1
|
Gonda X, Tarazi FI, Dome P. The emergence of antidepressant drugs targeting GABA A receptors: A concise review. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 228:116481. [PMID: 39147329 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116481] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Depression is among the most common psychiatric illnesses, which imposes a major socioeconomic burden on patients, caregivers, and the public health system. Treatment with classical antidepressants (e.g. tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonine reuptake inhibitors), which primarily affect monoaminergic systems has several limitations, such as delayed onset of action and moderate efficacy in a relatively large proportion of depressed patients. Furthermore, depression is highly heterogeneus, and its different subtypes, including post-partum depression, involve distinct neurobiology, warranting a differential approach to pharmacotherapy. Given these shortcomings, the need for novel antidepressants that are superior in efficacy and faster in onset of action is fully justified. The development and market introduction of rapid-acting antidepressants has accelerated in recent years. Some of these new antidepressants act through the GABAergic system. In this review, we discuss the discovery, efficacy, and limitations of treatment with classic antidepressants. We provide a detailed discussion of GABAergic neurotransmission, with a special focus on GABAA receptors, and possible explanations for the mood-enhancing effects of GABAergic medications (in particular neurosteroids acting at GABAA receptors), and, ultimately, we present the most promising molecules belonging to this family which are currently used in clinical practice or are in late phases of clinical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xenia Gonda
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; NAP3.0-SE Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Hungarian Brain Research Program, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Frank I Tarazi
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurology, Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peter Dome
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Nyiro Gyula National Institute of Psychiatry and Addictology, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Peel JS, McNarry MA, Heffernan SM, Nevola VR, Kilduff LP, Coates K, Dudley E, Waldron M. The effect of 8-day oral taurine supplementation on thermoregulation during low-intensity exercise at fixed heat production in hot conditions of incremental humidity. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:2561-2576. [PMID: 38582816 PMCID: PMC11365861 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-024-05478-3] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the effect of taurine supplementation on sweating and core temperature responses, including the transition from compensable to uncompensable heat stress, during prolonged low-intensity exercise of a fixed-heat production (~ 200W/m2) in hot conditions (37.5 °C), at both fixed and incremental vapour-pressure. METHODS Fifteen females (n = 3) and males (n = 12; 27 ± 5 years, 78 ± 9 kg, V ˙ O2max 50.3 ± 7.8 mL/kg/min), completed a treadmill walking protocol (~ 200W/m2 heat production [Ḣprod]) in the heat (37.5 ± 0.1 °C) at fixed-(16-mmHg) and ramped-humidity (∆1.5-mmHg/5-min) following 1 week of oral taurine supplementation (50 mg/kg/bm) or placebo, in a double-blind, randomised, cross-over design. Participants were assessed for whole-body sweat loss (WBSL), local sweat rate (LSR), sweat gland activation (SGA), core temperature (Tcore), breakpoint of compensability (Pcrit) and calorimetric heat transfer components. Plasma volume and plasma taurine concentrations were established through pre- and post-trial blood samples. RESULTS Taurine supplementation increased WBSL by 26.6% and 5.1% (p = 0.035), LSR by 15.5% and 7.8% (p = 0.013), SGA (1 × 1 cm) by 32.2% and 29.9% (p < 0.001) and SGA (3 × 3 cm) by 22.1% and 17.1% (p = 0.015) during the fixed- and ramped-humidity exercise periods, respectively. Evaporative heat loss was enhanced by 27% (p = 0.010), heat-storage reduced by 72% (p = 0.024) and Pcrit was greater in taurine vs placebo (25.0-mmHg vs 21.7-mmHg; p = 0.002). CONCLUSION Taurine supplementation increased sweating responses during fixed Ḣprod in hot conditions, prior to substantial heat strain and before the breakpoint of compensability, demonstrating improved thermoregulatory capacity. The enhanced evaporative cooling and reduced heat-storage delayed the subsequent upward inflection in Tcore-represented by a greater Pcrit-and offers a potential dietary supplementation strategy to support thermoregulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer S Peel
- A-STEM Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, UK.
| | - Melitta A McNarry
- A-STEM Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Shane M Heffernan
- A-STEM Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Venturino R Nevola
- A-STEM Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), Fareham, Hampshire, UK
| | - Liam P Kilduff
- A-STEM Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- Welsh Institute of Performance Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Kathryn Coates
- Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Ed Dudley
- Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Mark Waldron
- A-STEM Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- Welsh Institute of Performance Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wei W, Lyu X, Markhard AL, Fu S, Mardjuki RE, Cavanagh PE, Zeng X, Rajniak J, Lu N, Xiao S, Zhao M, Moya-Garzon MD, Truong SD, Chou JCC, Wat LW, Chidambaranathan-Reghupaty S, Coassolo L, Xu D, Shen F, Huang W, Ramirez CB, Jang C, Li L, Svensson KJ, Fischbach MA, Long JZ. PTER is a N-acetyltaurine hydrolase that regulates feeding and obesity. Nature 2024; 633:182-188. [PMID: 39112712 PMCID: PMC11374699 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07801-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/11/2024]
Abstract
Taurine is a conditionally essential micronutrient and one of the most abundant amino acids in humans1-3. In endogenous taurine metabolism, dedicated enzymes are involved in the biosynthesis of taurine from cysteine and in the downstream metabolism of secondary taurine metabolites4,5. One taurine metabolite is N-acetyltaurine6. Levels of N-acetyltaurine are dynamically regulated by stimuli that alter taurine or acetate flux, including endurance exercise7, dietary taurine supplementation8 and alcohol consumption6,9. So far, the identities of the enzymes involved in N-acetyltaurine metabolism, and the potential functions of N-acetyltaurine itself, have remained unknown. Here we show that the body mass index associated orphan enzyme phosphotriesterase-related (PTER)10 is a physiological N-acetyltaurine hydrolase. In vitro, PTER catalyses the hydrolysis of N-acetyltaurine to taurine and acetate. In mice, PTER is expressed in the kidney, liver and brainstem. Genetic ablation of Pter in mice results in complete loss of tissue N-acetyltaurine hydrolysis activity and a systemic increase in N-acetyltaurine levels. After stimuli that increase taurine levels, Pter knockout mice exhibit reduced food intake, resistance to diet-induced obesity and improved glucose homeostasis. Administration of N-acetyltaurine to obese wild-type mice also reduces food intake and body weight in a GFRAL-dependent manner. These data place PTER into a central enzymatic node of secondary taurine metabolism and uncover a role for PTER and N-acetyltaurine in body weight control and energy balance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wei
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Xuchao Lyu
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Andrew L Markhard
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sipei Fu
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Rachel E Mardjuki
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Peter E Cavanagh
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Xianfeng Zeng
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jakub Rajniak
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nannan Lu
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shuke Xiao
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Meng Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Maria Dolores Moya-Garzon
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Steven D Truong
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Lianna W Wat
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Saranya Chidambaranathan-Reghupaty
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Laetitia Coassolo
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Duo Xu
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Fangfang Shen
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Wentao Huang
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Cuauhtemoc B Ramirez
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Cholsoon Jang
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Lingyin Li
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Katrin J Svensson
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michael A Fischbach
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan Z Long
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- The Phil and Penny Knight Initiative for Brain Resilience at the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yoon D, Oh SM, Na HS, Choi BR, Kim KW, Lee YS, Lee DR, Lee DY. Metabolomics study to reveal cognitive improvement with treatment of Scrophularia buergeriana. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17007. [PMID: 39043762 PMCID: PMC11266482 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66371-9] [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: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Population aging around the world is rapidly progressing; as a result, cognitive decline developing into dementia is becoming a social problem. There is no drug that can cure dementia, and though drugs that alleviate the symptoms of dementia have been developed, they also have side effects. Therefore, we conducted a study on improving cognitive function using natural products that have secured safety. We confirmed the effect of an extract of Scrophularia buergeriana on scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment through mouse behavioral experiments, and we observed metabolic changes in the cortex and hippocampus via brain tissue dissection after the behavioral experiment. Mitigating effects of S. buergeriana on cognitive impairment caused by scopolamine were observed in passive avoidance and Morris water maze tests. A metabolic analysis revealed biomarkers related to the alleviating effect of cognitive impairment. Niacinamide, tyrosine, uridine, and valine in the cortex and GABA, choline, creatine, formate, fumarate, hypoxanthine, leucine, myo-inositol, pyroglutamate, and taurine in the hippocampus were identified as biomarker candidates for recovering cognitive impairment. In addition to behavioral experiments, this metabolomics study using specific regions of the brain may be helpful in understanding the effects of cognitive improvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dahye Yoon
- Department of Herbal Crop Research, National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, RDA, Eumseong, 27709, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon Min Oh
- Natural Product Research Center and Natural Product Central Bank, KRIBB, Ochang, 28116, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Seon Na
- Department of Herbal Crop Research, National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, RDA, Eumseong, 27709, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Ram Choi
- Department of Herbal Crop Research, National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, RDA, Eumseong, 27709, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwan-Woo Kim
- Department of Herbal Crop Research, National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, RDA, Eumseong, 27709, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Seob Lee
- Department of Herbal Crop Research, National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, RDA, Eumseong, 27709, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Dae Young Lee
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Duttagupta S, Krishna Roy N, Dey G. Efficacy of amino acids in sports nutrition- review of clinical evidences. Food Res Int 2024; 187:114311. [PMID: 38763626 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114311] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The efficacy of amino acids as popular sports supplements has triggered debates, with their impact on athletic performance varying across sports disciplines due to diversity and heterogeneity in clinical trials. This review evaluates the ergogenic potential of amino acids, by critical appraisal of results of clinical trials of Branched chain amino acids (BCAAs), arginine, glutamine, citrulline, β-alanine, and taurine, performed on elite sportsmen from various land and water sports. Clinical trials reviewed here confirm notable physiological benefits thereby supporting the claim that BCAA, citrulline and arginine in various doses can have positive effects on endurance and overall performance in sportsperson. Furthermore, results of clinical trials and metabolomic studies indicate that in future it would be more beneficial to design precise formulations to target the requirement of specific sports. For instance, some combinations of amino acids may be more suitable for long term endurance and some others may be suitable for short burst of excessive energy. The most important insights from this review are the identification of three key areas where research is urgently needed: a) Biomarkers that can identify the physiological end points and to distinguish the specific role of amino acid as anti-fatigue or reducing muscle soreness or enhancing energy b) In-depth sports-wise clinical trials on elite sportsperson to understand the ergogenic needs for the particular sports c) Design of precision formula for similar types of sports instead of common supplements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sreya Duttagupta
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT-Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar 751024, India
| | - Niladri Krishna Roy
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT-Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar 751024, India
| | - Gargi Dey
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT-Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar 751024, India.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Dadi P, Pauling CW, Shrivastava A, Shah DD. Synthesis of versatile neuromodulatory molecules by a gut microbial glutamate decarboxylase. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.02.583032. [PMID: 38915512 PMCID: PMC11195143 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.02.583032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Dysbiosis of the microbiome correlates with many neurological disorders, yet very little is known about the chemistry that controls the production of neuromodulatory molecules by gut microbes. Here, we found that an enzyme glutamate decarboxylase (BfGAD) of a gut microbe Bacteroides fragilis forms multiple neuromodulatory molecules such as γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), hypotaurine, taurine, homotaurine, and β-alanine. We evolved BfGAD and doubled its taurine productivity. Additionally, we increased its specificity towards the substrate L-glutamate. Here, we provide a chemical strategy via which the BfGAD activity could be fine-tuned. In future, this strategy could be used to modulate the production of neuromodulatory molecules by gut microbes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pavani Dadi
- Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281
| | - Clint W. Pauling
- Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281
- School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, Glendale, AZ 85306
| | - Abhishek Shrivastava
- Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281
| | - Dhara D. Shah
- Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281
- School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, Glendale, AZ 85306
