1
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Kuo A, Hla T. Regulation of cellular and systemic sphingolipid homeostasis. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024:10.1038/s41580-024-00742-y. [PMID: 38890457 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00742-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
One hundred and fifty years ago, Johann Thudichum described sphingolipids as unusual "Sphinx-like" lipids from the brain. Today, we know that thousands of sphingolipid molecules mediate many essential functions in embryonic development and normal physiology. In addition, sphingolipid metabolism and signalling pathways are dysregulated in a wide range of pathologies, and therapeutic agents that target sphingolipids are now used to treat several human diseases. However, our understanding of sphingolipid regulation at cellular and organismal levels and their functions in developmental, physiological and pathological settings is rudimentary. In this Review, we discuss recent advances in sphingolipid pathways in different organelles, how secreted sphingolipid mediators modulate physiology and disease, progress in sphingolipid-targeted therapeutic and diagnostic research, and the trans-cellular sphingolipid metabolic networks between microbiota and mammals. Advances in sphingolipid biology have led to a deeper understanding of mammalian physiology and may lead to progress in the management of many diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Kuo
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Timothy Hla
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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2
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Li Y, Li G, Wang Y, Li L, Song Y, Cao F, Yang K. Discovery and biological evaluation of biaryl acetamide derivatives as selective and in vivo active sphingosine kinase-2 inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 275:116577. [PMID: 38875809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116577] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2) has emerged as a promising target for cancer therapy due to its critical role in tumor growth. However, the lack of potent and selective inhibitors has hindered its clinical application. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a series of novel SphK2 inhibitors, culminating in the identification of compound 12q as a highly selective and potent inhibitor of SphK2. Molecular dynamics simulations suggest that the incorporation of larger substitution groups facilitates a more effective occupation of the binding site, thereby stabilizing the complex. Compared to the widely used inhibitor ABC294640, compound 12q exhibits superior anti-proliferative activity against various cancer cells, inducing G2 phase arrest and apoptosis in liver cancer cells HepG2. Notably, 12q inhibited migration and colony formation in HepG2 and altered intracellular sphingolipid content. Moreover, intraperitoneal administration of 12q in mice resulted in decreased levels of S1P. 12q provides a valuable tool compound for exploring the therapeutic potential of targeting SphK2 in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Li
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Gang Li
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Yiming Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Longfei Li
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Yali Song
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Fei Cao
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China; Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis, Ministry of Education, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071002, China
| | - Kan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China; Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis, Ministry of Education, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071002, China.
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3
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Sun G, Wang B, Wu X, Cheng J, Ye J, Wang C, Zhu H, Liu X. How do sphingosine-1-phosphate affect immune cells to resolve inflammation? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1362459. [PMID: 38482014 PMCID: PMC10932966 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1362459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is an important immune response of the body. It is a physiological process of self-repair and defense against pathogens taken up by biological tissues when stimulated by damage factors such as trauma and infection. Inflammation is the main cause of high morbidity and mortality in most diseases and is the physiological basis of the disease. Targeted therapeutic strategies can achieve efficient toxicity clearance at the inflammatory site, reduce complications, and reduce mortality. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a lipid signaling molecule, is involved in immune cell transport by binding to S1P receptors (S1PRs). It plays a key role in innate and adaptive immune responses and is closely related to inflammation. In homeostasis, lymphocytes follow an S1P concentration gradient from the tissues into circulation. One widely accepted mechanism is that during the inflammatory immune response, the S1P gradient is altered, and lymphocytes are blocked from entering the circulation and are, therefore, unable to reach the inflammatory site. However, the full mechanism of its involvement in inflammation is not fully understood. This review focuses on bacterial and viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and immunological aspects of the Sphks/S1P/S1PRs signaling pathway, highlighting their role in promoting intradial-adaptive immune interactions. How S1P signaling is regulated in inflammation and how S1P shapes immune responses through immune cells are explained in detail. We teased apart the immune cell composition of S1P signaling and the critical role of S1P pathway modulators in the host inflammatory immune system. By understanding the role of S1P in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, we linked the genomic studies of S1P-targeted drugs in inflammatory diseases to provide a basis for targeted drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gehui Sun
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Bin Wang
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wu
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jiangfeng Cheng
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Junming Ye
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
- Clinical College, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunli Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Hongquan Zhu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaofeng Liu
- Clinical College, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
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4
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Weigel C, Maczis MA, Palladino END, Green CD, Maceyka M, Guo C, Wang XY, Dozmorov MG, Milstien S, Spiegel S. Sphingosine Kinase 2 in Stromal Fibroblasts Creates a Hospitable Tumor Microenvironment in Breast Cancer. Cancer Res 2023; 83:553-567. [PMID: 36541910 PMCID: PMC9931683 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-1638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Reciprocal interactions between breast cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) are important for cancer progression and metastasis. We report here that the deletion or inhibition of sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2), which produces sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), markedly suppresses syngeneic breast tumor growth and lung metastasis in mice by creating a hostile microenvironment for tumor growth and invasion. SphK2 deficiency decreased S1P and concomitantly increased ceramides, including C16-ceramide, in stromal fibroblasts. Ceramide accumulation suppressed activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) by upregulating stromal p53, which restrained production of tumor-promoting factors to reprogram the TME and to restrict breast cancer establishment. Ablation of p53 in SphK2-deficient fibroblasts reversed these effects, enabled CAF activation and promoted tumor growth and invasion. These data uncovered a novel role of SphK2 in regulating non-cell-autonomous functions of p53 in stromal fibroblasts and their transition to tumor-promoting CAFs, paving the way for the development of a strategy to target the TME and to enhance therapeutic efficacy. SIGNIFICANCE Sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2) facilitates the activation of stromal fibroblasts to tumor-promoting cancer-associated fibroblasts by suppressing host p53 activity, revealing SphK2 as a potential target to reprogram the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Weigel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Melissa A. Maczis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Elisa N. D. Palladino
