1
|
Kumar VP, Jaiswal S, Wuddie K, Ward JM, Lawrence M, Ghosh SP. Development of a Radiation-induced Pulmonary Fibrosis Partial Body Irradiation Model in C57BL/6 Mice. Radiat Res 2024; 201:460-470. [PMID: 38376474 DOI: 10.1667/rade-23-00143.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
With the current volatile geopolitical climate, the threat of nuclear assault is high. Exposure to ionizing radiation from either nuclear incidents or radiological accidents often lead to major harmful consequences to human health. Depending on the absorbed dose, the symptoms of the acute radiation syndrome and delayed effects of acute radiation exposure (DEARE) can appear within hours, weeks to months. The lung is a relatively radiosensitive organ with manifestation of radiation pneumonitis as an acute effect, followed by apparent fibrosis in weeks or even months. A recently developed, first-of-its-kind murine model for partial-body irradiation (PBI) injury, which can be used to test potential countermeasures against multi-organ damage such as gastrointestinal (GI) tract and lungs was used for irradiation, with 2.5% bone marrow spared (BM2.5-PBI) from radiation exposure. Long-term damage to lungs from radiation was evaluated using µ-CT scans, pulmonary function testing, histopathological parameters and molecular biomarkers. Pulmonary fibrosis was detected by ground glass opacity observed in µ-CT scans of male and female C57BL/6J mice 6-7 months after BM2.5-PBI. Lung mechanics assessments pertaining to peripheral airways suggested fibrotic lungs with stiffer parenchymal lung tissue and reduced inspiratory capacity in irradiated animals 6-7 months after BM2.5-PBI. Histopathological evaluation of the irradiated lungs revealed presence of focal and diffuse pleural, and parenchymal inflammatory and fibrotic lesions. Fibrosis was confirmed by elevated levels of collagen when compared to lungs of age-matched naïve mice. These findings were validated by findings of elevated levels of pro-fibrotic biomarkers and reduction in anti-inflammatory proteins. In conclusion, a long-term model for radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis was established, and countermeasures could be screened in this model for survival and protection/mitigation or recovery from radiation-induced pulmonary damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vidya P Kumar
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | - Shalini Jaiswal
- Biomedical Research Imaging Core (BRIC), Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | - Kefale Wuddie
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | | | - Mark Lawrence
- SCIREQ Scientific Respiratory Equipment Inc, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Holmes-Hampton GP, Kumar VP, Valenzia K, Ghosh SP. FSL-1: A Synthetic Peptide Increases Survival in a Murine Model of Hematopoietic Acute Radiation Syndrome. Radiat Res 2024; 201:449-459. [PMID: 38373011 DOI: 10.1667/rade-23-00142.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
In the current geopolitical climate there is an unmet need to identify and develop prophylactic radiation countermeasures, particularly to ensure the well-being of warfighters and first responders that may be required to perform on radiation-contaminated fields for operational or rescue missions. Currently, no countermeasures have been approved by the U.S. FDA for prophylactic administration. Here we report on the efficacious nature of FSL-1 (toll-like receptor 2/6 agonist) and the protection from acute radiation syndrome (ARS) in a murine total-body irradiation (TBI) model. A single dose of FSL-1 was administered subcutaneously in mice. The safety of the compound was assessed in non-irradiated animals, the efficacy of the compound was assessed in animals exposed to TBI in the AFRRI Co-60 facility, the dose of FSL-1 was optimized, and common hematological parameters [complete blood cell (CBC), cytokines, and bone marrow progenitor cells] were assessed. Animals were monitored up to 60 days after exposure and radiation-induced damage was evaluated. FSL-1 was shown to be non-toxic when administered to non-irradiated mice at doses up to 3 mg/kg. The window of efficacy was determined to be 24 h prior to 24 h after TBI. FSL-1 administration resulted in significantly increased survival when administered either 24 h prior to or 24 h after exposure to supralethal doses of TBI. The optimal dose of FSL-1 administration was determined to be 1.5 mg/kg when administered prior to irradiation. Finally, FSL-1 protected the hematopoietic system (recovery of CBC and bone marrow CFU). Taken together, the effects of increased survival and accelerated recovery of hematological parameters suggests that FSL-1 should be developed as a novel radiation countermeasure for soldiers and civilians, which can be used either before or after irradiation in the aftermath of a radiological or nuclear event.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory P Holmes-Hampton
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | - Vidya P Kumar
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | - Kaylee Valenzia
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Holmes-Hampton GP, Kumar VP, Biswas S, Stone S, Sharma NK, Legesse B, Vercellino J, Guha C, Eichenbaum G, Ghosh SP. PEGylated thrombopoietin mimetic, JNJ‑26366821 a novel prophylactic radiation countermeasure for acute radiation injury. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15211. [PMID: 37709916 PMCID: PMC10502090 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42443-0] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Thrombopoietin (TPO) is the primary regulator of platelet generation and a stimulator of multilineage hematopoietic recovery following exposure to total body irradiation (TBI). JNJ‑26366821, a novel PEGylated TPO mimetic peptide, stimulates platelet production without developing neutralizing antibodies or causing any adverse effects. Administration of a single dose of JNJ‑26366821 demonstrated its efficacy as a prophylactic countermeasure in various mouse strains (males CD2F1, C3H/HeN, and male and female C57BL/6J) exposed to Co-60 gamma TBI. A dose dependent survival efficacy of JNJ‑26366821 (- 24 h) was identified in male CD2F1 mice exposed to a supralethal dose of radiation. A single dose of JNJ‑26366821 administered 24, 12, or 2 h pre-radiation resulted in 100% survival from a lethal dose of TBI with a dose reduction factor of 1.36. There was significantly accelerated recovery from radiation-induced peripheral blood neutropenia and thrombocytopenia in animals pre-treated with JNJ‑26366821. The drug also increased bone marrow cellularity and megakaryocytes, accelerated multi-lineage hematopoietic recovery, and alleviated radiation-induced soluble markers of bone marrow aplasia and endothelial damage. These results indicate that JNJ‑26366821 is a promising prophylactic radiation countermeasure for hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome with a broad window for medical management in a radiological or nuclear event.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory P Holmes-Hampton
