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Hamidovic A, Cho S, Davis J. Positive association between dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and gene expression of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA-A) receptor δ subunit. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 241:106525. [PMID: 38636682 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABA-A) receptors in the cells of the immune system enhance anti-inflammatory responses by regulating cytokine secretion, cytotoxic responses, and cell activation. In the CNS, the formation of GABA-A subunits into a pentameric structure has been extensively studied; however, no such study has been conducted in the immune system. The objective of the present study was to examine associations between the levels of steroid hormones and GABA-A receptor δ subunit expression in the immune system. We focused on this subunit because GABA-A receptors that contain it become significantly more sensitive to steroid hormones. We collected 80 blood samples from reproductive age women for the purpose of analyzing dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), 17β-estradiol, progesterone, and allopregnanolone using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Furthermore, we extracted peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for determining mRNA expression levels of GABA-A receptor genes encoding the δ and ε subunits. We constructed linear mixed effect models for each GABA-A receptor subunit with all 4 steroid hormones, age, and age of menarche as predictors. Whereas DHEA was significantly associated with δ subunit expression (t-value = 2.981; p = 0.003), in line with our hypothesis, none of the steroid hormones were significantly associated with the expression of the ε subunit. Results of this study indicate that significant interactions between hormones from the steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway and GABAergic machinery from the immune cells may be utilized to expand models examining the molecular basis of inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajna Hamidovic
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Soojeong Cho
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John Davis
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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2
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McCurry MD, D'Agostino GD, Walsh JT, Bisanz JE, Zalosnik I, Dong X, Morris DJ, Korzenik JR, Edlow AG, Balskus EP, Turnbaugh PJ, Huh JR, Devlin AS. Gut bacteria convert glucocorticoids into progestins in the presence of hydrogen gas. Cell 2024:S0092-8674(24)00514-2. [PMID: 38795705 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that human-associated bacteria interact with host-produced steroids, but the mechanisms and physiological impact of such interactions remain unclear. Here, we show that the human gut bacteria Gordonibacter pamelaeae and Eggerthella lenta convert abundant biliary corticoids into progestins through 21-dehydroxylation, thereby transforming a class of immuno- and metabo-regulatory steroids into a class of sex hormones and neurosteroids. Using comparative genomics, homologous expression, and heterologous expression, we identify a bacterial gene cluster that performs 21-dehydroxylation. We also uncover an unexpected role for hydrogen gas production by gut commensals in promoting 21-dehydroxylation, suggesting that hydrogen modulates secondary metabolism in the gut. Levels of certain bacterial progestins, including allopregnanolone, better known as brexanolone, an FDA-approved drug for postpartum depression, are substantially increased in feces from pregnant humans. Thus, bacterial conversion of corticoids into progestins may affect host physiology, particularly in the context of pregnancy and women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan D McCurry
- Department of Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Gabriel D D'Agostino
- Department of Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jasmine T Walsh
- Department of Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jordan E Bisanz
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA 16802, USA
| | - Ines Zalosnik
- Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Xueyang Dong
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - David J Morris
- Emeritus Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University Alpert School of Medicine, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Joshua R Korzenik
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Andrea G Edlow
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Emily P Balskus
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Peter J Turnbaugh
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Chan Zuckerberg Biohub-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Jun R Huh
- Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - A Sloan Devlin
- Department of Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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3
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Phillips S, Chatham JC, McMahon L. Forskolin reverses the O-GlcNAcylation dependent decrease in GABAAR current amplitude at hippocampal synapses possibly through a neurosteroid site on GABAARs. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.06.583612. [PMID: 38496430 PMCID: PMC10942432 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.06.583612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
GABAergic transmission is influenced by post-translational modifications, like phosphorylation, impacting channel conductance, allosteric modulator sensitivity, and membrane trafficking. O-GlcNAcylation is a post-translational modification involving the O-linked attachment of β-N-acetylglucosamine on serine/threonine residues. Previously we reported an acute increase in O-GlcNAcylation elicits a long-term depression of evoked GABAAR inhibitory post synaptic currents (eIPSCs) onto hippocampal principal cells. Importantly O-GlcNAcylation and phosphorylation can co-occur or compete for the same residue; whether they interact in modulating GABAergic IPSCs is unknown. We tested this by recording IPSCs from hippocampal principal cells and pharmacologically increased O-GlcNAcylation, before or after increasing serine phosphorylation using the adenylate cyclase activator, forskolin. Although forskolin had no significant effect on baseline eIPSC amplitude, we found that a prior increase in O-GlcNAcylation unmasks a forskolin-dependent increase in eIPSC amplitude, reversing the O-GlcNAc-induced eIPSC depression. Inhibition of adenylate cyclase or protein kinase A did not prevent the potentiating effect of forskolin, indicating serine phosphorylation is not the mechanism. Surprisingly, increasing O-GlcNAcylation also unmasked a potentiating effect of the neurosteroids 5α-pregnane-3α,21-diol-20-one (THDOC) and progesterone on eIPSC amplitude, mimicking forskolin. Our findings show under conditions of heightened O-GlcNAcylation, the neurosteroid site on synaptic GABAARs is accessible to agonists, permitting strengthening of synaptic inhibition.
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4
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Benarroch E. What Is the Role of the "GABA Tone" in Normal and Pathological Conditions? Neurology 2024; 102:e209152. [PMID: 38252909 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000209152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
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5
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Rehm K, Hankele AK, Ulbrich SE, Bigler L. Quantification of glucocorticoid and progestogen metabolites in bovine plasma, skimmed milk and saliva by UHPLC-HR-MS with polarity switching. Anal Chim Acta 2024; 1287:342118. [PMID: 38182350 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.342118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Steroid metabolites are increasingly in focus when searching for novel biomarkers in physiological mechanisms and their disorders. While major steroids such as progesterone and cortisol are well-researched and routinely determined to assess the health, particularly the reproductive status of mammals, the function of potentially biologically active progestogen and glucocorticoid metabolites is widely unexplored. One of the main reasons for this is the lack of comprehensive, sensitive, and specific analytical methods. This is particularly the case when analyzing matrices like milk or saliva obtained by non-invasive sampling with steroid concentrations often below those present in plasma. Therefore, a new UHPLC-HR-MS method based on an Ultimate UHPLC system equipped with an Acquity HSS T3 reversed-phase column and a Q Exactive™ mass spectrometer was developed, enabling the simultaneous chromatographic separation, detection and quantification of eleven isobaric glucocorticoids (11-dehydrocorticosterone (A), corticosterone (B), cortisol (F), cortisone (E), the tetrahydrocortisols (THF): 3α,5α-THF, 3α,5β-THF, 3β,5α-THF, 3β,5β-THF, and the tetrahydrocortisones (THE): 3α,5α-THE, 3α,5β-THE, 3β,5α-THE) and twelve progestogens (progesterone (P4), pregnenolone (P5), the dihydroprogesterones (DHP): 20α-DHP, 20β-DHP, 3α-DHP, 3β-DHP, 5α-DHP, 5β-DHP, and the tetrahydroprogesterones (THP): 3α,5α-THP, 3α,5β-THP, 3β,5α-THP, 3β,5β-THP) in bovine plasma, skimmed milk, and saliva. A simple liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) with MTBE (methyl tert-butyl ether) was used for sample preparation of 500 μL plasma, skimmed milk, and saliva. Heated electrospray ionization (HESI) with polarity switching was applied to analyze steroids in high-resolution full scan mode (HR-FS). The method validation covered the investigation of sensitivity, selectivity, curve fitting, carry-over, accuracy, precision, recovery, matrix effects and applicability. A high sensitivity in the range of pg mL-1 was achieved for all steroids suitable for the analysis of authentic samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karoline Rehm
- University of Zurich, Department of Chemistry, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anna-Katharina Hankele
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Universitaetstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susanne E Ulbrich
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Universitaetstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Laurent Bigler
- University of Zurich, Department of Chemistry, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Gore IR, Gould E. Developmental and adult stress: effects of steroids and neurosteroids. Stress 2024; 27:2317856. [PMID: 38563163 PMCID: PMC11046567 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2024.2317856] [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: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
In humans, exposure to early life adversity has profound implications for susceptibility to developing neuropsychiatric disorders later in life. Studies in rodents have shown that stress experienced during early postnatal life can have lasting effects on brain development. Glucocorticoids and sex steroids are produced in endocrine glands and the brain from cholesterol; these molecules bind to nuclear and membrane-associated steroid receptors. Unlike other steroids that can also be made in the brain, neurosteroids bind specifically to neurotransmitter receptors, not steroid receptors. The relationships among steroids, neurosteroids, and stress are multifaceted and not yet fully understood. However, studies demonstrating altered levels of progestogens, androgens, estrogens, glucocorticoids, and their neuroactive metabolites in both developmental and adult stress paradigms strongly suggest that these molecules may be important players in stress effects on brain circuits and behavior. In this review, we discuss the influence of developmental and adult stress on various components of the brain, including neurons, glia, and perineuronal nets, with a focus on sex steroids and neurosteroids. Gaining an enhanced understanding of how early adversity impacts the intricate systems of brain steroid and neurosteroid regulation could prove instrumental in identifying novel therapeutic targets for stress-related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isha R Gore
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Elizabeth Gould
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
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7
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Vallée M. Advances in steroid research from the pioneering neurosteroid concept to metabolomics: New insights into pregnenolone function. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 72:101113. [PMID: 37993022 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Advances in neuroendocrinology have led to major discoveries since the 19th century, identifying adaptive loops for maintaining homeostasis. One of the most remarkable discoveries was the concept of neurosteroids, according to which the brain is not only a target but also a source of steroid production. The identification of new membrane steroid targets now underpins the neuromodulatory effects of neurosteroids such as pregnenolone, which is involved in functions mediated by the GPCR CB1 receptor. Structural analysis of steroids is a key feature of their interactions with the phospholipid membrane, receptors and resulting activity. Therefore, mass spectrometry-based methods have been developed to elucidate the metabolic pathways of steroids, the ultimate approach being metabolomics, which allows the identification of a large number of metabolites in a single sample. This approach should enable us to make progress in understanding the role of neurosteroids in the functioning of physiological and pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Vallée
- University Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, F-33000 Bordeaux, France.