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Christopher D. Green
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Michael Maceyka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Chunqing Guo
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Xiang-Yang Wang
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Mikhail G. Dozmorov
- Departments of Biostatistics and Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Sheldon Milstien
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
| | - Sarah Spiegel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298
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5
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Ablation of sphingosine kinase 2 suppresses fatty liver-associated hepatocellular carcinoma via downregulation of ceramide transfer protein. Oncogenesis 2022; 11:67. [PMID: 36333295 PMCID: PMC9636415 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-022-00444-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 90% of primary liver cancer, the third leading cause of cancer-associated death worldwide. With the increasing prevalence of metabolic conditions, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is emerging as the fastest-growing HCC risk factor, and it imposes an additional layer of difficulty in HCC management. Dysregulated hepatic lipids are generally believed to constitute a deleterious environment cultivating the development of NAFLD-associated HCC. However, exactly which lipids or lipid regulators drive this process remains elusive. We report herein that sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2), a key sphingolipid metabolic enzyme, plays a critical role in NAFLD-associated HCC. Ablation of Sphk2 suppressed HCC development in NAFLD livers via inhibition of hepatocyte proliferation both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, SphK2 deficiency led to downregulation of ceramide transfer protein (CERT) that, in turn, decreased the ratio of pro-cancer sphingomyelin (SM) to anti-cancer ceramide. Overexpression of CERT restored hepatocyte proliferation, colony growth and cell cycle progression. In conclusion, the current study demonstrates that SphK2 is an essential lipid regulator in NAFLD-associated HCC, providing experimental evidence to support clinical trials of SphK2 inhibitors as systemic therapies against HCC.
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6
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Wilting J, Becker J. The lymphatic vascular system: much more than just a sewer. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:157. [PMID: 36109802 PMCID: PMC9476376 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00898-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Almost 400 years after the (re)discovery of the lymphatic vascular system (LVS) by Gaspare Aselli (Asellius G. De lactibus, sive lacteis venis, quarto vasorum mesaraicorum genere, novo invento Gasparis Asellii Cremo. Dissertatio. (MDCXXIIX), Milan; 1628.), structure, function, development and evolution of this so-called 'second' vascular system are still enigmatic. Interest in the LVS was low because it was (and is) hardly visible, and its diseases are not as life-threatening as those of the blood vascular system. It is not uncommon for patients with lymphedema to be told that yes, they can live with it. Usually, the functions of the LVS are discussed in terms of fluid homeostasis, uptake of chylomicrons from the gut, and immune cell circulation. However, the broad molecular equipment of lymphatic endothelial cells suggests that they possess many more functions, which are also reflected in the pathophysiology of the system. With some specific exceptions, lymphatics develop in all organs. Although basic structure and function are the same regardless their position in the body wall or the internal organs, there are important site-specific characteristics. We discuss common structure and function of lymphatics; and point to important functions for hyaluronan turn-over, salt balance, coagulation, extracellular matrix production, adipose tissue development and potential appetite regulation, and the influence of hypoxia on the regulation of these functions. Differences with respect to the embryonic origin and molecular equipment between somatic and splanchnic lymphatics are discussed with a side-view on the phylogeny of the LVS. The functions of the lymphatic vasculature are much broader than generally thought, and lymphatic research will have many interesting and surprising aspects to offer in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg Wilting
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Medical School Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Jürgen Becker
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Medical School Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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7
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Tanaka S, Zheng S, Kharel Y, Fritzemeier RG, Huang T, Foster D, Poudel N, Goggins E, Yamaoka Y, Rudnicka KP, Lipsey JE, Radel HV, Ryuh SM, Inoue T, Yao J, Rosin DL, Schwab SR, Santos WL, Lynch KR, Okusa MD. Sphingosine 1-phosphate signaling in perivascular cells enhances inflammation and fibrosis in the kidney. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabj2681. [PMID: 35976996 PMCID: PMC9873476 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abj2681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD), characterized by sustained inflammation and progressive fibrosis, is highly prevalent and can eventually progress to end-stage kidney disease. However, current treatments to slow CKD progression are limited. Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), a product of sphingolipid catabolism, is a pleiotropic mediator involved in many cellular functions, and drugs targeting S1P signaling have previously been studied particularly for autoimmune diseases. The primary mechanism of most of these drugs is functional antagonism of S1P receptor-1 (S1P1) expressed on lymphocytes and the resultant immunosuppressive effect. Here, we documented the role of local S1P signaling in perivascular cells in the progression of kidney fibrosis using primary kidney perivascular cells and several conditional mouse models. S1P was predominantly produced by sphingosine kinase 2 in kidney perivascular cells and exported via spinster homolog 2 (Spns2). It bound to S1P1 expressed in perivascular cells to enhance production of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines upon injury, leading to immune cell infiltration and subsequent fibrosis. A small-molecule Spns2 inhibitor blocked S1P transport, resulting in suppression of inflammatory signaling in human and mouse kidney perivascular cells in vitro and amelioration of kidney fibrosis in mice. Our study provides insight into the regulation of inflammation and fibrosis by S1P and demonstrates the potential of Spns2 inhibition as a treatment for CKD and potentially other inflammatory and fibrotic diseases that avoids the adverse events associated with systemic modulation of S1P receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Tanaka
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA.,Division of Nephrology and Endocrinology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shuqiu Zheng
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Yugesh Kharel
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Russell G. Fritzemeier
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Daniel Foster
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
| | - Nabin Poudel
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Eibhlin Goggins
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Yusuke Yamaoka
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Kinga P. Rudnicka
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Jonathan E. Lipsey
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Hope V. Radel
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Sophia M. Ryuh
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Tsuyoshi Inoue
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Junlan Yao
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Diane L. Rosin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Susan R. Schwab
- Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NY, New York 10016, USA
| | - Webster L. Santos
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
| | - Kevin R. Lynch
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA
| | - Mark D. Okusa
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, USA.,Corresponding author.