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Vidya P Kumar
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Shukla Biswas
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Sasha Stone
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Neel K Sharma
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Betre Legesse
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Justin Vercellino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA
| | - Chandan Guha
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA
| | - Gary Eichenbaum
- Johnson & Johnson, Office of the Chief Medical Officer, 410 George Street, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kumar VP, Biswas S, Holmes-Hampton GP, Goesch T, Fahl W, Ghosh SP. PrC-210 Protects against Radiation-Induced Hematopoietic and Intestinal Injury in Mice and Reduces Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1417. [PMID: 37507957 PMCID: PMC10376632 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12071417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of safe, orally available, and effective prophylactic countermeasures to protect our warfighters is an unmet need because there is no such FDA-approved countermeasure available for use. Th 1-Propanethiol, 3-(methylamino)-2-((methylamino)methyl) (PrC-210), a synthetic small molecule, is a member of a new family of aminothiols designed to reduce toxicity while scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). Our study investigated the protective role of a single oral administration of PrC-210 against radiation-induced hematopoietic and intestinal injury in mice. Pre-treatment with PrC-210 significantly improved the survival of mice exposed to a lethal dose of radiation. Our findings indicated that the radioprotective properties of PrC-210 are achieved by accelerating the recovery of the hematopoietic system, stimulating bone marrow progenitor cells, and ameliorating additional biomarkers of hematopoietic injury. PrC-210 pre-treatment reduced intestinal injury in mice exposed to a lethal dose of radiation by restoring jejunal crypts and villi, reducing translocation of bacteria to the spleen, maintaining citrulline levels, and reducing the sepsis marker serum amyloid A (SAA) in serum. Finally, PrC-210 pre-treatment led to a significant reduction (~10 fold) of Nos2 expression (inducible nitric oxide) in the spleen and decreased oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant defense system. These data support the further development of PrC-210 to receive approval from the FDA to protect warfighters and first responders from exposure to the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vidya P Kumar
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA
| | - Shukla Biswas
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA
| | - Gregory P Holmes-Hampton
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA
| | | | - William Fahl
- Obvia Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Wisconsin Institutes for Medical Research, Department of Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Singh VK, Srivastava M, Seed TM. Protein biomarkers for radiation injury and testing of medical countermeasure efficacy: promises, pitfalls, and future directions. Expert Rev Proteomics 2023; 20:221-246. [PMID: 37752078 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2023.2263652] [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: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Radiological/nuclear accidents, hostile military activity, or terrorist strikes have the potential to expose a large number of civilians and military personnel to high doses of radiation resulting in the development of acute radiation syndrome and delayed effects of exposure. Thus, there is an urgent need for sensitive and specific assays to assess the levels of radiation exposure to individuals. Such radiation exposures are expected to alter primary cellular proteomic processes, resulting in multifaceted biological responses. AREAS COVERED This article covers the application of proteomics, a promising and fast developing technology based on quantitative and qualitative measurements of protein molecules for possible rapid measurement of radiation exposure levels. Recent advancements in high-resolution chromatography, mass spectrometry, high-throughput, and bioinformatics have resulted in comprehensive (relative quantitation) and precise (absolute quantitation) approaches for the discovery and accuracy of key protein biomarkers of radiation exposure. Such proteome biomarkers might prove useful for assessing radiation exposure levels as well as for extrapolating the pharmaceutical dose of countermeasures for humans based on efficacy data generated using animal models. EXPERT OPINION The field of proteomics promises to be a valuable asset in evaluating levels of radiation exposure and characterizing radiation injury biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K Singh
- Division of Radioprotectants, Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Meera Srivastava