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8
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Mısır E, Alıcı YH, Kocak OM. Functional connectivity in rumination: a systematic review of magnetic resonance imaging studies. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2023; 45:928-955. [PMID: 38346167 DOI: 10.1080/13803395.2024.2315312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rumination, defined as intrusive and repetitive thoughts in response to negative emotions, uncertainty, and inconsistency between goal and current situation, is a significant risk factor for depressive disorders. The rumination literature presents diverse findings on functional connectivity and shows heterogeneity in research methods. This systematic review seeks to integrate these findings and provide readers diverse perspectives. METHOD For this purpose, the literature on functional connectivity in rumination was reviewed according to the PRISMA guidelines. Regional connectivity and network connectivity results were scrutinized according to the presence of depression, research methods, and type of rumination. After screening 492 articles, a total of 36 studies were included. RESULTS The results showed that increased connectivity of the default mode network (DMN) was consistently reported. Other important findings include alterations in the connectivity between the DMN and the frontoparietal network and the salience network (SN) and impaired regulatory function of the SN. Region-level connectivity studies consistently show that increased connectivity between the posterior cingulate cortex and the prefrontal cortex is associated with rumination, which may cause the loss of control of the frontoparietal network over self-referential processes. We have seen that the number of studies examining brooding and reflective rumination as separate dimensions are relatively limited. Although there are overlaps between the connectivity patterns of the two types of rumination in these studies, it can be thought that reflective rumination is more associated with more increased functional connectivity of the prefrontal cortex. CONCLUSIONS Although there are many consistent functional connectivity outcomes associated with trait rumination, less is known about connectivity changes during state rumination. Relatively few studies have taken into account the subjective aspect of this thinking style. In order to better explain the relationship between rumination and depression, rumination induction studies during episode and remission periods of depression are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Mısır
- Department of Psychiatry, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Interdisciplinary Neuroscience, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yasemin Hoşgören Alıcı
- Department of Psychiatry, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Interdisciplinary Neuroscience, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Orhan Murat Kocak
- Department of Psychiatry, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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9
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Hannan SB, Penzinger R, Mickute G, Smart TG. CGP7930 - An allosteric modulator of GABA BRs, GABA ARs and inwardly-rectifying potassium channels. Neuropharmacology 2023; 238:109644. [PMID: 37422181 PMCID: PMC10951960 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Type-A and -B GABA receptors (GABAARs/GABABRs) control brain function and behaviour by fine tuning neurotransmission. Over-time these receptors have become important therapeutic targets for treating neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. Several positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of GABARs have reached the clinic and selective targeting of receptor subtypes is crucial. For GABABRs, CGP7930 is a widely used PAM for in vivo studies, but its full pharmacological profile has not yet been established. Here, we reveal that CGP7930 has multiple effects not only on GABABRs but also GABAARs, which for the latter involves potentiation of GABA currents, direct receptor activation, and also inhibition. Furthermore, at higher concentrations, CGP7930 also blocks G protein-coupled inwardly-rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels diminishing GABABR signalling in HEK 293 cells. In male and female rat hippocampal neuron cultures, CGP7930 allosteric effects on GABAARs caused prolonged rise and decay times and reduced the frequency of inhibitory postsynaptic currents and potentiated GABAAR-mediated tonic inhibition. Additional comparison between predominant synaptic- and extrasynaptic-isoforms of GABAAR indicated no evident subtype selectivity for CGP7930. In conclusion, our study of CGP7930 modulation of GABAARs, GABABRs and GIRK channels, indicates this compound is unsuitable for use as a specific GABABR PAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad B Hannan
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - Reka Penzinger
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Ginte Mickute
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Trevor G Smart
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
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10
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Pradhan AK, Neumüller T, Klug C, Fuchs S, Schlegel M, Ballmann M, Tartler KJ, Pianos A, Garcia MS, Liere P, Schumacher M, Kreuzer M, Rupprecht R, Rammes G. Chronic administration of XBD173 ameliorates cognitive deficits and neuropathology via 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:332. [PMID: 37891168 PMCID: PMC10611770 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02630-z] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of β-amyloid peptide (Aβ). It affects cognition and leads to memory impairment. The mitochondrial translocator protein (TSPO) plays an essential role in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and has been implicated in several neuronal disorders or neuronal injuries. Ligands targeting the mitochondrial translocator protein (18 kDa), promote neurosteroidogenesis and may be neuroprotective. To study whether the TSPO ligand XBD173 may exert early neuroprotective effects in AD pathology we investigated the impact of XBD173 on amyloid toxicity and neuroplasticity in mouse models of AD. We show that XBD173 (emapunil), via neurosteroid-mediated signaling and delta subunit-containing GABAA receptors, prevents the neurotoxic effect of Aβ on long-term potentiation (CA1-LTP) in the hippocampus and prevents the loss of spines. Chronic but not acute administration of XBD173 ameliorates spatial learning deficits in transgenic AD mice with arctic mutation (ArcAβ). The heterozygous TSPO-knockout crossed with the transgenic arctic mutation model of AD mice (het TSPOKO X ArcAβ) treated with XBD173 does not show this improvement in spatial learning suggesting TSPO is needed for procognitive effects of XBD173. The neuroprotective profile of XBD173 in AD pathology is further supported by a reduction in plaques and soluble Aβ levels in the cortex, increased synthesis of neurosteroids, rescued spine density, reduction of complement protein C1q deposits, and reduced astrocytic phagocytosis of functional synapses both in the hippocampus and cortex. Our findings suggest that XBD173 may exert therapeutic effects via TSPO in a mouse model of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpit Kumar Pradhan
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany.