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wei W, Lyu X, Markhard AL, Fu S, Mardjuki RE, Cavanagh PE, Zeng X, Rajniak J, Lu N, Xiao S, Zhao M, Moya-Garzon MD, Truong SD, Chou JCC, Wat LW, Chidambaranathan-Reghupaty S, Coassolo L, Xu D, Shen F, Huang W, Ramirez CB, Jang C, Svensson KJ, Fischbach MA, Long JZ. A PTER-dependent pathway of taurine metabolism linked to energy balance. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.21.586194. [PMID: 38562797 PMCID: PMC10983888 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.21.586194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Taurine is a conditionally essential micronutrient and one of the most abundant amino acids in humans1-3. In endogenous taurine metabolism, dedicated enzymes are involved in biosynthesis of taurine from cysteine as well as the downstream derivatization of taurine into secondary taurine metabolites4,5. One such taurine metabolite is N-acetyltaurine6. Levels of N-acetyltaurine are dynamically regulated by diverse physiologic perturbations that alter taurine and/or acetate flux, including endurance exercise7, nutritional taurine supplementation8, and alcohol consumption6,9. While taurine N-acetyltransferase activity has been previously detected in mammalian cells6,7, the molecular identity of this enzyme, and the physiologic relevance of N-acetyltaurine, have remained unknown. Here we show that the orphan body mass index-associated enzyme PTER (phosphotriesterase-related)10 is the principal mammalian taurine N-acetyltransferase/hydrolase. In vitro, recombinant PTER catalyzes bidirectional taurine N-acetylation with free acetate as well as the reverse N-acetyltaurine hydrolysis reaction. Genetic ablation of PTER in mice results in complete loss of tissue taurine N-acetyltransferase/hydrolysis activities and systemic elevation of N-acetyltaurine levels. Upon stimuli that increase taurine levels, PTER-KO mice exhibit lower body weight, reduced adiposity, and improved glucose homeostasis. These phenotypes are recapitulated by administration of N-acetyltaurine to wild-type mice. Lastly, the anorexigenic and anti-obesity effects of N-acetyltaurine require functional GFRAL receptors. Together, these data uncover enzymatic control of a previously enigmatic pathway of secondary taurine metabolism linked to energy balance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wei
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Xuchao Lyu
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Andrew L. Markhard
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sipei Fu
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Rachel E. Mardjuki
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Xianfeng Zeng
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jakub Rajniak
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nannan Lu
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shuke Xiao
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Meng Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Maria Dolores Moya-Garzon
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Steven D. Truong
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Lianna W. Wat
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Saranya Chidambaranathan-Reghupaty
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Laetitia Coassolo
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Duo Xu
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Fangfang Shen
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Wentao Huang
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Cuauhtemoc B. Ramirez
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Cholsoon Jang
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Katrin J. Svensson
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michael A Fischbach
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan Z. Long
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- The Phil & Penny Knight Initiative for Brain Resilience at the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Meera P, Uusi-Oukari M, Lipshutz GS, Wallner M. GABA A receptors as plausible molecular targets and mediators for taurine and homotaurine actions. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1271203. [PMID: 38155909 PMCID: PMC10752957 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1271203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Dementia and autoimmune diseases are prevalent conditions with limited treatment options. Taurine and homotaurine (HT) are naturally occurring sulfonate amino acids, with taurine being highly abundant in animal tissues, but declining with age in the blood. HT is a blood-brain barrier permeable drug under investigation for Alzheimer's disease. HT also has beneficial effects in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis likely through an anti-inflammatory mechanism mediated by GABAA receptor (GABAAR) agonism in immune cells. While both taurine and HT are structural GABA analogs and thought to be GABA mimetics at GABAARs, there is uncertainty concerning their potency as GABA mimetics on native GABAARs. We show that HT is a very potent GABA mimetic, as it evokes GABAAR-mediated currents with an EC50 of 0.4 μM (vs. 3.7 μM for GABA and 116 µM for taurine) in murine cerebellar granule cells in brain slices, with both taurine and HT having similar efficacy in activating native GABAARs. Furthermore, HT displaces the high affinity GABAAR ligand [3H]muscimol at similarly low concentrations (HT IC50 of 0.16 μM vs. 125 μM for taurine) in mouse brain homogenates. The potency of taurine and HT as GABAAR agonists aligns with endogenous concentrations of taurine in the blood and with HT concentrations achieved in the brain following oral administration of HT or the HT pro-drug ALZ-801. Consequently, we discuss that GABAARs subtypes, similar to the ones we studied here in neurons, are plausible targets for mediating the potential beneficial effects of taurine in health and life-span extension and the beneficial HT effects in dementia and autoimmune conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pratap Meera
- Department of Neurobiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mikko Uusi-Oukari
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Gerald S. Lipshutz
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Martin Wallner
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gomila Pelegri N, Stanczak AM, Bottomley AL, Cummins ML, Milthorpe BK, Gorrie CA, Padula MP, Santos J. Neural Marker Expression in Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Grown in PEG-Based 3D Matrix Is Enhanced in the Presence of B27 and CultureOne Supplements. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16269. [PMID: 38003460 PMCID: PMC10671562 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216269] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have incredible potential as an avenue to better understand and treat neurological disorders. While they have been successfully differentiated into neural stem cells and neurons, most such protocols involve 2D environments, which are not representative of in vivo physiology. In this study, human ADSCs were cultured in 1.1 kPa polyethylene-glycol 3D hydrogels for 10 days with B27, CultureOne (C1), and N2 neural supplements to examine the neural differentiation potential of ADSCs using both chemical and mechanical cues. Following treatment, cell viability, proliferation, morphology, and proteome changes were assessed. Results showed that cell viability was maintained during treatments, and while cells continued to proliferate over time, proliferation slowed down. Morphological changes between 3D untreated cells and treated cells were not observed. However, they were observed among 2D treatments, which exhibited cellular elongation and co-alignment. Proteome analysis showed changes consistent with early neural differentiation for B27 and C1 but not N2. No significant changes were detected using immunocytochemistry, potentially indicating a greater differentiation period was required. In conclusion, treatment of 3D-cultured ADSCs in PEG-based hydrogels with B27 and C1 further enhances neural marker expression, however, this was not observed using supplementation with N2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neus Gomila Pelegri
- Advanced Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; (N.G.P.); (B.K.M.)
- Neural Injury Research Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia;
| | - Aleksandra M. Stanczak
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; (A.M.S.); (M.P.P.)
| | - Amy L. Bottomley
- Microbial Imaging Facility, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia;
| | - Max L. Cummins
- Australian Institute for Microbiology and Infection, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia;
- The Australian Centre for Genomic Epidemiological Microbiology, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Bruce K. Milthorpe
- Advanced Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; (N.G.P.); (B.K.M.)
| | - Catherine A. Gorrie
- Neural Injury Research Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia;
| | - Matthew P. Padula
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; (A.M.S.); (M.P.P.)
| | - Jerran Santos
- Advanced Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; (N.G.P.); (B.K.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Furukawa T, Fukuda A. Maternal taurine as a modulator of Cl - homeostasis as well as of glycine/GABA A receptors for neocortical development. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1221441. [PMID: 37601283 PMCID: PMC10435090 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1221441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
During brain and spinal cord development, GABA and glycine, the inhibitory neurotransmitters, cause depolarization instead of hyperpolarization in adults. Since glycine and GABAA receptors (GABAARs) are chloride (Cl-) ion channel receptor, the conversion of GABA/glycine actions during development is influenced by changes in the transmembrane Cl- gradient, which is regulated by Cl- transporters, NKCC1 (absorption) and KCC2 (expulsion). In immature neurons, inhibitory neurotransmitters are released in a non-vesicular/non-synaptic manner, transitioning to vesicular/synaptic release as the neuron matures. In other word, in immature neurons, neurotransmitters generally act tonically. Thus, the glycine/GABA system is a developmentally multimodal system that is required for neurogenesis, differentiation, migration, and synaptogenesis. The endogenous agonists for these receptors are not fully understood, we address taurine. In this review, we will discuss about the properties and function of taurine during development of neocortex. Taurine cannot be synthesized by fetuses or neonates, and is transferred from maternal blood through the placenta or maternal milk ingestion. In developing neocortex, taurine level is higher than GABA level, and taurine tonically activates GABAARs to control radial migration as a stop signal. In the marginal zone (MZ) of the developing neocortex, endogenous taurine modulates the spread of excitatory synaptic transmission, activating glycine receptors (GlyRs) as an endogenous agonist. Thus, taurine affects information processing and crucial developmental processes such as axonal growth, cell migration, and lamination in the developing cerebral cortex. Additionally, we also refer to the possible mechanism of taurine-regulating Cl- homeostasis. External taurine is uptake by taurine transporter (TauT) and regulates NKCC1 and KCC2 mediated by intracellular signaling pathway, with-no-lysine kinase 1 (WNK1) and its subsequent kinases STE20/SPS1-related proline-alanine-rich protein kinase (SPAK) and oxidative stress response kinase-1 (OSR1). Through the regulation of NKCC1 and KCC2, mediated by the WNK-SPAK/OSR1 signaling pathway, taurine plays a role in maintaining Cl- homeostasis during normal brain development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomonori Furukawa
- Department of Neurophysiology, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Atsuo Fukuda
- Department of Neurophysiology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Buzdağlı Y, Eyipınar CD, Öget F, Şıktar E, Forbes SC, Tekin A. Taurine supplementation enhances anaerobic power in elite speed skaters: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Biol Sport 2023; 40:741-751. [PMID: 37398976 PMCID: PMC10286601 DOI: 10.5114/biolsport.2023.119990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) is a semi-essential sulphur-containing amino acid abundant in skeletal muscle. Taurine supplementation is popular among athletes and has been purported to enhance exercise performance. This study aimed to investigate the ergogenic effects of taurine supplementation on anaerobic (Wingate; WanT) performance, blood lactate, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), and countermovement vertical jump (CMJ) in elite athletes. For this study, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover designs were used. Thirty young male speed skaters were randomly assigned to either taurine (TAU; single dose of 6 g) or placebo (PLAC; single dose of 6 g) 60 minutes before testing. Following a 72-hour washout, period participants completed the opposite condition. TAU improved peak (Δ% = 13.41, p < 0.001, d = 1.71), mean (Δ% = 3.95, p = 0.002, d = 1.04), and minimum power output (Δ% = 7.89, p = 0.034, d = 0.48) compared to placebo. Further, RPE (Δ% = -10.98, p = 0.002, d = 0.46) was significantly lower following the WanT in the TAU condition compared to placebo. There were no differences between conditions for the countermovement vertical jump. In conclusion, acute TAU supplementation augments anaerobic performance in elite speed skaters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Buzdağlı
- Department of Coaching Education, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Cemre Didem Eyipınar
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Furkan Öget
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Erdinç Şıktar
- Department of Coaching Education, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Scott C. Forbes
- Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education, Brandon University, Brandon, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Aslıhan Tekin
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, İbrahim Çeçen University, Ağrı, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Taurine Promotes Differentiation and Maturation of Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells from the Subventricular Zone via Activation of GABA A Receptors. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:2206-2219. [PMID: 36862323 PMCID: PMC10181976 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-023-03883-2] [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: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Neurogenesis, the formation of new neurons in the brain, occurs throughout the lifespan in the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus and subventricular zone (SVZ) lining the lateral ventricles of the mammal brain. In this process, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and its ionotropic receptor, the GABAA receptor (GABAAR), play a critical role in the proliferation, differentiation, and migration process of neural stem/progenitor cells (NPC). Taurine, a non-essential amino acid widely distributed throughout the central nervous system, increases the proliferation of SVZ progenitor cells by a mechanism that may involve GABAAR activation. Therefore, we characterized the effects of taurine on the differentiation process of NPC expressing GABAAR. Preincubation of NPC-SVZ with taurine increased microtubule-stabilizing proteins assessed with the doublecortin assay. Taurine, like GABA, stimulated a neuronal-like morphology of NPC-SVZ and increased the number and length of primary, secondary, and tertiary neurites compared with control NPC of the SVZ. Furthermore, neurite outgrowth was prevented when simultaneously incubating cells with taurine or GABA and the GABAAR blocker, picrotoxin. Patch-clamp recordings revealed a series of modifications in the NPCs' passive and active electrophysiological properties exposed to taurine, including regenerative spikes with kinetic properties similar to the action potentials of functional neurons.