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Holmes-Hampton GP, Kumar VP, Valenzia K, Ghosh SP. Sex as a Factor in Murine Radiation Research: Implications for Countermeasure Development. Cytogenet Genome Res 2023; 163:187-196. [PMID: 37348469 DOI: 10.1159/000531630] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an increased threat of exposure to ionizing radiation; in the event of such exposure, the availability of medical countermeasures will be vital to ensure the protection of the population. Effective countermeasures should be efficacious across a varied population and most importantly amongst both males and females. Radiation research must be conducted in animal models which act as a surrogate for the human response. Here, we identify differences in survival in male and female C57BL/6 in both a total body irradiation (TBI) model using the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI) 60Co source and a partial body irradiation (PBI) model using the AFRRI Linear Accelerator (LINAC) with 4 MV photons and 2.5% bone marrow shielding. In both models, we observed a higher degree of radioresistance in female animals and a corresponding radiosensitivity in males. One striking difference in male and female rodents is body size/weight and we investigated the role of pre-irradiation body weight on survivability for animals irradiated at the same dose of irradiation (8 Gy TBI, 14 Gy PBI). We found that weight does not influence survival in the TBI model and that heavier males but lighter females have increased survival in the PBI model. This incongruence in survival amongst the sexes should be taken into consideration in the course of developing radiation countermeasures for response to a mass casualty incident.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory P Holmes-Hampton
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Vidya P Kumar
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Kaylee Valenzia
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wu T, Orschell CM. The delayed effects of acute radiation exposure (DEARE): characteristics, mechanisms, animal models, and promising medical countermeasures. Int J Radiat Biol 2023; 99:1066-1079. [PMID: 36862990 PMCID: PMC10330482 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2023.2187479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Terrorist use of nuclear weapons and radiation accidents put the human population at risk for exposure to life-threatening levels of radiation. Victims of lethal radiation exposure face potentially lethal acute injury, while survivors of the acute phase are plagued with chronic debilitating multi-organ injuries for years after exposure. Developing effective medical countermeasures (MCM) for the treatment of radiation exposure is an urgent need that relies heavily on studies conducted in reliable and well-characterized animal models according to the FDA Animal Rule. Although relevant animal models have been developed in several species and four MCM for treatment of the acute radiation syndrome are now FDA-approved, animal models for the delayed effects of acute radiation exposure (DEARE) have only recently been developed, and there are no licensed MCM for DEARE. Herein, we provide a review of the DEARE including key characteristics of the DEARE gleaned from human data as well as animal, mechanisms common to multi-organ DEARE, small and large animal models used to study the DEARE, and promising new or repurposed MCM under development for alleviation of the DEARE. CONCLUSIONS Intensification of research efforts and support focused on better understanding of mechanisms and natural history of DEARE are urgently needed. Such knowledge provides the necessary first steps toward the design and development of MCM that effectively alleviate the life-debilitating consequences of the DEARE for the benefit of humankind worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wu
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Christie M Orschell
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Huang L, Xu J, Zhang H, Wang M, Zhang Y, Lin Q. Application and investigation of thrombopoiesis-stimulating agents in the treatment of thrombocytopenia. Ther Adv Hematol 2023; 14:20406207231152746. [PMID: 36865986 PMCID: PMC9972067 DOI: 10.1177/20406207231152746] [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: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Platelets, derived from a certain subpopulation of megakaryocytes, are closely related to hemostasis, coagulation, metastasis, inflammation, and cancer progression. Thrombopoiesis is a dynamic process regulated by various signaling pathways in which thrombopoietin (THPO)-MPL is dominant. Thrombopoiesis-stimulating agents could promote platelet production, showing therapeutic effects in different kinds of thrombocytopenia. Some thrombopoiesis-stimulating agents are currently used in clinical practices to treat thrombocytopenia. The others are not in clinical investigations to deal with thrombocytopenia but have potential in thrombopoiesis. Their potential values in thrombocytopenia treatment should be highly regarded. Novel drug screening models and drug repurposing research have found many new agents and yielded promising outcomes in preclinical or clinical studies. This review will briefly introduce thrombopoiesis-stimulating agents currently or potentially valuable in thrombocytopenia treatment and summarize the possible mechanisms and therapeutic effects, which may enrich the pharmacological armamentarium for the medical treatment of thrombocytopenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lejun Huang
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative
Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology,
Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jianxuan Xu
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative
Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology,
Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Huaying Zhang
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative
Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology,
Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Mengfan Wang
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative
Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology,
Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yiyue Zhang
- Division of Cell, Developmental and Integrative
Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology,
Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Singh VK, Seed TM. The safety and efficacy of interleukin 11 for radiation injury. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2023; 22:105-109. [PMID: 36846931 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2023.2185604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K Singh
- Division of Radioprotectants, Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Singh VK, Seed TM. Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute/Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences perspective on space radiation countermeasure discovery. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2022; 35:20-29. [PMID: 36336365 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2022.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
There is a need to develop and deploy medical countermeasures (MCMs) in order to support astronauts during space missions against excessive exposures to ionizing radiation exposure. The radiation environment of extraterrestrial space is complex and is characterized by nearly constant fluences of elemental atomic particles (protons being a dominant particle type) with widely different energies and ionization potentials. Chronic exposure to such ionizing radiation carries both near- and long-term health risks, which are generally related to the relative intensity and duration of exposure. These radiation-associated health risks can be managed only to a limited extent by physical means, but perhaps they might be more effectively managed biomedically. The Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute/Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences has a long history of researching and developing MCMs specifically designed to support terrestrial-based military missions involving a radiation-threat component. The development of MCMs for both low and high doses of radiation are major aims of current research, and as such can provide lessons learned for the development of countermeasures applicable to future space missions and its extraterrestrial radiation environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA; Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Thomas M Seed
- Tech Micro Services, 4417 Maple Avenue, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Pre-Administration of PLX-R18 Cells Protects Mice from Radiation-Induced Hematopoietic Failure and Lethality. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13101756. [PMID: 36292639 PMCID: PMC9601513 DOI: 10.3390/genes13101756] [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: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute Radiation Syndrome (ARS) is a syndrome involving damage to multiple organs caused by exposure to a high dose of ionizing radiation over a short period of time; even low doses of radiation damage the radiosensitive hematopoietic system and causes H-ARS. PLacenta eXpanded (PLX)-R18 is a 3D-expanded placenta-derived stromal cell product designated for the treatment of hematological disorders. These cells have been shown in vitro to secrete hematopoietic proteins, to stimulate colony formation, and to induce bone marrow migration. Previous studies in mice showed that PLX-R18 cells responded to radiation-induced hematopoietic failure by transiently secreting hematopoiesis related proteins to enhance reconstitution of the hematopoietic system. We assessed the potential effect of prophylactic PLX-R18 treatment on H-ARS. PLX-R18 cells were administered intramuscularly to C57BL/6 mice, −1 and 3 days after (LD70/30) total body irradiation. PLX R18 treatment significantly increased survival after irradiation (p < 0.0005). In addition, peripheral blood and bone marrow (BM) cellularity were monitored at several time points up to 30 days. PLX-R18 treatment significantly increased the number of colony-forming hematopoietic progenitors in the femoral BM and significantly raised peripheral blood cellularity. PLX-R18 administration attenuated biomarkers of bone marrow aplasia (EPO, FLT3L), sepsis (SAA), and systemic inflammation (sP-selectin and E-selectin) and attenuated radiation-induced inflammatory cytokines/chemokines and growth factors, including G-CSF, MIP-1a, MIP-1b, IL-2, IL-6 and MCP-1, In addition, PLX-R18 also ameliorated radiation-induced upregulation of pAKT. Taken together, prophylactic PLX-R18 administration may serve as a protection measure, mitigating bone marrow failure symptoms and systemic inflammation in the H-ARS model.
Collapse
|
12
|
Mitigation of total body irradiation-induced mortality and hematopoietic injury of mice by a thrombopoietin mimetic (JNJ-26366821). Sci Rep 2022; 12:3485. [PMID: 35241733 PMCID: PMC8894488 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07426-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The threat of a nuclear attack has increased in recent years highlighting the benefit of developing additional therapies for the treatment of victims suffering from Acute Radiation Syndrome (ARS). In this work, we evaluated the impact of a PEGylated thrombopoietin mimetic peptide, JNJ-26366821, on the mortality and hematopoietic effects associated with ARS in mice exposed to lethal doses of total body irradiation (TBI). JNJ-26366821 was efficacious as a mitigator of mortality and thrombocytopenia associated with ARS in both CD2F1 and C57BL/6 mice exposed to TBI from a cobalt-60 gamma-ray source. Single administration of doses ranging from 0.3 to 1 mg/kg, given 4, 8, 12 or 24 h post-TBI (LD70 dose) increased survival by 30-90% as compared to saline control treatment. At the conclusion of the 30-day study, significant increases in bone marrow colony forming units and megakaryocytes were observed in animals administered JNJ-26366821 compared to those administered saline. In addition, enhanced recovery of FLT3-L levels was observed in JNJ-26366821-treated animals. Probit analysis of survival in the JNJ-26366821- and saline-treated cohorts revealed a dose reduction factor of 1.113 and significant increases in survival for up to 6 months following irradiation. These results support the potential use of JNJ-26366821 as a medical countermeasure for treatment of acute TBI exposure in case of a radiological/nuclear event when administered from 4 to 24 h post-TBI.
