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Córdoba-Moreno MO, Santos GC, Muxel SM, Dos Santos-Silva D, Quiles CL, Sousa KDS, Markus RP, Fernandes PACM. IL-10-induced STAT3/NF-κB crosstalk modulates pineal and extra-pineal melatonin synthesis. J Pineal Res 2024; 76:e12923. [PMID: 37990784 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Immune-pineal axis activation is part of the assembly of immune responses. Proinflammatory cytokines inhibit the pineal synthesis of melatonin while inducing it in macrophages by mechanisms dependent on nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation. Cytokines activating the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathways, such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-10 (IL-10), modulate melatonin synthesis in the pineal, bone marrow (BM), and spleen. The stimulatory effect of IFN-γ upon the pineal gland depends on STAT1/NF-κB interaction, but the mechanisms controlling IL-10 effects on melatonin synthesis remain unclear. Here, we evaluated the role of STAT3 and NF-κB activation by IL-10 upon the melatonin synthesis of rats' pineal gland, BM, spleen, and peritoneal cells. The results show that IL-10-induced interaction of (p)STAT3 with specific NF-κB dimmers leads to different cell effects. IL-10 increases the pineal's acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase (ASMT), N-acetylserotonin, and melatonin content via nuclear translocation of NF-κB/STAT3. In BM, the nuclear translocation of STAT3/p65-NF-κB complexes increases ASMT expression and melatonin content. Increased pSTAT3/p65-NF-κB nuclear translocation in the spleen enhances phosphorylated serotonin N-acetyltransferase ((p)SNAT) expression and melatonin content. Conversely, in peritoneal cells, IL-10 leads to NF-κB p50/p50 inhibitory dimmer nuclear translocation, decreasing (p)SNAT expression and melatonin content. In conclusion, IL-10's effects on melatonin production depend on the NF-κB subunits interacting with (p)STAT3. Thus, variations of IL-10 levels and downstream pathways during immune responses might be critical regulatory factors adjusting pineal and extra-pineal synthesis of melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sandra M Muxel
- Department of Physiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Caroline L Quiles
- Department of Physiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kassiano D S Sousa
- Department of Physiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Regina P Markus
- Department of Physiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Abstract
The pineal gland is a interface between light-dark cycle and shows neuro-endocrine functions. Melatonin is the primary hormone of pineal gland, secreted at night. The night-time melatonin peak regulates the physiological functions at dark. Melatonin has several unique features as it synchronises internal rhythm with daily and seasonal variations, regulates circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycle. Physiologically melatonin involves in detoxification of free radicals, immune functions, neuro-protection, oncostatic effects, cardiovascular functions, reproduction, and foetal development. The precise functions of melatonin are exhibited by specific receptors. In relation to pathophysiology, impaired melatonin secretion promotes sleep disorder, cancer progression, type-2 diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases. Several reports have highlighted the therapeutic benefits of melatonin specially related to cancer protection, sleep disorder, psychiatric disorders, and jet lag problems. This review will touch the most of the area of melatonin-oriented health impacts and its therapeutic aspects.
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3
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Tonon AC, Pilz LK, Markus RP, Hidalgo MP, Elisabetsky E. Melatonin and Depression: A Translational Perspective From Animal Models to Clinical Studies. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:638981. [PMID: 33897495 PMCID: PMC8060443 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.638981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Daily rhythm of melatonin synchronizes the body to the light/dark environmental cycle. Several hypotheses have been raised to understand the intersections between melatonin and depression, in which changes in rest-activity and sleep patterns are prominent. This review describes key experimental and clinical evidence that link melatonin with the etiopathology and symptomatology of depressive states, its role in the follow up of therapeutic response to antidepressants, as well as the clinical evidence of melatonin as MDD treatment. Melatonin, as an internal temporal cue contributing to circadian organization and best studied in the context of circadian misalignment, is also implicated in neuroplasticity. The monoaminergic systems that underly MDD and melatonin production overlap. In addition, the urinary metabolite 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6) has been proposed as biomarker for antidepressant responders, by revealing whether the blockage of noradrenaline uptake has taken place within 24 h from the first antidepressant dose. Even though animal models show benefits from melatonin supplementation on depressive-like behavior, clinical evidence is inconsistent vis-à-vis prophylactic or therapeutic benefits of melatonin or melatonin agonists in depression. We argue that the study of melatonin in MDD or other psychiatric disorders must take into account the specificities of melatonin as an integrating molecule, inextricably linked to entrainment, metabolism, immunity, neurotransmission, and cell homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- André C. Tonon
- Laboratório de Cronobiologia e Sono, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Luísa K. Pilz
- Laboratório de Cronobiologia e Sono, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Regina P. Markus
- Laboratório de Cronofarmacologia, Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociência, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Paz Hidalgo
- Laboratório de Cronobiologia e Sono, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Elaine Elisabetsky
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas-Bioquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Lambrou GI, Hatziagapiou K, Vlahopoulos S. Inflammation and tissue homeostasis: the NF-κB system in physiology and malignant progression. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:4047-4063. [PMID: 32239468 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05410-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Disruption of tissue function activates cellular stress which triggers a number of mechanisms that protect the tissue from further damage. These mechanisms involve a number of homeostatic modules, which are regulated at the level of gene expression by the transactivator NF-κB. This transcription factor shifts between activation and repression of discrete, cell-dependent gene expression clusters. Some of its target genes provide feedback to NF-κB itself, thereby strengthening the inflammatory response of the tissue and later terminating inflammation to facilitate restoration of tissue homeostasis. Disruption of key feedback modules for NF-κB in certain cell types facilitates the survival of clones with genomic aberrations, and protects them from being recognized and eliminated by the immune system, to enable thereby carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- George I Lambrou
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Thivon & Levadeias 8, 11527, Goudi-Athens, Greece
| | - Kyriaki Hatziagapiou
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Thivon & Levadeias 8, 11527, Goudi-Athens, Greece
| | - Spiros Vlahopoulos
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Thivon & Levadeias 8, 11527, Goudi-Athens, Greece.
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Pinato L, Galina Spilla CS, Markus RP, da Silveira Cruz-Machado S. Dysregulation of Circadian Rhythms in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:4379-4393. [DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666191102170450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background:
The alterations in neurological and neuroendocrine functions observed in the autism
spectrum disorder (ASD) involves environmentally dependent dysregulation of neurodevelopment, in interaction
with multiple coding gene defects. Disturbed sleep-wake patterns, as well as abnormal melatonin and glucocorticoid
secretion, show the relevance of an underlying impairment of the circadian timing system to the behavioral
phenotype of ASD. Thus, understanding the mechanisms involved in the circadian dysregulation in ASD could
help to identify early biomarkers to improve the diagnosis and therapeutics as well as providing a significant
impact on the lifelong prognosis.
Objective:
In this review, we discuss the organization of the circadian timing system and explore the connection
between neuroanatomic, molecular, and neuroendocrine responses of ASD and its clinical manifestations. Here
we propose interconnections between circadian dysregulation, inflammatory baseline and behavioral changes in
ASD. Taking into account, the high relevancy of melatonin in orchestrating both circadian timing and the maintenance
of physiological immune quiescence, we raise the hypothesis that melatonin or analogs should be considered
as a pharmacological approach to suppress inflammation and circadian misalignment in ASD patients.
Strategy:
This review provides a comprehensive update on the state-of-art of studies related to inflammatory
states and ASD with a special focus on the relationship with melatonin and clock genes. The hypothesis raised
above was analyzed according to the published data.
