment. The Harderian gland (HG), which is an ideal model to study autophagy modulation through oxidative stress, was the organ that was most affected by a fructose diet. Redox balance was altered in fructose-fed HG, inducing autophagic activation. However, since LC3-II was not increased, the impairment must be in the last steps of autophagy. Lipophagy HG markers were also disturbed, contributing to the dyslipidemia. Melatonin treatment improved possible oxidative homeostasis through autophagic induction. All these results point to melatonin as a possible treatment of the metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Santos-Ledo
- Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla y León-INCYL, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca-IBSAL, Cell Biology and Pathology, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain;
| | - Beatriz de Luxán-Delgado
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute-Queen Mary, University of London, John Vane Science Centre, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK;
| | - Beatriz Caballero
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Área de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Julián Clavería s/n, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (B.C.); (Y.P.); (S.R.-G.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Av. del Hospital Universitario, s/n, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Yaiza Potes
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Área de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Julián Clavería s/n, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (B.C.); (Y.P.); (S.R.-G.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Av. del Hospital Universitario, s/n, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Susana Rodríguez-González
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Área de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Julián Clavería s/n, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (B.C.); (Y.P.); (S.R.-G.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Av. del Hospital Universitario, s/n, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - José Antonio Boga
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Celestino Villamil s/n, 33006 Oviedo, Spain;
| | - Ana Coto-Montes
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Área de Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Julián Clavería s/n, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (B.C.); (Y.P.); (S.R.-G.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Av. del Hospital Universitario, s/n, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.C.-M.); (M.G.-M.); Tel.: +34-923-294-907 (M.G.-M.)
| | - Marina García-Macia
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, University Hospital of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Institute of Functional Biology and Genomics, University of Salamanca, CSIC, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.C.-M.); (M.G.-M.); Tel.: +34-923-294-907 (M.G.-M.)
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IFN-λ Modulates the Migratory Capacity of Canine Mammary Tumor Cells via Regulation of the Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Inhibitors. Cells 2021; 10:cells10050999. [PMID: 33922837 PMCID: PMC8145483 DOI: 10.3390/cells10050999] [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: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions between neoplastic and immune cells taking place in tumors drive cancer regulatory mechanisms both in humans and animals. IFN-λ, a potent antiviral factor, is also secreted in the tumor; however, its role in tumor development is still unclear. In our study, we investigate the influence of IFN-λ on the canine mammary tumor (CMT) cell survival and their metastatic potential in vitro. First, we examined, by Western blot, the expression of the IFN-λ receptor complex in three CMT cell lines (P114, CMT-U27 and CMT-U309). We showed that only two cell lines (P114 and CMT-U27) express both (IL-28RA and IL-10Rb) receptor subunits and respond to IFN-λ treatment by STAT phosphorylation and the expression of interferon-stimulated genes. Using MTT, crystal violet and annexin-V assays, we showed a minimal role of IFN-λ in CMT viability. However, IFN-λ administration had a contradictory effect on cell migration in the scratch test, namely, it increased P114 and decreased CMT-U27 motility. Moreover, we demonstrated that this process is related to the expression of extracellular matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors; furthermore, it is independent of Akt and ERK signaling pathways. To conclude, we showed that IFN-λ activity is reliant on the expression of two receptor subunits and tumor type, but further investigations are needed.
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Kong XT, Wang Z, Mou JJ, Li CS, Xue HL, Wu M, Chen L, Xu JH, Xu LX. Change on apoptosis, autophagy and mitochondria of the Harderian gland in Cricetulus barabensis during age. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 253:110547. [PMID: 33340652 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2020.110547] [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: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Harderian gland (HG) plays an important role in the physiological adaptation to terrestrial life, however, the mechanisms underlying the changes in the structure and function of the HG during aging remain unclear. This study investigated autophagy and apoptosis in the HG of striped dwarf hamsters (Cricetulus barabensis) of different ages (sub-adult, adult and aged groups) in both males and females. The results showed that LC3II/LC3I and puncta of LC3 were significantly higher in adult and aged individuals than sub-adults, whereas P62 decreased with age. Bax/bcl2was the highest in sub-adults of male and female individuals. Caspase3 activity was the highest in sub-adults of male and female individuals, and the citrate synthase activity was highest in sub-adults of females. ATP synthase, citrate synthase, dynamin-related protein 1 and mitochondrial fission factor (Mff) were the highest in sub-adults of females. Peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase were the highest in the aged group, and those of gonadotropin-releasing hormone was the highest in the adult group. LC3II/LC3I, P62, Drp1, Fis, and bax/bcl2 were higher in males than that in females. These results suggest that apoptosis mainly affects growth and development in the HG, whereas autophagy affects aging. The difference of the HG weight and mitochondrial function between sexes is mainly related to the apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Tong Kong
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China.