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Tatjana Neumüller
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia Klug
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Severin Fuchs
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Schlegel
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Ballmann
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Johanna Tartler
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Antoine Pianos
- U1195 Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, 94276, France
| | - Maria Sanchez Garcia
- U1195 Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, 94276, France
| | - Philippe Liere
- U1195 Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, 94276, France
| | - Michael Schumacher
- U1195 Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, 94276, France
| | - Matthias Kreuzer
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Rainer Rupprecht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gerhard Rammes
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
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11
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Park SB, Koh B, Kwon HS, Kim YE, Kim SS, Cho SH, Kim TY, Bae MA, Kang D, Kim CH, Kim KY. Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis of Neurotransmitter and Neurosteroid Production in Cerebral Organoids during Differentiation. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:3761-3771. [PMID: 37796021 PMCID: PMC10587864 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the human brain, neurophysiological activity is modulated by the movement of neurotransmitters and neurosteroids. To date, the similarity between cerebral organoids and actual human brains has been evaluated using comprehensive multiomics approaches. However, a systematic analysis of both neurotransmitters and neurosteroids from cerebral organoids has not yet been reported. Here, we performed quantitative and qualitative assessments of neurotransmitters and neurosteroids over the course of cerebral organoid differentiation. Our multiomics approaches revealed that the expression levels of neurotransmitter-related proteins and RNA, including neurosteroids, increase as cerebral organoids mature. We also found that the electrophysiological activity of human cerebral organoids increases in tandem with the expression levels of both neurotransmitters and neurosteroids. Our study demonstrates that the expression levels of neurotransmitters and neurosteroids can serve as key factors in evaluating the maturity and functionality of human cerebral organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Bum Park
- Therapeutics
and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Byumseok Koh
- Therapeutics
and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Soo Kwon
- Group
for Biometrology, Korea Research Institute
of Standards and Science (KRISS), 267 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Republic
of Korea
- School
of Earth Sciences & Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Eun Kim
- Group
for Biometrology, Korea Research Institute
of Standards and Science (KRISS), 267 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Republic
of Korea
- School
of Earth Sciences & Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Soon Kim
- Therapeutics
and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hee Cho
- Chemical
Platform Technology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Young Kim
- School
of Earth Sciences & Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung Ae Bae
- Therapeutics
and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Dukjin Kang
- Group
for Biometrology, Korea Research Institute
of Standards and Science (KRISS), 267 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Republic
of Korea
| | - Chul Hoon Kim
- Department
of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Yonsei
University, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Republic
of Korea
| | - Ki Young Kim
- Therapeutics
and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
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12
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Cook JE, Platt DM, Rüedi-Bettschen D, Rowlett JK. Behavioral effects of triazolam and pregnanolone combinations: reinforcing and sedative-motor effects in female rhesus monkeys. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1142531. [PMID: 37252149 PMCID: PMC10213563 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1142531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Benzodiazepines (BZs) are prescribed as anxiolytics, but their use is limited by side effects including abuse liability and daytime drowsiness. Neuroactive steroids are compounds that, like BZs, modulate the effects of GABA at the GABAA receptor. In a previous study, combinations of the BZ triazolam and neuroactive steroid pregnanolone produced supra-additive (i.e., greater than expected effects based on the drugs alone) anxiolytic effects but infra-additive (i.e., lower than expected effects based on the drugs alone) reinforcing effects in male rhesus monkeys, suggestive of an improved therapeutic window. Methods Female rhesus monkeys (n=4) self-administered triazolam, pregnanolone, and triazolam-pregnanolone combinations intravenously under a progressive-ratio schedule. In order to assess characteristic sedative-motor effects of BZ-neuroactive steroid combinations, female rhesus monkeys (n=4) were administered triazolam, pregnanolone, and triazolam-pregnanolone combinations. Trained observers, blinded to condition, scored the occurrence of species-typical and drug-induced behaviors. Results In contrast to our previous study with males, triazolam-pregnanolone combinations had primarily supra-additive reinforcing effects in three monkeys but infra-additive reinforcing effects in one monkey. Scores for deep sedation (i.e., defined as atypical loose-limbed posture, eyes closed, does not respond to external stimuli) and observable ataxia (any slip, trip, fall, or loss of balance) were significantly increased by both triazolam and pregnanolone. When combined, triazolam-pregnanolone combinations had supra-additive effects for inducing deep sedation, whereas observable ataxia was attenuated, likely due to the occurrence of robust sedative effects. Discussion These results suggest that significant sex differences exist in self-administration of BZ-neuroactive steroid combinations, with females likely to show enhanced sensitivity to reinforcing effects compared with males. Moreover, supra-additive sedative effects occurred for females, demonstrating a higher likelihood of this adverse effect when these drug classes are combined.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - James K. Rowlett
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Center for Innovation and Discovery in Addictions, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
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Mucci V, Demori I, Browne CJ, Deblieck C, Burlando B. Fibromyalgia in Pregnancy: Neuro-Endocrine Fluctuations Provide Insight into Pathophysiology and Neuromodulation Treatment. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020615. [PMID: 36831148 PMCID: PMC9953487 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain disorder with unclear pathophysiological mechanisms, which leads to challenges in patient management. In addition to pain, the disorder presents with a broad range of symptoms, such as sleep disruption, chronic fatigue, brain fog, depression, muscle stiffness, and migraine. FM has a considerable female prevalence, and it has been shown that symptoms are influenced by the menstrual cycle and periods of significant hormonal and immunological changes. There is increasing evidence that females with FM experience an aggravation of symptoms in pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester and after childbirth. In this perspective paper, we focus on the neuro-endocrine interactions that occur between progesterone, allopregnanolone, and cortisol during pregnancy, and propose that they align with our previously proposed model of FM pathogenesis based on GABAergic "weakening" in a thalamocortical neural loop system. Based on our hypothesis, we introduce the possibility of utilizing transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as a non-invasive treatment potentially capable of exerting sex-specific effects on FM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Mucci
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Ilaria Demori
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Corso Europa, 26, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Cherylea J. Browne
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia
- Translational Neuroscience Facility, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- Brain Stimulation and Rehabilitation (BrainStAR) Lab, School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia
| | - Choi Deblieck
- Antwerp Management School, University of Antwerp, Boogkeers 5, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bruno Burlando
- Department of Pharmacy, DIFAR, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
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14
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Sun C, Zhu H, Clark S, Gouaux E. Regulated assembly and neurosteroid modulation constrain GABA A receptor pharmacology in vivo. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.16.528867. [PMID: 36824901 PMCID: PMC9949137 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.16.528867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Type A GABA receptors (GABA A Rs) are the principal inhibitory receptors in the brain and the target of a wide range of clinical agents, including anesthetics, sedatives, hypnotics, and antidepressants. However, our understanding of GABA A R pharmacology has been hindered by the vast number of pentameric assemblies that can be derived from a total 19 different subunits and the lack of structural knowledge of clinically relevant receptors. Here, we isolate native murine GABA A R assemblies containing the widely expressed α 1 subunit, and elucidate their structures in complex with drugs used to treat insomnia (zolpidem and flurazepam) and postpartum depression (the neurosteroid allopregnanolone). Using cryo-EM analysis and single-molecule photobleaching experiments, we uncover only three structural populations in the brain: the canonical α 1 β2γ 2 receptor containing two α 1 subunits and two unanticipated assemblies containing one α 1 and either an α 2 , α 3 or α 5 subunit. Both of the noncanonical assemblies feature a more compact arrangement between the transmembrane and extracellular domains. Interestingly, allopregnanolone is bound at the transmembrane α/β subunit interface, even when not added to the sample, revealing an important role for endogenous neurosteroids in modulating native GABA A Rs. Together with structurally engaged lipids, neurosteroids produce global conformational changes throughout the receptor that modify both the pore diameter and binding environments for GABA and insomnia medications. Together, our data reveal that GABA A R assembly is a strictly regulated process that yields a small number of structurally distinct complexes, defining a structural landscape from which subtype-specific drugs can be developed.
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15
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Neurotoxicity evoked by organophosphates and available countermeasures. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:39-72. [PMID: 36335468 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03397-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Organophosphorus compounds (OP) are a constant problem, both in the military and in the civilian field, not only in the form of acute poisoning but also for their long-lasting consequences. No antidote has been found that satisfactorily protects against the toxic effects of organophosphates. Likewise, there is no universal cure to avert damage after poisoning. The key mechanism of organophosphate toxicity is the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase. The overstimulation of nicotinic or muscarinic receptors by accumulated acetylcholine on a synaptic cleft leads to activation of the glutamatergic system and the development of seizures. Further consequences include generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), neuroinflammation, and the formation of various other neuropathologists. In this review, we present neuroprotection strategies which can slow down the secondary nerve cell damage and alleviate neurological and neuropsychiatric disturbance. In our opinion, there is no unequivocal approach to ensure neuroprotection, however, sooner the neurotoxicity pathway is targeted, the better the results which can be expected. It seems crucial to target the key propagation pathways, i.e., to block cholinergic and, foremostly, glutamatergic cascades. Currently, the privileged approach oriented to stimulating GABAAR by benzodiazepines is of limited efficacy, so that antagonizing the hyperactivity of the glutamatergic system could provide an even more efficacious approach for terminating OP-induced seizures and protecting the brain from permanent damage. Encouraging results have been reported for tezampanel, an antagonist of GluK1 kainate and AMPA receptors, especially in combination with caramiphen, an anticholinergic and anti-glutamatergic agent. On the other hand, targeting ROS by antioxidants cannot or already developed neuroinflammation does not seem to be very productive as other processes are also involved.
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16
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Gao Q, Sun W, Wang YR, Li ZF, Zhao F, Geng XW, Xu KY, Chen D, Liu K, Xing Y, Liu W, Wei S. Role of allopregnanolone-mediated γ-aminobutyric acid A receptor sensitivity in the pathogenesis of premenstrual dysphoric disorder: Toward precise targets for translational medicine and drug development. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1140796. [PMID: 36937732 PMCID: PMC10017536 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1140796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) can be conceptualized as a disorder of suboptimal sensitivity to neuroactive steroid hormones. Its core symptoms (emotional instability, irritability, depression, and anxiety) are related to the increase of stress sensitivity due to the fluctuation of hormone level in luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. In this review, we describe the emotional regulatory effect of allopregnanolone (ALLO), and summarize the relationship between ALLO and γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor subunits based on rodent experiments and clinical observations. A rapid decrease in ALLO reduces the sensitivity of GABAA receptor, and reduces the chloride influx, hindered the inhibitory effect of GABAergic neurons on pyramidal neurons, and then increased the excitability of pyramidal neurons, resulting in PMDD-like behavior. Finally, we discuss in depth the treatment of PMDD with targeted GABAA receptors, hoping to find a precise target for drug development and subsequent clinical application. In conclusion, PMDD pathophysiology is rooted in GABAA receptor sensitivity changes caused by rapid changes in ALLO levels. Targeting GABAA receptors may alleviate the occurrence of PMDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Gao
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yue-Rui Wang
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zi-Fa Li
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Feng Zhao
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xi-Wen Geng
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Kai-Yong Xu
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Kun Liu
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Ying Xing
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Encephalopathy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Wei Liu,
| | - Sheng Wei
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Sheng Wei,
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Wendler A, Wehling M. Many or too many progesterone membrane receptors? Clinical implications. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2022; 33:850-868. [PMID: 36384863 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Several receptors for nongenomically initiated actions of progesterone (P4) exist, namely membrane-associated P4 receptors (MAPRs), membrane progestin receptors (mPRs), receptors for neurosteroids [GABAA receptor (GABAAR), NMDA receptor, sigma-1 and -2 receptors (S1R/S2R)], the classical genomic P4 receptor (PGR), and α/β hydrolase domain-containing protein 2 (ABHD2). Two drugs related to this field have been approved: brexanolone (Zulresso™) for the treatment of postpartum depression, and ganaxolone (Ztalmy™) for the treatment of CDKL5 deficiency disorder. Both are derivatives of P4 and target the GABAAR. Several other indications are in clinical testing. CT1812 (Elayta™) is also being tested for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in Phase 2 clinical trials, targeting the P4 receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1)/S2R complex. In this Review, we highlight emerging knowledge on the mechanisms of nongenomically initiated actions of P4 and its derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Wendler
- Clinical Pharmacology Mannheim, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Martin Wehling
- Clinical Pharmacology Mannheim, Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167 Mannheim, Germany.
