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Hu Z, Feng L, Jiang Q, Wang W, Tan B, Tang X, Yin Y. Intestinal tryptophan metabolism in disease prevention and swine production. ANIMAL NUTRITION (ZHONGGUO XU MU SHOU YI XUE HUI) 2023; 15:364-374. [PMID: 38058568 PMCID: PMC10695851 DOI: 10.1016/j.aninu.2023.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Tryptophan (Trp) is an essential amino acid that cannot be synthesized by animals. It has been characterized into two different isomers, levorotation-Trp (L-Trp) and dextrorotation-Trp (D-Trp), based on their distinct molecule orientation. Intestinal epithelial cells and gut microbiota are involved in metabolizing L-Trp in the gut via the activation of the kynurenine, serotonin, and indole pathways. However, knowledge regarding D-Trp metabolism in the gut remains unclear. In this review, we briefly update the current understanding of intestinal L/D-Trp metabolism and the function of their metabolites in modulating the gut physiology and diseases. Finally, we summarize the effects of Trp nutrition on swine production at different stages, including growth performance in weaned piglets and growing pigs, as well as the reproduction performance in sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenguo Hu
- Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Science, Changsha, Hunan 410125, China
| | - Luya Feng
- Animal Nutritional Genome and Germplasm Innovation Research Center, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Qian Jiang
- Animal Nutritional Genome and Germplasm Innovation Research Center, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Wenliang Wang
- Animal Nutritional Genome and Germplasm Innovation Research Center, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Bi'e Tan
- Animal Nutritional Genome and Germplasm Innovation Research Center, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Xiongzhuo Tang
- Animal Nutritional Genome and Germplasm Innovation Research Center, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Yulong Yin
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin 300308, China
- Animal Nutritional Genome and Germplasm Innovation Research Center, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
- Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Science, Changsha, Hunan 410125, China
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Melatonin: A Neurotrophic Factor? MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27227742. [PMID: 36431847 PMCID: PMC9698771 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27227742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin, N-acetyl-5-hydroxytryptamine, is a hormone that synchronizes the internal environment with the photoperiod. It is synthesized in the pineal gland and greatly depends on the endogenous circadian clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and the retina's exposure to different light intensities. Among its most studied functions are the regulation of the waking-sleep rhythm and body temperature. Furthermore, melatonin has pleiotropic actions, which affect, for instance, the modulation of the immune and the cardiovascular systems, as well as the neuroprotection achieved by scavenging free radicals. Recent research has supported that melatonin contributes to neuronal survival, proliferation, and differentiation, such as dendritogenesis and axogenesis, and its processes are similar to those caused by Nerve Growth Factor, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Neurotrophin-3, and Neurotrophin-4/5. Furthermore, this indolamine has apoptotic and anti-inflammatory actions in specific brain regions akin to those exerted by neurotrophic factors. This review presents evidence suggesting melatonin's role as a neurotrophic factor, describes the signaling pathways involved in these processes, and, lastly, highlights the therapeutic implications involved.
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Chang R, Chen J, Zhong Z, Li Y, Wu K, Zheng H, Yang Y. Inflammatory bowel disease-associated Escherichia coli strain LF82 in the damage of gut and cognition of honeybees. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:983169. [PMID: 36093189 PMCID: PMC9453226 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.983169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are often accompanied with some cognitive impairment, but the mechanism is unclear. By orally exposing honeybees (Apis mellifera) to IBD-associated Escherichia coli LF82 (LF82), and non-pathogenic Escherichia coli MG1655 (MG1655) as the normal strain, we investigated whether and how LF82 induces enteritis-like manifestations and cognitive behavioral modifications in honeybees using multiparametric analysis. LF82 significantly increased gut permeability, impaired learning and memory ability in olfactory proboscis extension response conditioning, and shortened the lifespan of honeybees. Compared to MG1655, LF82 reduced the levels of tryptophan metabolism pathway substances in the honeybee gut. LF82 also upregulated genes involved in immune and apoptosis-related pathways and downregulated genes involved in G protein-coupled receptors in the honeybee brain. In conclusion, LF82 can induce enteritis-like manifestations and cognition impairment through gut metabolites and brain transcriptome alteration in honeybees. Honeybees can serve as a novel potential model to study the microbiota-gut-brain interaction in IBD condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqi Chang
- Medical College of Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jieteng Chen
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaopeng Zhong
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yiyuan Li
- Microbiota Division, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | | - Hao Zheng
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yunsheng Yang
- Medical College of Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Microbiota Division, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Raghavan R, Anand NS, Wang G, Hong X, Pearson C, Zuckerman B, Xie H, Wang X. Association between cord blood metabolites in tryptophan pathway and childhood risk of autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:270. [PMID: 35810183 PMCID: PMC9271093 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01992-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alterations in tryptophan and serotonin have been implicated in various mental disorders; but studies are limited on child neurodevelopmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This prospective cohort study examined the associations between levels of tryptophan and select metabolites (5-methoxytryptophol (5-MTX), 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), serotonin, N-acetyltrytophan) in cord plasma (collected at birth) and physician-diagnosed ASD, ADHD and other developmental disabilities (DD) in childhood. The study sample (n = 996) derived from the Boston Birth Cohort, which included 326 neurotypical children, 87 ASD, 269 ADHD, and 314 other DD children (mutually exclusive). These participants were enrolled at birth and followed-up prospectively (from October 1, 1998 to June 30, 2018) at the Boston Medical Center. Higher levels of cord 5-MTX was associated with a lower risk of ASD (aOR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.41, 0.77) and ADHD (aOR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.65, 0.96) per Z-score increase, after adjusting for potential confounders. Similarly, children with cord 5-MTX ≥ 25th percentile (vs. <25th percentile) had a reduction in ASD (aOR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.14, 0.49) and ADHD risks (aOR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.29, 0.70). In contrast, higher levels of cord tryptophan, 5-HTP and N-acetyltryptophan were associated with higher risk of ADHD, with aOR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.51; aOR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.61; and aOR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.53, respectively, but not with ASD and other DD. Cord serotonin was not associated with ASD, ADHD, and other DD. Most findings remained statistically significant in the sensitivity and subgroup analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkripa Raghavan