Conclusion:
Current evidence supports the existence of associations between ASD to circadian dysregulation,
behavior problems, increased inflammatory levels of cytokines, sleep disorders, as well as reduced circadian
neuroendocrine responses. Indeed, major effects may be related to a low melatonin rhythm. We propose that
maintaining the proper rhythm of the circadian timing system may be helpful to improve the health and to cope
with several behavioral changes observed in ASD subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Pinato
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 17525-900, Marilia, SP, Brazil
| | - Caio Sergio Galina Spilla
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 17525-900, Marilia, SP, Brazil
| | - Regina Pekelmann Markus
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo (USP), 05508-090, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sanseray da Silveira Cruz-Machado
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo (USP), 05508-090, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Barbosa Lima LE, Muxel SM, Kinker GS, Carvalho-Sousa CE, da Silveira Cruz-Machado S, Markus RP, Fernandes PACM. STAT1-NFκB crosstalk triggered by interferon gamma regulates noradrenaline-induced pineal hormonal production. J Pineal Res 2019; 67:e12599. [PMID: 31356684 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin production by pineal glands is modulated by several immune signals. The nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa-B (NFκB) homodimers, lacking transactivation domains, once induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or tumor necrosis factor (TNF), inhibits the expression of Aanat gene and the synthesis of noradrenaline (NA)-induced melatonin. Interferon gamma (IFN-γ), on the other hand, increases melatonin synthesis. Furthermore, this cytokine activates the signal transducer as well as the activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) pathway, which was never evaluated as a melatonin synthesis modulator before. Reports demonstrated that IFN-γ might also activate NFκB. The present study evaluated the role of STAT1-NFκB crosstalk triggered by IFN-γ regarding the regulation of NA-induced pineal glands' hormonal production. Moreover, IFN-γ treatment increased NA-induced Aanat transcription, in addition to the synthesis of N-acetylserotonin (NAS) and melatonin. These effects were associated with STAT1 nuclear translocation, confirmed by the co-immunoprecipitation of STAT1 and Aanat promoter. Pharmacological STAT1 enhancement augmented NA-induced Aanat transcription as well as NAS and melatonin production. Additionally, IFN-γ induced the nuclear translocation of RelA-NFκB subunits. The blockade of this pathway prevented IFN-γ effects on the pineal function. The present data show that STAT1 and NFκB crosstalk controls melatonin production through a synergistic mechanism, disclosing a new integrative mechanism regarding pineal hormonal activity control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandra Marcia Muxel
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela S Kinker
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Regina P Markus
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Song J. Pineal gland dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease: relationship with the immune-pineal axis, sleep disturbance, and neurogenesis. Mol Neurodegener 2019; 14:28. [PMID: 31296240 PMCID: PMC6624939 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-019-0330-8] [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: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a globally common neurodegenerative disease, which is accompanied by alterations to various lifestyle patterns, such as sleep disturbance. The pineal gland is the primary endocrine organ that secretes hormones, such as melatonin, and controls the circadian rhythms. The decrease in pineal gland volume and pineal calcification leads to the reduction of melatonin production. Melatonin has been reported to have multiple roles in the central nervous system (CNS), including improving neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity, suppressing neuroinflammation, enhancing memory function, and protecting against oxidative stress. Recently, reduced pineal gland volume and pineal calcification, accompanied by cognitive decline and sleep disturbances have been observed in AD patients. Here, I review current significant evidence of the contribution of pineal dysfunction in AD to the progress of AD neuropathology. I suggest new insights to understanding the relationship between AD pathogenesis and pineal gland function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhyun Song
- Department of Anatomy, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, 58128, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea.
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Clock mutant promotes osteoarthritis by inhibiting the acetylation of NFκB. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2019; 27:922-931. [PMID: 30716535 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2019.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the effect of the circadian gene Clock on posttranscriptional function and pro-inflammatory mechanisms in osteoarthritis (OA). METHODS The cartilage from Clock mutant mice was assessed using histology, (OA) score, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) quantification of key pro-inflammatory genes. Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB) translocation, posttranslational state and expression levels during day and night conditions were assessed using immunoblot and IP. The regulation of transcription by Clock in cartilage tissue was assessed by using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase assays. Total acetylation level and pattern over 24 h were quantified using immunoblot and real-time PCR. Finally, the effects of exogenous Clock nanoparticle treatment were quantified by histology and immunoblot. RESULTS The Clock mutation significantly promoted the degradation of cartilage and the expression of the key pro-inflammatory mediators, IL-1β, IL-6 and MCP-1. The Clock mutation significantly promoted NFκB nuclear translocation. The circadian protein CLOCK positively regulates NFκB at the transcriptional level by binding the E-box domain. The Clock mutation significantly inhibited the total lysine acetylation level in cartilage and inhibited NFκB acetylation at the Lys310 residue but promoted phosphorylation at the Ser276 residue. The forced expression of Clock in vivo inhibited NFκB activation by increasing acetylation and decreasing phosphorylation levels and by decreasing cartilage damage and inflammation. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the mutation of Clock promotes inflammatory activity by mediating the posttranscriptional regulation of NFκB in OA pathogenesis.
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Santos RMD, Marani F, Chiba FY, Mattera MSDLC, Tsosura TVS, Tessarin GWL, Pereira RF, Belardi BE, Pinheiro BCES, Sumida DH. Melatonin promotes reduction in TNF levels and improves the lipid profile and insulin sensitivity in pinealectomized rats with periodontal disease. Life Sci 2018; 213:32-39. [PMID: 30321542 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.09.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to investigate the effects of melatonin (ME) on insulin resistance (IR) and signaling (IS), proinflammatory cytokine levels, and lipid profiles in pinealectomyzed (PNX) rats with periodontal disease (PD). MAIN METHODS One hundred and forty-four rats (age = 40 days) were distributed into 8 groups: 1) control (CN); 2) PD only; 3) PNX only; 4) PNX and PD (PNXPD); 5) CN treated with ME (CNM); 6) PD treated with ME (PDM); 7) PNX treated with ME(PNXM); 8) PNX and PD treated with ME(PNXPDM). The PNX groups were subjected to pinealectomy at 40 and at 60 days of age. The animals were then subjected to PD induction in the mandibular first molars. After PD induction, the ME replacement therapy (MERT-5 mg/kg body weight) was performed using water for 28 days. After this period, the plasma concentration of glucose, insulin, TNF, IL-6, triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and VLDL-cholesterol and the HOMA-IR index were determined. Akt serine phosphorylation status in the white adipose tissue, gastrocnemius muscle, and rat liver were also evaluated. KEY FINDINGS PD, PNX, and PNXPD groups showed an increase in IR with elevated plasma levels of insulin and TNF compared to CN group. PNX and PNXPD groups presented alteration in lipid profile compared to CN group. MERT improved all of the analyzed parameters. No difference was observed in the IS among different groups. SIGNIFICANCE The results suggest that MERT efficiently prevents IR, improves lipid profile, and increases plasma levels of insulin and TNF in PD and PNX rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Martins Dos Santos
- Programa de Pós-graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas-SBFis, Brazil; Department of Basic Sciences, School of Dentistry of Araçatuba, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernando Marani
- Programa de Pós-graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas-SBFis, Brazil; Department of Basic Sciences, School of Dentistry of Araçatuba, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernando Yamamoto Chiba
- Preventive and Social Dentistry Post-Graduation Program School of Dentistry of Araçatuba, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Sara de Lima Coutinho Mattera
- Programa de Pós-graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas-SBFis, Brazil; Department of Basic Sciences, School of Dentistry of Araçatuba, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - Thais Verônica Saori Tsosura
- Programa de Pós-graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas-SBFis, Brazil; Department of Basic Sciences, School of Dentistry of Araçatuba, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - Gestter Willian Lattari Tessarin
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Dentistry of Araçatuba, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil; Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renato Felipe Pereira
- Programa de Pós-graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas-SBFis, Brazil; Department of Basic Sciences, School of Dentistry of Araçatuba, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - Bianca Elvira Belardi
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Dentistry of Araçatuba, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Costa E Silva Pinheiro
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Dentistry of Araçatuba, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - Doris Hissako Sumida
- Programa de Pós-graduação Multicêntrico em Ciências Fisiológicas-SBFis, Brazil; Department of Basic Sciences, School of Dentistry of Araçatuba, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil.