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18
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Ali AB, Islam A, Constanti A. The fate of interneurons, GABA A receptor sub-types and perineuronal nets in Alzheimer's disease. Brain Pathol 2022; 33:e13129. [PMID: 36409151 PMCID: PMC9836378 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurological disease, which is associated with gradual memory loss and correlated with synaptic hyperactivity and abnormal oscillatory rhythmic brain activity that precedes phenotypic alterations and is partly responsible for the spread of the disease pathology. Synaptic hyperactivity is thought to be because of alteration in the homeostasis of phasic and tonic synaptic inhibition, which is orchestrated by the GABAA inhibitory system, encompassing subclasses of interneurons and GABAA receptors, which play a vital role in cognitive functions, including learning and memory. Furthermore, the extracellular matrix, the perineuronal nets (PNNs) which often go unnoticed in considerations of AD pathology, encapsulate the inhibitory cells and neurites in critical brain regions and have recently come under the light for their crucial role in synaptic stabilisation and excitatory-inhibitory balance and when disrupted, serve as a potential trigger for AD-associated synaptic imbalance. Therefore, in this review, we summarise the current understanding of the selective vulnerability of distinct interneuron subtypes, their synaptic and extrasynaptic GABAA R subtypes as well as the changes in PNNs in AD, detailing their contribution to the mechanisms of disease development. We aim to highlight how seemingly unique malfunction in each component of the interneuronal GABA inhibitory system can be tied together to result in critical circuit dysfunction, leading to the irreversible symptomatic damage observed in AD.
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19
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Gabrb2 knock-out mice exhibit double-directed PMDD-like symptoms: GABAAR subunits, neurotransmitter metabolism disruption, and allopregnanolone binding. Aging (Albany NY) 2022; 14:8437-8447. [PMID: 36287173 PMCID: PMC9648806 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe mood disorder with pathological changes rooted in GABRB2 copy number variation. Here, we aimed to elucidate the gene dose effect and allopregnanolone binding mechanism of Gabrb2 on possible PMDD-like and comorbid phenotypes in knockout mice. Methods: PMDD-like behaviors of Gabrb2-knockout mice were measured through various tests. Western Blot and ELISA were used to detect changes in the GABAAR subunits and related neurotransmitter changes in mice respectively for the internal mechanism. The response of mice to allopregnanolone (ALLO) was examined through an exogenous ALLO injection, then validated by the patch-clamp technique to elaborate the potential mechanism of ALLO-mediated GABAAR. Results: Gabrb2-knockout mice displayed changes in anxiety-like and depression-like emotions opposite to PMDD symptoms, changes in social, learning, and memory capacities similar to PMDD symptoms, and pain threshold changes opposite to PMDD symptoms. GABAAR δ subunit expression in the brains of the Gabrb2-knockout mice was significantly higher than that of Wild-type mice (P<0.05). Gabrb2-knockout mice demonstrated neurotransmitter metabolism disturbance of GABA, Glu, acetylcholine, DA, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Moreover, Gabrb2-knockout mice did not display the expected phenotypic effect after ALLO injection. Relative to WT mice, the knockout of the β2 subunit gene enhanced the agonistic effect of ALLO on GABAA receptors in cortical neuronal cells. Conclusions: GABAAR β 2 regulates PMDD-like behaviors. The ALLO binding site may not be located on β two subunits, abnormal δ and ε subunit expression in the mouse brain and the disturbance of neurotransmitters may result in ALLO sensitivity.
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20
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Wang YM, Xia CY, Jia HM, He J, Lian WW, Yan Y, Wang WP, Zhang WK, Xu JK. Sigma-1 receptor: A potential target for the development of antidepressants. Neurochem Int 2022; 159:105390. [PMID: 35810915 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2022.105390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Though a great many of studies on the development of antidepressants for the therapy of major depression disorder (MDD) and the development of antidepressants have been carried out, there still lacks an efficient approach in clinical practice. The involvement of Sigma-1 receptor in the pathological process of MDD has been verified. In this review, recent research focusing on the role of Sigma-1 receptor in the etiology of MDD were summarized. Preclinical studies and clinical trials have found that stress induce the variation of Sigma-1 receptor in the blood, brain and heart. Dysfunction and absence of Sigma-1 receptor result in depressive-like behaviors in rodent animals. Agonists of Sigma-1 receptor show not only antidepressant-like activities but also therapeutical effects in complications of depression. The mechanisms underlying antidepressant-like effects of Sigma-1 receptor may include suppressing neuroinflammation, regulating neurotransmitters, ameliorating brain-derived neurotrophic factor and N-Methyl-D-Aspartate receptor, and alleviating the endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondria damage during stress. Therefore, Sigma-1 receptor represents a potential target for antidepressants development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ming Wang
- School of Life Sciences & School of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, PR China; Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Cong-Yuan Xia
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Hong-Mei Jia
- Key Laboratory of Radiopharmaceuticals (Beijing Normal University), Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jun He
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Wen-Wen Lian
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Yu Yan
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Wen-Ping Wang
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Wei-Ku Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences & Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, PR China.
| | - Jie-Kun Xu
- School of Life Sciences & School of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, PR China.
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21
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Winek K, Tzur Y, Soreq H. Biological underpinnings of sex differences in neurological disorders. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 164:27-67. [PMID: 36038206 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The importance of sex differences in neurological disorders has been increasingly acknowledged in recent clinical and basic research studies, but the complex biology and genetics underlying sex-linked biological heterogeneity and its brain-to-body impact remained incompletely understood. Men and women differ substantially in their susceptibility to certain neurological diseases, in the severity of symptoms, prognosis as well as the nature and efficacy of their response to treatments. The detailed mechanisms underlying these differences, especially at the molecular level, are being addressed in many studies but leave a lot to be further revealed. Here, we provide an overview of recent advances in our understanding of how sex differences in the brain and brain-body signaling contribute to neurological disorders and further present some future prospects entailed in terms of diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Winek
- The Edmond & Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel; The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yonat Tzur
- The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hermona Soreq
- The Edmond & Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel; The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
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22
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Harrington YA, Parisi JM, Duan D, Rojo-Wissar DM, Holingue C, Spira AP. Sex Hormones, Sleep, and Memory: Interrelationships Across the Adult Female Lifespan. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:800278. [PMID: 35912083 PMCID: PMC9331168 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.800278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
As the population of older adults grows, so will the prevalence of aging-related conditions, including memory impairments and sleep disturbances, both of which are more common among women. Compared to older men, older women are up to twice as likely to experience sleep disturbances and are at a higher risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). These sex differences may be attributed in part to fluctuations in levels of female sex hormones (i.e., estrogen and progesterone) that occur across the adult female lifespan. Though women tend to experience the most significant sleep and memory problems during the peri-menopausal period, changes in memory and sleep have also been observed across the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy. Here, we review current knowledge on the interrelationships among female sex hormones, sleep, and memory across the female lifespan, propose possible mediating and moderating mechanisms linking these variables and describe implications for ADRD risk in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin A. Harrington
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jeanine M. Parisi
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Daisy Duan
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Darlynn M. Rojo-Wissar
- The Initiative on Stress, Trauma, and Resilience (STAR), Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Calliope Holingue
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Adam P. Spira
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Johns Hopkins Center on Aging and Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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23
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Feng YH, Lim SW, Lin HY, Wang SA, Hsu SP, Kao TJ, Ko CY, Hsu TI. Allopregnanolone suppresses glioblastoma survival through decreasing DPYSL3 and S100A11 expression. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 219:106067. [PMID: 35114375 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2022.106067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Allopregnanolone (allo) is a physiological regulator of neuronal activity that treats multiple neurological disorders. Allo penetrates the blood-brain barrier with very high efficiency, implying that allo can treat CNS-related diseases, including glioblastoma (GBM), which always recurs after standard therapy. Hence, this study aimed to determine whether allo has a therapeutic effect on GBM. We found that allo enhanced temozolomide (TMZ)-suppressed cell survival and proliferation of TMZ-resistant cells. In particular, allo enhanced TMZ-inhibited cell migration and TMZ-induced apoptosis. Additionally, allo strongly induced DNA damage characterized by γH2Ax. Furthermore, quantitative proteomic analysis, iTRAQ, showed that allo significantly decreased the levels of DPYSL3, S100A11, and S100A4, reflecting the poor prognosis of patients with GBM confirmed by differential gene expression and survival analysis. Moreover, single-cell RNA-Seq revealed that S100A11, expressed in malignant cells, oligodendrocytes, and macrophages, was significantly associated with immune cell infiltration. Furthermore, overexpression of DPYSL3 or S100A11 prevented allo-induced cell death. In conclusion, allo suppresses GBM cell survival by decreasing DPYSL3/S100A11 expression and inducing DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sher-Wei Lim
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan; Department of Neurosurgery, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan 722, Taiwan; Department of Nursing, Min-Hwei College of Health Care Management, Tainan 736, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Yi Lin
- Graduate Institute of Neural Regenerative Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan; The Ph.D. Program for Neural Regenerative Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Shao-An Wang
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Po Hsu
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Jen Kao
- Graduate Institute of Neural Regenerative Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan; The Ph.D. Program for Neural Regenerative Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan; International Master Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan; TMU Research Center of Neuroscience, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chiung-Yuan Ko
- Graduate Institute of Neural Regenerative Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan; The Ph.D. Program for Neural Regenerative Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan; International Master Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan; TMU Research Center of Neuroscience, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan.