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8
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Pashikanti S, Foster DJ, Kharel Y, Brown AM, Bevan DR, Lynch KR, Santos WL. Sphingosine Kinase 2 Inhibitors: Rigid Aliphatic Tail Derivatives Deliver Potent and Selective Analogues. ACS BIO & MED CHEM AU 2022; 2:469-489. [PMID: 36281302 PMCID: PMC9585524 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomedchemau.2c00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Sphingosine 1-phosphate
(S1P) is a pleiotropic signaling molecule
that interacts with five native G-protein coupled receptors (S1P1–5)
to regulate cell growth, survival, and proliferation. S1P has been
implicated in a variety of pathologies including cancer, kidney fibrosis,
and multiple sclerosis. As key mediators in the synthesis of S1P,
sphingosine kinase (SphK) isoforms 1 and 2 have attracted attention
as viable targets for pharmacologic intervention. In this report,
we describe the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of sphingosine
kinase 2 (SphK2) inhibitors with a focus on systematically introducing
rigid structures in the aliphatic lipid tail present in existing SphK2
inhibitors. Experimental as well as molecular modeling studies suggest
that conformationally restricted “lipophilic tail” analogues
bearing a bulky terminal moiety or an internal phenyl ring are useful
to complement the “J”-shaped sphingosine binding pocket
of SphK2. We identified 14c (SLP9101555) as a potent
SphK2 inhibitor (Ki = 90 nM) with 200-fold
selectivity over SphK1. Molecular docking studies indicated key interactions:
the cyclohexyl ring binding in the cleft deep in the pocket, a trifluoromethyl
group fitting in a small side cavity, and a hydrogen bond between
the guanidino group and Asp308 (amino acid numbering refers to human
SphK2 (isoform c) orthologue). In vitro studies using
U937 human histiocytic lymphoma cells showed marked decreases in extracellular
S1P levels in response to our SphK2 inhibitors. Administration of 14c (dose: 5 mg/kg) to mice resulted in a sustained increase
of circulating S1P levels, suggesting target engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinath Pashikanti
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060, United States
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho 83209, United States
| | - Daniel J. Foster
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060, United States
| | - Yugesh Kharel
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908, United States
| | - Anne M. Brown
- Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060, United States
| | - David R. Bevan
- Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060, United States
| | - Kevin R. Lynch
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908, United States
| | - Webster L. Santos
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060, United States
- Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060, United States
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9
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Kono M, Hoachlander-Hobby LE, Majumder S, Schwartz R, Byrnes C, Zhu H, Proia RL. Identification of two lipid phosphatases that regulate sphingosine-1-phosphate cellular uptake and recycling. J Lipid Res 2022; 63:100225. [PMID: 35568252 PMCID: PMC9213771 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2022.100225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a sphingolipid metabolite that serves as a potent extracellular signaling molecule. Metabolic regulation of extracellular S1P levels impacts key cellular activities through altered S1P receptor signaling. Although the pathway through which S1P is degraded within the cell and thereby eliminated from reuse has been previously described, the mechanism used for S1P cellular uptake and the subsequent recycling of its sphingoid base into the sphingolipid synthesis pathway is not completely understood. To identify the genes within this S1P uptake and recycling pathway, we performed a genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 KO screen using a positive-selection scheme with Shiga toxin, which binds a cell-surface glycosphingolipid receptor, globotriaosylceramide (Gb3), and causes lethality upon internalization. The screen was performed in HeLa cells with their sphingolipid de novo pathway disabled so that Gb3 cell-surface expression was dependent on salvage of the sphingoid base of S1P taken up from the medium. The screen identified a suite of genes necessary for S1P uptake and the recycling of its sphingoid base to synthesize Gb3, including two lipid phosphatases, PLPP3 (phospholipid phosphatase 3) and SGPP1 (S1P phosphatase 1). The results delineate a pathway in which plasma membrane–bound PLPP3 dephosphorylates extracellular S1P to sphingosine, which then enters cells and is rephosphorylated to S1P by the sphingosine kinases. This rephosphorylation step is important to regenerate intracellular S1P as a branch-point substrate that can be routed either for dephosphorylation to salvage sphingosine for recycling into complex sphingolipid synthesis or for degradation to remove it from the sphingolipid synthesis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Kono
- Genetics of Development and Disease Section, Genetics and Biochemistry Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - Lila E Hoachlander-Hobby
- Genetics of Development and Disease Section, Genetics and Biochemistry Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - Saurav Majumder
- Genetics of Development and Disease Section, Genetics and Biochemistry Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - Ronit Schwartz
- Genetics of Development and Disease Section, Genetics and Biochemistry Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - Colleen Byrnes
- Genetics of Development and Disease Section, Genetics and Biochemistry Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - Hongling Zhu
- Genetics of Development and Disease Section, Genetics and Biochemistry Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - Richard L Proia
- Genetics of Development and Disease Section, Genetics and Biochemistry Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
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10
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Erythrocytes increase endogenous sphingosine 1-phosphate levels as an adaptive response to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:2781-2791. [PMID: 34878105 PMCID: PMC8696489 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Low plasma levels of the signaling lipid metabolite sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) are associated with disrupted endothelial cell (EC) barriers, lymphopenia and reduced responsivity to hypoxia. Total S1P levels were also reduced in 23 critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and the two main S1P carriers, serum albumin (SA) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were dramatically low. Surprisingly, we observed a carrier-changing shift from SA to HDL, which probably prevented an even further drop in S1P levels. Furthermore, intracellular S1P levels in red blood cells (RBCs) were significantly increased in COVID-19 patients compared with healthy controls due to up-regulation of S1P producing sphingosine kinase 1 and down-regulation of S1P degrading lyase expression. Cell culture experiments supported increased sphingosine kinase activity and unchanged S1P release from RBC stores of COVID-19 patients. These observations suggest adaptive mechanisms for maintenance of the vasculature and immunity as well as prevention of tissue hypoxia in COVID-19 patients.