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Zhang J, Qiu J, Zhou Y, Wang Y, Li H, Zhang T, Jiang Y, Gou K, Cui S. LIM homeobox transcription factor Isl1 is required for melatonin synthesis in the pig pineal gland. J Pineal Res 2018; 65:e12481. [PMID: 29480946 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin is a key hormone that regulates circadian rhythms, metabolism, and reproduction. However, the mechanisms of melatonin synthesis and secretion have not been fully defined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the functions of the LIM homeobox transcription factor Isl1 in regulating melatonin synthesis and secretion in porcine pineal gland. We found that Isl1 is highly expressed in the melatonin-producing cells in the porcine pineal gland. Further functional studies demonstrate that Isl1 knockdown in cultured primary porcine pinealocytes results in the decline of melatonin and arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) mRNA levels by 29.2% and 72.2%, respectively, whereas Isl1 overexpression raised by 1.3-fold and 2.7-fold. In addition, the enhancing effect of norepinephrine (NE) on melatonin synthesis was abolished by Isl1 knockdown. The in vivo intracerebroventricular NE injections upregulate Isl1 mRNA and protein levels by about threefold and 4.5-fold in the porcine pineal gland. We then examined the changes in Isl1 expression in the pineal gland and global melatonin levels throughout the day. The results show that Isl1 protein level at 24:00 is 2.5-fold higher than that at 12:00, which is parallel to melatonin levels. We further found that Isl1 increases the activity of AANAT promoter, and the effect of NE on Isl1 expression was blocked by an ERK inhibitor. Collectively, the results presented here demonstrate that Isl1 positively modulates melatonin synthesis by targeting AANAT, via the ERK signaling pathway of NE. These suggest that Isl1 plays important roles in maintaining the daily circadian rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinglin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jingtao Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yewen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongjiao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Taojie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Kemian Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Sheng Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
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11
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Pires-Lapa MA, Carvalho-Sousa CE, Cecon E, Fernandes PA, Markus RP. β-Adrenoceptors Trigger Melatonin Synthesis in Phagocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19082182. [PMID: 30049944 PMCID: PMC6121262 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19082182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin (5-methoxy-N-acetylserotonin), the pineal hormone, is also synthesized by immune-competent cells. The pineal hormone signals darkness, while melatonin synthesized on demand by activated macrophages at any hour of the day acts locally, favoring regulatory/tolerant phenotypes. Activation of β-adrenoceptors in pinealocytes is the main route for triggering melatonin synthesis. However, despite the well-known role of β-adrenoceptors in the resolution macrophage phenotype (M2), and the relevance of macrophage synthesized melatonin in facilitating phagocytic activity, there is no information regarding whether activation of β-adrenoceptors would induce melatonin synthesis by monocytes. Here we show that catecholamines stimulate melatonin synthesis in bone marrow-derived dendritic cells and RAW 264.7 macrophages. Activation of β-adrenoceptors promotes the synthesis of melatonin by stimulating cyclic AMP/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway and by activating the nuclear translocation of NF-κB. Considering the great number of macrophages around sympathetic nerve terminals, and the relevance of this system for maintaining macrophages in stages compatible to low-grade inflammation, our data open the possibility that extra-pineal melatonin acts as an autocrine/paracrine signal in macrophages under resolution or tolerant phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A Pires-Lapa
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Deartment of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Claudia E Carvalho-Sousa
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Deartment of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Erika Cecon
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Deartment of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Pedro A Fernandes
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunoendocrinology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Regina P Markus
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Deartment of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil.
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12
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Markus RP, Fernandes PA, Kinker GS, da Silveira Cruz-Machado S, Marçola M. Immune-pineal axis - acute inflammatory responses coordinate melatonin synthesis by pinealocytes and phagocytes. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 175:3239-3250. [PMID: 29105727 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is well known for its circadian production by the pineal gland, and there is a growing body of data showing that it is also produced by many other cells and organs, including immune cells. The chronobiotic role of pineal melatonin, as well as its protective effects in vitro and in vivo, have been extensively explored. However, the interaction between the chronobiotic and defence functions of endogenous melatonin has been little investigated. This review details the current knowledge regarding the coordinated shift in melatonin synthesis from the pineal gland (circadian and monitoring roles) to the regulation of acute immune responses via immune cell production and autocrine effects, producing systemic interactions termed the immune-pineal axis. An acute inflammatory response drives the transcription factor, NFκB, to switch melatonin synthesis from pinealocytes to macrophages/microglia and, upon acute inflammatory resolution, back to pinealocytes. The potential pathophysiological relevance of immune-pineal axis dysregulation is highlighted, with both research and clinical implications, across several medical conditions, including host/parasite interaction, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on Recent Developments in Research of Melatonin and its Potential Therapeutic Applications. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.16/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina P Markus
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology and Laboratory of Neuroimmunomodulation - Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro A Fernandes
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology and Laboratory of Neuroimmunomodulation - Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela S Kinker
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology and Laboratory of Neuroimmunomodulation - Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sanseray da Silveira Cruz-Machado
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology and Laboratory of Neuroimmunomodulation - Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marina Marçola
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology and Laboratory of Neuroimmunomodulation - Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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13
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Biological functions of melatonin in relation to pathogenesis of oral lichen planus. Med Hypotheses 2017; 104:40-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2017.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2017] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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14
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da Silveira Cruz-Machado S, Tamura EK, Carvalho-Sousa CE, Rocha VA, Pinato L, Fernandes PAC, Markus RP. Daily corticosterone rhythm modulates pineal function through NFκB-related gene transcriptional program. Sci Rep 2017; 7:2091. [PMID: 28522814 PMCID: PMC5437068 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02286-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin and glucocorticoids are key hormones in determining daily rhythmicity and modulating defense responses. In nocturnal animals, corticosterone peaks at light/dark transition,while melatonin peaks at the middle of the night in both nocturnal and diurnal animals. The crosstalk between adrenal and pineal glands under inflammatory conditions indicates that corticosterone potentiates nocturnal melatonin synthesis by reducing the activity of NFκB. This transcription factor, which modulates the expression of a key enzyme in melatonin synthesis, is sharply reduced at the entrance of darkness in the rat pineal gland. In this study, we established the basis for understanding the crosstalk between adrenal and pineal glands in physiological conditions. Here we show that the expression of 70 out of 84 genes implied in defense responses exhibit a sharp reduction exactly at the entrance of darkness. Mifepristone impair the changes of 13 out of 84 genes, suggesting that the rhythm of corticosterone modulates pineal phenotype, as mifepristone also reduces the expression of Aanat and the nocturnal synthesis of melatonin. Therefore, darkness-induced synthesis of the pineal hormone, besides being controlled by the central clock located in the hypothalamus, is also influencedby glucocorticoids through the regulation of NFκB transcriptional program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanseray da Silveira Cruz-Machado
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo (USP), 05508-090, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo K Tamura
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo (USP), 05508-090, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Santa Cruz (UESC), 45662-900, Ilhéus, BA, Brazil
| | - Claudia E Carvalho-Sousa
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo (USP), 05508-090, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Vanderlei Amadeu Rocha
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo (USP), 05508-090, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciana Pinato
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), 17525-900, Marilia, SP, Brazil
| | - Pedro A C Fernandes
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo (USP), 05508-090, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Regina P Markus
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo (USP), 05508-090, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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15
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O'Keeffe SM, Beynon AL, Davies JS, Moynagh PN, Coogan AN. NF-κB signalling is involved in immune-modulation, but not basal functioning, of the mouse suprachiasmatic circadian clock. Eur J Neurosci 2017; 45:1111-1123. [DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. M. O'Keeffe
- Department of Psychology; Maynooth University; National University of Ireland; John Hume Building Maynooth Ireland
| | - A. L. Beynon
- Institute of Life Science; School of Medicine; Swansea University; Wales UK
| | - J. S. Davies
- Institute of Life Science; School of Medicine; Swansea University; Wales UK
| | - P. N. Moynagh
- Department of Biology; Maynooth University; National University of Ireland; Maynooth Ireland
| | - A. N. Coogan
- Department of Psychology; Maynooth University; National University of Ireland; John Hume Building Maynooth Ireland
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16
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Melatoninergic System in Parkinson's Disease: From Neuroprotection to the Management of Motor and Nonmotor Symptoms. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2016; 2016:3472032. [PMID: 27829983 PMCID: PMC5088323 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3472032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin is synthesized by several tissues besides the pineal gland, and beyond its regulatory effects in light-dark cycle, melatonin is a hormone with neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Melatonin acts as a free-radical scavenger, reducing reactive species and improving mitochondrial homeostasis. Melatonin also regulates the expression of neurotrophins that are involved in the survival of dopaminergic neurons and reduces α-synuclein aggregation, thus protecting the dopaminergic system against damage. The unbalance of pineal melatonin synthesis can predispose the organism to inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD). The aim of this review is to summarize the knowledge about the potential role of the melatoninergic system in the pathogenesis and treatment of PD. The literature reviewed here indicates that PD is associated with impaired brain expression of melatonin and its receptors MT1 and MT2. Exogenous melatonin treatment presented an outstanding neuroprotective effect in animal models of PD induced by different toxins, such as 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), rotenone, paraquat, and maneb. Despite the neuroprotective effects and the improvement of motor impairments, melatonin also presents the potential to improve nonmotor symptoms commonly experienced by PD patients such as sleep and anxiety disorders, depression, and memory dysfunction.