| | - Tsung-I Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Neural Regenerative Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan; The Ph.D. Program for Neural Regenerative Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan; International Master Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan; TMU Research Center of Neuroscience, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan; TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei 110, Taiwan.
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Veselinović T, Neuner I. Progress and Pitfalls in Developing Agents to Treat Neurocognitive Deficits Associated with Schizophrenia. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:819-858. [PMID: 35831706 PMCID: PMC9345797 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00935-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia (CIAS) represent a central element of the symptomatology of this severe mental disorder. CIAS substantially determine the disease prognosis and hardly, if at all, respond to treatment with currently available antipsychotics. Remarkably, all drugs presently approved for the treatment of schizophrenia are, to varying degrees, dopamine D2/D3 receptor blockers. In turn, rapidly growing evidence suggests the immense significance of systems other than the dopaminergic system in the genesis of CIAS. Accordingly, current efforts addressing the unmet needs of patients with schizophrenia are primarily based on interventions in other non-dopaminergic systems. In this review article, we provide a brief overview of the available evidence on the importance of specific systems in the development of CIAS. In addition, we describe the promising targets for the development of new drugs that have been used so far. In doing so, we present the most important candidates that have been investigated in the field of the specific systems in recent years and present a summary of the results available at the time of drafting this review (May 2022), as well as the currently ongoing studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Veselinović
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine 4, INM-4, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
| | - Irene Neuner
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine 4, INM-4, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- JARA-BRAIN, Aachen, Germany
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25
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Littlejohn EL, Boychuk CR. Protein Kinase C-Dependent Effects of Neurosteroids on Synaptic GABA A Receptor Inhibition Require the δ-Subunit. Front Physiol 2021; 12:742838. [PMID: 34759836 PMCID: PMC8573421 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.742838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV) contains preganglionic motor neurons important for interpreting sensory input from the periphery, integrating that information, and coding the appropriate parasympathetic (vagal) output to target organs. Despite the critical role of hormonal regulation of vagal motor output, few studies examine the role of neurosteroids in the regulation of the DMV. Of the few examinations, no studies have investigated the potential impact of allopregnanolone (Allo), a neuroactive progesterone-derivative, in the regulation of neurotransmission on the DMV. Since DMV neuronal function is tightly regulated by GABAA receptor activity and Allo is an endogenous GABAA receptor ligand, the present study used in vitro whole cell patch clamp to investigate whether Allo alters GABAergic neurotransmission to DMV neurons. Although Allo did not influence GABAergic neurotransmission during initial application (5-20 min), a TTX-insensitive prolongment of decay time and increase in frequency of GABAergic currents was established after Allo was removed from the bath for at least 30 min (LtAllo). Inhibition of protein kinase C (PKC) abolished these effects, suggesting that PKC is largely required to mediate Allo-induced inhibition of the DMV. Using mice that lack the δ-subunit of the GABAA receptor, we further confirmed that PKC-dependent activity of LtAllo required this subunit. Allo also potentiated GABAA receptor activity after a repeated application of δ-subunit agonist, suggesting that the presence of Allo encodes stronger δ-subunit-mediated inhibition over time. Using current clamp recording, we demonstrated that LtAllo-induced inhibition is sufficient to decrease action potential firing and excitability within DMV neurons. We conclude that the effects of LtAllo on GABAergic inhibition are dependent on δ-subunit and PKC activation. Taken together, DMV neurons can undergo long lasting Allo-dependent GABAA receptor plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carie R. Boychuk
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Long College of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
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26
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Xu J, Zhou Y, Yan C, Wang X, Lou J, Luo Y, Gao S, Wang J, Wu L, Gao X, Shao A. Neurosteroids: A novel promise for the treatment of stroke and post-stroke complications. J Neurochem 2021; 160:113-127. [PMID: 34482541 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Stroke is the primary reason for death and disability worldwide, with few treatment strategies to date. Neurosteroids, which are natural molecules in the brain, have aroused great interest in the field of stroke. Neurosteroids are a kind of steroid that acts on the nervous system, and are synthesized in the mitochondria of neurons or glial cells using cholesterol or other steroidal precursors. Neurosteroids mainly include estrogen, progesterone (PROG), allopregnanolone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and vitamin D (VD). Most of the preclinical studies have confirmed that neurosteroids can decrease the risk of stroke, and improve stroke outcomes. In the meantime, neurosteroids have been shown to have a positive therapeutic significance in some post-stroke complications, such as epilepsy, depression, anxiety, cardiac complications, movement disorders, and post-stroke pain. In this review, we report the historical background, modulatory mechanisms of neurosteroids in stroke and post-stroke complications, and emphasize on the application prospect of neurosteroids in stroke therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunxiang Zhou
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Caochong Yan
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianyao Lou
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi Luo
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Changxing Branch), Changxing, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shiqi Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junjie Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liang Wu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiangfu Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Anwen Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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27
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Ghit A, Assal D, Al-Shami AS, Hussein DEE. GABA A receptors: structure, function, pharmacology, and related disorders. J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2021; 19:123. [PMID: 34417930 PMCID: PMC8380214 DOI: 10.1186/s43141-021-00224-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Background γ-Aminobutyric acid sub-type A receptors (GABAARs) are the most prominent inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors in the CNS. They are a family of ligand-gated ion channel with significant physiological and therapeutic implications. Main body GABAARs are heteropentamers formed from a selection of 19 subunits: six α (alpha1-6), three β (beta1-3), three γ (gamma1-3), three ρ (rho1-3), and one each of the δ (delta), ε (epsilon), π (pi), and θ (theta) which result in the production of a considerable number of receptor isoforms. Each isoform exhibits distinct pharmacological and physiological properties. However, the majority of GABAARs are composed of two α subunits, two β subunits, and one γ subunit arranged as γ2β2α1β2α1 counterclockwise around the center. The mature receptor has a central chloride ion channel gated by GABA neurotransmitter and modulated by a variety of different drugs. Changes in GABA synthesis or release may have a significant effect on normal brain function. Furthermore, The molecular interactions and pharmacological effects caused by drugs are extremely complex. This is due to the structural heterogeneity of the receptors, and the existence of multiple allosteric binding sites as well as a wide range of ligands that can bind to them. Notably, dysfunction of the GABAergic system contributes to the development of several diseases. Therefore, understanding the relationship between GABAA receptor deficits and CNS disorders thus has a significant impact on the discovery of disease pathogenesis and drug development. Conclusion To date, few reviews have discussed GABAA receptors in detail. Accordingly, this review aims to summarize the current understanding of the structural, physiological, and pharmacological properties of GABAARs, as well as shedding light on the most common associated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amr Ghit
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy. .,Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research (IGSR), Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Dina Assal
- Department of Biotechnology, American University in Cairo (AUC), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Al-Shami
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research (IGSR), Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.,Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Diaa Eldin E Hussein
- Animal Health Research Institute (AHRI), Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Port of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
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28
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Batallán Burrowes AA, Sundarakrishnan A, Bouhour C, Chapman CA. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1 enhances excitatory synaptic responses in the entorhinal cortex. Hippocampus 2021; 31:1191-1201. [PMID: 34399010 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Activation of estrogen receptors is thought to modulate cognitive function in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and striatum by affecting both excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission. The entorhinal cortex is a major source of cortical sensory and associational input to the hippocampus, but it is unclear whether either estrogens or progestogens may modulate cognitive function through effects on synaptic transmission in the entorhinal cortex. This study assessed the effects of the brief application of either 17-β estradiol (E2) or progesterone on excitatory glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the female rat entorhinal cortex in vitro. Rats were ovariectomized on postnatal day (PD) 63 and also received subdermal E2 implants to maintain constant low levels of circulating E2 on par with estrus. Electrophysiological recordings from brain slices were obtained between PD70 and PD86, and field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) reflecting the activation of the superficial layers of the entorhinal cortex were evoked by the stimulation of layer I afferents. The application of E2 (10 nM) for 20 min resulted in a small increase in the amplitude of fEPSPs that reversed during the 30-min washout period. The application of the ERα agonist propylpyrazoletriol (PPT) (100 nM) or the β agonist DPN (1 μM) did not significantly affect synaptic responses. However, the application of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1 (GPER1) agonist G1 (100 nM) induced a reversible increase in fEPSP amplitude similar to that induced by E2. Furthermore, the potentiation of responses induced by G1 was blocked by the GPER1 antagonist G15 (1 μM). Application of progesterone (100 nM) or its metabolite allopregnanolone (1 μM) did not significantly affect synaptic responses. The potentiation of synaptic transmission in the entorhinal cortex induced by the activation of GPER1 receptors may contribute to the modulation of cognitive function in female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel A Batallán Burrowes
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Adithi Sundarakrishnan
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Camille Bouhour
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Clifton Andrew Chapman
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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29