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11
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Bisgaard LS, Christoffersen C. The apoM/S1P Complex-A Mediator in Kidney Biology and Disease? Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:754490. [PMID: 34722589 PMCID: PMC8553247 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.754490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Kidney disease affects more than 10% of the population, can be both acute and chronic, and is linked to other diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and sepsis. Despite the detrimental consequences for patients, no good treatment options directly targeting the kidney are available. Thus, a better understanding of the pathology and new treatment modalities are required. Accumulating evidence suggests that the apolipoprotein M/sphingosine-1-phosphate (apoM/S1P) axis is a likely drug target, but significant gaps in our knowledge remain. In this review, we present what has so far been elucidated about the role of apoM in normal kidney biology and describe how changes in the apoM/S1P axis are thought to affect the development of kidney disease. ApoM is primarily produced in the liver and kidneys. From the liver, apoM is secreted into circulation, where it is attached to lipoproteins (primarily HDL). Importantly, apoM is a carrier of the bioactive lipid S1P. S1P acts by binding to five different receptors. Together, apoM/S1P plays a role in several biological mechanisms, such as inflammation, endothelial cell permeability, and lipid turnover. In the kidney, apoM is primarily expressed in the proximal tubular cells. S1P can be produced locally in the kidney, and several of the five S1P receptors are present in the kidney. The functional role of kidney-derived apoM as well as plasma-derived apoM is far from elucidated and will be discussed based on both experimental and clinical studies. In summary, the current studies provide evidence that support a role for the apoM/S1P axis in kidney disease; however, additional pre-clinical and clinical studies are needed to reveal the mechanisms and target potential in the treatment of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line S Bisgaard
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christina Christoffersen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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12
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Spohner AK, Jakobi K, Trautmann S, Thomas D, Schumacher F, Kleuser B, Lütjohann D, El-Hindi K, Grösch S, Pfeilschifter J, Saba JD, Meyer zu Heringdorf D. Mouse Liver Compensates Loss of Sgpl1 by Secretion of Sphingolipids into Blood and Bile. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10617. [PMID: 34638955 PMCID: PMC8508615 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P) lyase (Sgpl1) catalyses the irreversible cleavage of S1P and thereby the last step of sphingolipid degradation. Loss of Sgpl1 in humans and mice leads to accumulation of sphingolipids and multiple organ injuries. Here, we addressed the role of hepatocyte Sgpl1 for regulation of sphingolipid homoeostasis by generating mice with hepatocyte-specific deletion of Sgpl1 (Sgpl1HepKO mice). Sgpl1HepKO mice had normal body weight, liver weight, liver structure and liver enzymes both at the age of 8 weeks and 8 months. S1P, sphingosine and ceramides, but not glucosylceramides or sphingomyelin, were elevated by ~1.5-2-fold in liver, and this phenotype did not progress with age. Several ceramides were elevated in plasma, while plasma S1P was normal. Interestingly, S1P and glucosylceramides, but not ceramides, were elevated in bile of Sgpl1HepKO mice. Furthermore, liver cholesterol was elevated, while LDL cholesterol decreased in 8-month-old mice. In agreement, the LDL receptor was upregulated, suggesting enhanced uptake of LDL cholesterol. Expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, liver X receptor and fatty acid synthase was unaltered. These data show that mouse hepatocytes largely compensate the loss of Sgpl1 by secretion of accumulating sphingolipids in a specific manner into blood and bile, so that they can be excreted or degraded elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Katharina Spohner
- Institut für Allgemeine Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (A.K.S.); (K.J.); (J.P.)
| | - Katja Jakobi
- Institut für Allgemeine Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (A.K.S.); (K.J.); (J.P.)
| | - Sandra Trautmann
- Institut für Klinische Pharmakologie, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Theo-dor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (S.T.); (D.T.); (K.E.-H.); (S.G.)
| | - Dominique Thomas
- Institut für Klinische Pharmakologie, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Theo-dor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (S.T.); (D.T.); (K.E.-H.); (S.G.)
| | - Fabian Schumacher
- Institut für Pharmazie, Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Straße 2-4, 14195 Berlin, Germany; (F.S.); (B.K.)