Collapse
|
13
|
Singh VK, Seed TM. Radiation countermeasures for hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome: growth factors, cytokines and beyond. Int J Radiat Biol 2021; 97:1526-1547. [PMID: 34402734 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2021.1969054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The intent of this article is to report the status of some of the pharmaceuticals currently in late stage development for possible use for individuals unwantedly and acutely injured as a result of radiological/nuclear exposures. The two major questions we attempt to address here are: (a) What medicinals are currently deemed by regulatory authorities (US FDA) to be safe and effective and are being stockpiled? (b) What additional agents might be needed to make the federal/state/local medicinal repositories more robust and useful in effectively managing contingencies involving radiation overexposures? CONCLUSIONS A limited number (precisely four) of medicinals have been deemed safe and effective, and are approved by the US FDA for the 'hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome (H-ARS).' These agents are largely recombinant growth factors (e.g. rhuG-CSF/filgrastim, rhuGM-CSF/sargramostim) that target and stimulate myeloid progenitors within bone marrow. Romiplostim, a small molecular agonist that enhances platelet production via stimulation of bone marrow megakaryocytes, has been recently approved and indicated for H-ARS. It is critical that additional agents for other major sub-syndromes of ARS (gastrointestinal-ARS) be approved. Future success in developing such medicinals will undoubtedly entail some form of a polypharmaceutical strategy, or perhaps novel, bioengineered chimeric agents with multiple, radioprotective/radiomitigative functionalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K Singh
- Division of Radioprotectants, Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gasperetti T, Miller T, Gao F, Narayanan J, Jacobs ER, Szabo A, Cox GN, Orschell CM, Fish BL, Medhora M. Polypharmacy to Mitigate Acute and Delayed Radiation Syndromes. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:634477. [PMID: 34079456 PMCID: PMC8165380 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.634477] [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: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a need for countermeasures to mitigate lethal acute radiation syndrome (ARS) and delayed effects of acute radiation exposure (DEARE). In WAG/RijCmcr rats, ARS occurs by 30-days following total body irradiation (TBI), and manifests as potentially lethal gastrointestinal (GI) and hematopoietic (H-ARS) toxicities after >12.5 and >7 Gy, respectively. DEARE, which includes potentially lethal lung and kidney injuries, is observed after partial body irradiation >12.5 Gy, with one hind limb shielded (leg-out PBI). The goal of this study is to enhance survival from ARS and DEARE by polypharmacy, since no monotherapy has demonstrated efficacy to mitigate both sets of injuries. For mitigation of ARS following 7.5 Gy TBI, a combination of three hematopoietic growth factors (polyethylene glycol (PEG) human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (hG-CSF), PEG murine granulocyte-macrophage-CSF (mGM-CSF), and PEG human Interleukin (hIL)-11), which have shown survival efficacy in murine models of H-ARS were tested. This triple combination (TC) enhanced survival by 30-days from ∼25% to >60%. The TC was then combined with proven medical countermeasures for GI-ARS and DEARE, namely enrofloxacin, saline and the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, lisinopril. This combination of ARS and DEARE mitigators improved survival from GI-ARS, H-ARS, and DEARE after 7.5 Gy TBI or 13 Gy PBI. Circulating blood cell recovery as well as lung and kidney function were also improved by TC + lisinopril. Taken together these results demonstrate an efficacious polypharmacy to mitigate radiation-induced ARS and DEARE in rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Gasperetti
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Tessa Miller
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Jayashree Narayanan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Elizabeth R Jacobs
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.,Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.,Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.,Department of Veterans Affairs, Research Service, Zablocki VAMC, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Aniko Szabo
- Institute for Health and Equity, Division of Biostatistics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - George N Cox
- Bolder BioTechnology Inc., Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Christie M Orschell
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Brian L Fish
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Meetha Medhora
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.,Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.,Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.,Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.,Department of Veterans Affairs, Research Service, Zablocki VAMC, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bene BJ, Blakely WF, Burmeister DM, Cary L, Chhetri SJ, Davis CM, Ghosh SP, Holmes-Hampton GP, Iordanskiy S, Kalinich JF, Kiang JG, Kumar VP, Lowy RJ, Miller A, Naeem M, Schauer DA, Senchak L, Singh VK, Stewart AJ, Velazquez EM, Xiao M. Celebrating 60 Years of Accomplishments of the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute1. Radiat Res 2021; 196:129-146. [PMID: 33979439 DOI: 10.1667/21-00064.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1961, the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI) is a Joint Department of Defense (DoD) entity with the mission of carrying out the Medical Radiological Defense Research Program in support of our military forces around the globe. In the last 60 years, the investigators at AFRRI have conducted exploratory and developmental research with broad application to the field of radiation sciences. As the only DoD facility dedicated to radiation research, AFRRI's Medical Radiobiology Advisory Team provides deployable medical and radiobiological subject matter expertise, advising commanders in the response to a U.S. nuclear weapon incident and other nuclear or radiological material incidents. AFRRI received the DoD Joint Meritorious Unit Award on February 17, 2004, for its exceptionally meritorious achievements from September 11, 2001 to June 20, 2003, in response to acts of terrorism and nuclear/radiological threats at home and abroad. In August 2009, the American Nuclear Society designated the institute a nuclear historic landmark as the U.S.'s primary source of medical nuclear and radiological research, preparedness and training. Since then, research has continued, and