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Manna SSS. Possible influence of neurosteroids in the anxiolytic effects of alpha-casozepine. Med Hypotheses 2021; 155:110655. [PMID: 34392107 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2021.110655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Alpha-casozepine (α CZP), a tryptic hydrolysate of milk casein is a decapeptide shown to promote sleep and produce anxiolytic or anticonvulsant activity. Intriguingly, studies indicate structural similarities to benzodiazepine (BZD)-like molecules (e.g., diazepam), resulting in positive modulation of γ-aminobutyric acid A type (GABAA) receptors. However, some unexplained anomalous behaviour of α-CZP includes 1) 1000 times less affinity for BZD site on GABAA receptor in vitro conditions, whereas in vivo it showed 10-fold increased affinity when compared to diazepam; 2) anxiolytic effects were observed only in stressed conditions and 3) unlike diazepam, it failed to exhibit dependence or habituation. Interestingly, neurosteroids like allopregnanolone or its analogues that are synthesized de novo have both genomic and non-genomic actions. The rapid nongenomic neuronal inhibition of these compounds is mediated by GABAA receptors through autocrine and paracrine actions. Studies have shown that changes in the levels of neurosteroids during acute (rise) and chronic stress (decreased), consequently, altering the senetivity of GABAA receptor subunits. Neurosteroids even at low concentration (nanomolar range) potentiate the response of GABA indirectly, while at higher concentrations they directly activate the receptor-channel complex. Interestingly, coadministration of neurosteroids and BZPs has shown not only to prevent the development of tolerance of BZP and augmented recovery from BZP withdrawal anxiety and hyperactivity in mice. The combination also produced synergetic anxiolytic effects. Taken together, the evidence suggests possible implications of neurosteroids in the actions of CZP via BZD receptors. The present hypothesis brings out the possible role of neurosteroids and the various factors that might participate in CZP-induce anxiolytic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyamshree S S Manna
- Dr. B. C. Roy College of Pharmacy Allied Health Sciences, Dr Meghnad Saha Sarani, Bidhannagar, Durgapur 713206, West Bengal, India.
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30
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Lin YC, Papadopoulos V. Neurosteroidogenic enzymes: CYP11A1 in the central nervous system. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 62:100925. [PMID: 34015388 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Neurosteroids, steroid hormones synthesized locally in the nervous system, have important neuromodulatory and neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system. Progress in neurosteroid research has led to the successful translation of allopregnanolone into an approved therapy for postpartum depression. However, there is insufficient evidence to support the assumption that steroidogenesis is exactly the same between the nervous system and the periphery. This review focuses on CYP11A1, the only enzyme currently known to catalyze the first reaction in steroidogenesis to produce pregnenolone, the precursor to all other steroids. Although CYP11A1 mRNA has been found in brain of many mammals, the presence of CYP11A1 protein has been difficult to detect, particularly in humans. Here, we highlight the discrepancies in the current evidence for CYP11A1 in the central nervous system and propose new directions for understanding neurosteroidogenesis, which will be crucial for developing neurosteroid-based therapies for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Christina Lin
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Vassilios Papadopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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31
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Kaleta M, Oklestkova J, Novák O, Strnad M. Analytical Methods for the Determination of Neuroactive Steroids. Biomolecules 2021; 11:553. [PMID: 33918915 PMCID: PMC8068886 DOI: 10.3390/biom11040553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroactive steroids are a family of all steroid-based compounds, of both natural and synthetic origin, which can affect the nervous system functions. Their biosynthesis occurs directly in the nervous system (so-called neurosteroids) or in peripheral endocrine tissues (hormonal steroids). Steroid hormone levels may fluctuate due to physiological changes during life and various pathological conditions affecting individuals. A deeper understanding of neuroactive steroids' production, in addition to reliable monitoring of their levels in various biological matrices, may be useful in the prevention, diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of some neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. The aim of this review is to highlight the most relevant methods currently available for analysis of neuroactive steroids, with an emphasis on immunoanalytical methods and gas, or liquid chromatography combined with mass spectrometry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jana Oklestkova
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Faculty of Science and Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, CZ-78371 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (M.K.); (O.N.); (M.S.)
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32
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Rehm K, Hankele AK, Ulbrich SE, Bigler L. Simultaneous quantification of progestogens in plasma and serum by UHPLC-HRMS employing multiplexed targeted single ion monitoring. Talanta 2021; 232:122358. [PMID: 34074386 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2021.122358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone is the predominant gestagen in most mammals studied so far. It plays a substantial role in the regulation of the female reproductive cycle and in providing support for pregnancy maintenance. Despite its known functions, gaps in knowledge are present regarding its reduced metabolites that potentially exert biological activity. Therefore, a new UHPLC-HRMS method based on a Q Exactive™ mass spectrometer was developed to detect and quantify simultaneously progesterone, its hormone precursor pregnenolone and 10 reduced progestogens (20α-DHP, 20β-DHP, 3α,5α-THP, 3α,5β-THP, 3β,5α-THP, 3β,5β-THP, 3α-DHP, 3β-DHP, 5α-DHP and 5β-DHP) in plasma and serum samples. Purification was achieved by an optimized solid phase extraction (SPE) and the analysis was conducted in positive electrospray ionization (ESI) mode with the application of multiplexed selected ion monitoring (msx-t-SIM). The method validation included the study of sensitivity, selectivity, curve fitting, carry-over, accuracy, precision, recovery and matrix effects. Despite the poor ionization properties of underivatized steroids, a high sensitivity in the range of pg/mL was achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Rehm
- University of Zurich, Department of Chemistry, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A K Hankele
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Universitätstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - S E Ulbrich
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Universitätstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - L Bigler
- University of Zurich, Department of Chemistry, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
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33
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Cerrah Gunes M, Gunes MS, Vural A, Aybuga F, Bayram A, Bayram KK, Sahin MI, Dogan ME, Ozdemir SY, Ozkul Y. Change in gene expression levels of GABA, glutamate and neurosteroid pathways due to acoustic trauma in the cochlea. J Neurogenet 2021; 35:45-57. [PMID: 33825593 DOI: 10.1080/01677063.2021.1904922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The characteristic feature of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the loss or malfunction of the outer hair cells (OHC) and the inner hair cells (IHC) of the cochlea. 90-95% of the spiral ganglion neurons, forming the cell bodies of cochlear nerve, synapse with the IHCs. Glutamate is the most potent excitatory neurotransmitter for IHC-auditory nerve synapses. Excessive release of glutamate in response to acoustic trauma (AT), may cause excitotoxicity by causing damage to the spiral ganglion neurons (SGN) or loss of the spiral ganglion dendrites, post-synaptic to the IHCs. Another neurotransmitter, GABA, plays an important role in the processing of acoustic stimuli and central regulation after peripheral injury, so it is potentially related to the regulation of hearing function and sensitivity after noise. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of AT on the expressions of glutamate excitotoxicity, GABA inhibition and neurosteroid synthesis genes.We exposed 24 BALB/c mice to AT. Controls were sacrificed without exposure to noise, Post-AT(1) and Post-AT(15) were sacrificed on the 1st and 15th day, respectively, after noise exposure. The expressions of various genes playing roles in glutamate, GABA and neurosteroid pathways were compared between groups by real-time PCR.Expressions of Cyp11a1, Gls, Gabra1, Grin2b, Sult1a1, Gad1, and Slc1a2 genes in Post-AT(15) mice were significantly decreased in comparison to control and Post-AT(1) mice. No significant differences in the expression of Slc6a1 and Slc17a8 genes was detected.These findings support the possible role of balance between glutamate excitotoxicity and GABA inhibition is disturbed during the post AT days and also the synthesis of some neurosteroids such as pregnenolone sulfate may be important in this balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meltem Cerrah Gunes
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Murat Salih Gunes
- Department of Otolaryngology, Izmit Seka State Hospital, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Alperen Vural
- Department of Otolaryngology, School of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | | | - Arslan Bayram
- Etlik Zübeyde Hanım Women's Diseases Education and Research Hospital, Health Sciences University, T.R. Ministry of Health, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Keziban Korkmaz Bayram
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Yıldirim Beyazit University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Ilhan Sahin
- Department of Otolaryngology, School of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Muhammet Ensar Dogan
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Sevda Yesim Ozdemir
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Uskudar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Ozkul
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.,Center of Genome and Stem Cell, Kayseri, Turkey
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Correa-Calderón A, Hernández-Rivera JA, Avendaño-Reyes L, Diaz-Molina R, Macias-Cruz U. Progesterone supplementation in Holstein heifers subjected to cooling and timed AI during summer: physiological and reproductive variables and thyroid hormone concentrations. Trop Anim Health Prod 2021; 53:249. [PMID: 33822302 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-021-02688-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Our aim was to evaluate the effects of progesterone supplementation after fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) on physiological and reproductive variables and serum thyroid hormone concentrations of cooled Holstein heifers during a hot summer season. Sixty-nine Holstein heifers were randomly assigned to three treatments: (1) heifers under visual estrus detection and inseminated according to AM-PM rule (n = 23; control (C)), (2) heifers subjected to FTAI after estrus synchronization using a CIDR insert (n = 24; FTAI group), and (3) heifers treated as the FTAI group plus progesterone supplementation between the day 4 and 14 post-insemination with a reused CIDR device (n = 22; FTAI+SP4 group). All heifers were cooled daily with misting and fans. Physiological variables were measured; likewise, blood samples were collected to determine serum progesterone, thyroxine, and triiodothyronine concentrations. Both respiration rate and rectal temperature were similar among treatments. Conception rate was greater (P < 0.05) in C (65.2%) and FTAI+SP4 (59.1%) heifers than in FTAI heifers (33.3%). Serum triiodothyronine and progesterone concentrations of FTAI+SP4 heifers were similar to those of C heifers but greater (P < 0.05) than those of FTAI heifers. In conclusion, progesterone supplementation post-insemination increased conception rate and serum progesterone concentrations without affecting thermoregulation capacity in Holstein heifers subjected to FTAI and cooling during a hot summer season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abelardo Correa-Calderón
- Instituto de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Valle de Mexicali, BC, 21705, México
| | - Juan A Hernández-Rivera
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad de Colima, Tecomán, Colima, 28930, México
| | - Leonel Avendaño-Reyes
- Instituto de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Valle de Mexicali, BC, 21705, México
| | - Raúl Diaz-Molina
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Mexicali, BC, México
| | - Ulises Macias-Cruz
- Instituto de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Valle de Mexicali, BC, 21705, México.