Collapse
|
13
|
Ben-Azu B, Uruaka CI, Ajayi AM, Jarikre TA, Nwangwa KE, Chilaka KC, Chijioke BS, Omonyeme MG, Ozege CB, Ofili EC, Warekoromor EB, Edigbue NL, Esiekpe UV, Akaenyi DE, Agu GO. Reversal and Preventive Pleiotropic Mechanisms Involved in the Antipsychotic-Like Effect of Taurine, an Essential β-Amino Acid in Ketamine-Induced Experimental Schizophrenia in Mice. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:816-829. [PMID: 36350433 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03808-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a life disabling, multisystem neuropsychiatric disease mostly derived from complex epigenetic-mediated neurobiological changes causing behavioural deficits. Neurochemical disorganizations, neurotrophic and neuroimmune alterations are some of the challenging neuropathologies proving unabated during psychopharmacology of schizophrenia, further bedeviled by drug-induced metabolic derangements including alteration of amino acids. In first-episode schizophrenia patients, taurine, an essential β-amino acid represses psychotic-symptoms. However, its anti-psychotic-like mechanisms remain incomplete. This study evaluated the ability of taurine to prevent or reverse ketamine-induced experimental psychosis and the underlying neurochemical, neurotrophic and neuroinmune mechanisms involved in taurine's clinical action. The study consisted of three different experiments with Swiss mice (n = 7). In the drug alone, mice received saline (10 mL/kg/p.o./day), taurine (50 and 100 mg/kg/p.o./day) and risperidone (0.5 mg/kg/p.o./day) for 14 days. In the preventive study of separate cohort, mice were concomitantly given ketamine (20 mg/kg/i.p./day) from days 8 to 14. In the reversal study, mice received ketamine for 14 days before taurine or risperidone treatments from days 8 to 14 respectively. Afterwards, stereotypy behaviour, social, non-spatial memory deficits, and body weights were assessed. Neurochemical (dopamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, glutamic acid decarboxylase, (GAD)), brain derived-neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and pro-inflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-alpha, (TNF-α), interleukin-6, (IL-6)] were assayed in the striatum, prefrontal-cortex and hippocampal area. Taurine attenuates ketamine-induced schizophrenia-like behaviour without changes in body weight. Taurine reduced ketamine-induced dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine changes, and increased GAD and BDNF levels in the striatum, prefrontal-cortex and hippocampus, suggesting increased GABAergic and neurotrophic transmissions. Taurine decreases ketamine-induced increased in TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations in the striatum, prefrontal-cortex and hippocampus. These findings also suggest that taurine protects against schizophrenia through neurochemical modulations, neurotrophic enhancement, and inhibition of neuropathologic cytokine activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benneth Ben-Azu
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria. .,Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
| | - Christian I Uruaka
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
| | - Abayomi M Ajayi
- Neuropharmacology Unit, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Thiophilus Aghogho Jarikre
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Kingsley E Nwangwa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Kingsley C Chilaka
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
| | - Bienose S Chijioke
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Marymagdalene G Omonyeme
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Chineye B Ozege
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuella C Ofili
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Ebidenara B Warekoromor
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Nwanneka L Edigbue
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Ufoma V Esiekpe
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Dabrechi E Akaenyi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Gladys O Agu
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Afe Babalo University, Ado-Ekiti, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Borroni E, Frigerio G, Polledri E, Mercadante R, Maggioni C, Fedrizzi L, Pesatori AC, Fustinoni S, Carugno M. Metabolomic profiles in night shift workers: A cross-sectional study on hospital female nurses. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1082074. [PMID: 36908447 PMCID: PMC9999616 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1082074] [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: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Shift work, especially including night shifts, has been found associated with several diseases, including obesity, diabetes, cancers, and cardiovascular, mental, gastrointestinal and sleep disorders. Metabolomics (an omics-based methodology) may shed light on early biological alterations underlying these associations. We thus aimed to evaluate the effect of night shift work (NSW) on serum metabolites in a sample of hospital female nurses. Methods We recruited 46 nurses currently working in NSW in Milan (Italy), matched to 51 colleagues not employed in night shifts. Participants filled in a questionnaire on demographics, lifestyle habits, personal and family health history and work, and donated a blood sample. The metabolome was evaluated through a validated targeted approach measuring 188 metabolites. Only metabolites with at least 50% observations above the detection limit were considered, after standardization and log-transformation. Associations between each metabolite and NSW were assessed applying Tobit regression models and Random Forest, a machine-learning algorithm. Results When comparing current vs. never night shifters, we observed lower levels of 21 glycerophospholipids and 6 sphingolipids, and higher levels of serotonin (+171.0%, 95%CI: 49.1-392.7), aspartic acid (+155.8%, 95%CI: 40.8-364.7), and taurine (+182.1%, 95%CI: 67.6-374.9). The latter was higher in former vs. never night shifters too (+208.8%, 95%CI: 69.2-463.3). Tobit regression comparing ever (i.e., current + former) and never night shifters returned similar results. Years worked in night shifts did not seem to affect metabolite levels. The Random-Forest algorithm confirmed taurine and aspartic acid among the most important variables in discriminating current vs. never night shifters. Conclusions This study, although based on a small sample size, shows altered levels of some metabolites in night shift workers. If confirmed, our results may shed light on early biological alterations that might be related to adverse health effects of NSW.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Borroni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Frigerio
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.,Occupational Health Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Polledri
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosa Mercadante
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Maggioni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Fedrizzi
- Occupational Health Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Cecilia Pesatori
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Occupational Health Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Fustinoni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Occupational Health Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Carugno
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Occupational Health Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ozan M, Buzdagli Y, Eyipinar CD, Baygutalp NK, Yüce N, Oget F, Kan E, Baygutalp F. Does Single or Combined Caffeine and Taurine Supplementation Improve Athletic and Cognitive Performance without Affecting Fatigue Level in Elite Boxers? A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14204399. [PMID: 36297081 PMCID: PMC9610400 DOI: 10.3390/nu14204399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In previous studies, the effect of single or combined intake of caffeine (CAF) and taurine (TAU) on exercise performance was investigated. However, the potential synergistic effect on physical and cognitive performance after fatigue induced by anaerobic exercise is unknown. The effects of single and combination CAF and TAU supplementation on the Wingate test in elite male boxers and to evaluate balance, agility and cognitive performance after fatigue are being investigated for the first time in this study. Twenty elite male boxers 22.14 ± 1.42 years old were divided into four groups in this double-blind, randomized crossover study: CAF (6 mg/kg of caffeine), TAU (3 g single dose of taurine), CAF*TAU (co-ingestion of 3 g single dose of taurine and 6 mg/kg of caffeine) and PLA (300 mg maltodextrin). The findings are as follows: co-ingestion of CAF*TAU, improved peak (W/kg), average (W), minimum (W) power, time to reach (s), and RPE performances compared to the PLA group significantly (p < 0.05). Similarly, it was determined that a single dose of TAU, created a significant difference (p < 0.05) in peak power (W/kg), and average and minimum power (W) values compared to the CAF group. According to the balance and agility tests performed after the Wingate test, co-ingestion of CAF*TAU revealed a significant difference (p < 0.05) compared to the PLA group. In terms of cognitive performance, co-ingestion of CAF*TAU significantly improved the neutral reaction time (ms) compared to the TAU, CAF and PLA groups. As a result, elite male boxers performed better in terms of agility, balance and cognitive function when they consumed a combination of 6 mg/kg CAF and 3 g TAU. It has been determined that the combined use of these supplements is more effective than their single use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Murat Ozan
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Kazım Karabekir Faculty of Education, Atatürk University, 25500 Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Buzdagli
- Department of Coaching Education, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Erzurum Technical University, 25500 Erzurum, Turkey
- Correspondence:
| | - Cemre Didem Eyipinar
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Gaziantep University, 27310 Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Nurcan Kılıç Baygutalp
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ataturk University, 25500 Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Neslihan Yüce
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ataturk University, 25500 Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Furkan Oget
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Erzurum Technical University, 25500 Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Emirhan Kan
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Kazım Karabekir Faculty of Education, Atatürk University, 25500 Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Fatih Baygutalp
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ataturk University, 25500 Erzurum, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Nimitvilai-Roberts S, Woodward JJ. The ethanol inhibition of basolateral amygdala neuron spiking is mediated by a γ-aminobutyric acid type A-mediated tonic current. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2022; 46:1665-1676. [PMID: 35915568 PMCID: PMC9509443 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14918] [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: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The basolateral nucleus of the amygdala (BLA) plays an important role in the development of fear and anxiety-related behaviors. The BLA receives inputs from all sensory stimuli. After processing those stimuli, BLA neurons signal neurons within the central amygdala and other brain regions, including the ventral and dorsal striatum and frontal cortex. Studies suggest that the BLA is involved in drug dependence and in the reinforcing actions of ethanol. For example, acute exposure to ethanol reduces anxiety, while withdrawal from chronic ethanol exposure alters BLA synaptic transmission, which increases anxiety, a common underlying cause of relapse. Exposure to and withdrawal from chronic alcohol also disrupts many brain areas that connect with the BLA. Despite these important findings, the acute actions of alcohol on the intrinsic excitability of BLA neurons have not been fully characterized. METHODS Brain slices containing the BLA were prepared from adult C57BL/6J male mice. Whole-cell and sharp electrode electrophysiological recordings were performed to characterize the effects of acute ethanol on BLA neuronal and astrocyte function, respectively. RESULTS Ethanol inhibited action potential (AP) firing of BLA neurons but had no effect on BLA astrocyte resting membrane potential. The ethanol-induced inhibition of firing was concentration-dependent (11 to 66 mM) and accompanied by a reduction in the input resistance and an increase in the rheobase of BLA neurons. The inhibitory effect of ethanol was suppressed by picrotoxin, which blocks both γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA ) and glycine receptors, but not by the selective glycine receptor antagonist strychnine, which suggests an involvement of GABAA receptors. Ethanol did not affect spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents suggesting that the inhibition of BLA neuronal excitability by ethanol was not due to an increase in GABAA -mediated synaptic transmission. However, acute ethanol enhanced the amplitude of the holding current of BLA neurons, an effect that was prevented by picrotoxin, which by itself reduced the holding current. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that BLA neurons express a GABA-mediated tonic current that is enhanced by acute ethanol, which leads to reduced excitability of BLA neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - John J. Woodward