| | - Zhe Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China.
| | - Jun-Jie Mou
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China.
| | - Chang-Sheng Li
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China.
| | - Hui-Liang Xue
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China.
| | - Ming Wu
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China.
| | - Lei Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China.
| | - Jin-Hui Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China.
| | - Lai-Xiang Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China.
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Wang Y, Tao B, Li J, Mao X, He W, Chen Q. Melatonin Inhibits the Progression of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma via Inducing miR-25-5p Expression by Directly Targeting NEDD9. Front Oncol 2020; 10:543591. [PMID: 33344223 PMCID: PMC7738623 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.543591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin exerts anti-cancer roles in various types of cancers. However, to the best of our knowledge, its role in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the role of melatonin and its underlying mechanism in OSCC. MTT, colony formation, wound healing, and transwell invasion assays proved that melatonin played anti-tumor effects in OSCC cells by inhibiting cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion in a concentration-dependent manner. The RT-qPCR analysis showed that miR-25-5p was significantly upregulated after melatonin treatment. Further, miR-25-5p might be involved in melatonin-induced inhibitory effects on the biological behavior of OSCC. The expression of miR-25-5p was decreased in tumor tissues and OSCC cells detected by RT-qPCR. MTT assay, colony formation assay, and TUNEL staining indicated miR-25-5p overexpression inhibited OSCC cell viability, proliferation, and induced OSCC cell apoptosis. Furthermore, wound healing, transwell invasion assay, and animal experiments suggested that miR-25-5p might exert suppressive effects on the migration, invasion, and tumor formation of OSCC cells, while miR-25-5p knockdown exhibited the opposite effects in OSCC cells. Bioinformatics analysis, western blot analysis, and luciferase reporter assay suggested that neural precursor cell expressed developmentally downregulated protein 9 (NEDD9) was proved to be a putative target for miR-25-5p. The role of NEDD9 in inhibiting OSCC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration was verified with NEDD9 siRNA transfection. Thus, melatonin exerted anti-proliferative, anti-invasive, and anti-migrative effects on OSCC via miR-25-5p/NEDD9 pathway. Melatonin could be applied as a potential novel drug on treating OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bo Tao
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiaying Li
- Huiqiao Medical Center, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqun Mao
- Nursing Department, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei He
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qinbiao Chen
- Neurosurgery Department, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Santillo A, Chieffi Baccari G, Minucci S, Falvo S, Venditti M, Di Matteo L. The Harderian gland: Endocrine function and hormonal control. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 297:113548. [PMID: 32679156 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The Harderian gland (HG) is an exocrine gland located within the eye socket in a variety of tetrapods. During the 1980s and 1990s the HG elicited great interest in the scientific community due to its morphological and functional complexity, and from a phylogenetic point of view. A comparative approach has contributed to a better understanding of its physiology. Whereas the chemical nature of its secretions (mucous, serous or lipids) varies between different groups of tetrapods, the lipids represent the more common component among different species. Indeed, besides being an accessory to lubricate the nictitating membrane, the lipids may have a pheromonal function. Porphyrins and melatonin secretion is a feature of the rodent HG. The porphyrins, being phototransducers, could modulate HG melatonin production. The melatonin synthesis suggests an involvement of the HG in the retinal-pineal axis. Finally, StAR protein and steroidogenic enzyme activities in the rat HG suggests that the gland contributes to steroid hormone synthesis. Over the past twenty years, much has become known on the hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) HG, unique among rodents in displaying a remarkable sexual dimorphism concerning the contents of porphyrins and melatonin. Mainly for this reason, the hamster HG has been used as a model to compare, under normal conditions, the physiological oxidative stress between females (strong) and males (moderate). Androgens are responsible for the sexual dimorphism in hamster and they are known to control the HG secretory activity in different species. Furthermore, HG is a target of pituitary, pineal and thyroid hormones. This review offers a comparative panorama of the endocrine activity of the HG as well as the hormonal control of its secretory activity, with a particular emphasis on the sex dimorphic aspects of the hamster HG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy.
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Loredana Di Matteo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy
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