core areas of study include prevention, assessment and treatment of radiological injuries that may occur from exposure to a wide range of doses (low to high). AFRRI collaborates with other government entities, academic institutions, civilian laboratories and other countries to research the biological effects of ionizing radiation. Notable early research contributions were the establishment of dose limits for major acute radiation syndromes in primates, applicable to human exposures, followed by the subsequent evolution of radiobiology concepts, particularly the importance of immune collapse and combined injury. In this century, the program has been essential in the development and validation of prophylactic and therapeutic drugs, such as Amifostine, Neupogen®, Neulasta®, Nplate® and Leukine®, all of which are used to prevent and treat radiation injuries. Moreover, AFRRI has helped develop rapid, high-precision, biodosimetry tools ranging from novel assays to software decision support. New drug candidates and biological dose assessment technologies are currently being developed. Such efforts are supported by unique and unmatched radiation sources and generators that allow for comprehensive analyses across the various types and qualities of radiation. These include but are not limited to both 60Co facilities, a TRIGA® reactor providing variable mixed neutron and γ-ray fields, a clinical linear accelerator, and a small animal radiation research platform with low-energy photons. There are five major research areas at AFRRI that encompass the prevention, assessment and treatment of injuries resulting from the effects of ionizing radiation: 1. biodosimetry; 2. low-level and low-dose-rate radiation; 3. internal contamination and metal toxicity; 4. radiation combined injury; and 5. radiation medical countermeasures. These research areas are bolstered by an educational component to broadcast and increase awareness of the medical effects of ionizing radiation, in the mass-casualty scenario after a nuclear detonation or radiological accidents. This work provides a description of the military medical operations as well as the radiation facilities and capabilities present at AFRRI, followed by a review and discussion of each of the research areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lynnette Cary
- Scientific Research Department.,Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Catherine M Davis
- Scientific Research Department.,Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Scientific Research Department.,Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Gregory P Holmes-Hampton
- Scientific Research Department.,Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Sergey Iordanskiy
- Scientific Research Department.,Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Juliann G Kiang
- Scientific Research Department.,Medicine.,Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | | | | | | | - David A Schauer
- Radiation Sciences Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Vijay K Singh
- Scientific Research Department.,Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Jurgensen KJ, Skinner WKJ, Oronsky B, Abrouk ND, Graff AE, Landes RD, Culp WE, Summers TA, Cary LH. RRx-001 Radioprotection: Enhancement of Survival and Hematopoietic Recovery in Gamma-Irradiated Mice. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:676396. [PMID: 33967816 PMCID: PMC8100686 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.676396] [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: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The present studies evaluate the in vivo prophylactic radioprotective effects of 1-bromoacetyl-3, 3-dinitroazetidine (RRx-001), a phase III anticancer agent that inhibits c-myc and downregulates CD-47, after total body irradiation (TBI), in lethally and sublethally irradiated CD2F1 male mice. A single dose of RRx-001 was administered by intraperitoneal (IP) injection 24 h prior to a lethal or sublethal radiation dose. When irradiated with 9.35 Gy, the dose lethal to 70% of untreated mice at 30 days (LD70/30), only 33% of mice receiving RRx-001 (10 mg/kg) 24 h prior to total body irradiation (TBI) died by day 30, compared to 67% in vehicle-treated mice. The same pretreatment dose of RRx-001 resulted in a significant dose reduction factor of 1.07. In sublethally TBI mice, bone marrow cellularity was increased at day 14 in the RRx-001-treated mice compared to irradiated vehicle-treated animals. In addition, significantly higher numbers of lymphocytes, platelets, percent hematocrit and percent reticulocytes were observed on days 7 and/or 14 in RRx-001-treated mice. These experiments provide proof of principle that systemic administration of RRx-001 prior to TBI significantly improves overall survival and bone marrow regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly J Jurgensen
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, United States.,Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - William K J Skinner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | | | | | - Andrew E Graff
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Reid D Landes
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - William E Culp
- Director, Biomedical Instrumentation Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Thomas A Summers
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Lynnette H Cary
- Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kumar VP, Stone S, Biswas S, Sharma N, Ghosh SP. Gamma Tocotrienol Protects Mice From Targeted Thoracic Radiation Injury. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:587970. [PMID: 33343356 PMCID: PMC7748112 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.587970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiation injury will result in multiorgan dysfuntion leading to multiorgan failure. In addition to many factors such as radiation dose, dose rate, the severity of the injury will also depend on organ systems which are exposed. Here, we report the protective property of gamma tocotrienol (GT3) in total as well as partial body irradiation (PBI) model in C3H/HeN male mice. We have carried out PBI by targeting thoracic region (lung-PBI) using Small Animal Radiation Research Platform, an X-ray irradiator with capabilities of an image guided irradiation with a variable collimator with minimized exposure to non-targeted tissues and organs. Precise and accurate irradiation of lungs was carried out at either 14 or 16 Gy at an approximate dose rate of 2.6 Gy/min. Though a low throughput model, it is amenable to change the field size on the spot. No damage to other non-targeted organs was observed in histopathological evaluation. There was no significant change in peripheral blood counts of irradiated mice in comparison to naïve mice. Femoral bone marrow cells had no damage in irradiated mice. As expected, damage to the targeted tissue was observed in the histopathological evaluation and non-targeted tissue was found normal. Regeneration and increase of cellularity and megakaryocytes on GT3 treatment was compared to significant loss of cellularity in saline group. Peak alveolitis was observed on day 14 post-PBI and protection from alveolitis by GT3 was noted. In irradiated lung tissue, thirty proteins were found to be differentially expressed but modulated by GT3 to reverse the effects of irradiation. We propose that possible mode of action of GT3 could be Angiopoietin 2-Tie2 pathway leading to AKT/ERK pathways resulting in disruption in cell survival/angiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vidya P Kumar