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Addiction Sciences Division, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Duszka K. Versatile Triad Alliance: Bile Acid, Taurine and Microbiota. Cells 2022; 11:2337. [PMID: 35954180 PMCID: PMC9367564 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Taurine is the most abundant free amino acid in the body, and is mainly derived from the diet, but can also be produced endogenously from cysteine. It plays multiple essential roles in the body, including development, energy production, osmoregulation, prevention of oxidative stress, and inflammation. Taurine is also crucial as a molecule used to conjugate bile acids (BAs). In the gastrointestinal tract, BAs deconjugation by enteric bacteria results in high levels of unconjugated BAs and free taurine. Depending on conjugation status and other bacterial modifications, BAs constitute a pool of related but highly diverse molecules, each with different properties concerning solubility and toxicity, capacity to activate or inhibit receptors of BAs, and direct and indirect impact on microbiota and the host, whereas free taurine has a largely protective impact on the host, serves as a source of energy for microbiota, regulates bacterial colonization and defends from pathogens. Several remarkable examples of the interaction between taurine and gut microbiota have recently been described. This review will introduce the necessary background information and lay out the latest discoveries in the interaction of the co-reliant triad of BAs, taurine, and microbiota.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalina Duszka
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Watanabe M, Ito T, Fukuda A. Effects of Taurine Depletion on Body Weight and Mouse Behavior during Development. Metabolites 2022; 12:631. [PMID: 35888755 PMCID: PMC9318136 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12070631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) plays an important role in various physiological functions and is abundant in the brain and skeletal muscle. Extracellular taurine is an endogenous agonist of gamma-aminobutyric acid type A and glycine receptors. Taurine actively accumulates in cells via the taurine transporter (TauT). Adult taurine-knockout (TauT-/-) mice exhibit lower body weights and exercise intolerance. To further examine the physiological role of taurine, we examined the effect of its depletion on mouse behavior, startle responses, muscular endurance, and body weight during development from postnatal day 0 (P0) until P60. In the elevated plus maze test, TauT-/- mice showed decreased anxiety-like behavior. In addition, TauT-/- mice did not show a startle response to startle stimuli, suggesting they have difficulty hearing. Wire-hang test revealed that muscular endurance was reduced in TauT-/- mice. Although a reduction of body weight was observed in TauT-/- mice during the developmental period, changes in body weight during 60% food restriction were similar to wild-type mice. Collectively, these results suggest that taurine has important roles in anxiety-like behavior, hearing, muscular endurance, and maintenance of body weight.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miho Watanabe
- Department of Neurophysiology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan;
| | - Takashi Ito
- Department of Bioscience and Technology, Graduate School of Bioscience and Technology, Fukui Prefectural University, Fukui 910-1195, Japan;
| | - Atsuo Fukuda
- Department of Neurophysiology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan;
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ramírez-Guerrero S, Guardo-Maya S, Medina-Rincón GJ, Orrego-González EE, Cabezas-Pérez R, González-Reyes RE. Taurine and Astrocytes: A Homeostatic and Neuroprotective Relationship. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:937789. [PMID: 35866158 PMCID: PMC9294388 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.937789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Taurine is considered the most abundant free amino acid in the brain. Even though there are endogenous mechanisms for taurine production in neural cells, an exogenous supply of taurine is required to meet physiological needs. Taurine is required for optimal postnatal brain development; however, its brain concentration decreases with age. Synthesis of taurine in the central nervous system (CNS) occurs predominantly in astrocytes. A metabolic coupling between astrocytes and neurons has been reported, in which astrocytes provide neurons with hypotaurine as a substrate for taurine production. Taurine has antioxidative, osmoregulatory, and anti-inflammatory functions, among other cytoprotective properties. Astrocytes release taurine as a gliotransmitter, promoting both extracellular and intracellular effects in neurons. The extracellular effects include binding to neuronal GABAA and glycine receptors, with subsequent cellular hyperpolarization, and attenuation of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA)-mediated glutamate excitotoxicity. Taurine intracellular effects are directed toward calcium homeostatic pathway, reducing calcium overload and thus preventing excitotoxicity, mitochondrial stress, and apoptosis. However, several physiological aspects of taurine remain unclear, such as the existence or not of a specific taurine receptor. Therefore, further research is needed not only in astrocytes and neurons, but also in other glial cells in order to fully comprehend taurine metabolism and function in the brain. Nonetheless, astrocyte’s role in taurine-induced neuroprotective functions should be considered as a promising therapeutic target of several neuroinflammatory, neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases in the near future. This review provides an overview of the significant relationship between taurine and astrocytes, as well as its homeostatic and neuroprotective role in the nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofía Ramírez-Guerrero
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencias (NeURos), Centro de Neurociencias Neurovitae-UR, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional (IMT), Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Santiago Guardo-Maya
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencias (NeURos), Centro de Neurociencias Neurovitae-UR, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional (IMT), Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Germán J. Medina-Rincón
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencias (NeURos), Centro de Neurociencias Neurovitae-UR, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional (IMT), Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Eduardo E. Orrego-González
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencias (NeURos), Centro de Neurociencias Neurovitae-UR, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional (IMT), Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Ricardo Cabezas-Pérez
- Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas GRINCIBIO, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Antonio Nariño, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Rodrigo E. González-Reyes
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencias (NeURos), Centro de Neurociencias Neurovitae-UR, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional (IMT), Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
- *Correspondence: Rodrigo E. González-Reyes,
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Rafiee Z, García-Serrano AM, Duarte JMN. Taurine Supplementation as a Neuroprotective Strategy upon Brain Dysfunction in Metabolic Syndrome and Diabetes. Nutrients 2022; 14:1292. [PMID: 35334949 PMCID: PMC8952284 DOI: 10.3390/nu14061292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity, type 2 diabetes, and their associated comorbidities impact brain metabolism and function and constitute risk factors for cognitive impairment. Alterations to taurine homeostasis can impact a number of biological processes, such as osmolarity control, calcium homeostasis, and inhibitory neurotransmission, and have been reported in both metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders. Models of neurodegenerative disorders show reduced brain taurine concentrations. On the other hand, models of insulin-dependent diabetes, insulin resistance, and diet-induced obesity display taurine accumulation in the hippocampus. Given the possible cytoprotective actions of taurine, such cerebral accumulation of taurine might constitute a compensatory mechanism that attempts to prevent neurodegeneration. The present article provides an overview of brain taurine homeostasis and reviews the mechanisms by which taurine can afford neuroprotection in individuals with obesity and diabetes. We conclude that further research is needed for understanding taurine homeostasis in metabolic disorders with an impact on brain function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Rafiee
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22100 Lund, Sweden; (Z.R.); (A.M.G.-S.)
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, 22100 Lund, Sweden
| | - Alba M. García-Serrano
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22100 Lund, Sweden; (Z.R.); (A.M.G.-S.)
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, 22100 Lund, Sweden
| | - João M. N. Duarte
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22100 Lund, Sweden; (Z.R.); (A.M.G.-S.)
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, 22100 Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Oja SS, Saransaari P. Taurine and the Brain. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1370:325-331. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-93337-1_31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
|
22
|
The role of the medial geniculate body of the thalamus in the pathophysiology of tinnitus and implications for treatment. Brain Res 2022; 1779:147797. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2022.147797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
|
23
|
Franscescon F, Souza TP, Müller TE, Michelotti P, Canzian J, Stefanello FV, Rosemberg DB. Taurine prevents MK-801-induced shoal dispersion and altered cortisol responses in zebrafish. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 111:110399. [PMID: 34246730 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a chronic neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by a shortened lifespan and significant impaired social and vocational functioning. Schizophrenic patients can present hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunctions and cortisol dysregulation, which play an important role on the etiology onset, exacerbation, and relapsing of symptoms. Based on its intrinsic neuroprotective properties, taurine is considered a promising substance with beneficial role on various brain disorders, including schizophrenia. Here, we evaluated the effects of taurine on shoaling behavior and whole-body cortisol levels in zebrafish treated with dizocilpine (MK-801), which elicits schizophrenia-like phenotypes in animal models. Briefly, zebrafish shoals (4 fish per shoal) were exposed to dechlorinated water or taurine (42, 150, or 400 mg/L) for 60 min. Then, saline (PBS, pH 7.4 or 2.0 mg/kg MK-801) were intraperitoneally injected and zebrafish behavior was recorded 15 min later. In general, MK-801 disrupted shoaling behavior and reduced whole-body cortisol levels in zebrafish. All taurine pretreatments prevented MK-801-induced increase in shoal area, while 400 mg/L taurine prevented the MK-801-induced alterations in neuroendocrine responses. Moreover, all taurine-pretreated groups showed increased geotaxis, supporting a modulatory role in the overall dispersion pattern of the shoal. Collectively, our novel findings show a potential protective effect of taurine on MK-801-induced shoal dispersion and altered neuroendocrine responses, fostering the use of zebrafish models to assess schizophrenia-like phenotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francini Franscescon
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria. 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil.
| | - Thiele P Souza
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria. 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Talise E Müller
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria. 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Paula Michelotti
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria. 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Julia Canzian
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria. 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Flavia V Stefanello
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria. 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Denis B Rosemberg
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria. 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Activation of the α1β2γ2L GABA A Receptor by Physiological Agonists. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11121864. [PMID: 34944508 PMCID: PMC8699469 DOI: 10.3390/biom11121864] [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: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cl− permeable GABAA receptor is a major contributor to cellular inhibition in the brain. The receptor is normally activated by synaptically-released or ambient GABA but is sensitive to a number of physiological compounds such as β-alanine, taurine, and neurosteroids that, to various degrees, activate the receptor and modulate responses either to the transmitter or to each other. Here, we describe α1β2γ2L GABAA receptor activation and modulation by combinations of orthosteric and allosteric activators. The overall goal was to gain insight into how changes in the levels of endogenous agonists modulate receptor activity and influence cellular inhibition. Experimental observations and simulations are described in the framework of a cyclic concerted transition model. We also provide general analytical solutions for the analysis of electrophysiological data collected in the presence of combinations of active compounds.