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Neha S. Anand
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Guoying Wang
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Xiumei Hong
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Colleen Pearson
- grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA USA
| | - Barry Zuckerman
- grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA USA
| | - Hehuang Xie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology, Fralin Life Sciences Institute at Virginia Technology, Blacksburg, VA USA
| | - Xiaobin Wang
- Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Melatonergic Receptors (Mt1/Mt2) as a Potential Additional Target of Novel Drugs for Depression. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:2909-2924. [PMID: 35689787 PMCID: PMC9187850 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03646-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
A complex pathogenesis involving several physiological systems is theorized to underline the development of depressive disorders. Depression is accompanied by circadian regulation disruption and interaction with the functioning of both central and peripheral oscillators. Many aspects of melatonin function unite these systems. The use of drugs for circadian rhythm disorders could inspire a potential treatment strategy for depression. Melatonin plays an essential role in the regulation of circadian rhythms. It exerts effect by activating two types of melatonin receptors, type 1A (MT1) and 1B (MT2). These are G-protein-coupled receptors, predominantly located in the central nervous system. MT1/MT2 agonists could be a useful treatment approach according to all three prevalent theories of the pathogenesis of depression involving either monoamines, synaptic remodeling, or immune/inflammatory events. MT1/MT2 receptors can be a potential target for novel antidepressants with impact on concentrations of neurotrophins or neurotransmitters, and reducing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. There is an interesting cross-talk mediated via the physical association of melatonin and serotonin receptors into functional heteromers. The antidepressive and neurogenetic effects of MT1/MT2 agonists can also be caused by the inhibition of the acid sphingomyelinase, leading to reduced ceramide, or increasing monoamine oxidase A levels in the hippocampus. Compounds targeting MT1 and MT2 receptors could have potential for new anti-depressants that may improve the quality of therapeutic interventions in treating depression and relieving symptoms. In particular, a combined effect on MT1 and/or MT2 receptors and neurotransmitter systems may be useful, since the normalization of the circadian rhythm through the melatonergic system will probably contribute to improved treatment. In this review, we discuss melatonergic receptors as a potential additional target for novel drugs for depression.
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Cardinali DP, Brown GM, Pandi-Perumal SR. Melatonin's Benefits and Risks as a Therapy for Sleep Disturbances in the Elderly: Current Insights. Nat Sci Sleep 2022; 14:1843-1855. [PMID: 36267165 PMCID: PMC9578490 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s380465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is accompanied by circadian changes, including disruptive alterations in the sleep/wake cycle, as well as the beginning of low-degree inflammation ("inflammaging"), a scenario that leads to several chronic illnesses, including cancer, and metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurological dysfunctions. As a result, any effective approach to healthy aging must consider both the correction of circadian disturbance and the control of low-grade inflammation. One of the most important prerequisites for healthy aging is the preservation of robust circadian rhythmicity (particularly of the sleep/wake cycle). Sleep disturbance disrupts various activities in the central nervous system, including waste molecule elimination. Melatonin is a chemical with extraordinary phylogenetic conservation found in all known aerobic creatures whose alteration plays an important role in sleep changes with aging. Every day, the late afternoon/nocturnal surge in pineal melatonin helps to synchronize both the central circadian pacemaker found in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) and a plethora of peripheral cellular circadian clocks. Melatonin is an example of an endogenous chronobiotic substance that can influence the timing and amplitude of circadian rhythms. Moreover, melatonin is also an excellent anti-inflammatory agent, buffering free radicals, down-regulating proinflammatory cytokines, and reducing insulin resistance, among other things. We present both scientific and clinical evidence that melatonin is a safe drug for treating sleep disturbances in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Cardinali
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gregory M Brown
- Molecular Brain Science Research Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Melatonin, Its Metabolites and Their Interference with Reactive Nitrogen Compounds. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26134105. [PMID: 34279445 PMCID: PMC8271479 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26134105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin and several of its metabolites are interfering with reactive nitrogen. With the notion of prevailing melatonin formation in tissues that exceeds by far the quantities in blood, metabolites come into focus that are poorly found in the circulation. Apart from their antioxidant actions, both melatonin and N1-acetyl-5-methoxykynuramine (AMK) downregulate inducible and inhibit neuronal NO synthases, and additionally scavenge NO. However, the NO adduct of melatonin redonates NO, whereas AMK forms with NO a stable product. Many other melatonin metabolites formed in oxidative processes also contain nitrosylatable sites. Moreover, AMK readily scavenges products of the CO2-adduct of peroxynitrite such as carbonate radicals and NO2. Protein AMKylation seems to be involved in protective actions.
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Sheng Y, Yang H, Wu T, Zhu L, Liu L, Liu X. Alterations of Cytochrome P450s and UDP-Glucuronosyltransferases in Brain Under Diseases and Their Clinical Significances. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:650027. [PMID: 33967789 PMCID: PMC8097730 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.650027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytochrome P450s (CYPs) and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) are both greatly important metabolic enzymes in various tissues, including brain. Although expressions of brain CYPs and UGTs and their contributions to drug disposition are much less than liver, both CYPs and UGTs also mediate metabolism of endogenous substances including dopamine and serotonin as well as some drugs such as morphine in brain, demonstrating their important roles in maintenance of brain homeostasis or pharmacological activity of drugs. Some diseases such as epilepsy, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease are often associated with the alterations of CYPs and UGTs in brain, which may be involved in processes of these diseases via disturbing metabolism of endogenous substances or resisting drugs. This article reviewed the alterations of CYPs and UGTs in brain, the effects on endogenous substances and drugs and their clinical significances. Understanding the roles of CYPs and UGTs in brain provides some new strategies for the treatment of central nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Sheng
- Center of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hanyu Yang
- Center of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Center of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liang Zhu
- Center of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Liu