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17
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Muxel SM, Laranjeira-Silva MF, Carvalho-Sousa CE, Floeter-Winter LM, Markus RP. The RelA/cRel nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) dimer, crucial for inflammation resolution, mediates the transcription of the key enzyme in melatonin synthesis in RAW 264.7 macrophages. J Pineal Res 2016; 60:394-404. [PMID: 26887983 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) modulates the transcription of the gene that codifies the enzyme arylalkylamine-N-acetyltransferase (AA-NAT) through nuclear translocation of the transcription factor nuclear factor-κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). AA-NAT converts serotonin to N-acetylserotonin, the ultimate precursor of melatonin. Activation of kappa B elements (aa-nat-κB), localized in the promoter (nat-κB1 and nat-κB2), leads to Aa-nat transcription in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Competitive electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) with oligonucleotide probes corresponding to each of the two elements, as well as a NF-κB consensus corresponding probe, revealed different specificities for each κB element. In addition, activator protein-1 (AP-1) as well as signal transducers and activator of transcription-1 and 3 (STAT-1; STAT-3) competed with NF-κB for binding to nat-κB1, while only STAT-3 competed with NF-κB for binding to nat-κB2. According to co-immunoprecipitation (ChiP) assays, these two sites are able to distinguish NF-κB subunits. The sequence nat-κB1 bound dimers containing p52, RelA, and cRel, while nat-κB2 bound preferentially p50, p52, and RelA, and did not bind cRel. The expression of RelA and cRel is essential for the induction of Aa-nat expression and melatonin synthesis. Considering that the expression of cRel is induced by the earlier expressed p50/RelA, the differential effects of NF-κB dimers may be intimately associated with the temporal regulation of inflammatory responses, with the resolution phase being associated with paracrine and autocrine melatonin effects. Such data suggest that the proven effects of exogenous melatonin in the resolution phase of inflammation are paralleled by the effects of locally synthesized melatonin in immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Marcia Muxel
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Regina P Markus
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Souza-Teodoro LH, Dargenio-Garcia L, Petrilli-Lapa CL, Souza EDS, Fernandes PACM, Markus RP, Ferreira ZS. Adenosine triphosphate inhibits melatonin synthesis in the rat pineal gland. J Pineal Res 2016; 60:242-9. [PMID: 26732366 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is released onto the pinealocyte, along with noradrenaline, from sympathetic neurons and triggers P2Y1 receptors that enhance β-adrenergic-induced N-acetylserotonin (NAS) synthesis. Nevertheless, the biotransformation of NAS into melatonin, which occurs due to the subsequent methylation by acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase (ASMT; EC 2.1.1.4), has not yet been evaluated in the presence of purinergic stimulation. We therefore evaluated the effects of purinergic signaling on melatonin synthesis induced by β-adrenergic stimulation. ATP increased NAS levels, but, surprisingly, inhibited melatonin synthesis in an inverse, concentration-dependent manner. Our results demonstrate that enhanced NAS levels, which depend on phospholipase C (PLC) activity (but not the induction of gene transcription), are a post-translational effect. By contrast, melatonin reduction is related to an ASMT inhibition of expression at both the gene transcription and protein levels. These results were independent of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) translocation. Neither the P2Y1 receptor activation nor the PLC-mediated pathway was involved in the decrease in melatonin, indicating that ATP regulates pineal metabolism through different mechanisms. Taken together, our data demonstrate that purinergic signaling differentially modulates NAS and melatonin synthesis and point to a regulatory role for ATP as a cotransmitter in the control of ASMT, the rate-limiting enzyme in melatonin synthesis. The endogenous production of melatonin regulates defense responses; therefore, understanding the mechanisms involving ASMT regulation might provide novel insights into the development and progression of neurological disorders since melatonin presents anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and neurogenic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Letícia Dargenio-Garcia
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Ewerton da Silva Souza
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro A C M Fernandes
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Regina P Markus
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Zulma S Ferreira
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Analyses of melatonin, cytokines, and sleep in chronic renal failure. Sleep Breath 2015; 20:339-44. [PMID: 26271951 DOI: 10.1007/s11325-015-1240-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Inflammation and oxidative stress are involved in the process of chronic renal failure (CRF). CRF patients show indication of sleep disturbances, and the melatonin rhythm, which modulates sleep, is abnormal in these patients; however, it is still unclear whether inflammation could be related to the blockage of melatonin production and sleep disturbances in this population. The aim of this study was to characterize and correlate sleep, the melatonin rhythm, and the levels of the inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin (IL)-6 in patients with CRF and controls. METHODS Sleep was evaluated by the "Sleep Quality Index Pittsburgh" (PSQI) questionnaire, and melatonin and cytokine contents in saliva and blood samples, respectively, were analyzed by ELISA. RESULTS The CRF group scored higher on the global PSQI, which indicates a lower sleep quality and a higher prevalence of sleep disorders, than the control group. The CRF individuals also showed lower melatonin content than the control groups, both during the day and at night, and lacked rhythmicity in melatonin production. The CRF group also showed higher contents of TNF and IL-6 than the control group and a negative correlation between TNF and melatonin content. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the sleep disorders observed in the CRF group were probably related to the low production of melatonin observed in this population. The high level of TNF, as previously demonstrated in other pathologies, is probably involved in this blockage of melatonin production in CRF.