Collapse
|
25
|
Bhattacharjee A, Prajapati SK, Krishnamurthy S. Supplementation of taurine improves ionic homeostasis and mitochondrial function in the rats exhibiting post-traumatic stress disorder-like symptoms. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 908:174361. [PMID: 34297965 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Current pharmacotherapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is limited to few antidepressants. Mitochondrial dysfunction is observed in PTSD, along with altered potassium homeostasis. Nutritional supplementation of taurine can improve ionic homeostasis and thereby treat PTSD-like symptoms in rats. AIM The purpose is to study the pharmacological effect of taurine in stress re-stress-induced PTSD in rats. METHODS As per protocol, animals were restrained for 2 h then exposed to footshock (FS) (2 mA/10 s) followed by halothane-induced anesthesia. Behavioral assessments such as elevated plus maze (EPM) and Y-maze tests were performed on days 2, 8, and 32 of experimental protocol after re-stress. In addition, daily oral administration of taurine (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg) and paroxetine (PAX) (10 mg/kg) was done from D-8 to D-32 followed by re-stress. The plasma concentration of taurine, corticosterone, and potassium was measured on Day-32 along with mitochondrial function in discrete brain regions. RESULTS Sub-chronic administration of taurine in high and medium doses significantly ameliorated PTSD-like symptoms such as hyperarousal, anxiety, and improved spatial recognition memory. Taurine in all doses restored the plasma concentration of corticosterone and potassium. SRS-induced alterations in mitochondrial bioenergetics, complex enzyme activities, and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential in different brain regions were ameliorated by taurine. CONCLUSION Nutritional supplementation of taurine improves potassium ionic homeostasis, mitochondrial function, and attenuated PTSD-like symptoms in SRS subjected rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anindita Bhattacharjee
- Neurotherapeutics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221 005, U.P., India
| | - Santosh Kumar Prajapati
- Neurotherapeutics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221 005, U.P., India
| | - Sairam Krishnamurthy
- Neurotherapeutics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221 005, U.P., India.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Moldavan M, Cravetchi O, Allen CN. Diurnal properties of tonic and synaptic GABA A receptor-mediated currents in suprachiasmatic nucleus neurons. J Neurophysiol 2021; 126:637-652. [PMID: 34259044 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00556.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic and extrasynaptic GABAA receptor (GABAAR)-mediated neurotransmission is a critical component of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) neuronal network. However, the properties of the GABAA tonic current (Itonic) and its origin remain unexplored. Spontaneous GABAA postsynaptic currents (sGPSCs) and Itonic were recorded from SCN neurons with the whole cell voltage-clamp technique at different times of the day. GABAAR antagonists (bicuculline, gabazine, and picrotoxin) inhibited sGPSC and induced an outward shift of the holding current, which defined the Itonic amplitude. The sGPSC frequency, synaptic charge transfer, and Itonic amplitude all demonstrated significant diurnal rhythms, with peaks in the middle of the day [zeitgeber time (ZT)7-8] and nadirs at night (ZT19-20). The Itonic amplitude increased proportionally with the sGPSC frequency and synaptic charge transfer during the day and required action potential-mediated GABA release, which was confirmed by TTX application. The activation of presynaptic GABAB receptors by baclofen did not significantly alter the Itonic of neurons with low-frequency sGPSC. The equilibrium potential (Eq) for Itonic was similar to the Eq for chloride and GABAA receptor-activated currents. Itonic showed outward rectification at membrane potentials over the range of -70 to -10 mV and then was linear at voltages greater than -10 mV. GABAAR containing α4-, α5-, and δ-subunits were expressed in SCN, and their contribution to Itonic was confirmed by application of the GABAAR agonist 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4-c]pyridin-3-ol (THIP) and the GABAAR inverse agonist 11,12,13,13a-tetrahydro-7-methoxy-9-oxo-9H-imidazo[1,5-a]pyrrolo[2,1-c][1,4]benzodiazepine-1-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (L655,708). Thus, the Itonic was mediated by extrasynaptic GABAARs activated predominantly by GABA diffusing out of GABAergic synapses.NEW & NOTEWORTHY A tonic current (Itonic) mediated by GABAA receptors (GABAARs) containing α4-, α5- and δ-subunits was observed in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. The Itonic amplitude strongly depended on the action potential-mediated synaptic release of GABA. The equilibrium potential for Itonic corresponds to that for GABAA currents. The frequency of GABAA postsynaptic currents and Itonic amplitude increased during the day, with peak in the middle of the day, and then gradually declined with a nadir at night, thus showing a diurnal rhythm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Moldavan
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Olga Cravetchi
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Charles N Allen
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon.,Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kurtz JA, VanDusseldorp TA, Doyle JA, Otis JS. Taurine in sports and exercise. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2021; 18:39. [PMID: 34039357 PMCID: PMC8152067 DOI: 10.1186/s12970-021-00438-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Taurine has become a popular supplement among athletes attempting to improve performance. While the effectiveness of taurine as an ergogenic aid remains controversial, this paper summarizes the current evidence regarding the efficacy of taurine in aerobic and anaerobic performance, metabolic stress, muscle soreness, and recovery. METHODS Google Scholar, Web of Science, and MedLine (PubMed) searches were conducted through September 2020. Peer-reviewed studies that investigated taurine as a single ingredient at dosages of < 1 g - 6 g, ranging from 10 to 15 min-to-2 h prior to exercise bout or chronic dose (7 days- 8 weeks) of consumption were included. Articles were excluded if taurine was not the primary or only ingredient in a supplement or food source, not published in peer-reviewed journals, if participants were older than 50 years, articles published before 1999, animal studies, or included participants with health issues. A total of 19 studies met the inclusion criteria for the review. RESULTS Key results include improvements in the following: VO2max, time to exhaustion (TTE; n = 5 articles), 3 or 4 km time-trial (n = 2 articles), anaerobic performance (n = 7 articles), muscle damage (n = 3 articles), peak power (n = 2 articles), recovery (n = 1 article). Taurine also caused a change in metabolites: decrease in lactate, creatine kinase, phosphorus, inflammatory markers, and improved glycolytic/fat oxidation markers (n = 5 articles). Taurine dosing appears to be effective at ~ 1-3 g/day acutely across a span of 6-15 days (1-3 h before an activity) which may improve aerobic performance (TTE), anaerobic performance (strength, power), recovery (DOMS), and a decrease in metabolic markers (creatine kinase, lactate, inorganic phosphate). CONCLUSIONS Limited and varied findings prohibit definitive conclusions regarding the efficacy of taurine on aerobic and anaerobic performance and metabolic outcomes. There are mixed findings for the effect of taurine consumption on improving recovery from training bouts and/or mitigating muscle damage. The timing of taurine ingestion as well as the type of exercise protocol performed may contribute to the effectiveness of taurine as an ergogenic aid. More investigations are needed to better understand the potential effects of taurine supplementation on aerobic and anaerobic performance, muscle damage, metabolic stress, and recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Kurtz
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Georgia State University, 125 Decatur Street, Suite 137, Atlanta, GA 30303 USA
| | - Trisha A. VanDusseldorp
- Department of Exercise Science and Sport Management, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA 30144 USA
| | - J. Andrew Doyle
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Georgia State University, 125 Decatur Street, Suite 137, Atlanta, GA 30303 USA
| | - Jeffrey S. Otis
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Georgia State University, 125 Decatur Street, Suite 137, Atlanta, GA 30303 USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Mekawy N, Bendaoud M, Yachou Y, El Idrissi A. Hyperreflexia and enhanced ripple oscillations in the taurine-deficient mice. Amino Acids 2021; 53:701-712. [PMID: 33877450 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-021-02977-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we examined neuronal excitability and skeletal muscle physiology and histology in homozygous knockout mice lacking cysteine sulfonic acid decarboxylase (CSAD-KO). Neuronal excitability was measured by intracerebral recording from the prefrontal cortex. Skeletal muscle response was measured through stretch reflex in the ankle muscles. Specifically, we measured the muscle tension, amplitude of electromyogram and velocity of muscle response. Stretch reflex responses were evoked using a specialized stretching device designed for mice. The triceps surae muscle was stretched at various speeds ranging from 18 to 18,000° s-1. A transducer recorded the muscle resistance at each velocity and the corresponding EMG. We also measured the same parameter in anesthetized mice. We found that at each velocity, the CSAD-KO mice generated more tension and exhibited higher EMG responses. To evaluate if the enhanced response was due to neuronal excitability or changes in the passive properties of muscles, we anesthetize mice to eliminate the central component of the reflex. Under these conditions, CSAD-KO mice still exhibited an enhanced stretch reflex response, indicating ultrastructural alterations in muscle histology. Consistent with this, we found that sarcomeres from CSAD-KO muscles were shorter and thinner when compared to control sarcomeres. Neuronal excitability was further investigated using intracerebral recordings of brain waves from the prefrontal cortex. We found that extracellular field potentials in CSAD-KO mice were characterized by reduced amplitude of low-frequency brain waves (delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma) and increased in the high low-frequency brain waves (slow and fast ripples). Increased slow and fast ripple rates serve as a biomarker of epileptogenic brain. We have previously shown that taurine interacts with GABAA receptors and induces biochemical changes in the GABAergic system. We suggest that taurine deficiency leads to alterations in the GABAergic system that contribute to the enhanced stretch reflex in CSAD-KO mice through biochemical mechanisms that involve alterations not only at the spinal level but also at the cortical level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Narmin Mekawy
- Center for Developmental Neuroscience, College of Staten Island, 2800 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, NY, 10314, USA
| | - Meriem Bendaoud
- Department of Biology, New Jersey City University, 2039 John F. Kennedy Blvd, Jersey, NJ, 07305, USA
| | - Yassine Yachou
- Neurology Department, Astrakhan State Medical University, Astrakhan, Russia
| | - Abdeslem El Idrissi
- Center for Developmental Neuroscience, College of Staten Island, 2800 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, NY, 10314, USA.
- Department of Biology, College of Staten Island, 2800 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, NY, 10314, USA.