- Center of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Center of Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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Panciroli C, Esteve A, Muñoz-Ferrer A, Abad J, Hernandez JM, Balaña C, Lucente G, Comas S, Villà S. Prospective pilot study to explore the melatonin level in brain tumor patients undergoing radiotherapy. Sleep Breath 2021; 26:469-475. [PMID: 33825098 DOI: 10.1007/s11325-021-02365-5] [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] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Our aim was to assess if the radiotherapy dose decreased the melatonin levels as well as the quality of life and sleep in brain tumor patients. METHODS We performed a follow-up study on melatonin levels in saliva and its urinary metabolite sulfatoxi-melatonine (STM) samples in patients with brain tumors treated with radiotherapy close to the pineal gland's area. We analyzed the cortisol, cortisone, and excrection of STM normalized by urinary creatinine. In some cases, a polysomnography (PSG) was performed. Quality of life questionnaires, distress scale, and sleepiness inventories were also administered. RESULTS We included twelve patients (experimental arm) and eight healthy controls (control group). No differences were observed between experimental arm and control group at baseline. No differences were detected in the experimental arm before and after delivering the radiotherapy. No clinically significant differences were found according to the radiotherapy dose delivered. CONCLUSION Melatonin levels and PSG outcomes do not change after receiving radiotherapy. The findings of this study do not show a statistically significant association between the treatment and the quality of life and sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Panciroli
- Medical Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Badalona (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Anna Esteve
- Medical Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Badalona (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Aida Muñoz-Ferrer
- Sleep Disturbance Unit, Pulmonary Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Badalona (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jorge Abad
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES); Pulmonary Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Badalona (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jose Maria Hernandez
- Proteomic and Metabolomics Unit, Germans Trias i Pujol Institute (IGTP), Badalona (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Carmen Balaña
- Medical Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Badalona (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Giuseppe Lucente
- Neurology Service, Neuroscience Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Badalona (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Silvia Comas
- Radiation Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Badalona (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Salvador Villà
- Radiation Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Badalona (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain
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Shah NM, Malhotra AM, Kaltsakas G. Sleep disorder in patients with chronic liver disease: a narrative review. J Thorac Dis 2020; 12:S248-S260. [PMID: 33214928 PMCID: PMC7642630 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-cus-2020-012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sleep disturbance is a common feature of chronic liver disease (CLD) with impact on health-related quality of life; 60-80% of patients with CLD report subjective poor sleep; frequent presentations of sleep disturbance include insomnia, reduced sleep efficiency, increased sleep latency, reduced time in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, restless leg syndrome and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). Key contributors to sleep disturbance include hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and circadian rhythm imbalance due to altered melatonin metabolism. Specific conditions causing CLD, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), chronic viral hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) result in different types of sleep disturbance, and the treatment of these conditions can often also lead to sleep disturbance. There are currently limited management options for sleep disturbance in CLD. Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a common condition that causes chronic intermittent hypoxia due to airway collapse during sleep. This chronic intermittent hypoxia appears to contribute to the development of NAFLD. The presence of reactive oxygen species and the overexpression of hypoxia inducible factor 1-alpha secondary to hypoxia may be responsible for the second 'hit' of the 'two-hit' hypothesis of NAFLD. Treatment of the intermittent hypoxia with continuous positive airway pressure therapy has limited efficacy against liver dysfunction. There remain many outstanding areas of investigation in the management of sleep disturbance in CLD, and of liver dysfunction in OSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neeraj Mukesh Shah
- Lane Fox Respiratory Service, St Thomas' Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Lane Fox Clinical Respiratory Physiology Centre, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences (CHAPS), King's College London, London, UK
| | - Akanksha Mimi Malhotra
- Lane Fox Respiratory Service, St Thomas' Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Georgios Kaltsakas
- Lane Fox Respiratory Service, St Thomas' Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Lane Fox Clinical Respiratory Physiology Centre, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences (CHAPS), King's College London, London, UK
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Rezzani R, Franco C, Hardeland R, Rodella LF. Thymus-Pineal Gland Axis: Revisiting Its Role in Human Life and Ageing. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8806. [PMID: 33233845 PMCID: PMC7699871 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
For years the thymus gland (TG) and the pineal gland (PG) have been subject of increasingly in-depth studies, but only recently a link that can associate the activities of the two organs has been identified. Considering, on the one hand, the well-known immune activity of thymus and, on the other, the increasingly emerging immunological roles of circadian oscillators and the rhythmically secreted main pineal product, melatonin, many studies aimed to analyse the possible existence of an interaction between these two systems. Moreover, data confirmed that the immune system is functionally associated with the nervous and endocrine systems determining an integrated dynamic network. In addition, recent researches showed a similar, characteristic involution process both in TG and PG. Since the second half of the 20th century, evidence led to the definition of an effectively interacting thymus-pineal axis (TG-PG axis), but much has to be done. In this sense, the aim of this review is to summarize what is actually known about this topic, focusing on the impact of the TG-PG axis on human life and ageing. We would like to give more emphasis to the implications of this dynamical interaction in a possible therapeutic strategy for human health. Moreover, we focused on all the products of TG and PG in order to collect what is known about the role of peptides other than melatonin. The results available today are often unclear and not linear. These peptides have not been well studied and defined over the years. In this review we hope to awake the interest of the scientific community in them and in their future pharmacological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Rezzani
- Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.F.); (L.F.R.)
- Interdipartimental University Center of Research “Adaption and Regeneration of Tissues and Organs-(ARTO)”, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Caterina Franco
- Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.F.); (L.F.R.)
| | - Rüdiger Hardeland
- Johann Friedrich Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, University of Göttingen, Lower Saxony, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany;
| | - Luigi Fabrizio Rodella
- Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.F.); (L.F.R.)