| | - Burkhard Kleuser
- Institut für Pharmazie, Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Straße 2-4, 14195 Berlin, Germany; (F.S.); (B.K.)
| | - Dieter Lütjohann
- Institut für Klinische Chemie und Pharmakologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Straße 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Khadija El-Hindi
- Institut für Klinische Pharmakologie, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Theo-dor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (S.T.); (D.T.); (K.E.-H.); (S.G.)
| | - Sabine Grösch
- Institut für Klinische Pharmakologie, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Theo-dor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (S.T.); (D.T.); (K.E.-H.); (S.G.)
| | - Josef Pfeilschifter
- Institut für Allgemeine Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (A.K.S.); (K.J.); (J.P.)
| | - Julie D. Saba
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, 505 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA;
| | - Dagmar Meyer zu Heringdorf
- Institut für Allgemeine Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (A.K.S.); (K.J.); (J.P.)
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13
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Chen Q, Wang W, Xia MF, Lu YL, Bian H, Yu C, Li XY, Vadas MA, Gao X, Lin HD, Xia P. Identification of circulating sphingosine kinase-related metabolites for prediction of type 2 diabetes. J Transl Med 2021; 19:393. [PMID: 34530846 PMCID: PMC8447705 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-03066-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sphingosine Kinase (SphK) that catalyzes sphingosine (Sph) to sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), plays a key role in both sphingolipid metabolism and cellular signaling. While SphK has been implicated in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), it is unexplored in humans. Herein, we investigated whether circulating SphK-related metabolites are associated with T2DM incidence in an established prospective cohort. Methods Levels of SphK-related sphingolipid metabolites, including Sph, S1P, dihydrosphingosine (dhSph) and dihydro-S1P (dhS1P) in serum were measured by targeted-lipidomic analyses. By accessing to an established prospective cohort that involves a total of 2486 non-diabetic adults at baseline, 100 subjects who developed T2DM after a mean follow-up of 4.2-years, along with 100 control subjects matched strictly with age, sex, BMI and fasting glucose, were randomly enrolled for the present study. Results Comparison with the control group, medians of serum dhS1P and dhS1P/dhSph ratio at baseline were elevated significantly prior to the onset of T2DM. Each SD increment of dhS1P and dhS1P/dhSph ratio was associated with 53.5% and 54.1% increased risk of incident diabetes, respectively. The predictive effect of circulating dhS1P and dhS1P/dhSph ratio on T2DM incidence was independent of conventional risk factors in multivariate regression models. Furthermore, combination of serum dhS1P and dhS1P/dhSph ratio with conventional clinical indices significantly improved the accuracy of T2DM prediction (AUROC, 0.726), especially for normoglycemic subjects (AUROC, 0.859). Conclusion Circulating levels of dhS1P and dhS1P/dhSph ratio are strongly associated with increased risk of T2DM, and could serve as a useful biomarker for prediction of incident T2DM in normoglycemic populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Chen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ming-Feng Xia
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - You-Li Lu
- Central Laboratory, Xuhui Central Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Bian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Chen Yu
- Central Laboratory, Xuhui Central Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Ying Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Mathew A Vadas
- Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Xin Gao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Huan-Dong Lin
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Pu Xia
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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14
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Muralidharan S, Shimobayashi M, Ji S, Burla B, Hall MN, Wenk MR, Torta F. A reference map of sphingolipids in murine tissues. Cell Rep 2021; 35:109250. [PMID: 34133933 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids (SPs) have both a structural role in the cell membranes and a signaling function that regulates many cellular processes. The enormous structural diversity and low abundance of many SPs pose a challenge for their identification and quantification. Recent advances in lipidomics, in particular liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS), provide methods to detect and quantify many low-abundant SP species reliably. Here we use LC-MS to compile a "murine sphingolipid atlas," containing the qualitative and quantitative distribution of 114 SPs in 21 tissues of a widely utilized wild-type laboratory mouse strain (C57BL/6). We report tissue-specific SP fingerprints, as well as sex-specific differences in the same tissue. This is a comprehensive, quantitative sphingolipidomic map of mammalian tissues collected in a systematic fashion. It will complement other tissue compendia for interrogation into the role of SP in mammalian health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Muralidharan
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 16 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117558, Singapore; Singapore Lipidomics Incubator, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Mitsugu Shimobayashi
- Biozentrum - Center for Molecular Life Sciences, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Shanshan Ji
- Singapore Lipidomics Incubator, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Bo Burla
- Singapore Lipidomics Incubator, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Michael N Hall
- Biozentrum - Center for Molecular Life Sciences, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Markus R Wenk
- Singapore Lipidomics Incubator, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore; Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore.
| | - Federico Torta
- Singapore Lipidomics Incubator, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore; Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore.