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Sasha Stone
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Shukla Biswas
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Neel Sharma
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Delayed effects of acute whole body lethal radiation exposure in mice pre-treated with BBT-059. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6825. [PMID: 32321983 PMCID: PMC7176697 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63818-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The threat of nuclear exposure is heightened and it is imperative to identify potential countermeasures for acute radiation syndrome. Currently no countermeasures have been approved for prophylactic administration. Effective countermeasures should function to increase survival in the short term as well as to increase the overall prognosis of an exposed individual long term. Here we describe the use of a promising radiation countermeasure, BBT-059, and the results of a long term mouse study (up to 12 months) in the male CD2F1 strain using 60Co gamma irradiation (~0.6 Gy/min, 7.5-12.5 Gy). We report the dose reduction factor of 1.28 for BBT-059 (0.3 mg/kg) compared to control administered 24 h prior to irradiation. In the long term study animals showed accelerated recovery in peripheral blood cell counts, bone marrow colony forming units, sternal cellularity and megakaryocyte numbers in drug treated mice compared to formulation buffer. In addition, increased senescence was observed in the kidneys of animals administered control or drug and exposed to the highest doses of radiation. Decreased levels of E-cadherin, LaminB1 and increased levels of Cyc-D and p21 in spleen lysates were observed in animals administered control. Taken together the results indicate a high level of protection following BBT-059 administration in mice exposed to lethal and supralethal doses of total body gamma-radiation.
Collapse
|
19
|
Chakraborty N, Gautam A, Holmes-Hampton GP, Kumar VP, Biswas S, Kumar R, Hamad D, Dimitrov G, Olabisi AO, Hammamieh R, Ghosh SP. microRNA and Metabolite Signatures Linked to Early Consequences of Lethal Radiation. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5424. [PMID: 32214144 PMCID: PMC7096415 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-62255-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lethal total body irradiation (TBI) triggers multifactorial health issues in a potentially short time frame. Hence, early signatures of TBI would be of great clinical value. Our study aimed to interrogate microRNA (miRNA) and metabolites, two biomolecules available in blood serum, in order to comprehend the immediate impacts of TBI. Mice were exposed to a lethal dose (9.75 Gy) of Cobalt-60 gamma radiation and euthanized at four time points, namely, days 1, 3, 7 and 9 post-TBI. Serum miRNA libraries were sequenced using the Illumina small RNA sequencing protocol, and metabolites were screened using a mass spectrometer. The degree of early impacts of irradiation was underscored by the large number of miRNAs and metabolites that became significantly expressed during the Early phase (day 0 and 1 post-TBI). Radiation-induced inflammatory markers for bone marrow aplasia and pro-sepsis markers showed early elevation with longitudinal increment. Functional analysis integrating miRNA-protein-metabolites revealed inflammation as the overarching host response to lethal TBI. Early activation of the network linked to the synthesis of reactive oxygen species was associated with the escalated regulation of the fatty acid metabolism network. In conclusion, we assembled a list of time-informed critical markers and mechanisms of significant translational potential in the context of a radiation exposure event.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nabarun Chakraborty
- The Geneva Foundation, Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Fort Detrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Fort Detrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
| | - Aarti Gautam
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Fort Detrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
| | - Gregory P Holmes-Hampton
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Vidya P Kumar
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Shukla Biswas
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Raina Kumar
- The Geneva Foundation, Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Fort Detrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Fort Detrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
| | - Dana Hamad
- ORISE, Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Fort Detrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
| | - George Dimitrov
- The Geneva Foundation, Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Fort Detrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Fort Detrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
| | - Ayodele O Olabisi
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Rasha Hammamieh
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Fort Detrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
| | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Satyamitra M, Cary L, Dunn D, Holmes-Hampton GP, Thomas LJ, Ghosh SP. CDX-301: a novel medical countermeasure for hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome in mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:1757. [PMID: 32019942 PMCID: PMC7000413 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58186-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow failure and hematopoietic damage is one of the major consequences of irradiation-induced lethality. There is an immediate need to develop medical countermeasures (MCMs) to combat irradiation-induced lethality. We tested the efficacy of CDX-301, developed by Celldex Therapeutics Inc., in mice exposed to Co-60 gamma total body irradiation (TBI). The drug demonstrated its efficacy both as a prophylactic countermeasure and a mitigator in CD2F1 mice exposed to TBI. A single dose of CDX-301 administered 24 h prior to 24 h post–exposure conferred significant survival. Accelerated recovery from irradiation-induced peripheral blood cytopenia, bone marrow damage as well as apoptosis in sternum was observed in mice pre-treated with CDX-301. Analysis of splenocytes revealed alterations in T cell profiles that were dependent on the time of drug administration. Prophylactic treatment of CDX-301 resulted in increased splenic CD3+ T cells, specifically CD4+T helper cells, compared to splenocytes from non-irradiated mice. These results indicate that CDX-301 is a promising radiation countermeasure and demonstrate its capability to protect cells within hematopoietic organs. These data support potential use of CDX-301, both pre- and post-radiation, against hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome with a broad window for medical management in a radiological or nuclear event.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Merriline Satyamitra