- Interdipartimental University Center of Research “Adaption and Regeneration of Tissues and Organs-(ARTO)”, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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Alkozi HA, Navarro G, Aguinaga D, Reyes-Resina I, Sanchez-Naves J, Pérez de Lara MJ, Franco R, Pintor J. Adreno-melatonin receptor complexes control ion homeostasis and intraocular pressure - their disruption contributes to hypertensive glaucoma. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:2090-2105. [PMID: 31901203 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Often, glaucoma presents with elevated eye hydrostatic pressure, which is regulated by endogenous melatonin. Phenylephrine increases cytoplasmic [Ca2+ ], via α1 -adrenoceptor activation, that is detrimental in glaucoma. The aims of this study were (a) to elucidate the role of melatonin receptors in humour production and intraocular pressure (IOP) maintenance and (b) to identify glaucoma-relevant melatonin-adrenoceptor interactions. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Biophysical and proximity ligation assays were performed to identify interactions in heterologous expression systems, in cell lines and in human eyes. Gs /Gi /Gq signalling was investigated in these systems and in cells producing aqueous humour. IOP was determined in a mice model of glaucoma. Retinography and topically pharmacological treatment were performed in control and in glaucomatous mice. KEY RESULTS α1 -adreno- and melatonin receptors form functional complexes in which the C-terminal tail of the adrenoceptor plays a role. Remarkably, activation of α1 -adrenoceptors in these complexes did not lead to cytosolic Ca2+ increases, suggesting Gs instead of Gq coupling is involved. The number of these complexes significantly decreased in models of glaucoma and, importantly, in human samples from glaucoma patients. This has led to hypothesize that melatonin, a hypotensive agent, plus blockade of α1 -adrenoceptors could normalize pressure in glaucoma. Remarkably, co-instillation of melatonin and prazosin, an α1 -adrenoceptor antagonist, resulted in long-term decreases in IOP in a well-established animal model of glaucoma. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The findings are instrumental to understand the physiological function of melatonin in the eye and its potential to address eye pathologies by targeting melatonin receptors and their complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan Awad Alkozi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gemma Navarro
- Centro de Investigación en Red, Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Aguinaga
- Centro de Investigación en Red, Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, School of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irene Reyes-Resina
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, School of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Research Group Neuroplasticity, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Juan Sanchez-Naves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Balearic Islands Institute of Ophthalmology, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Maria J Pérez de Lara
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Franco
- Centro de Investigación en Red, Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, School of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jesus Pintor
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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13
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Xie S, Fan W, He H, Huang F. Role of Melatonin in the Regulation of Pain. J Pain Res 2020; 13:331-343. [PMID: 32104055 PMCID: PMC7012243 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s228577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a pleiotropic hormone synthesized and secreted mainly by the pineal gland in vertebrates. Melatonin is an endogenous regulator of circadian and seasonal rhythms. Melatonin is involved in many physiological and pathophysiological processes demonstrating antioxidant, antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Accumulating evidence has revealed that melatonin plays an important role in pain modulation through multiple mechanisms. In this review, we examine recent evidence for melatonin on pain regulation in various animal models and patients with pain syndromes, and the potential cellular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Xie
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenguo Fan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongwen He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Huang
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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14
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The Neuroprotective Effects of Melatonin: Possible Role in the Pathophysiology of Neuropsychiatric Disease. Brain Sci 2019; 9:brainsci9100285. [PMID: 31640239 PMCID: PMC6826722 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9100285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a hormone that is secreted by the pineal gland. To date, melatonin is known to regulate the sleep cycle by controlling the circadian rhythm. However, recent advances in neuroscience and molecular biology have led to the discovery of new actions and effects of melatonin. In recent studies, melatonin was shown to have antioxidant activity and, possibly, to affect the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In addition, melatonin has neuroprotective effects and affects neuroplasticity, thus indicating potential antidepressant properties. In the present review, the new functions of melatonin are summarized and a therapeutic target for the development of new drugs based on the mechanism of action of melatonin is proposed.
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15
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Zhong J, Liu Y. Melatonin and age-related cardiovascular diseases. Aging Med (Milton) 2018; 1:197-203. [PMID: 31942497 PMCID: PMC6880684 DOI: 10.1002/agm2.12036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The pineal gland is a neuroendocrine gland closely related to human aging. Melatonin is a kind of indole neuroendocrine hormone secreted by the pineal gland, which is essential for maintaining physiological function. Many researches found that melatonin plays a key role in anti-aging-related cardiovascular diseases. In this paper, the latest advances in the study of melatonin and aging-related cardiovascular diseases are reviewed, and their related physiological functions and mechanisms are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Zhong
- Department of GeriatricsThe Second Xiang‐Ya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Youshuo Liu
- Department of GeriatricsThe Second Xiang‐Ya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
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16
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Alghamdi BS. The neuroprotective role of melatonin in neurological disorders. J Neurosci Res 2018; 96:1136-1149. [PMID: 29498103 PMCID: PMC6001545 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin is a neurohormone secreted from the pineal gland and has a wide-ranging regulatory and neuroprotective role. It has been reported that melatonin level is disturbed in some neurological conditions such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease, which indicates its involvement in the pathophysiology of these diseases. Its properties qualify it to be a promising potential therapeutic neuroprotective agent, with no side effects, for some neurological disorders. This review discusses and localizes the effect of melatonin in the pathophysiology of some diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. S. Alghamdi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of MedicineKing Abdulaziz UniversityJeddahKSA
- Neuroscience Unit, Faculty of MedicineKing Abdulaziz UniversityJeddahKSA
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17
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Tan DX, Xu B, Zhou X, Reiter RJ. Pineal Calcification, Melatonin Production, Aging, Associated Health Consequences and Rejuvenation of the Pineal Gland. Molecules 2018; 23:E301. [PMID: 29385085 PMCID: PMC6017004 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23020301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The pineal gland is a unique organ that synthesizes melatonin as the signaling molecule of natural photoperiodic environment and as a potent neuronal protective antioxidant. An intact and functional pineal gland is necessary for preserving optimal human health. Unfortunately, this gland has the highest calcification rate among all organs and tissues of the human body. Pineal calcification jeopardizes melatonin's synthetic capacity and is associated with a variety of neuronal diseases. In the current review, we summarized the potential mechanisms of how this process may occur under pathological conditions or during aging. We hypothesized that pineal calcification is an active process and resembles in some respects of bone formation. The mesenchymal stem cells and melatonin participate in this process. Finally, we suggest that preservation of pineal health can be achieved by retarding its premature calcification or even rejuvenating the calcified gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dun Xian Tan
- Department of Cell Systems & Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Bing Xu
- Department of Cell Systems & Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Xinjia Zhou
- Department of Cell Systems & Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems & Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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18
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Hardeland R. Taxon- and Site-Specific Melatonin Catabolism. Molecules 2017; 22:molecules22112015. [PMID: 29160833 PMCID: PMC6150314 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22112015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is catabolized both enzymatically and nonenzymatically. Nonenzymatic processes mediated by free radicals, singlet oxygen, other reactive intermediates such as HOCl and peroxynitrite, or pseudoenzymatic mechanisms are not species- or tissue-specific, but vary considerably in their extent. Higher rates of nonenzymatic melatonin metabolism can be expected upon UV exposure, e.g., in plants and in the human skin. Additionally, melatonin is more strongly nonenzymatically degraded at sites of inflammation. Typical products are several hydroxylated derivatives of melatonin and N1-acetyl-N2-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine (AFMK). Most of these products are also formed by enzymatic catalysis. Considerable taxon- and site-specific differences are observed in the main enzymatic routes of catabolism. Formation of 6-hydroxymelatonin by cytochrome P450 subforms are prevailing in vertebrates, predominantly in the liver, but also in the brain. In pineal gland and non-mammalian retina, deacetylation to 5-methoxytryptamine (5-MT) plays a certain role. This pathway is quantitatively prevalent in dinoflagellates, in which 5-MT induces cyst formation and is further converted to 5-methoxyindole-3-acetic acid, an end product released to the water. In plants, the major route is catalyzed by melatonin 2-hydroxylase, whose product is tautomerized to 3-acetamidoethyl-3-hydroxy-5-methoxyindolin-2-one (AMIO), which exceeds the levels of melatonin. Formation and properties of various secondary products are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rüdiger Hardeland
- Johann Friedrich Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, University of Göttingen, Bürgerstr 50, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany.