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15
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Imeri F, Stepanovska Tanturovska B, Schwalm S, Saha S, Zeng-Brouwers J, Pavenstädt H, Pfeilschifter J, Schaefer L, Huwiler A. Loss of sphingosine kinase 2 enhances Wilm's tumor suppressor gene 1 and nephrin expression in podocytes and protects from streptozotocin-induced podocytopathy and albuminuria in mice. Matrix Biol 2021; 98:32-48. [PMID: 34015468 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid that is now appreciated as key regulatory factor for various cellular functions in the kidney, including matrix remodeling. It is generated by two sphingosine kinases (Sphk), Sphk1 and Sphk2, which are ubiquitously expressed, but have distinct enzymatic activities and subcellular localizations. In this study, we have investigated the role of Sphk2 in podocyte function and its contribution to diabetic nephropathy. We show that streptozotocin (STZ)-induced nephropathy and albuminuria in mice is prevented by genetic depletion of Sphk2. This protection correlated with an increased protein expression of the transcription factor Wilm's tumor suppressor gene 1 (WT1) and its target gene nephrin, and a reduced macrophage infiltration in immunohistochemical renal sections of STZ-treated Sphk2-/- mice compared to STZ-treated wildtype mice. To investigate changes on the cellular level, we used an immortalized human podocyte cell line and generated a stable knockdown of Sphk2 (Sphk2-kd) by a lentiviral transduction method. These Sphk2-kd cells accumulated sphingosine as a consequence of the knockdown, and showed enhanced nephrin and WT1 mRNA and protein expressions similar to the finding in Sphk2 knockout mice. Treatment of wildtype podocytes with the highly selective Sphk2 inhibitor SLM6031434 caused a similar upregulation of nephrin and WT1 expression. Furthermore, exposing cells to the profibrotic mediator transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) resulted on the one side in reduced nephrin and WT1 expression, but on the other side, in upregulation of various profibrotic marker proteins, including connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), fibronectin (FN) and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI) 1. All these effects were reverted by Sphk2-kd and SLM6031434. Mechanistically, the protection by Sphk2-kd may depend on accumulated sphingosine and inhibited PKC activity, since treatment of cells with exogenous sphingosine not only reduced the phosphorylation pattern of PKC substrates, but also increased WT1 protein expression. Moreover, the selective stable knockdown of PKCδ increased WT1 expression, suggesting the involvement of this PKC isoenzyme in WT1 regulation. The glucocorticoid dexamethasone, which is a treatment option in many glomerular diseases and is known to mediate a nephroprotection, not only downregulated Sphk2 and enhanced cellular sphingosine, but also enhanced WT1 and nephrin expressions, thus, suggesting that parts of the nephroprotective effect of dexamethasone is mediated by Sphk2 downregulation. Altogether, our data demonstrated that loss of Sphk2 is protective in diabetes-induced podocytopathy and can prevent proteinuria, which is a hallmark of many glomerular diseases. Thus, Sphk2 could serve as a new attractive pharmacological target to treat proteinuric kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faik Imeri
- Institute of Pharmacology, University of Bern, Inselspital, INO-F, Bern CH-3010, Switzerland
| | | | - Stephanie Schwalm
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main D-60590, Germany
| | - Sarbari Saha
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main D-60590, Germany
| | - Jinyang Zeng-Brouwers
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main D-60590, Germany
| | - Herrmann Pavenstädt
- Medizinische Klinik D, University Hospital Münster, Münster D-48149, Germany
| | - Josef Pfeilschifter
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main D-60590, Germany
| | - Liliana Schaefer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main D-60590, Germany.
| | - Andrea Huwiler
- Institute of Pharmacology, University of Bern, Inselspital, INO-F, Bern CH-3010, Switzerland.
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16
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Ding T, Zhi Y, Xie W, Yao Q, Liu B. Rational design of SphK inhibitors using crystal structures aided by computer. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 213:113164. [PMID: 33454547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113164] [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: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Sphingosine kinases (SphKs) are lipid kinases that catalyze the phosphorylation of sphingosine (Sph) to sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P). As a bioactive lipid, S1P plays a role outside and inside the cell to regulate biological processes. The overexpression of SphKs is related to a variety of pathophysiological conditions. Targeting the S1P signaling pathway is a potential treatment strategy for many diseases. SphKs are key kinases of the S1P signaling pathway. The SphK family includes two isoforms: SphK1 and SphK2. Determination of the co-crystal structure of SphK1 with various inhibitors has laid a solid foundation for the development of small molecule inhibitors targeting SphKs. This paper reviews the differences and connections between the two isoforms and the structure of SphK1 crystals, especially the structure of its Sph "J-shaped" channel binding site. This review also summarizes the recent development of SphK1 and SphK2 selective inhibitors and the exploration of the unresolved SphK2 structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiandi Ding
- Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China
| | - Ying Zhi
- Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China
| | - Weilin Xie
- Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China
| | - Qingqiang Yao
- Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China.
| | - Bo Liu
- Institute of Materia Medica, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, PR China.
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17
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Congdon M, Fritzemeier RG, Kharel Y, Brown AM, Serbulea V, Bevan DR, Lynch KR, Santos WL. Probing the substitution pattern of indole-based scaffold reveals potent and selective sphingosine kinase 2 inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 212:113121. [PMID: 33445156 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.113121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Elevated levels of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) and increased expression of sphingosine kinase isoforms (SphK1 and SphK2) have been implicated in a variety of disease states including cancer, inflammation, and autoimmunity. Consequently, the S1P signaling axis has become an attractive target for drug discovery. Selective inhibition of either SphK1 or SphK2 has been demonstrated to be effective in modulating S1P levels in animal models. While SphK1 inhibitors have received much attention, the development of potent and selective SphK2 inhibitors are emerging. Previously, our group reported a SphK2 naphthalene-based selective inhibitor, SLC5081308, which displays approximately 7-fold selectivity for hSphK2 over hSphK1 and has a SphK2 Ki value of 1.0 μM. To improve SphK2 potency and selectivity, we designed, synthesized, and evaluated a series of indole-based compounds derived from SLC5081308. After investigating substitution patterns around the indole ring, we discovered that 1,5-disubstitution promoted optimal binding in the SphK2 substrate binding site and subsequent inhibition of enzymatic activity. Our studies led to the identification of SLC5101465 (6r, SphK2 Ki = 90 nM, >110 fold selective for SphK2 over SphK1). Molecular modeling studies revealed key nonpolar interactions with Val308, Phe548, His556, and Cys533 and hydrogen bonds with both Asp211 and Asp308 as responsible for the high SphK2 inhibition and selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Congdon
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States; Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States
| | - Russell G Fritzemeier
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States; Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States
| | - Yugesh Kharel
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, United States
| | - Anne M Brown
- Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States; Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States; Research and Informatics, University Libraries, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States
| | - Vlad Serbulea
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, United States
| | - David R Bevan
- Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States; Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States
| | - Kevin R Lynch
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, United States
| | - Webster L Santos
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States; Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, United States.