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20
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Chronotherapeutic effect of fisetin on expression of urea cycle enzymes and inflammatory markers in hyperammonaemic rats. Pharmacol Rep 2014; 66:1037-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2014.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2013] [Revised: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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21
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Pechanova O, Paulis L, Simko F. Peripheral and central effects of melatonin on blood pressure regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:17920-37. [PMID: 25299692 PMCID: PMC4227197 DOI: 10.3390/ijms151017920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2014] [Revised: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The pineal hormone, melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine), shows potent receptor-dependent and -independent actions, which participate in blood pressure regulation. The antihypertensive effect of melatonin was demonstrated in experimental and clinical hypertension. Receptor-dependent effects are mediated predominantly through MT1 and MT2 G-protein coupled receptors. The pleiotropic receptor-independent effects of melatonin with a possible impact on blood pressure involve the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging nature, activation and over-expression of several antioxidant enzymes or their protection from oxidative damage and the ability to increase the efficiency of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. Besides the interaction with the vascular system, this indolamine may exert part of its antihypertensive action through its interaction with the central nervous system (CNS). The imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic vegetative system is an important pathophysiological disorder and therapeutic target in hypertension. Melatonin is protective in CNS on several different levels: It reduces free radical burden, improves endothelial dysfunction, reduces inflammation and shifts the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic system in favor of the parasympathetic system. The increased level of serum melatonin observed in some types of hypertension may be a counter-regulatory adaptive mechanism against the sympathetic overstimulation. Since melatonin acts favorably on different levels of hypertension, including organ protection and with minimal side effects, it could become regularly involved in the struggle against this widespread cardiovascular pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Pechanova
- Institute of Normal and Pathological Physiology and Centre of Excellence for Nitric Oxide Research, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava 81371, Slovak Republic.
| | - Ludovit Paulis
- Institute of Normal and Pathological Physiology and Centre of Excellence for Nitric Oxide Research, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava 81371, Slovak Republic.
| | - Fedor Simko
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava 81371, Slovak Republic.
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22
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Age dependent nitro-oxidative load and melatonin receptor expression in the spleen and immunity of goat Capra hircus. Exp Gerontol 2014; 60:72-8. [PMID: 25281807 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2014.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Revised: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The decline in the plasma level of melatonin has been associated with increased oxidative stress in the physiological system while aging. The increased levels of oxidants are known to augment the nitro-oxidative stress, which induces the apoptotic factors in lymphoid organs leading to age dependent immunosenescence. There are no reports to date that can suggest how the age dependent nitro-oxidative stress can influence the melatonin membrane MT1/MT2R expression and immune status of any small ruminant. In the present study, we noted the expression of melatonin receptors MT1R and MT2R and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) along with the apoptotic markers (viz. Bcl-2, Bax and Pro-caspase-3) in the spleen of young, middle-aged and old-aged Indian goat Capra hircus. The lymphocyte proliferation was also recorded along with the total nitrite and nitrate ion concentration (NOx) in the spleen and plasma. An age dependent decline in MT1R and MT2R expressions and lymphocyte proliferation with increased level of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and iNOS expression was noted. An increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and a decreased Pro-caspase-3 expression were observed in the spleen of goat with an age dependent decline in the peripheral melatonin level. This decline in melatonin along with reduced melatonin receptor (MT1/MT2) expression and elevated RNS level in the spleen with aging might have an important role in the regulation of immune function of goats. Our observations suggest that the age-associated immunosenescence observed in goats can be a consequence of declining melatonin and its receptor expression and induction of apoptotic factors influenced by the increased RNS level that deteriorates the proper functioning of the spleen.
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Circadian Clocks and Inflammation: Reciprocal Regulation and Shared Mediators. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2014; 62:303-18. [DOI: 10.1007/s00005-014-0286-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Villela D, de Sá Lima L, Peres R, Peliciari-Garcia RA, do Amaral FG, Cipolla-Neto J, Scavone C, Afeche SC. Norepinephrine activates NF-κB transcription factor in cultured rat pineal gland. Life Sci 2014; 94:122-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2013.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Revised: 10/17/2013] [Accepted: 11/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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25
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Pinato L, da Silveira Cruz-Machado S, Franco DG, Campos LMG, Cecon E, Fernandes PACM, Bittencourt JC, Markus RP. Selective protection of the cerebellum against intracerebroventricular LPS is mediated by local melatonin synthesis. Brain Struct Funct 2013; 220:827-40. [PMID: 24363121 PMCID: PMC4341011 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-013-0686-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Although melatonin is mainly produced by the pineal gland, an increasing number of extra-pineal sites of melatonin synthesis have been described. We previously demonstrated the existence of bidirectional communication between the pineal gland and the immune system that drives a switch in melatonin production from the pineal gland to peripheral organs during the mounting of an innate immune response. In the present study, we show that acute neuroinflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injected directly into the lateral ventricles of adult rats reduces the nocturnal peak of melatonin in the plasma and induces its synthesis in the cerebellum, though not in the cortex or hippocampus. This increase in cerebellar melatonin content requires the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), which positively regulates the expression of the key enzyme for melatonin synthesis, arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AA-NAT). Interestingly, LPS treatment led to neuronal death in the hippocampus and cortex, but not in the cerebellum. This privileged protection of cerebellar cells was abrogated when G-protein-coupled melatonin receptors were blocked by the melatonin antagonist luzindole, suggesting that the local production of melatonin protects cerebellar neurons from LPS toxicity. This is the first demonstration of a switch between pineal and extra-pineal melatonin production in the central nervous system following a neuroinflammatory response. These results have direct implications concerning the differential susceptibility of specific brain areas to neuronal death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Pinato
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, 05508-090, Brazil
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Modulation of pineal melatonin synthesis by glutamate involves paracrine interactions between pinealocytes and astrocytes through NF-κB activation. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:618432. [PMID: 23984387 PMCID: PMC3747608 DOI: 10.1155/2013/618432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The glutamatergic modulation of melatonin synthesis is well known, along with the importance of astrocytes in mediating glutamatergic signaling in the central nervous system. Pinealocytes and astrocytes are the main cell types in the pineal gland. The objective of this work was to investigate the interactions between astrocytes and pinealocytes as a part of the glutamate inhibitory effect on melatonin synthesis. Rat pinealocytes isolated or in coculture with astrocytes were incubated with glutamate in the presence of norepinephrine, and the melatonin content, was quantified. The expression of glutamate receptors, the intracellular calcium content and the NF-κB activation were analyzed in astrocytes and pinealocytes. TNF-α's possible mediation of the effect of glutamate was also investigated. The results showed that glutamate's inhibitory effect on melatonin synthesis involves interactions between astrocytes and pinealocytes, possibly through the release of TNF-α. Moreover, the activation of the astrocytic NF-κB seems to be a necessary step. In astrocytes and pinealocytes, AMPA, NMDA, and group I metabotropic glutamate receptors were observed, as well as the intracellular calcium elevation. In conclusion, there is evidence that the modulation of melatonin synthesis by glutamate involves paracrine interactions between pinealocytes and astrocytes through the activation of the astrocytic NF-κB transcription factor and possibly by subsequent TNF-α release.