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19
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Wang C, Huo X, Tian X, Xu M, Dong P, Luan Z, Wang X, Zhang B, Zhang B, Huang S, Deng S, Ma X. Inhibition of melatonin metabolism in humans induced by chemical components from herbs and effective prediction of this risk using a computational model. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 173:3261-3275. [PMID: 27588415 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Revised: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Herbs which are widely used as food and medicine, are involved in many physiopathological processes. Melatonin is a human hormone, synthesized and secreted by the pineal gland, with a range of biological functions. Here, we have evaluated the potential influences of components extracted from common herbs on melatonin metabolism in humans. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH An in vivo pharmacokinetic study involving 12 healthy subjects, in vitro incubations with human liver microsomes (HLMs) and recombinant human cytochrome P (CYP) isoenzymes and an in silico quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) model analysis using comparative molecular field analysis and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis methods were employed to explore these interactions. KEY RESULTS After systematic screening of 66 common herbs, Angelica dahurica exhibited the most potent inhibition of melatonin metabolism in vitro. The in vivo pharmacokinetic study indicated inhibition of melatonin metabolism, with approximately 12- and 4-fold increases in the AUC and Cmax of melatonin in human subjects. Coumarins from A. dahurica, including imperatorin, isoimperatorin, phellopterin, 5-methoxypsoralen and 8-methoxypsoralen, markedly inhibited melatonin metabolism with Ki values of 14.5 nM, 38.8 nM, 6.34 nM, 5.34 nM and 18 nM respectively, through inhibition of CYP 1A2, 1A1 and 1B1 in HLMs. A QSAR model was established and satisfactorily predicted the potential risk of coumarins for inhibition of melatonin metabolism in vivo. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Coumarins from A. dahurica inhibited melatonin metabolism in vivo and in vitro. Our findings provide vital guidance for the clinical use of melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Drug Transport of Liaoning, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaokui Huo
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Drug Transport of Liaoning, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiangge Tian
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Drug Transport of Liaoning, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Min Xu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Drug Transport of Liaoning, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Peipei Dong
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Drug Transport of Liaoning, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Zhilin Luan
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Drug Transport of Liaoning, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Pharmacy and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chinese People's Liberation Army 210 Hospital, Dalian, China
| | - Baojing Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Drug Transport of Liaoning, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
| | - Shanshan Huang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Drug Transport of Liaoning, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Sa Deng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Drug Transport of Liaoning, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaochi Ma
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Pharmacokinetic and Drug Transport of Liaoning, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China. .,Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
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20
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Wadas B, Borjigin J, Huang Z, Oh JH, Hwang CS, Varshavsky A. Degradation of Serotonin N-Acetyltransferase, a Circadian Regulator, by the N-end Rule Pathway. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:17178-96. [PMID: 27339900 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.734640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonin N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) converts serotonin to N-acetylserotonin (NAS), a distinct biological regulator and the immediate precursor of melatonin, a circulating hormone that influences circadian processes, including sleep. N-terminal sequences of AANAT enzymes vary among vertebrates. Mechanisms that regulate the levels of AANAT are incompletely understood. Previous findings were consistent with the possibility that AANAT may be controlled through its degradation by the N-end rule pathway. By expressing the rat and human AANATs and their mutants not only in mammalian cells but also in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and by taking advantage of yeast genetics, we show here that two "complementary" forms of rat AANAT are targeted for degradation by two "complementary" branches of the N-end rule pathway. Specifically, the N(α)-terminally acetylated (Nt-acetylated) Ac-AANAT is destroyed through the recognition of its Nt-acetylated N-terminal Met residue by the Ac/N-end rule pathway, whereas the non-Nt-acetylated AANAT is targeted by the Arg/N-end rule pathway, which recognizes the unacetylated N-terminal Met-Leu sequence of rat AANAT. We also show, by constructing lysine-to-arginine mutants of rat AANAT, that its degradation is mediated by polyubiquitylation of its Lys residue(s). Human AANAT, whose N-terminal sequence differs from that of rodent AANATs, is longer-lived than its rat counterpart and appears to be refractory to degradation by the N-end rule pathway. Together, these and related results indicate both a major involvement of the N-end rule pathway in the control of rodent AANATs and substantial differences in the regulation of rodent and human AANATs that stem from differences in their N-terminal sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Wadas
- From the Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125
| | - Jimo Borjigin
- the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
| | - Zheping Huang
- the Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, and
| | - Jang-Hyun Oh
- From the Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125
| | - Cheol-Sang Hwang
- the Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 790-784, South Korea
| | - Alexander Varshavsky
- From the Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125,
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21
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Pacini N, Borziani F. Oncostatic-Cytoprotective Effect of Melatonin and Other Bioactive Molecules: A Common Target in Mitochondrial Respiration. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:341. [PMID: 26959015 PMCID: PMC4813203 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17030341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2015] [Revised: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
For several years, oncostatic and antiproliferative properties, as well as thoses of cell death induction through 5-methoxy-N-acetiltryptamine or melatonin treatment, have been known. Paradoxically, its remarkable scavenger, cytoprotective and anti-apoptotic characteristics in neurodegeneration models, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease are known too. Analogous results have been confirmed by a large literature to be associated to the use of many other bioactive molecules such as resveratrol, tocopherol derivatives or vitamin E and others. It is interesting to note that the two opposite situations, namely the neoplastic pathology and the neurodegeneration, are characterized by deep alterations of the metabolome, of mitochondrial function and of oxygen consumption, so that the oncostatic and cytoprotective action can find a potential rationalization because of the different metabolic and mitochondrial situations, and in the effect that these molecules exercise on the mitochondrial function. In this review we discuss historical and general aspects of melatonin, relations between cancers and the metabolome and between neurodegeneration and the metabolome, and the possible effects of melatonin and of other bioactive molecules on metabolic and mitochondrial dynamics. Finally, we suggest a common general mechanism as responsible for the oncostatic/cytoprotective effect of melatonin and of other molecules examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Pacini
- Laboratorio Privato di Biochimica F. Pacini, via trabocchetto 10, 89126 Reggio Calabria, Italy.
| | - Fabio Borziani
- Laboratorio Privato di Biochimica F. Pacini, via trabocchetto 10, 89126 Reggio Calabria, Italy.