- The Graduate Center, Program in Biology-Neurosciences, The City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
A chronic low dosage of taurine induces muscle weakness in castrated-aged mice. TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE OF AGING 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tma.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
|
30
|
Mahootchi E, Raasakka A, Luan W, Muruganandam G, Loris R, Haavik J, Kursula P. Structure and substrate specificity determinants of the taurine biosynthetic enzyme cysteine sulphinic acid decarboxylase. J Struct Biol 2020; 213:107674. [PMID: 33253877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2020.107674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Pyridoxal 5́-phosphate (PLP) is an important cofactor for amino acid decarboxylases with many biological functions, including the synthesis of signalling molecules, such as serotonin, dopamine, histamine, γ-aminobutyric acid, and taurine. Taurine is an abundant amino acid with multiple physiological functions, including osmoregulation, pH regulation, antioxidative protection, and neuromodulation. In mammalian tissues, taurine is mainly produced by decarboxylation of cysteine sulphinic acid to hypotaurine, catalysed by the PLP-dependent cysteine sulphinic acid decarboxylase (CSAD), followed by oxidation of the product to taurine. We determined the crystal structure of mouse CSAD and compared it to other PLP-dependent decarboxylases in order to identify determinants of substrate specificity and catalytic activity. Recognition of the substrate involves distinct side chains forming the substrate-binding cavity. In addition, the backbone conformation of a buried active-site loop appears to be a critical determinant for substrate side chain binding in PLP-dependent decarboxylases. Phe94 was predicted to affect substrate specificity, and its mutation to serine altered both the catalytic properties of CSAD and its stability. Using small-angle X-ray scattering, we further showed that CSAD presents open/close motions in solution. The structure of apo-CSAD indicates that the active site gets more ordered upon internal aldimine formation. Taken together, the results highlight details of substrate recognition in PLP-dependent decarboxylases and provide starting points for structure-based inhibitor design with the aim of affecting the biosynthesis of taurine and other abundant amino acid metabolites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Arne Raasakka
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Weisha Luan
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Gopinath Muruganandam
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, Brussels, Belgium; Structural Biology Brussels, Department of Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Remy Loris
- VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, Brussels, Belgium; Structural Biology Brussels, Department of Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jan Haavik
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Bergen Center of Brain Plasticity, Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Petri Kursula
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Turco CV, Arsalan SO, Nelson AJ. The Influence of Recreational Substance Use in TMS Research. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E751. [PMID: 33080965 PMCID: PMC7603156 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10100751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) approaches are widely used to study cortical and corticospinal function. However, responses to TMS are subject to significant intra-and inter-individual variability. Acute and chronic exposure to recreational substances alters the excitability of the sensorimotor system and may contribute to the variability in TMS outcome measures. The increasing prevalence of recreational substance use poses a significant challenge for executing TMS studies, but there is a lack of clarity regarding the influence of these substances on sensorimotor function. (2) Methods: The literature investigating the influence of alcohol, nicotine, caffeine and cannabis on TMS outcome measures of corticospinal, intracortical and interhemispheric excitability was reviewed. (3) Results: Both acute and chronic use of recreational substances modulates TMS measures of excitability. Despite the abundance of research in this field, we identify knowledge gaps that should be addressed in future studies to better understand the influence of these substances on TMS outcomes. (4) Conclusions: This review highlights the need for TMS studies to take into consideration the history of participant substance use and to control for acute substance use prior to testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aimee J. Nelson
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada; (C.V.T.); (S.O.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Mersman B, Zaidi W, Syed NI, Xu F. Taurine Promotes Neurite Outgrowth and Synapse Development of Both Vertebrate and Invertebrate Central Neurons. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2020; 12:29. [PMID: 32792935 PMCID: PMC7387692 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2020.00029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid that is widely expressed throughout the human brain, heart, retina, and muscle tissues. Taurine deficiency is associated with cardiomyopathy, renal dysfunction, abnormalities of the developing nervous system, and epilepsy which suggests a role specific to excitable tissues. Like vertebrates, invertebrates maintain high levels of taurine during embryonic and larval development, which decline during aging, indicating a potential developmental role. Notwithstanding its extensive presence throughout, taurine’s precise role/s during early brain development, function, and repair remains largely unknown in both vertebrate and invertebrate. Here, we investigated whether taurine affects neurite outgrowth, synapse formation, and synaptic transmission between postnatal day 0 rat cortical neurons in vitro, whereas its synaptogenic role was tested more directly using the Lymnaea soma-soma synapse model. We provide direct evidence that when applied at physiological concentrations, taurine exerts a significant neurotrophic effect on neuritic outgrowth and thickness of neurites as well as the expression of synaptic puncta as revealed by immunostaining of presynaptic synaptophysin and postsynaptic PSD95 proteins in rat cortical neurons, indicating direct involvement in synapse development. To demonstrate taurine’s direct effects on neurons in the absence of glia and other confounding factors, we next exploited individually identified pre- and postsynaptic neurons from the mollusk Lymnaea stagnalis. We found that taurine increased both the incidence of synapse formation (percent of cells that form synapses) and the efficacy of synaptic transmission between the paired neurons. This effect was comparable, but not additive, to Lymnaea trophic factor-induced synaptogenesis. This study thus provides direct morphological and functional evidence that taurine plays an important role in neurite outgrowth, synaptogenesis, and synaptic transmission during the early stages of brain development and that this role is conserved across both vertebrate and invertebrate species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Mersman
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Henry and Amelia Nasrallah Center for Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Wali Zaidi
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Naweed I Syed
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Fenglian Xu
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Henry and Amelia Nasrallah Center for Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Xing H, Xu S, Xie X, Wang Y, Lu C, Han X. Levetiracetam induction of theta frequency oscillations in rodent hippocampus in vitro. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2020; 98:725-732. [PMID: 32516556 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2019-0727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Levetiracetam (LEV) has been demonstrated to improve cognitive function. Hippocampal theta rhythm (4-12 Hz) is associated with a variety of cognitively related behaviors, such as exploration in both humans and animal models. We investigated the effects of LEV on the theta rhythm in the rat hippocampal CA3 in hippocampal slices in vitro. We found that LEV increased the theta power in a dose-dependent manner. The increase in theta power can be blocked by GABAA receptor (GABAAR) or NMDA receptor (NMDAR) antagonists but not by AMPA receptor antagonist, indicating the involvement of GABAAR and NMDAR in the induction of theta activity. Interestingly, LEV enhancement of theta power can be also blocked by taurine or GABA-A agonist THIP, indicating that LEV induction of theta may be related to the indirect boosting of GABA action via reduction of extrasynaptic GABAAR activation. Furthermore, the increased theta power can be partially reduced by the mACh receptor (mAChR) antagonist atropine but not by nACh receptor antagonists, suggesting that mAChR activation provides excitatory input into local network responsible for LEV-induced theta. Our study demonstrated that LEV induced a novel theta oscillation in vitro, which may have implications in the treatment of the neuronal disorders with impaired theta oscillation and cognitive function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hang Xing
- Key Lab of Brain Research of Henan Province, Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Xinxiang Medical University, Henan, 453000, P.R. China.,Department of Neurology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, P.R. China
| | - Sihan Xu
- Key Lab of Brain Research of Henan Province, Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Xinxiang Medical University, Henan, 453000, P.R. China
| | - Xin'e Xie
- Key Lab of Brain Research of Henan Province, Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Xinxiang Medical University, Henan, 453000, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Key Lab of Brain Research of Henan Province, Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Xinxiang Medical University, Henan, 453000, P.R. China
| | - Chengbiao Lu
- Key Lab of Brain Research of Henan Province, Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Xinxiang Medical University, Henan, 453000, P.R. China
| | - Xiong Han
- Department of Neurology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wang L, Kloc M, Maher E, Erisir A, Maffei A. Presynaptic GABAA Receptors Modulate Thalamocortical Inputs in Layer 4 of Rat V1. Cereb Cortex 2020; 29:921-936. [PMID: 29373653 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhx364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fast inhibitory GABAergic transmission plays a fundamental role in neural circuits. Current theories of cortical function assume that fast GABAergic inhibition acts via GABAA receptors on postsynaptic neurons, while presynaptic effects of GABA depend on GABAB receptor activation. Manipulations of GABAA receptor activity in vivo produced different effects on cortical function, which were generally ascribed to the mode of action of a drug, more than its site of action. Here we show that in rodent primary visual cortex, α4-containing GABAA receptors can be located on subsets of glutamatergic and GABAergic presynaptic terminals and decrease synaptic transmission. Our data provide a novel mechanistic insight into the effects of changes in cortical inhibition; the ability to modulate inputs onto cortical circuits locally, via presynaptic regulation of release by GABAA receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Wang
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, SUNY-Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - M Kloc
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, SUNY-Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - E Maher
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - A Erisir
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - A Maffei
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, SUNY-Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Supplemental taurine during adolescence and early adulthood has sex-specific effects on cognition, behavior and neurotransmitter levels in C57BL/6J mice dependent on exposure window. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2020; 79:106883. [PMID: 32289445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2020.106883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian brain goes through final maturation during late adolescence and early adulthood with sex differences in timing. The key cellular processes, including changes in neurotransmitter receptor density and synaptic pruning, make this age uniquely vulnerable to neurotoxic insults. Teenagers and young adults are the major consumers of energy drinks, which contain high levels of taurine and caffeine. Taurine is one of the most abundant amino acids in the central nervous system, but the effects of supplemental taurine consumption during adolescence has not been well studied. We conducted an initial short-term exposure study with 0.12% taurine in drinking water and a long-term exposure dose-response study using 0.06 and 0.12% taurine in male and female C57BL/6J mice. We examined a broad range of cognitive functions and behaviors and measured neurotransmitter levels. We found no significant differences in anxiety, open field locomotor activity, or sensorimotor gating. However, we found impairments in novel object recognition and sex differences in Morris water maze. When taurine treatment stopped before behavioral experiments began, male mice had significant impairments in spatial learning and memory. In the dose-response study when taurine treatment continued throughout behavioral experiments, females had significant impairments. We also found sex differences in neurotransmitter levels with females having higher levels of glutamate, DOPAC and 5-HIAA. We conclude that both females and males are at risk from excess taurine consumption during final brain maturation.