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Laste G, Vidor L, de Macedo IC, Rozisky JR, Medeiros L, de Souza A, Meurer L, de Souza ICC, Torres ILS, Caumo W. Melatonin treatment entrains the rest-activity circadian rhythm in rats with chronic inflammation. Chronobiol Int 2013; 30:1077-88. [PMID: 23879696 DOI: 10.3109/07420528.2013.800088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We assessed the therapeutic effect of exogenous melatonin (MEL), dexamethasone (DEXA), and a combination of both on nociceptive response induced by chronic inflammation and on the rest-activity circadian rhythm in rats. A total of 64 animals were randomly divided into eight groups of eight rats each: one control group and seven groups with complete Freund's adjuvant-inflamed animals (CFA; injection into the footpad). One of the CFA-inflamed groups did not receive any treatment; the other six were treated with melatonin (MEL), dexamethasone (DEXA), melatonin plus dexamethasone (MELDEXA), and their respective vehicles. Fifteen days after CFA injection, animals were treated with intraperitoneal injection of MEL (50 mg/kg) or its vehicle (8% ethanol in saline), DEXA (0.25 mg/kg) or its vehicle (saline), and MEL plus DEXA or their vehicles, for 8 days. The von Frey test was performed 24 h after the last administration of each treatment regimen. Hind paw thickness was measured using a pachymeter during the treatment days. The degree of swelling and histological findings were analyzed. All treated groups significantly reduced the severity of inflammation when compared with their vehicles (repeated-measures analysis of variance [ANOVA], p < 0.05 for all analyses). Inflamed animals treated with dexamethasone alone or associated with melatonin showed marked inhibition of histological findings. On the other hand, the group treated with melatonin remained with moderate inflammation. The CFA group showed a decrease in the mean rest-activity circadian rhythm, determined by the number of touch-detections per hour during water intake in comparison with the control group; only the group treated with melatonin showed a synchronized rest-activity rhythm. At the end of treatment, a significant increase was observed in hind paw withdrawal threshold on the von Frey test in the treated groups (one-way ANOVA, p < 0.05 for all). Our findings showed that melatonin (50 mg/kg) has strong chronobiotic and antinociceptive effects, but only mild anti-inflammatory effects. This evidence supports the hypothesis that melatonin can induce phase advance and circadian rhythm synchronization in rats with chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Laste
- Pain Pharmacology and Neuromodulation: Animals Models Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul , Porto Alegre , Brazil
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Immune-pineal axis: nuclear factor κB (NF-kB) mediates the shift in the melatonin source from pinealocytes to immune competent cells. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:10979-97. [PMID: 23708099 PMCID: PMC3709713 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140610979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2013] [Revised: 05/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pineal gland melatonin is the darkness hormone, while extra-pineal melatonin produced by the gonads, gut, retina, and immune competent cells acts as a paracrine or autocrine mediator. The well-known immunomodulatory effect of melatonin is observed either as an endocrine, a paracrine or an autocrine response. In mammals, nuclear translocation of nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) blocks noradrenaline-induced melatonin synthesis in pinealocytes, which induces melatonin synthesis in macrophages. In addition, melatonin reduces NF-κB activation in pinealocytes and immune competent cells. Therefore, pathogen- or danger-associated molecular patterns transiently switch the synthesis of melatonin from pinealocytes to immune competent cells, and as the response progresses melatonin inhibition of NF-κB activity leads these cells to a more quiescent state. The opposite effect of NF-κB in pinealocytes and immune competent cells is due to different NF-κB dimers recruited in each phase of the defense response. This coordinated shift of the source of melatonin driven by NF-κB is called the immune-pineal axis. Finally, we discuss how this concept might be relevant to a better understanding of pathological conditions with impaired melatonin rhythms and hope it opens new horizons for the research of side effects of melatonin-based therapies.
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29
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Figueredo DDS, Barbosa MR, Gitaí DLG, de Andrade TG. Predicted MicroRNAs for Mammalian Circadian Rhythms. J Biol Rhythms 2013; 28:107-16. [DOI: 10.1177/0748730413476827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
There is little evidence for the involvement of microRNAs (miRs) in the regulation of circadian rhythms, despite the potential relevance of these elements in the posttranscriptional regulation of the clock machinery. The present work aimed to identify miRs targeting circadian genes through a predictive analysis of conserved miRs in mammals. Besides 23 miRs previously associated with circadian rhythms, we found a number of interesting candidate genes, equally predicted by the 3 software programs used, including miR-9, miR-24, miR25, miR-26, miR-27, miR-29, miR-93, miR-211, miR-302, and miR-346. Moreover, several miRs are predicted to be regulated by circadian transcription factors, such as CLOCK/BMAL, DEC2, and REV-ERBalpha. Using real-time PCR we demonstrated that the selected candidate miR-27b showed a daily variation in human leukocytes. This study presents predicted feedback loops for mammalian molecular clock and the first description of an miR with in vivo daily variation in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego de Siqueira Figueredo
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Gene Expression Analysis, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Campus Arapiraca, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Mayara Rodrigues Barbosa
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Gene Expression Analysis, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Campus Arapiraca, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Daniel Leite Góes Gitaí
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Tiago Gomes de Andrade
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Gene Expression Analysis, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Campus Arapiraca, Alagoas, Brazil
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Marçola M, da Silveira Cruz-Machado S, Fernandes PACM, Monteiro AWA, Markus RP, Tamura EK. Endothelial cell adhesiveness is a function of environmental lighting and melatonin level. J Pineal Res 2013; 54:162-9. [PMID: 22812624 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2012.01025.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The endothelial layer regulates the traffic of cells and substances between the blood and tissues and plays a central role in the mounting of an inflammatory response. We have recently shown that inhibition of the nocturnal melatonin surge during the mounting of an inflammatory response primes endothelial cells to a highly reactive state, increasing the expression of adhesion molecules and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) as well as the in vitro adherence of leukocytes. Here, we investigated whether physiological variations in the plasma melatonin levels owing to the light/dark environmental cycle could also prime the reactive state of endothelial cells. Cultured endothelial cells (16-20 days) obtained from rats killed during the daytime adhere more neutrophils, expressed more adhesion molecules and iNOS, and had a higher content of the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) translocated to the nuclei. We also evaluated the expression of 84 genes (using real-time PCR array) related to the innate inflammatory response and observed a higher expression of 19 genes in cultures obtained during the daytime. In addition, the only gene that was highly expressed in cells obtained from rats killed during nighttime was one that encodes a protein that negatively modulates inflammatory response. In conclusion, the daily rhythm of melatonin also primes the ability of endothelial cells to adhere to neutrophils. This new approach for evaluating the influence of the donor on cells maintained in culture should have applications for the standardization of cell banks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Marçola
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Muxel SM, Pires-Lapa MA, Monteiro AWA, Cecon E, Tamura EK, Floeter-Winter LM, Markus RP. NF-κB drives the synthesis of melatonin in RAW 264.7 macrophages by inducing the transcription of the arylalkylamine-N-acetyltransferase (AA-NAT) gene. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52010. [PMID: 23284853 PMCID: PMC3528721 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2012] [Accepted: 11/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We demonstrate that during inflammatory responses the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) induces the synthesis of melatonin by macrophages and that macrophage-synthesized melatonin modulates the function of these professional phagocytes in an autocrine manner. Expression of a DsRed2 fluorescent reporter driven by regions of the aa-nat promoter, that encodes the key enzyme involved in melatonin synthesis (arylalkylamine-N-acetyltransferase), containing one or two upstream κB binding sites in RAW 264.7 macrophage cell lines was repressed when NF-κB activity was inhibited by blocking its nuclear translocation or its DNA binding activity or by silencing the transcription of the RelA or c-Rel NF-κB subunits. Therefore, transcription of aa-nat driven by NF-κB dimers containing RelA or c-Rel subunits mediates pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) or pro-inflammatory cytokine-induced melatonin synthesis in macrophages. Furthermore, melatonin acts in an autocrine manner to potentiate macrophage phagocytic activity, whereas luzindole, a competitive antagonist of melatonin receptors, decreases macrophage phagocytic activity. The opposing functions of NF-κB in the modulation of AA-NAT expression in pinealocytes and macrophages may represent the key mechanism for the switch in the source of melatonin from the pineal gland to immune-competent cells during the development of an inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Marcia Muxel
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Piesiewicz A, Kedzierska U, Adamska I, Usarek M, Zeman M, Skwarlo-Sonta K, Majewski PM. Pineal arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (Aanat) gene expression as a target of inflammatory mediators in the chicken. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2012; 179:143-51. [PMID: 22935823 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2012.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2012] [Revised: 08/02/2012] [Accepted: 08/10/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Previously, we demonstrated that experimental peritonitis in chickens was attenuated by treatment with exogenous melatonin, while the developing inflammation decreased pineal AANAT activity. This suggested the existence of a bidirectional relationship between the activated immune system and pineal gland function. The aim of the present study was to identify the step(s) in the chicken pineal melatonin biosynthetic pathway that are affected by inflammation. Peritonitis was evoked by i.p. injection of thioglycollate solution, either 2h after the start, or 2h before the end of the light period, and the animals were sacrificed 4h later. The effect of inflammation on the expression of genes encoding enzymes participating in melatonin biosynthesis in the pineal gland, i.e. tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (Tph1), dopa decarboxylase (Ddc), arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (Aanat) and acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase (Asmt), was evaluated by qPCR. The pineal and serum melatonin concentration as well as the content of its precursors in the pineal gland were measured, along with the activity of the relevant biosynthetic enzymes. Developing peritonitis caused an increase in the pineal levels of the Tph1 mRNA during the night and the Asmt mRNA during the day, while nocturnal Aanat transcription was reduced. Both the pineal and serum melatonin level and the pineal content of N-acetylserotonin (NAS) were decreased during the night in birds with peritonitis. The amount and activity of pineal AANAT were significantly reduced, while the activity of HIOMT was increased under these experimental conditions. These results indicate that the observed decrease in MEL biosynthesis in chickens with developing inflammation is a result of transcriptional downregulation of the Aanat gene, followed by reduced synthesis and activity of the encoded enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneta Piesiewicz
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096 Warsaw, Poland.