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22
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Hardeland R. Melatonin in Plants - Diversity of Levels and Multiplicity of Functions. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2016; 7:198. [PMID: 26925091 PMCID: PMC4759497 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2016.00198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin has been detected in numerous plant species. A particularly surprising finding concerns the highly divergent levels of melatonin that vary between species, organs and environmental conditions, from a few pg/g to over 20 μg/g, reportedly up to 200 μg/g. Highest values have been determined in oily seeds and in plant organs exposed to high UV radiation. The divergency of melatonin concentrations is discussed under various functional aspects and focused on several open questions. This comprises differences in precursor availability, catabolism, the relative contribution of isoenzymes of the melatonin biosynthetic pathway, and differences in rate limitation by either serotonin N-acetyltransferase or N-acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase. Other differences are related to the remarkable pleiotropy of melatonin, which exhibits properties as a growth regulator and morphogenetic factor, actually debated in terms of auxin-like effects, and as a signaling molecule that modulates pathways of ethylene, abscisic, jasmonic and salicylic acids and is involved in stress tolerance, pathogen defense and delay of senescence. In the context of high light/UV intensities, elevated melatonin levels exceed those required for signaling via stress-related phytohormones and may comprise direct antioxidant and photoprotectant properties, perhaps with a contribution of its oxidatively formed metabolites, such as N (1)-acetyl-N (2)-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine and its secondary products. High melatonin levels in seeds may also serve antioxidative protection and have been shown to promote seed viability and germination capacity.
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23
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Fernando S, Rombauts L. Melatonin: shedding light on infertility?--A review of the recent literature. J Ovarian Res 2014; 7:98. [PMID: 25330986 PMCID: PMC4209073 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-014-0098-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 10/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the negative impact of oxidative stress on fertility has become widely recognised. Several studies have demonstrated its negative effect on the number and quality of retrieved oocytes and embryos following in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). Melatonin, a pineal hormone that regulates circadian rhythms, has also been shown to exhibit unique oxygen scavenging abilities. Some studies have suggested a role for melatonin in gamete biology. Clinical studies also suggest that melatonin supplementation in IVF may lead to better pregnancy rates. Here we present a critical review and summary of the current literature and provide suggestions for future well designed clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shavi Fernando
- MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Rd, Clayton, 3168, , Victoria, Australia. .,Monash University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Level 5 Monash Medical Centre, 246 Clayton Rd, Clayton, 3168, , Victoria, Australia.
| | - Luk Rombauts
- MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Rd, Clayton, 3168, , Victoria, Australia. .,Monash IVF, 252 Clayton rd, Clayton, 3168, , Victoria, Australia.
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24
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Tan DX, Zheng X, Kong J, Manchester LC, Hardeland R, Kim SJ, Xu X, Reiter RJ. Fundamental issues related to the origin of melatonin and melatonin isomers during evolution: relation to their biological functions. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:15858-90. [PMID: 25207599 PMCID: PMC4200856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms150915858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Revised: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin and melatonin isomers exist and/or coexist in living organisms including yeasts, bacteria and plants. The levels of melatonin isomers are significantly higher than that of melatonin in some plants and in several fermented products such as in wine and bread. Currently, there are no reports documenting the presence of melatonin isomers in vertebrates. From an evolutionary point of view, it is unlikely that melatonin isomers do not exist in vertebrates. On the other hand, large quantities of the microbial flora exist in the gut of the vertebrates. These microorganisms frequently exchange materials with the host. Melatonin isomers, which are produced by these organisms inevitably enter the host's system. The origins of melatonin and its isomers can be traced back to photosynthetic bacteria and other primitive unicellular organisms. Since some of these bacteria are believed to be the precursors of mitochondria and chloroplasts these cellular organelles may be the primary sites of melatonin production in animals or in plants, respectively. Phylogenic analysis based on its rate-limiting synthetic enzyme, serotonin N-acetyltransferase (SNAT), indicates its multiple origins during evolution. Therefore, it is likely that melatonin and its isomer are also present in the domain of archaea, which perhaps require these molecules to protect them against hostile environments including extremely high or low temperature. Evidence indicates that the initial and primary function of melatonin and its isomers was to serve as the first-line of defence against oxidative stress and all other functions were acquired during evolution either by the process of adoption or by the extension of its antioxidative capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dun-Xian Tan
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, the University of Texas, Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Xiaodong Zheng
- Institute for Horticultural Plants, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Jin Kong
- Institute for Horticultural Plants, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Lucien C Manchester
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, the University of Texas, Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Ruediger Hardeland
- Johann Friedrich Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen 37073, Germany.