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35
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Silverå Ejneby M, Gromova A, Ottosson NE, Borg S, Estrada-Mondragón A, Yazdi S, Apostolakis P, Elinder F, Delemotte L. Resin-acid derivatives bind to multiple sites on the voltage-sensor domain of the Shaker potassium channel. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:211862. [PMID: 33683319 PMCID: PMC7944402 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated potassium (KV) channels can be opened by negatively charged resin acids and their derivatives. These resin acids have been proposed to attract the positively charged voltage-sensor helix (S4) toward the extracellular side of the membrane by binding to a pocket located between the lipid-facing extracellular ends of the transmembrane segments S3 and S4. By contrast to this proposed mechanism, neutralization of the top gating charge of the Shaker KV channel increased resin-acid-induced opening, suggesting other mechanisms and sites of action. Here, we explore the binding of two resin-acid derivatives, Wu50 and Wu161, to the activated/open state of the Shaker KV channel by a combination of in silico docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and electrophysiology of mutated channels. We identified three potential resin-acid-binding sites around S4: (1) the S3/S4 site previously suggested, in which positively charged residues introduced at the top of S4 are critical to keep the compound bound, (2) a site in the cleft between S4 and the pore domain (S4/pore site), in which a tryptophan at the top of S6 and the top gating charge of S4 keeps the compound bound, and (3) a site located on the extracellular side of the voltage-sensor domain, in a cleft formed by S1-S4 (the top-VSD site). The multiple binding sites around S4 and the anticipated helical-screw motion of the helix during activation make the effect of resin-acid derivatives on channel function intricate. The propensity of a specific resin acid to activate and open a voltage-gated channel likely depends on its exact binding dynamics and the types of interactions it can form with the protein in a state-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Silverå Ejneby
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Arina Gromova
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nina E Ottosson
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Stina Borg
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Samira Yazdi
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Panagiotis Apostolakis
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Elinder
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lucie Delemotte
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
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36
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Kim JJ, Hibbs RE. Direct Structural Insights into GABA A Receptor Pharmacology. Trends Biochem Sci 2021; 46:502-517. [PMID: 33674151 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2021.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
GABAA receptors are pentameric ligand-gated ion channels that mediate most fast neuronal inhibition in the brain. In addition to their important physiological roles, they are noteworthy in their rich pharmacology; prominent drugs used for anxiety, insomnia, and general anesthesia act through positive modulation of GABAA receptors. Direct structural information for how these drugs work was absent until recently. Efforts in structural biology over the past few years have revealed how important drug classes and natural products interact with the GABAA receptor, providing a foundation for studies in dynamics and structure-guided drug design. Here, we review recent developments in GABAA receptor structural pharmacology, focusing on subunit assemblies of the receptor found at synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Joo Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Ryan E Hibbs
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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37
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Han W, Shepard RD, Lu W. Regulation of GABA ARs by Transmembrane Accessory Proteins. Trends Neurosci 2021; 44:152-165. [PMID: 33234346 PMCID: PMC7855156 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2020.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The vast majority of fast inhibitory transmission in the brain is mediated by GABA acting on GABAA receptors (GABAARs), which provides inhibitory balance to excitatory drive and controls neuronal output. GABAARs are also effectively targeted by clinically important drugs for treatment in a number of neurological disorders. It has long been hypothesized that function and pharmacology of GABAARs are determined by the channel pore-forming subunits. However, recent studies have provided new dimensions in studying GABAARs due to several transmembrane proteins that interact with GABAARs and modulate their trafficking and function. In this review, we summarize recent findings on these novel GABAAR transmembrane regulators and highlight a potential avenue to develop new GABAAR psychopharmacology by targeting these receptor-associated membrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyan Han
- Synapse and Neural Circuit Research Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Ryan D Shepard
- Synapse and Neural Circuit Research Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Wei Lu
- Synapse and Neural Circuit Research Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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38
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Fruzzetti F, Fidecicchi T. Hormonal Contraception and Depression: Updated Evidence and Implications in Clinical Practice. Clin Drug Investig 2021; 40:1097-1106. [PMID: 32980990 DOI: 10.1007/s40261-020-00966-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hormonal contraceptives are used worldwide by more than 100 million women. Some studies have been published about the possible appearance of depressive symptoms when using hormonal contraceptives, but this link is still a matter of debate. The purpose of this review is to provide an update of the literature on this issue, and to investigate the possible explanations of this problem based on animal and human studies. The main pathway responsible for menstrual cycle-related mood changes is the γ-aminobutyric acid pathway, which is sensitive to changes in the levels of progesterone and of its metabolites, the neurosteroids. In particular, allopregnanolone is a potentiating neurosteroid with anxiolytic and anti-convulsant effects whose levels change during a normal menstrual cycle together with progesterone levels. Progestins have different effects on allopregnanolone, mainly owing to their diverse androgenicity. Moreover, they might affect brain structure and function, even though the meaning of these changes has yet to be clarified. It is important to define the groups of women in which negative mood disorders are more likely to occur. Adolescence is a critical period and this age-specific vulnerability is complex and likely bidirectional. Moreover, women with a history of mood affective disorders or premenstrual dysphoric syndrome are at a higher risk when taking contraceptives. In this review, we aim to provide clinicians with advice on how to approach these difficult situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franca Fruzzetti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pisa University Hospital of S. Chiara, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Via Roma 65, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Fidecicchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pisa University Hospital of S. Chiara, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Via Roma 65, 56126, Pisa, Italy
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39
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Dornellas APS, Macedo GC, McFarland MH, Gómez-A A, O'Buckley TK, Da Cunha C, Morrow AL, Robinson DL. Allopregnanolone Decreases Evoked Dopamine Release Differently in Rats by Sex and Estrous Stage. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:608887. [PMID: 33519475 PMCID: PMC7840599 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.608887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesolimbic dopamine transmission is dysregulated in multiple psychiatric disorders, including addiction. Previous studies found that the endogenous GABAergic steroid (3α,5α)-3-hydroxy-5-pregnan-20-one (allopregnanolone) modulates dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex. As allopregnanolone is a potent positive allosteric modulator of GABAA receptors, and GABAA receptors can regulate dopamine release, we hypothesized that allopregnanolone would reduce phasic fluctuations in mesolimbic dopamine release that are important in learning and reward processing. We used fast-scan cyclic voltammetry in anesthetized female and male rats to measure dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens evoked by electrical stimulation of the ventral tegmental area, before and after administration of allopregnanolone. Allopregnanolone (7.5–25 mg/kg, IP) reduced evoked dopamine release in both male and female rats, compared to β-cyclodextrin vehicle. In males, all doses of allopregnanolone decreased dopamine transmission, with stronger effects at 15 and 25 mg/kg allopregnanolone. In females, 15 and 25 mg/kg allopregnanolone reduced dopamine release, while 7.5 mg/kg allopregnanolone was no different from vehicle. Since allopregnanolone is derived from progesterone, we hypothesized that high endogenous progesterone levels would result in lower sensitivity to allopregnanolone. Consistent with this, females in proestrus (high progesterone levels) were less responsive to allopregnanolone than females in other estrous cycle stages. Furthermore, 30 mg/kg progesterone reduced evoked dopamine release in males, similar to allopregnanolone. Our findings confirm that allopregnanolone reduces evoked dopamine release in both male and female rats. Moreover, sex and the estrous cycle modulated this effect of allopregnanolone. These results extend our knowledge about the pharmacological effects of neurosteroids on dopamine transmission, which may contribute to their therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula S Dornellas