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Tanenhaus AK, Zhang J, Yin JCP. In vivo circadian oscillation of dCREB2 and NF-κB activity in the Drosophila nervous system. PLoS One 2012; 7:e45130. [PMID: 23077489 PMCID: PMC3471920 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0045130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Accepted: 08/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) are two ubiquitous transcription factors involved in a wide number of cellular processes, including the circadian system. Many previous studies on these factors use cellular assays that provide limited information on circadian activity or anatomical specificity. The ability to study transcription factors in defined tissue within intact animals will help to bridge the gap between cellular and in vivo data. We have used the GAL4-UAS and FLP-FRT systems to gain spatial control over reporter gene expression. Using a luciferase-based reporter, we show in vivo that Drosophila dCREB2- and NF-κB-mediated transcription oscillates in neuronal cells, glia, and in the mushroom body, a higher-order brain center in flies. This oscillation is under circadian control, cycling with a 24-hour rhythm, under both light-dark and dark-dark conditions. In light-light conditions, dCREB2 and NF-κB reporter flies exhibit a suppression of rhythmic activity. Furthermore, neuronal cycling of dCREB2 and NF-κB activity are modulated in period mutant flies, indicating these oscillations are controlled through the central clock. This study shows for the first time region-specific circadian oscillation of dCREB2/NF-κB activity in the Drosophila nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K. Tanenhaus
- Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Jiabin Zhang
- Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Jerry C. P. Yin
- Departments of Genetics and Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
- * E-mail:
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Neuroimmunomodulation in unipolar depression: a focus on chronobiology and chronotherapeutics. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2012; 119:1147-66. [PMID: 22653515 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-012-0819-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2012] [Accepted: 05/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The rising burden of unipolar depression along with its often related sleep disturbances, as well as increasing rates of sleep restriction in modern society, make the search for an extended understanding of the aetiology and pathophysiology of depression necessary. Accumulating evidence suggests an important role for the immune system in mediating disrupted neurobiological and chronobiological processes in depression. This review aims to provide an overview of the neuroimmunomodulatory processes involved with depression and antidepressant treatments with a special focus on chronobiology, chronotherapeutics and the emerging field of immune-circadian bi-directional crosstalk. Increasing evidence suggests that chronobiological disruption can mediate immune changes in depression, and likewise, immune processes can mediate chronobiological disruption. This may suggest a bi-directional relationship in immune-circadian crosstalk. Furthermore, given the immunomodulatory effects of antidepressants and chronotherapeutics, as well as their associated beneficial effects on circadian disturbance, we--and others--suggest that these therapeutic agents may exert their chronobiotic effects partially via the neuroimmune system. Further research is required to better elucidate the mechanisms of immune involvement in the chronobiology of depression.
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Ferreira ZS, Bothorel B, Markus RP, Simonneaux V. Plasma corticosterone elevation inhibits the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NFKB) in the Syrian hamster pineal gland. Stress 2012; 15:339-47. [PMID: 22043926 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2011.627070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluated how the mild stress-induced increase in endogenous corticosterone affected the pineal gland in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). The animals were maintained under constant light for 1 day, instead of a cycle of 14:10-h, to increase the circulating corticosterone levels during the daytime. The nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NFKB), which is the pivotal transcription factor for stress and injury, presented a daily rhythm in normal animals. NFKB nuclear content increased linearly from the onset of light [Zeitgeber Time 0 (ZT0)] until ZT11 and decreased after ZT12 when the plasma corticosterone peak was detected in normal animals. However, the 24-h profiles of the two curves were different, and they did not clearly support an exclusive relationship between corticosterone levels and NFKB content. Therefore, we tested the effect of increased endogenous corticosterone through inducing mild stress by maintaining daytime illumination for one night. This stressful condition, which increased daytime corticosterone levels, resulted in a daytime decrease in NFKB nuclear content, and this was inhibited by mifepristone. Overall, this study shows that NFKB has a daily rhythm in Syrian hamster pineal glands and, by increasing endogenous corticosterone with a stressful condition, NFKB activity is regulated. Therefore, this study suggests that the pineal gland in the Syrian hamster is a sensor of stressful conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z S Ferreira
- Laboratório de Cronofarmacologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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36
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Fonken LK, Haim A, Nelson RJ. Dim Light at Night Increases Immune Function in Nile Grass Rats, a Diurnal Rodent. Chronobiol Int 2012; 29:26-34. [DOI: 10.3109/07420528.2011.635831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Abstract
Antidepressant pharmacotherapy is to date the most often used treatment for depression, but the exact mechanism of action underlying its therapeutic effect is still unclear. Many theories have been put forward to account for depression, as well as antidepressant activity, but none of them is exhaustive. Neuroimmune endocrine impairment is found in depressed patients; high levels of circulating corticosteroids along with hyperactivation of the immune system, high levels of proinflammatory cytokines, low levels of melatonin in plasma and urine, and disentrainment of circadian rhythms have been demonstrated. Moreover, antidepressant treatment seems to correct or at least to interfere with these alterations. In this review, we summarize the complex neuroimmune endocrine and chronobiological alterations found in patients with depression and how these systems interact with each other. We also explain how antidepressant therapy can modify these systems, along with some possible mechanisms of action shown in animal and human models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Antonioli
- Psychoimmunology Translational Laboratory, Health Science Research Centre, Roehampton University, London, UK
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38
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Portaluppi F. The Medical Subject Headings® thesaurus remains inaccurate and incomplete for electronic indexing and retrieval of chronobiologic references. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2011. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2011.613619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Cell-autonomous circadian clock of hepatocytes drives rhythms in transcription and polyamine synthesis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:18560-5. [PMID: 22042857 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1115753108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The circadian clock generates daily rhythms in mammalian liver processes, such as glucose and lipid homeostasis, xenobiotic metabolism, and regeneration. The mechanisms governing these rhythms are not well understood, particularly the distinct contributions of the cell-autonomous clock and central pacemaker to rhythmic liver physiology. Through microarray expression profiling in Met murine hepatocytes (MMH)-D3, we identified over 1,000 transcripts that exhibit circadian oscillations, demonstrating that the cell-autonomous clock can drive many rhythms, and that MMH-D3 is a valid circadian model system. The genes represented by these circadian transcripts displayed both cophasic and antiphasic organization within a protein-protein interaction network, suggesting the existence of competition for binding sites or partners by genes of disparate transcriptional phases. Multiple pathways displayed enrichment in MMH-D3 circadian transcripts, including the polyamine synthesis module of the glutathione metabolic pathway. The polyamine synthesis module, which is highly associated with cell proliferation and whose products are required for initiation of liver regeneration, includes enzymes whose transcripts exhibit circadian oscillations, such as ornithine decarboxylase and spermidine synthase. Metabolic profiling revealed that the enzymatic product of spermidine synthase, spermidine, cycles as well. Thus, the cell-autonomous hepatocyte clock can drive a significant amount of transcriptional rhythms and orchestrate physiologically relevant modules such as polyamine synthesis.