| | - Seok Joong Kim
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, the University of Texas, Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Xiaoying Xu
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, the University of Texas, Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, the University of Texas, Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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25
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Acuña-Castroviejo D, Escames G, Venegas C, Díaz-Casado ME, Lima-Cabello E, López LC, Rosales-Corral S, Tan DX, Reiter RJ. Extrapineal melatonin: sources, regulation, and potential functions. Cell Mol Life Sci 2014; 71:2997-3025. [PMID: 24554058 PMCID: PMC11113552 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-014-1579-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 686] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Revised: 01/26/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous melatonin is synthesized from tryptophan via 5-hydroxytryptamine. It is considered an indoleamine from a biochemical point of view because the melatonin molecule contains a substituted indolic ring with an amino group. The circadian production of melatonin by the pineal gland explains its chronobiotic influence on organismal activity, including the endocrine and non-endocrine rhythms. Other functions of melatonin, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, its genomic effects, and its capacity to modulate mitochondrial homeostasis, are linked to the redox status of cells and tissues. With the aid of specific melatonin antibodies, the presence of melatonin has been detected in multiple extrapineal tissues including the brain, retina, lens, cochlea, Harderian gland, airway epithelium, skin, gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidney, thyroid, pancreas, thymus, spleen, immune system cells, carotid body, reproductive tract, and endothelial cells. In most of these tissues, the melatonin-synthesizing enzymes have been identified. Melatonin is present in essentially all biological fluids including cerebrospinal fluid, saliva, bile, synovial fluid, amniotic fluid, and breast milk. In several of these fluids, melatonin concentrations exceed those in the blood. The importance of the continual availability of melatonin at the cellular level is important for its physiological regulation of cell homeostasis, and may be relevant to its therapeutic applications. Because of this, it is essential to compile information related to its peripheral production and regulation of this ubiquitously acting indoleamine. Thus, this review emphasizes the presence of melatonin in extrapineal organs, tissues, and fluids of mammals including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darío Acuña-Castroviejo
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Granada, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, Armilla, 18100, Granada, Spain,
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Simşek Y, Parlakpınar H, Turhan U, Tağluk ME, Ateş B. Dual effects of melatonin on uterine myoelectrical activity of non-pregnant rats. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2014; 15:86-91. [PMID: 24976773 DOI: 10.5152/jtgga.2014.26932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this experimental study, we aimed to investigate the role of melatonin on uterine myoelectrical activity of non-pregnant rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS Forty-six female rats were assigned to six groups: (1) control; (0.2 mL 0.9% NaCl was injected intravenously (IV), n=6); (2) melatonin applied as 0.4 mg/kg/IV (n=8); (3) melatonin applied as 4 mg/kg/IV (n=8); (4) single dose of oxytocin (100 mU/kg) injected IV (n=8); (5) melatonin (0.4 mg/kg) plus oxytocin (100 mU/kg) (n=8); and (6) melatonin (4 mg/kg) plus oxytocin (100 mU/kg) injected IV (n=8). Each rat underwent a laparotomy, and uterine myoelectrical signals were recorded. The mean spectrum, averaged over the spectral content of signals in each group, was compared. RESULTS Melatonin induced uterine myoelectrical activity in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment of melatonin after oxytocin suppressed the mean power of the signals. Serum melatonin concentrations were significantly higher in melatonin-treated rats. CONCLUSION Melatonin itself at two different dose levels was found to be equally effective in stimulating the uterine electrical signals, although oxytocin-induced uterine electrical activity was suppressed by melatonin. These findings merit further investigations on the possible beneficial role of melatonin in the treatment of conditions associated with abnormal uterine activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yavuz Simşek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kırıkkale University Faculty of Medicine, Kırıkkale, Turkey
| | - Hakan Parlakpınar
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, İnönü University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Uğur Turhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İnönü University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Emin Tağluk
- Department of Electrical and Electronics, İnönü University Faculty of Engineering, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Burhan Ateş
- Department of Chemistry, İnönü University Faculty of Science, Malatya, Turkey
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Wu KK, Cheng HH, Chang TC. 5-methoxyindole metabolites of L-tryptophan: control of COX-2 expression, inflammation and tumorigenesis. J Biomed Sci 2014; 21:17. [PMID: 24589238 PMCID: PMC3975872 DOI: 10.1186/1423-0127-21-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2) overexpression promotes inflammation and tumorigenesis. COX-2 expression in response to diverse stimuli is tightly controlled to avoid persistent overexpression. 5-methoxyindole metabolites of L-tryptophan represent a new class of compounds that control COX-2 expression at the transcriptional level. Two of the metabolites, the newly discovered 5-methoxytryptophan (5-MTP, also known as cytoguardin) and N-acetyl 5-methoxytryptamine (melatonin) are the focus of this review. 5-MTP is produced by mesenchymal cells such as fibroblasts via 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). It inhibits COX-2 transcriptional activation induced by diverse proinflammatory and mitogenic factors. Cancer cells are deficient in cytoguardin production which contributes to COX-2 overexpression. Fibroblast-generated 5-MTP is capable of restoring the control of COX-2 overexpression in cancer cells. 5-MTP blocks cancer cell migration and invasion in vitro and inhibits tumor growth and cancer metastasis in a xenograft model. Melatonin possesses similar COX-2 suppressing and anti-cancer properties albeit at supra-pharmacological concentrations. By contrast, 5-hydroxyindole metabolites of L-tryptophan such as 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin), 5-hydroxytryptophol and other serotonin catabolites do not control COX-2 expression. 5-hydroxytryptophan inhibits COX-2 expression through conversion to 5-MTP. The physiological relevance of 5-MTP as an endogenous regulator of inflammation and cancer metastasis remains to be investigated. On the other hand, 5-methoxyindole metabolites of tryptophan are valuable lead compounds for development of new anti-inflammatory drugs and cancer chemoprevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth K Wu
- Metabolomic Medicine Research Center, and Graduate Institutes of Basic and Clinical Medicine Science, China Medical University and Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
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De Berardis D, Marini S, Fornaro M, Srinivasan V, Iasevoli F, Tomasetti C, Valchera A, Perna G, Quera-Salva MA, Martinotti G, di Giannantonio M. The melatonergic system in mood and anxiety disorders and the role of agomelatine: implications for clinical practice. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:12458-83. [PMID: 23765220 PMCID: PMC3709794 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140612458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2013] [Revised: 05/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin exerts its actions through membrane MT1/MT2 melatonin receptors, which belong to the super family of G-protein-coupled receptors consisting of the typical seven transmembrane domains. MT1 and MT2 receptors are expressed in various tissues of the body either as single ones or together. A growing literature suggests that the melatonergic system may be involved in the pathophysiology of mood and anxiety disorders. In fact, some core symptoms of depression show disturbance of the circadian rhythm in their clinical expression, such as diurnal mood and other symptomatic variation, or are closely linked to circadian system functioning, such as sleep-wake cycle alterations. In addition, alterations have been described in the circadian rhythms of several biological markers in depressed patients. Therefore, there is interest in developing antidepressants that have a chronobiotic effect (i.e., treatment of circadian rhythm disorders). As melatonin produces chronobiotic effects, efforts have been aimed at developing agomelatine, an antidepressant with melatonin agonist activity. The present paper reviews the role of the melatonergic system in the pathophysiology of mood and anxiety disorders and the clinical characteristics of agomelatine. Implications of agomelatine in "real world" clinical practice will be also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico De Berardis
- National Health Service, Department of Mental Health, Psychiatric Service of Diagnosis and Treatment, Hospital “G. Mazzini”, ASL 4 Teramo, Italy; E-Mail:
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, Chair of Psychiatry, University “G. D’Annunzio”, Chieti 66013, Italy; E-Mails: (G.M.); (M. G.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +39-0861429708; Fax: +39-0861429706
| | - Stefano Marini
- National Health Service, Department of Mental Health, Psychiatric Service of Diagnosis and Treatment, Hospital “G. Mazzini”, ASL 4 Teramo, Italy; E-Mail:
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, Chair of Psychiatry, University “G. D’Annunzio”, Chieti 66013, Italy; E-Mails: (G.M.); (M. G.)