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasure Program, DAIT, NIAID, 5601 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Lynnette Cary
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Bethesda, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Dylan Dunn
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Bethesda, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | - Gregory P Holmes-Hampton
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Bethesda, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA
| | | | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Bethesda, Bethesda, MD, 20889, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Sharma NK, Stone S, Kumar VP, Biswas S, Aghdam SY, Holmes-Hampton GP, Fam CM, Cox GN, Ghosh SP. Mitochondrial Degeneration and Autophagy Associated With Delayed Effects of Radiation in the Mouse Brain. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 11:357. [PMID: 31956306 PMCID: PMC6951400 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2019.00357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are linked with various radiation responses, including mitophagy, genomic instability, apoptosis, and the bystander effect. Mitochondria play an important role in preserving cellular homeostasis during stress responses, and dysfunction in mitochondrial contributes to aging, carcinogenesis and neurologic diseases. In this study, we have investigated the mitochondrial degeneration and autophagy in the hippocampal region of brains from mice administered with BBT-059, a long-acting interleukin-11 analog, or its formulation buffer 24 h prior to irradiation at different radiation doses collected at 6 and 12 months post-irradiation. The results demonstrated a higher number of degenerating mitochondria in 12 Gy BBT-059 treated mice after 6 months and 11.5 Gy BBT-059 treated mice after 12 months as compared to the age-matched naïve (non-irradiated control animals). Apg5l, Lc3b and Sqstm1 markers were used to analyze the autophagy in the brain, however only the Sqstm1 marker exhibited significantly reduced expression after 12 months in 11.5 Gy BBT-059 treated mice as compared to naïve. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) results of Bcl2 also demonstrated a decrease in expression after 12 months in 11.5 Gy BBT-059 treated mice as compared to other groups. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that higher doses of ionizing radiation (IR) can cause persistent upregulation of mitochondrial degeneration. Reduced levels of Sqstm1 and Bcl2 can lead to intensive autophagy which can lead to degradation of cellular structure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neel K Sharma
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Sasha Stone
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Vidya P Kumar
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Shukla Biswas
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Saeed Y Aghdam
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Gregory P Holmes-Hampton
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | | | - George N Cox
- Bolder Biotechnology, Inc., Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
DiCarlo AL, Horta ZP, Aldrich JT, Jakubowski AA, Skinner WK, Case CM. Use of Growth Factors and Other Cytokines for Treatment of Injuries During a Radiation Public Health Emergency. Radiat Res 2019; 192:99-120. [PMID: 31081742 DOI: 10.1667/rr15363.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Due to the threat of a radiological or nuclear incident that could impact citizens, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services tasked the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) with identifying and funding early- to mid-stage medical countermeasure (MCM) development to treat radiation-induced injuries. Given that the body's natural response to radiation exposure includes production of growth factors and cytokines, and that the only drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat acute radiation syndrome are growth factors targeting either the granulocyte (Neupogen® or Neulasta®) or granulocyte and macrophage (Leukine®) hematopoietic cell lineages, there is interest in understanding the role that these factors play in responding to and/or ameliorating radiation damage. Furthermore, in an environment where resources are scarce, such as what might be expected during a radiation public health emergency, availability of growth factor or other treatments may be limited. For these reasons, the NIAID partnered with the Radiation Injury Treatment Network (RITN), whose membership includes medical centers with expertise in the management of bone marrow failure, to explore the use of growth factors and other cytokines as MCMs to mitigate/treat radiation injuries. A workshop was convened that included government, industry and academic subject matter experts, with presentations covering the anticipated concept of operations during a mass casualty incident including triage and treatment, growth factors under development for a radiation indication, and how the practice of medicine can inform other potential approaches, as well as considerations for administration of these products to diverse civilian populations. This report reviews the information presented, and provides an overview of the discussions from a guided breakout session.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L DiCarlo
- a Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - Zulmarie Perez Horta
- a Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | | | - Ann A Jakubowski
- b Radiation Injury Treatment Network (RITN), Minneapolis, Minnesota.,c Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), New York, New York
| | - William K Skinner
- d Uniformed Services University for Health Sciences (USUHS), Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Cullen M Case
- b Radiation Injury Treatment Network (RITN), Minneapolis, Minnesota
| |
Collapse
|