Collapse
|
36
|
Zhang M, Ruwe D, Saffari R, Kravchenko M, Zhang W. Effects of TRPV1 Activation by Capsaicin and Endogenous N-Arachidonoyl Taurine on Synaptic Transmission in the Prefrontal Cortex. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:91. [PMID: 32116530 PMCID: PMC7020858 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
While the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) ion channel, a non-selective calcium-permeable cation channel with high Ca2+ permeability, mainly integrates physical and chemical stimuli for nociception, recent studies suggest that it has a role beyond a noxious thermal sensor. In fact, TRPV1 is presently being considered as a target for treating pathophysiological processes including pain, fear, and anxiety disorders. Although this ion channel has many potential roles, its underlying mechanism of action remains elusive. Here we show in mice that activation of TRPV1-, by the exogenous agonist capsaicin-, regulates synaptic activity in both glutamatergic and GABAergic synaptic transmission. Moreover, activation by the endogenous activator N-arachidonoyl taurine (NAT), induced similar effects as capsaicin. On the other hand, taurine, the decomposition product of NAT, strongly depressed the evoked glutamatergic synaptic transmission. In addition to these findings, we also show the immunohistochemical distribution of TRPV1 in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of mice, as such studies are currently less frequent in the PFC. Overall, these observations allow for a better understanding of how TRPV1 helps regulate excitatory and inhibitory synaptic activity in the PFC of mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - David Ruwe
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Roja Saffari
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mykola Kravchenko
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Weiqi Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hansen AW, Almeida FB, Bandiera S, Pulcinelli RR, Caletti G, Agnes G, Fernandes de Paula L, Nietiedt NA, Nin MS, Tannhauser Barros HM, Gomez R. Correlations between subunits of GABA A and NMDA receptors after chronic alcohol treatment or withdrawal, and the effect of taurine in the hippocampus of rats. Alcohol 2020; 82:63-70. [PMID: 31473305 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2019.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Chronic use of alcohol and its withdrawal impairs the delicate balance between GABAergic and glutamatergic systems. This imbalance includes changes in GABA receptors - importantly in GABAA subtypes - and glutamate receptors, especially in NMDA subtypes. A better comprehension of the different roles of GABAAR and NMDAR subunits could be helpful to define new strategies to counteract the deleterious effects observed during alcohol withdrawal. Taurine, a sulfonated amino acid, has been proposed to attenuate alcohol withdrawal symptoms due to its neuromodulatory properties. In this study, we evaluated the correlations between GABAAR and NMDAR subunits in the hippocampus of rats chronically treated with alcohol or in alcohol withdrawal, and the effects of taurine treatment on these parameters. Male Wistar rats received alcohol (2 g/kg) or water by oral gavage (control), 2 × /day, for 28 days. From day 29 to day 33, withdrawal rats received water instead of alcohol and all groups were reallocated to receive 100 mg/kg taurine or saline intraperitoneally (i.p.), once a day. On day 34, rats were euthanized and the hippocampus was dissected for GABAAR α1, α4, δ, and γ2 and NMDAR GluN2A and GluN2B subunits mRNA expression determination by RT qPCR. There were no differences between groups in the studied GABAAR and NMDA subunits. However, we observed a correlation of α1 and γ2 subunits induced by taurine, while in the alcohol group there was a correlation between α4 and GluN2A. In the group treated with alcohol and taurine, we observed an extra correlation, between α1 and GluN2A. After 5 days of withdrawal, a correlation observed in the control group, between δ and GluN2A, was reestablished. The correlation found between subunits suggests a neuroadaptation of GABAergic and glutamatergic systems in withdrawal rats. Results from this study contribute to the elucidation of the mechanisms beyond neuroadaptations observed in alcohol use and withdrawal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alana Witt Hansen
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Farmacologia e Terapêutica, Laboratório de Álcool e Tabaco (LAT), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Sarmento Leite, 500, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Felipe Borges Almeida
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre - UFCSPA, Sarmento Leite, 245, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Solange Bandiera
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Farmacologia e Terapêutica, Laboratório de Álcool e Tabaco (LAT), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Sarmento Leite, 500, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Rianne Remus Pulcinelli
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Farmacologia e Terapêutica, Laboratório de Álcool e Tabaco (LAT), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Sarmento Leite, 500, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Greice Caletti
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Farmacologia e Terapêutica, Laboratório de Álcool e Tabaco (LAT), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Sarmento Leite, 500, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Grasiela Agnes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre - UFCSPA, Sarmento Leite, 245, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Fernandes de Paula
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Farmacologia e Terapêutica, Laboratório de Álcool e Tabaco (LAT), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Sarmento Leite, 500, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Natália Azuaga Nietiedt
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Farmacologia e Terapêutica, Laboratório de Álcool e Tabaco (LAT), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Sarmento Leite, 500, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Maurício Schüler Nin
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Farmacologia e Terapêutica, Laboratório de Álcool e Tabaco (LAT), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Sarmento Leite, 500, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Centro Universitário Metodista do IPA, Cel. Joaquim Pedro Salgado, 80, 90420-060, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Helena Maria Tannhauser Barros
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre - UFCSPA, Sarmento Leite, 245, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Rosane Gomez
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Farmacologia e Terapêutica, Laboratório de Álcool e Tabaco (LAT), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Sarmento Leite, 500, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre - UFCSPA, Sarmento Leite, 245, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Zheng Y, McTavish J, Smith PF. Pharmacological Evaluation of Drugs in Animal Models of Tinnitus. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2020; 51:51-82. [PMID: 33590458 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2020_212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Despite the pressing need for effective drug treatments for tinnitus, currently, there is no single drug that is approved by the FDA for this purpose. Instead, a wide range of unproven over-the-counter tinnitus remedies are available on the market with little or no benefit for tinnitus but with potential harm and adverse effects. Animal models of tinnitus have played a critical role in exploring the pathophysiology of tinnitus, identifying therapeutic targets and evaluating novel and existing drugs for tinnitus treatment. This review summarises and compares the studies on pharmacological evaluation of tinnitus treatment in different animal models based on the pharmacological properties of the drug and provides insights into future directions for tinnitus drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. .,Brain Research New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand. .,Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. .,Eisdell Moore Centre for Hearing and Balance Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Jessica McTavish
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.,Brain Research New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand.,Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.,Eisdell Moore Centre for Hearing and Balance Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Paul F Smith
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.,Brain Research New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand.,Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.,Eisdell Moore Centre for Hearing and Balance Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
Sleep spindles are burstlike signals in the electroencephalogram (EEG) of the sleeping mammalian brain and electrical surface correlates of neuronal oscillations in thalamus. As one of the most inheritable sleep EEG signatures, sleep spindles probably reflect the strength and malleability of thalamocortical circuits that underlie individual cognitive profiles. We review the characteristics, organization, regulation, and origins of sleep spindles and their implication in non-rapid-eye-movement sleep (NREMS) and its functions, focusing on human and rodent. Spatially, sleep spindle-related neuronal activity appears on scales ranging from small thalamic circuits to functional cortical areas, and generates a cortical state favoring intracortical plasticity while limiting cortical output. Temporally, sleep spindles are discrete events, part of a continuous power band, and elements grouped on an infraslow time scale over which NREMS alternates between continuity and fragility. We synthesize diverse and seemingly unlinked functions of sleep spindles for sleep architecture, sensory processing, synaptic plasticity, memory formation, and cognitive abilities into a unifying sleep spindle concept, according to which sleep spindles 1) generate neural conditions of large-scale functional connectivity and plasticity that outlast their appearance as discrete EEG events, 2) appear preferentially in thalamic circuits engaged in learning and attention-based experience during wakefulness, and 3) enable a selective reactivation and routing of wake-instated neuronal traces between brain areas such as hippocampus and cortex. Their fine spatiotemporal organization reflects NREMS as a physiological state coordinated over brain and body and may indicate, if not anticipate and ultimately differentiate, pathologies in sleep and neurodevelopmental, -degenerative, and -psychiatric conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura M J Fernandez
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anita Lüthi
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Kirson D, Oleata CS, Roberto M. Taurine Suppression of Central Amygdala GABAergic Inhibitory Signaling via Glycine Receptors Is Disrupted in Alcohol Dependence. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2019; 44:445-454. [PMID: 31782155 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use disorder (AUD) increases brain stress systems while suppressing reward system functioning. One expression of stress system recruitment is elevated GABAergic activity in the central amygdala (CeA), which is involved in the excessive drinking seen with AUD. The sulfonic amino acid taurine, a glycine receptor partial agonist, modulates GABAergic activity in the rewarding effects of alcohol. Despite taurine abundance in the amygdala, its role in the dysregulation of GABAergic activity associated with AUD has not been studied. Thus, here, we evaluated the effects of taurine on locally stimulated GABAergic neurotransmission in the CeA of naïve- and alcohol-dependent rats. METHODS We recorded intracellularly from CeA neurons of naïve- and alcohol-dependent rats, quantifying locally evoked GABAA receptor-mediated inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (eIPSP). We examined the effects of taurine and alcohol on CeA eIPSP to characterize potential alcohol dependence-induced changes in the effects of taurine. RESULTS We found that taurine decreased amplitudes of eIPSP in CeA neurons of naïve rats, without affecting the acute alcohol-induced facilitation of GABAergic responses. In CeA neurons from dependent rats, taurine no longer had an effect on eIPSP, but now blocked the ethanol (EtOH)-induced increase in eIPSP amplitude normally seen. Additionally, preapplication of the glycine receptor-specific antagonist strychnine blocked the EtOH-induced increase in eIPSP amplitude in neurons from naïve rats. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest taurine may act to oppose the effects of acute alcohol via the glycine receptor in the CeA of naïve rats, and this modulatory system is altered in the CeA of dependent rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dean Kirson
- Department of Molecular Medicine, and Alcohol Research Center, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Christopher S Oleata
- Department of Molecular Medicine, and Alcohol Research Center, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, and Alcohol Research Center, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Pierce SR, Senneff TC, Germann AL, Akk G. Steady-state activation of the high-affinity isoform of the α4β2δ GABA A receptor. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15997. [PMID: 31690811 PMCID: PMC6831628 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52573-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of GABAA receptors consisting of α4, β2 (or β3), and δ subunits is a major contributor to tonic inhibition in several brain regions. The goal of this study was to analyze the function of the α4β2δ receptor in the presence of GABA and other endogenous and clinical activators and modulators under steady-state conditions. We show that the receptor has a high constitutive open probability (~0.1), but is only weakly activated by GABA that has a maximal peak open probability (POpen,peak) of 0.4, taurine (maximal POpen,peak = 0.4), or the endogenous steroid allopregnanolone (maximal POpen,peak = 0.2). The intravenous anesthetic propofol is a full agonist (maximal POpen,peak = 0.99). Analysis of currents using a cyclic three-state Resting-Active-Desensitized model indicates that the maximal steady-state open probability of the α4β2δ receptor is ~0.45. Steady-state open probability in the presence of combinations of GABA, taurine, propofol, allopregnanolone and/or the inhibitory steroid pregnenolone sulfate closely matched predicted open probability calculated assuming energetic additivity. The results suggest that the receptor is active in the presence of physiological concentrations of GABA and taurine, but, surprisingly, that receptor activity is only weakly potentiated by propofol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Spencer R Pierce
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Thomas C Senneff
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Allison L Germann
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Gustav Akk
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA. .,The Taylor Family Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Germann AL, Pierce SR, Senneff TC, Burbridge AB, Steinbach JH, Akk G. Steady-state activation and modulation of the synaptic-type α1β2γ2L GABA A receptor by combinations of physiological and clinical ligands. Physiol Rep 2019; 7:e14230. [PMID: 31549483 PMCID: PMC6757177 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.14230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The synaptic α1β2γ2 GABAA receptor is activated phasically by presynaptically released GABA. The receptor is considered to be inactive between synaptic events when exposed to ambient GABA because of its low resting affinity to the transmitter. We tested the hypothesis that a combination of physiological and/or clinical positive allosteric modulators of the GABAA receptor with ambient GABA generates measurable steady-state activity. Recombinant α1β2γ2L GABAA receptors were expressed in Xenopus oocytes and activated by combinations of low concentrations of orthosteric (GABA, taurine) and allosteric (the steroid allopregnanolone, the anesthetic propofol) agonists, in the absence and presence of the inhibitory steroid pregnenolone sulfate. Steady-state activity was analyzed using the three-state cyclic Resting-Active-Desensitized model. We estimate that the steady-state open probability of the synaptic α1β2γ2L GABAA receptor in the presence of ambient GABA (1 μmol/L), taurine (10 μmol/L), and physiological levels of allopregnanolone (0.01 μmol/L) and pregnenolone sulfate (0.1 μmol/L) is 0.008. Coapplication of a clinical concentration of propofol (1 μmol/L) increases the steady-state open probability to 0.03. Comparison of total charge transfer for phasic and tonic activity indicates that steady-state activity can contribute strongly (~20 to >99%) to integrated activity from the synaptic GABAA receptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allison L. Germann
- Department of AnesthesiologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
| | - Spencer R. Pierce
- Department of AnesthesiologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
| | - Thomas C. Senneff
- Department of AnesthesiologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
| | - Ariel B. Burbridge
- Department of AnesthesiologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
| | - Joe Henry Steinbach
- Department of AnesthesiologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
- Taylor Family Institute for Innovative Psychiatric ResearchWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
| | - Gustav Akk
- Department of AnesthesiologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
- Taylor Family Institute for Innovative Psychiatric ResearchWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Luengo JG, Muñoz MD, Álvarez-Merz I, Herranz AS, González JC, Martín del Río R, Hernández-Guijo JM, Solís JM. Intracellular accumulation of amino acids increases synaptic potentials in rat hippocampal slices. Amino Acids 2019; 51:1337-1351. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-019-02771-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
|
44
|
β-Amyloid Peptide Antagonizes the Effect of Protons on Taurine-Induced Chloride Current in Rat Hippocampal Pyramidal Neurons. Bull Exp Biol Med 2019; 167:237-241. [PMID: 31243680 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-019-04499-9] [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: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Taurine is an important endogenous agonist of glycine receptors (GlyR). Using the patchclamp technique, we measured chloride current induced by a short (600 msec) application of taurine (ITau) on isolated rat pyramidal neurons. pH of taurine solution in the applicator pipette was neutral (7.4) or acidic (7.0-5.0). Application of protons to a neuron causes a dosedependent decrease in the peak amplitude and acceleration of ITau desensitization. Addition of 100 nM β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) to the perfusate caused acceleration of ITau desensitization. The effects of Aβ and H+ on the rate of ITau desensitization were not additive. In addition, Aβ attenuated the effect of H+ on the peak amplitude of ITau. We also studied the effect of protons on the chloride current caused by activation of GABA receptors. In contrast to H+ effects on GlyR, Aβ did not modulate the effects of H+ on GABA receptors.