| | - Michele Fornaro
- Department of “Scienze della Formazione”, University of Catania, Catania 95121, Italy; E-Mail:
| | - Venkataramanujam Srinivasan
- Sri Sathya Sai Medical Educational and Research Foundation, Medical Sciences Research Study Center, Prasanthi Nilayam, 40-Kovai Thirunagar Coimbatore, Tamilnadu 641014, India; E-Mail:
| | - Felice Iasevoli
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Psychopharmacotherapeutics, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, University School of Medicine “Federico II”, Naples 80131, Italy; E-Mails: (F.I.); (C.T.)
| | - Carmine Tomasetti
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Psychopharmacotherapeutics, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, University School of Medicine “Federico II”, Naples 80131, Italy; E-Mails: (F.I.); (C.T.)
| | - Alessandro Valchera
- Hermanas Hospitalarias, FoRiPsi, Villa S. Giuseppe Hospital, Ascoli Piceno 63100, Italy; E-Mail:
| | - Giampaolo Perna
- Hermanas Hospitalarias, FoRiPsi, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Villa San Benedetto Menni, Albese con Cassano, Como 22032, Italy; E-Mail:
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Leonard Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 33124 Miami, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, University of Maastricht, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Maria-Antonia Quera-Salva
- AP-HP Sleep Unit, Department of Physiology, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, Garches 92380, France; E-Mail:
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, Chair of Psychiatry, University “G. D’Annunzio”, Chieti 66013, Italy; E-Mails: (G.M.); (M. G.)
| | - Massimo di Giannantonio
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, Chair of Psychiatry, University “G. D’Annunzio”, Chieti 66013, Italy; E-Mails: (G.M.); (M. G.)
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Role of melatonin in schizophrenia. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:9037-50. [PMID: 23698762 PMCID: PMC3676771 DOI: 10.3390/ijms14059037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Revised: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disease that disturbs several cognitive functions, such as memory, thought, perception and volition. Schizophrenia’s biological etiology is multifactorial and is still under investigation. Melatonin has been involved in schizophrenia since the first decades of the twentieth century. Research into melatonin regarding schizophrenia has followed two different approaches. The first approach is related to the use of melatonin as a biological marker. The second approach deals with the clinical applications of melatonin as a drug treatment. In this paper, both aspects of melatonin application are reviewed. Its clinical use in schizophrenia is emphasized.
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Hardeland R. Melatonin in aging and disease -multiple consequences of reduced secretion, options and limits of treatment. Aging Dis 2012; 3:194-225. [PMID: 22724080 PMCID: PMC3377831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2011] [Revised: 02/07/2012] [Accepted: 02/07/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a pleiotropically acting regulator molecule, which influences numerous physiological functions. Its secretion by the pineal gland progressively declines by age. Strong reductions of circulating melatonin are also observed in numerous disorders and diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, various other neurological and stressful conditions, pain, cardiovascular diseases, cases of cancer, endocrine and metabolic disorders, in particular diabetes type 2. The significance of melatonergic signaling is also evident from melatonin receptor polymorphisms associated with several of these pathologies. The article outlines the mutual relationship between circadian oscillators and melatonin secretion, the possibilities for readjustment of rhythms by melatonin and its synthetic analogs, the consequences for circadian rhythm-dependent disorders concerning sleep and mood, and limits of treatment. The necessity of distinguishing between short-acting melatonergic effects, which are successful in sleep initiation and phase adjustments, and attempts of replacement strategies is emphasized. Properties of approved and some investigational melatonergic agonists are compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rüdiger Hardeland
- Correspondence should be addressed to: Prof. Rüdiger Hardeland, Johann Friedrich Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, University of Göttingen, Berliner Str. 28, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany. E-mail:
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Kripke DF, Nievergelt CM, Tranah GJ, Murray SS, McCarthy MJ, Rex KM, Parimi N, Kelsoe JR. Polymorphisms in melatonin synthesis pathways: possible influences on depression. J Circadian Rhythms 2011; 9:8. [PMID: 21827647 PMCID: PMC3177871 DOI: 10.1186/1740-3391-9-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2011] [Accepted: 08/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It has been reported that rs4446909, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the promoter of acetylserotonin methyltransferase (ASMT), influences the expression of the ASMT enzyme. The common G allele is associated with lower ASMT activity, and therefore, diminishes conversion of N-acetylserotonin to melatonin. The G allele was associated with recurrent depressive disorder in a Polish group. ASMT might also affect bipolar relapse, given evidence that N-acetylserotonin might stimulate TRKB receptors, and TRKB may influence mood relapse in bipolar disorder. Additionally, arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) polymorphisms have been reported associated with depression, perhaps through their influence upon N-acetylserotonin or melatonin synthesis. Results To replicate and further explore these ideas, rs4446909 was genotyped in four research groups, as part of a panel of 610 SNPs surveyed by an Illumina Golden Gate assay. In 768 cases with delayed sleep phase disorder or matched controls, rs4446909 was indeed associated with the depressive symptoms on a self-report scale (P = 0.01, R2 = 0.007). However, there was no significant association of rs4446909 with self-reported depression in a sleep clinic patient group or with two groups of elderly men and women from multicenter studies, nor was the response to lithium treatment associated with rs4446909 in bipolar patients. No associations of two AANAT SNPs with depression were found. Conclusions The evidence did not support a strong influence of rs4446909 upon mood, but the partial replication may be consistent with a modest effect. It is possible that larger or younger subject groups with improved phenotype ascertainment might demonstrate more persuasive replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel F Kripke
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, USA.
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