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18
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Hodun K, Chabowski A, Baranowski M. Sphingosine-1-phosphate in acute exercise and training. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2020; 31:945-955. [PMID: 33345415 DOI: 10.1111/sms.13907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid found in all eukaryotic cells. Although it may function as an intracellular second messenger, most of its effects are induced extracellularly via activation of a family of five specific membrane receptors. Sphingosine-1-phosphate is enriched in plasma, where it is transported by high-density lipoprotein and albumin, as well as in erythrocytes and platelets which store and release large amounts of this sphingolipid. Sphingosine-1-phosphate regulates a host of cellular processes such as growth, proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis suppression. It was also shown to play an important role in skeletal muscle physiology and pathophysiology. In recent years, S1P metabolism in both muscle and blood was found to be modulated by exercise. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the effect of acute exercise and training on S1P metabolism, highlighting the role of this sphingolipid in skeletal muscle adaptation to physical effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Hodun
- Department of Physiology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Adrian Chabowski
- Department of Physiology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Marcin Baranowski
- Department of Physiology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
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19
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Li H, Sibley CD, Kharel Y, Huang T, Brown AM, Wonilowicz LG, Bevan DR, Lynch KR, Santos WL. Lipophilic tail modifications of 2-(hydroxymethyl)pyrrolidine scaffold reveal dual sphingosine kinase 1 and 2 inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2020; 30:115941. [PMID: 33385956 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2020.115941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) signaling pathway is an attractive target for pharmacological manipulation due to its involvement in cancer progression and immune cell chemotaxis. The synthesis of S1P is catalyzed by the action of sphingosine kinase 1 or 2 (SphK1 or SphK2) on sphingosine and ATP. While potent and selective inhibitors of SphK1 or SphK2 have been reported, development of potent dual SphK1/SphK2 inhibitors are still needed. Towards this end, we report the structure-activity relationship profiling of 2-(hydroxymethyl)pyrrolidine-based inhibitors with 22d being the most potent dual SphK1/SphK2 inhibitor (SphK1 Ki = 0.679 μM, SphK2 Ki = 0.951 μM) reported in this series. 22d inhibited the growth of engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae and decreased S1P levels in histiocytic lymphoma myeloid cell line (U937 cells), demonstrating inhibition of SphK1 and 2 in vitro. Molecular modeling studies of 22d docked inside the Sph binding pocket of both SphK1 and SphK2 indicate essential hydrogen bond between the 2-(hydroxymethyl)pyrrolidine head to interact with aspartic acid and serine residues near the ATP binding pocket, which provide the basis for dual inhibition. In addition, the dodecyl tail adopts a "J-shape" conformation found in crystal structure of sphingosine bound to SphK1. Collectively, these studies provide insight into the intermolecular interactions in the SphK1 and 2 active sites to achieve maximal dual inhibitory activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | | | - Yugesh Kharel
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Anne M Brown
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States; Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Laura G Wonilowicz
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - David R Bevan
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States; Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Kevin R Lynch
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States
| | - Webster L Santos
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States; Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States.
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Ziegler AC, Müller T, Gräler MH. Sphingosine 1-phosphate in sepsis and beyond: Its role in disease tolerance and host defense and the impact of carrier molecules. Cell Signal 2020; 78:109849. [PMID: 33249088 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is an important immune modulator responsible for physiological cellular responses like lymphocyte development and function, positioning and emigration of T and B cells and cytokine secretion. Recent reports indicate that S1P does not only regulate immunity, but can also protect the function of organs by inducing disease tolerance. S1P also influences the replication of certain pathogens, and sphingolipids are also involved in pathogen recognition and killing. Certain carrier molecules for S1P like serum albumin and high density lipoproteins contribute to the regulation of S1P effects. They are able to associate with S1P and modulate its signaling properties. Similar to S1P, both carrier molecules are also decreased in sepsis patients and likely contribute to sepsis pathology and severity. In this review, we will introduce the concept of disease tolerance and the involvement of S1P. We will also discuss the contribution of S1P and its precursor sphingosine to host defense mechanisms against pathogens. Finally, we will summarize current data demonstrating the influence of carrier molecules for differential S1P signaling. The presented data may lead to new strategies for the prevention and containment of sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke C Ziegler
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07740 Jena, Germany; Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Jena University Hospital, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Tina Müller
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07740 Jena, Germany; Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Jena University Hospital, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Markus H Gräler
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07740 Jena, Germany; Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Jena University Hospital, 07745 Jena, Germany; Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, 07740 Jena, Germany.