Collapse
|
45
|
Yu J, Wang DS, Bonin RP, Penna A, Alavian-Ghavanini A, Zurek AA, Rauw G, Baker GB, Orser BA. Gabapentin increases expression of δ subunit-containing GABA A receptors. EBioMedicine 2019; 42:203-213. [PMID: 30878595 PMCID: PMC6491385 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gabapentin is a structural analog of the inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Its anticonvulsant, analgesic and anxiolytic properties suggest that it increases GABAergic inhibition; however, the molecular basis for these effects is unknown as gabapentin does not directly modify GABA type A (GABAA) receptor function, nor does it modify synaptic inhibition. Here, we postulated that gabapentin increases expression of δ subunit-containing GABAA (δGABAA) receptors that generate a tonic inhibitory conductance in multiple brain regions including the cerebellum and hippocampus. METHODS Cell-surface biotinylation, Western blotting, electrophysiologic recordings, behavioral assays, high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry studies were performed using mouse models. FINDINGS Gabapentin enhanced expression of δGABAA receptors and increased a tonic inhibitory conductance in neurons. This increased expression likely contributes to GABAergic effects as gabapentin caused ataxia and anxiolysis in wild-type mice but not δ subunit null-mutant mice. In contrast, the antinociceptive properties of gabapentin were observed in both genotypes. Levels of GABAA receptor agonists and neurosteroids in the brain were not altered by gabapentin. INTERPRETATION These results provide compelling evidence to account for the GABAergic properties of gabapentin. Since reduced expression of δGABAA receptor occurs in several disorders, gabapentin may have much broader therapeutic applications than is currently recognized. FUND: Supported by a Foundation Grant (FDN-154312) from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (to B.A.O.); a NSERC Discovery Grant (RGPIN-2016-05538), a Canada Research Chair in Sensory Plasticity and Reconsolidation, and funding from the University of Toronto Centre for the Study of Pain (to R.P.B.).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jieying Yu
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Dian-Shi Wang
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Robert P Bonin
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Antonello Penna
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Department of Anesthesia and Centro de Investigación Clínica Avanzada, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, 838 0456, Chile
| | | | - Agnieszka A Zurek
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Gail Rauw
- Neurochemical Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G3, Canada
| | - Glen B Baker
- Neurochemical Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G3, Canada
| | - Beverley A Orser
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Department of Anesthesia, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E2, Canada; Department of Anesthesia, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Strasser A, Xin L, Gruetter R, Sandi C. Nucleus accumbens neurochemistry in human anxiety: A 7 T 1H-MRS study. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2019; 29:365-375. [PMID: 30600114 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2018.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Individual differences in anxiety provide a differential predisposition to develop neuropsychiatric disorders. The neurochemical underpinnings of anxiety remain elusive, particularly in deep structures, such as the nucleus accumbens (NAc) whose involvement in anxiety is being increasingly recognized. We examined the associations between the neurochemical profile of human NAc metabolites involved in neural excitation and inhibition and inter-individual variation in temperamental and situational anxiety. Twenty-seven healthy 20-30 years-old human males were phenotyped with questionnaires for state and trait anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, STAI), social anxiety (Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale), negative mood (Beck Depression Inventory, BDI) and fatigue (Mental and Physical State Energy and Fatigue Scales, SEF). Using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) at 7 Tesla (7T), we measured metabolite levels for glutamate, glutamine, GABA and taurine in the NAc. Salivary cortisol was also measured. Strikingly, trait anxiety was negatively associated with NAc taurine content. Perceived situational stress was negatively associated with NAc GABA, while positively with the Glu/GABA ratio. No correlation was observed between NAc taurine or GABA and other phenotypic variables examined (i.e., state anxiety, social anxiety, negative mood, or cortisol), except for a negative correlation between taurine and state physical fatigue. This first 7T study of NAc neurochemistry shows relevant metabolite associations with individual variation in anxiety traits and situational stress and state anxiety measurements. The novel identified association between NAc taurine levels and trait anxiety may pave the way for clinical studies aimed at identifying new treatments for anxiety and related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alina Strasser
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland
| | - Lijing Xin
- Animal Imaging and Technology Core, Center for Biomedical Imaging (CIBM), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rolf Gruetter
- Laboratory of Functional and Metabolic Imaging, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Radiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Radiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Carmen Sandi
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Page LK, Jeffries O, Waldron M. Acute taurine supplementation enhances thermoregulation and endurance cycling performance in the heat. Eur J Sport Sci 2019; 19:1101-1109. [PMID: 30776254 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2019.1578417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of oral taurine supplementation on cycling time to exhaustion at a fixed-intensity and thermoregulation in the heat. In a double-blind, randomised crossover design, 11 healthy males participated in a time to exhaustion test in the heat (35°C, 40% RH), cycling at the power output associated with ventilatory threshold, 2 h after ingesting: Taurine (50 mg kg-1) or placebo (3 mg kg-1 maltodextrin). Core and mean skin temperature, mean sweat rate, heart rate, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), thermal comfort and thermal sensation were measured during exercise and blood lactate concentration (B[La]) was measured after exercise. Taurine supplementation increased time to exhaustion by 10% (25.16 min vs. 22.43 min, p = 0.040), end sweat rate by 12.7% (687 nL min-1 vs. 600 nL min-1, p = 0.034) and decreased B[La] by 16.5% (5.75 mmol L-1 vs. 6.85 mmol L-1, p = 0.033). Core temperature was lower in the final 10% of the time to exhaustion (38.5°C vs. 38.1°C, p = 0.049). Taurine supplementation increased time to exhaustion and local sweating, while decreasing RPE and core temperature in the later stages of exercise, as well as reducing post-exercise B[La]. This study provides the evidence of taurine's role in thermoregulatory processes. These findings have implications for the short-term preparation strategies of individuals exercising in the heat. Based on these findings, a single dose of taurine 2 h prior to training or competition would provide an ergogenic and thermoregulatory effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lee Kevin Page
- a School of Sport, Health and Applied Science , St Mary's University , London , UK
| | - Owen Jeffries
- a School of Sport, Health and Applied Science , St Mary's University , London , UK.,b School of Biomedical Sciences , Newcastle University , Newcastle Upon Tyne , UK
| | - Mark Waldron
- a School of Sport, Health and Applied Science , St Mary's University , London , UK.,c School of Science and Technology , University of New England , Armidale , Australia
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Effects of taurine acute intake on cortical excitability and post-exercise facilitation: A TMS study. Behav Brain Res 2019; 359:719-722. [PMID: 30248365 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Taurine (TAU) is one of the most abundant amino acids in the brain. It has many important physiological functions. The effects of TAU supplementation on brain function need to be further characterized in humans. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a single dose of Taurine (TAU) intake would modulate corticospinal excitability and post-exercise facilitation (PEF) of the motor evoked potentials (MEP).
Collapse
|
49
|
Atif M, Smith JJ, Estrada-Mondragon A, Xiao X, Salim AA, Capon RJ, Lynch JW, Keramidas A. GluClR-mediated inhibitory postsynaptic currents reveal targets for ivermectin and potential mechanisms of ivermectin resistance. PLoS Pathog 2019; 15:e1007570. [PMID: 30695069 PMCID: PMC6368337 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate-gated chloride channel receptors (GluClRs) mediate inhibitory neurotransmission at invertebrate synapses and are primary targets of parasites that impact drastically on agriculture and human health. Ivermectin (IVM) is a broad-spectrum pesticide that binds and potentiates GluClR activity. Resistance to IVM is a major economic and health concern, but the molecular and synaptic mechanisms of resistance are ill-defined. Here we focus on GluClRs of the agricultural endoparasite, Haemonchus contortus. We demonstrate that IVM potentiates inhibitory input by inducing a tonic current that plateaus over 15 minutes and by enhancing post-synaptic current peak amplitude and decay times. We further demonstrate that IVM greatly enhances the active durations of single receptors. These effects are greatly attenuated when endogenous IVM-insensitive subunits are incorporated into GluClRs, suggesting a mechanism of IVM resistance that does not affect glutamate sensitivity. We discovered functional groups of IVM that contribute to tuning its potency at different isoforms and show that the dominant mode of access of IVM is via the cell membrane to the receptor. Glutamate-gated chloride channel receptors (GluClRs) mediate chemoelectric inhibition in invertebrate animals and are targets for broad-spectrum pesticides such as ivermectin. However, resistance to ivermectin threatens the effective control of invertebrates that cause a range of agricultural and human diseases. This study investigates different isoforms of GluClR expressed by the major agricultural endoparasite, Haemonchus contortus, on a synaptic and single receptor level. We discovered that ivermectin enhances synaptic current amplitude and decay and lengthens single receptor activity. Furthermore, ivermectin is less efficacious at GluClRs that incorporate a naturally ivermectin-resistant subunit, suggesting a potential resistance mechanism. Finally, we identify two chemical interactions between the GluClR and ivermectin that determine its potency and show that ivermectin binds to GluClRs via cell membrane interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Atif
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jennifer J. Smith
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Xue Xiao
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Angela A. Salim
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Robert J. Capon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Joseph W. Lynch
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- * E-mail: (AK); (JWL)
| | - Angelo Keramidas
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- * E-mail: (AK); (JWL)
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
The Taurine Transporter Eaat2 Functions in Ensheathing Glia to Modulate Sleep and Metabolic Rate. Curr Biol 2018; 28:3700-3708.e4. [PMID: 30416062 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2018.10.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2018] [Revised: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Sleep is critical for many aspects of brain function and is accompanied by brain-wide changes in the physiology of neurons and synapses [1, 2]. Growing evidence suggests that glial cells contribute to diverse aspects of sleep regulation, including neuronal and metabolic homeostasis [3-5], although the molecular basis for this remains poorly understood. The fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, displays all the behavioral and physiological characteristics of sleep [1, 2], and genetic screening in flies has identified both conserved and novel regulators of sleep and wakefulness [2, 6, 7]. With this approach, we identified Excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (Eaat2) and found that its loss from glia, but not neurons, increases sleep. We show that Eaat2 is expressed in ensheathing glia, where Eaat2 functions during adulthood to regulate sleep. Increased sleep in Eaat2-deficient flies is accompanied by reduction of metabolic rate during sleep bouts, an indicator of deeper sleep intensity. Eaat2 is a member of the conserved EAAT family of membrane transport proteins [8], raising the possibility that it affects sleep by controlling the movement of ions and neuroactive chemical messengers to and from ensheathing glia. In vitro, Eaat2 is a transporter of taurine [9], which promotes sleep when fed to flies [10]. We find that the acute effect of taurine on sleep is abolished in Eaat2 mutant flies. Together, these findings reveal a wake-promoting role for Eaat2 in ensheathing glia through a taurine-dependent mechanism.
Collapse
|