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Carvalho-Sousa CE, da Silveira Cruz-Machado S, Tamura EK, Fernandes PACM, Pinato L, Muxel SM, Cecon E, Markus RP. Molecular basis for defining the pineal gland and pinealocytes as targets for tumor necrosis factor. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2011; 2:10. [PMID: 22654792 PMCID: PMC3356111 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2011.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2010] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The pineal gland, the gland that translates darkness into an endocrine signal by releasing melatonin at night, is now considered a key player in the mounting of an innate immune response. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF), the first pro-inflammatory cytokine to be released by an inflammatory response, suppresses the translation of the key enzyme of melatonin synthesis (arylalkylamine-N-acetyltransferase, Aanat). Here, we show that TNF receptors of the subtype 1 (TNF-R1) are expressed by astrocytes, microglia, and pinealocytes. We also show that the TNF signaling reduces the level of inhibitory nuclear factor kappa B protein subtype A (NFKBIA), leading to the nuclear translocation of two NFKB dimers, p50/p50, and p50/RelA. The lack of a transactivating domain in the p50/p50 dimer suggests that this dimer is responsible for the repression of Aanat transcription. Meanwhile, p50/RelA promotes the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and the production of nitric oxide, which inhibits adrenergically induced melatonin production. Together, these data provide a mechanistic basis for considering pinealocytes a target of TNF and reinforce the idea that the suppression of pineal melatonin is one of the mechanisms involved in mounting an innate immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Emanuele Carvalho-Sousa
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade de São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Eduardo Koji Tamura
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade de São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro A. C. M. Fernandes
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade de São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciana Pinato
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Therapy, Universidade Estadual PaulistaMarília, Brazil
| | - Sandra M. Muxel
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade de São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Erika Cecon
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade de São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| | - Regina P. Markus
- *Correspondence: Regina P. Markus, Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Institute of Bioscience, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, Travessa 14, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil. e-mail:
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Long-lasting priming of endothelial cells by plasma melatonin levels. PLoS One 2010; 5:e13958. [PMID: 21103056 PMCID: PMC2980478 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0013958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2010] [Accepted: 10/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endothelial cells are of great interest for cell therapy and tissue engineering. Understanding the heterogeneity among cell lines originating from different sources and culture protocols may allow more standardized material to be obtained. In a recent paper, we showed that adrenalectomy interferes with the expression of membrane adhesion molecules on endothelial cells maintained in culture for 16 to 18 days. In addition, the pineal hormone, melatonin, reduces the adhesion of neutrophils to post-capillary veins in rats. Here, we evaluated whether the reactivity of cultured endothelial cells maintained for more than two weeks in culture is inversely correlated to plasma melatonin concentration. Methodology/Principal Findings The nocturnal levels of melatonin were manipulated by treating rats with LPS. Nocturnal plasma melatonin, significantly reduced two hours after LPS treatment, returned to control levels after six hours. Endothelial cells obtained from animals that had lower nocturnal melatonin levels significantly express enhanced adhesion molecules and iNOS, and have more leukocytes adhered than cells from animals that had normal nocturnal levels of melatonin (naïve or injected with vehicle). Endothelial cells from animals sacrificed two hours after a simultaneous injection of LPS and melatonin present similar phenotype and function than those obtained from control animals. Analyzing together all the data, taking into account the plasma melatonin concentration versus the expression of adhesion molecules or iNOS we detected a significant inverse correlation. Conclusions/Significance Our data strongly suggest that the plasma melatonin level primes endothelial cells “in vivo,” indicating that the state of the donor animal is translated to cells in culture and therefore, should be considered for establishing cell banks in ideal conditions.
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da Silveira Cruz-Machado S, Carvalho-Sousa CE, Tamura EK, Pinato L, Cecon E, Fernandes PACM, de Avellar MCW, Ferreira ZS, Markus RP. TLR4 and CD14 receptors expressed in rat pineal gland trigger NFKB pathway. J Pineal Res 2010; 49:183-92. [PMID: 20586888 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2010.00785.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear factor-kappa B (NFKB), a pivotal player in inflammatory responses, is constitutively expressed in the pineal gland. Corticosterone inhibits pineal NFKB leading to an enhancement of melatonin production, while tumor necrosis factor (TNF) leads to inhibition of Aa-nat transcription and the production of N-acetylserotonin in cultured glands. The reduction in nocturnal melatonin surge favors the mounting of the inflammatory response. Despite these data, there is no clear evidence of the ability of the pineal gland to recognize molecules that signal infection. This study investigated whether the rat pineal gland expresses receptors for lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the endotoxin from the membranes of Gram-negative bacteria, and to establish the mechanism of action of LPS. Here, we show that pineal glands possess both CD14 and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), membrane proteins that bind LPS and trigger the NFKB pathway. LPS induced the nuclear translocation of p50/p50 and p50/RELA dimers and the synthesis of TNF. The maximal expression of TNF in cultured glands coincides with an increase in the expression of TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) in isolated pinealocytes. In addition, LPS inhibited the synthesis of N-acetylserotonin and melatonin. Therefore, the pineal gland transduces Gram-negative endotoxin stimulation by producing TNF and inhibiting melatonin synthesis. Here, we provide evidence to reinforce the idea of an immune-pineal axis, showing that the pineal gland is a constitutive player in the innate immune response.
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Radogna F, Diederich M, Ghibelli L. Melatonin: a pleiotropic molecule regulating inflammation. Biochem Pharmacol 2010; 80:1844-52. [PMID: 20696138 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2010.07.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2010] [Revised: 07/22/2010] [Accepted: 07/27/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin is a neurohormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates sleep and circadian functions. Melatonin also regulates inflammatory and immune processes acting as both an activator and inhibitor of these responses. Melatonin demonstrates endocrine, but also paracrine and autocrine effects in the leukocyte compartment: on one side, leukocytes respond to melatonin in a circadian fashion; on the other side, leukocytes are able to synthesize melatonin by themselves. With its endocrine and paracrine effects, melatonin differentially modulates pro-inflammatory enzymes, controls production of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and leukotrienes and regulates the lifespan of leukocytes by interfering with apoptotic processes. Moreover, its potent antioxidant ability allows scavenging of oxidative stress in the inflamed tissues. The interesting timing of pro- and anti-inflammatory effects, such as those affecting lipoxygenase activity, suggests that melatonin might promote early phases of inflammation on one hand and contribute to its attenuation on the other hand, in order to avoid complications of chronic inflammation. This review aims at giving a comprehensive overview of the various inflammatory pathways regulated by this pleiotropic hormone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Radogna
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Universita' di Roma Tor Vergata, Italy
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44
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Markus RP, Silva CLM, Franco DG, Barbosa EM, Ferreira ZS. Is modulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors by melatonin relevant for therapy with cholinergic drugs? Pharmacol Ther 2010; 126:251-62. [PMID: 20398699 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2010.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2010] [Accepted: 02/24/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin, the darkness hormone, synchronizes several physiological functions to light/dark cycle. Besides the awake/sleep cycle that is intuitively linked to day/night, daily variations in memory acquisition and innate or acquired immune responses are some of the major activities linked to melatonin rhythm. The daily variation of these complex processes is due to changes in specific mechanisms. In the last years we focused on the influence of melatonin on the expression and function of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Melatonin, either "in vivo" or "in vitro", increases, in a selective manner, the efficiency of alpha-bungarotoxin (alpha-BTX)-sensitive nAChRs. Melatonin's effect on receptors located in rat sympathetic nerve terminals, cerebellum, skeletal muscle and chick retina, was tested. We observed that melatonin is essential for the development of alpha-BTX-sensitive nAChRs, and important for receptor maintenance in aging models. Taking into account that both melatonin and alpha-7 nAChRs (one of the subtypes sensitive to alpha-BTX) are involved in the development of Alzheimer's disease, here we discuss the possibility of a therapeutic strategy focused on both melatonin replacement and its potential association with cholinergic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina P Markus
- Laboratory of Chronopharmacology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil.
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