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21
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Emerging roles of lysophospholipids in health and disease. Prog Lipid Res 2020; 80:101068. [PMID: 33068601 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2020.101068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Lipids are abundant and play essential roles in human health and disease. The main functions of lipids are building blocks for membrane biogenesis. However, lipids are also metabolized to produce signaling molecules. Here, we discuss the emerging roles of circulating lysophospholipids. These lysophospholipids consist of lysoglycerophospholipids and lysosphingolipids. They are both present in cells at low concentration, but their concentrations in extracellular fluids are significantly higher. The biological functions of some of these lysophospholipids have been recently revealed. Remarkably, some of the lysophospholipids play pivotal signaling roles as well as being precursors for membrane biogenesis. Revealing how circulating lysophospholipids are produced, released, transported, and utilized in multi-organ systems is critical to understand their functions. The discovery of enzymes, carriers, transporters, and membrane receptors for these lysophospholipids has shed light on their physiological significance. In this review, we summarize the biological roles of these lysophospholipids via discussing about the proteins regulating their functions. We also discuss about their potential impacts to human health and diseases.
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22
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Anderson AK, Lambert JM, Montefusco DJ, Tran BN, Roddy P, Holland WL, Cowart LA. Depletion of adipocyte sphingosine kinase 1 leads to cell hypertrophy, impaired lipolysis, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. J Lipid Res 2020; 61:1328-1340. [PMID: 32690594 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.ra120000875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids have become established participants in the pathogenesis of obesity and its associated maladies. Sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1), which generates S1P, has been shown to increase in liver and adipose of obese humans and mice and to regulate inflammation in hepatocytes and adipose tissue, insulin resistance, and systemic inflammation in mouse models of obesity. Previous studies by us and others have demonstrated that global sphingosine kinase 1 KO mice are protected from diet-induced obesity, insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and NAFLD, suggesting that SPHK1 may mediate pathological outcomes of obesity. As adipose tissue dysfunction has gained recognition as a central instigator of obesity-induced metabolic disease, we hypothesized that SPHK1 intrinsic to adipocytes may contribute to HFD-induced metabolic pathology. To test this, we depleted Sphk1 from adipocytes in mice (SK1fatKO) and placed them on a HFD. In contrast to our initial hypothesis, SK1fatKO mice displayed greater weight gain on HFD and exacerbated impairment in glucose clearance. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and neutrophil content of adipose tissue were similar, as were levels of circulating leptin and adiponectin. However, SPHK1-null adipocytes were hypertrophied and had lower basal lipolytic activity. Interestingly, hepatocyte triacylglycerol accumulation and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and collagen 1a1 were exacerbated in SK1fatKO mice on a HFD, implicating a specific role for adipocyte SPHK1 in adipocyte function and inter-organ cross-talk that maintains overall metabolic homeostasis in obesity. Thus, SPHK1 serves a previously unidentified essential homeostatic role in adipocytes that protects from obesity-associated pathology. These findings may have implications for pharmacological targeting of the SPHK1/S1P signaling axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea K Anderson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.,Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Johana M Lambert
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.,Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - David J Montefusco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Bao Ngan Tran
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Patrick Roddy
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - William L Holland
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - L Ashley Cowart
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA .,Hunter Holmes McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, USA
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23
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Qi Y, Wang W, Song Z, Aji G, Liu XT, Xia P. Role of Sphingosine Kinase in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:627076. [PMID: 33633691 PMCID: PMC7899982 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.627076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids are a class of essential lipids, functioning as both cell membrane constituents and signaling messengers. In the sphingolipid metabolic network, ceramides serve as the central hub that is hydrolyzed to sphingosine, followed by phosphorylation to sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) by sphingosine kinase (SphK). SphK is regarded as a "switch" of the sphingolipid rheostat, as it catalyzes the conversion of ceramide/sphingosine to S1P, which often exhibit opposing biological roles in the cell. Besides, SphK is an important signaling enzyme that has been implicated in the regulation of a wide variety of biological functions. In recent years, an increasing body of evidence has suggested a critical role of SphK in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), although a certain level of controversy remains. Herein, we review recent findings related to SphK in the field of T2D research with a focus on peripheral insulin resistance and pancreatic β-cell failure. It is expected that a comprehensive understanding of the role of SphK and the associated sphingolipids in T2D will help to identify druggable targets for future anti-diabetes therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Qi
- Lipid Cell Biology Laboratory, Centenary Institute of Cancer Medicine and Cell Biology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Yanfei Qi, ; Pu Xia,
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziyu Song
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gulibositan Aji
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Tracy Liu
- Lipid Cell Biology Laboratory, Centenary Institute of Cancer Medicine and Cell Biology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Pu Xia
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute for Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yanfei Qi, ; Pu Xia,
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Druggable Sphingolipid Pathways: Experimental Models and Clinical Opportunities. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1274:101-135. [PMID: 32894509 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-50621-6_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Intensive research in the field of sphingolipids has revealed diverse roles in cell biological responses and human health and disease. This immense molecular family is primarily represented by the bioactive molecules ceramide, sphingosine, and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P). The flux of sphingolipid metabolism at both the subcellular and extracellular levels provides multiple opportunities for pharmacological intervention. The caveat is that perturbation of any single node of this highly regulated flux may have effects that propagate throughout the metabolic network in a dramatic and sometimes unexpected manner. Beginning with S1P, the receptors for which have thus far been the most clinically tractable pharmacological targets, this review will describe recent advances in therapeutic modulators targeting sphingolipids, their chaperones, transporters, and metabolic enzymes.
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