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Laboratório de Fisiologia e Farmacologia do Paraná, Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Giovana C Macedo
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Psychobiology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, UNIFESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Minna H McFarland
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Alexander Gómez-A
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Todd K O'Buckley
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Claudio Da Cunha
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Farmacologia do Paraná, Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - A Leslie Morrow
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Donita L Robinson
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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40
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Jimenez-Sánchez GL, Segovia-Mendoza M, Figueroa A, Lemini C. Potential Estrogenic Properties of 17β-Hydroxy-ethylimine Estradiol Derivative Targeted to Menopause Stage. Biol Pharm Bull 2021; 44:63-68. [PMID: 33390551 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b20-00596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Hormone replacement therapy during menopause increases the risk of thromboembolic diseases and cancer, so safety alternative therapeutic strategies are needed. 17β-Aminoestrogens are a synthetic estrogens group that possess mild anticoagulant activity that contrasts with the pro-coagulant effects showed by estradiol's (E2) in rodents. Being considered an alternative to conventional hormone replacement therapy during menopause without thrombogenic risks producing. The present study aimed to determine the estrogenic profile and anxiolytic activity of 17β-[hydroxy-ethylimine]-1,3,5(10)-estratrien-3-ol (IE2), a related compound unknown until now. METHODS IE2 was assessed in immature rats by uterotrophic assay administering IE2, E2, or vehicle. In ovariectomized adult Wistar rats (Ovx) to facilitating the lordotic behavior compared with E2, estradiol benzoate, or vehicle. The effect of IE2 on anxiety was estimated in Ovx animals treated with IE2, E2, or vehicle group and evaluated in the elevated plus-maze model. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION IE2 produced an uterotrophic effect, lordotic behavior, and anxiolytic effect in a dose-dependent manner, similar to E2. IE2 depicted estrogenicity, indicating potential clinical use as hormone replacement therapy during menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guadalupe Luisa Jimenez-Sánchez
- Departament of Pharmacology, National Autonomous University of Mexico. Av. Universidad No. 3000, Ciudad Universitaria, Colonia Copilco Universidad
| | - Mariana Segovia-Mendoza
- Departament of Pharmacology, National Autonomous University of Mexico. Av. Universidad No. 3000, Ciudad Universitaria, Colonia Copilco Universidad
| | - Alejandra Figueroa
- Departament of Pharmacology, National Autonomous University of Mexico. Av. Universidad No. 3000, Ciudad Universitaria, Colonia Copilco Universidad
| | - Cristina Lemini
- Departament of Pharmacology, National Autonomous University of Mexico. Av. Universidad No. 3000, Ciudad Universitaria, Colonia Copilco Universidad
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41
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Johannsen ML, Munkboel CH, Jørgensen FS, Styrishave B. Is the unique benzodiazepine structure interacting with CYP enzymes to affect steroid synthesis in vitro? J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 205:105765. [PMID: 32991989 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2020.105765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this project was to investigate the endocrine disrupting effects of three γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor (GABAAR) agonists, diazepam (DZ), oxazepam (OX) and alprazolam (AL) using the steroidogenic in vitro H295R cell line assay, a recombinant CYP17A1 assay, qPCR analysis and computational modelling. Similar effects for DZ and OX on the steroidogenesis were observed in the H295R experiment at therapeutically relevant concentrations. Progestagens and corticosteroids were increased up to 10 fold and androgens were decreased indicating CYP17A1 lyase inhibition. For DZ the inhibition on both the hydroxylase and lyase was confirmed by the recombinant CYP17A1 assay, whereas OX did not appear to directly affect the recombinant CYP17A1 enzyme. Androgens were decreased when exposing the H295R cells to AL, indicating a CYP17A1 lyase inhibition. However, this was not confirmed by the recombinant CYP17A1 assay but a down-regulation in gene expression was observed for StAR and CYP17A1. The present study showed that the three investigated benzodiazepines (BZDs) are rather potent endocrine disruptors in vitro, exerting endocrine effects close the therapeutic Cmax. Both direct and indirect effects on steroidogenesis were observed, but molecular modelling indicated no direct interactions between the heme group in the steroidogenic CYP enzymes and the unique diazepin structure. In contrast, physicochemical properties such as high log P, structure and molecular weight similar to that of steroids appeared to influence the endocrine disrupting abilities of the investigated pharmaceuticals in vitro. Docking of the three BZDs in CYP17A1 and CYP21A2 confirmed that shape complementarity and hydrophobic effects seem to determine the binding modes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malene Louise Johannsen
- Toxicology and Drug Metabolism Group, Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100, Copenhagen OE, Denmark
| | - Cecilie Hurup Munkboel
- Toxicology and Drug Metabolism Group, Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100, Copenhagen OE, Denmark
| | - Flemming Steen Jørgensen
- Section of Biostructural Research, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100, Copenhagen, OE, Denmark
| | - Bjarne Styrishave
- Toxicology and Drug Metabolism Group, Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100, Copenhagen OE, Denmark.
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42
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Sedley L. Advances in Nutritional Epigenetics-A Fresh Perspective for an Old Idea. Lessons Learned, Limitations, and Future Directions. Epigenet Insights 2020; 13:2516865720981924. [PMID: 33415317 PMCID: PMC7750768 DOI: 10.1177/2516865720981924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nutritional epigenetics is a rapidly expanding field of research, and the natural modulation of the genome is a non-invasive, sustainable, and personalized alternative to gene-editing for chronic disease management. Genetic differences and epigenetic inflexibility resulting in abnormal gene expression, differential or aberrant methylation patterns account for the vast majority of diseases. The expanding understanding of biological evolution and the environmental influence on epigenetics and natural selection requires relearning of once thought to be well-understood concepts. This research explores the potential for natural modulation by the less understood epigenetic modifications such as ubiquitination, nitrosylation, glycosylation, phosphorylation, and serotonylation concluding that the under-appreciated acetylation and mitochondrial dependant downstream epigenetic post-translational modifications may be the pinnacle of the epigenomic hierarchy, essential for optimal health, including sustainable cellular energy production. With an emphasis on lessons learned, this conceptional exploration provides a fresh perspective on methylation, demonstrating how increases in environmental methane drive an evolutionary down regulation of endogenous methyl groups synthesis and demonstrates how epigenetic mechanisms are cell-specific, making supplementation with methyl cofactors throughout differentiation unpredictable. Interference with the epigenomic hierarchy may result in epigenetic inflexibility, symptom relief and disease concomitantly and may be responsible for the increased incidence of neurological disease such as autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda Sedley
- Bachelor of Health Science (Nutritional Medicine),
GC Biomedical Science (Genomics), The Research and Educational Institute of
Environmental and Nutritional Epigenetics, Queensland, Australia
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43
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Aleman M, Chigerwe M, Varga A, Madigan JE. Steroid precursors, steroids, neuroactive steroids, and neurosteroids concentrations in serum and saliva of healthy neonatal heifer Holstein calves. J Vet Intern Med 2020; 34:2767-2775. [PMID: 33201530 PMCID: PMC7694825 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persistence of high neurosteroid concentrations in blood is associated with neonatal encephalopathy and septicemia in foals. This has not been investigated in calves. OBJECTIVES To determine concentrations of steroid compounds in serum and saliva within the first 48 hours after birth in healthy neonatal calves, identify potential markers for disease, and investigate the association between serum steroid compounds concentrations in calves and their respective dams within 2 hours after birth. ANIMALS Twelve healthy neonatal heifer Holstein calves and their dams. METHODS Prospective study. Serum and saliva were collected from calves at 2, 6, 24, and 48 hours after birth. Steroid compounds were analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. A nonlinear regression model was used to determine half-lives of the neurosteroids. Serum concentrations of neurosteroids between the cows and calves were compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. RESULTS Half-lives (95% confidence intervals) of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and 17α,20α-dihydroxyprogesterone in calf serum were 2.9 (2.1, 4.3), and 2.1 (1.3, 3.0) hours, respectively. Pregnanediol in saliva had a half-life (95% confidence interval) of 24.5 (14.2, 66.5) hours. Serum DHEA (1718.7 ± 2313 vs 57.7 ± 44) and 17α,20α-dihydroxyprogesterone (207.8 ± 198.2 vs 43.5 ± 33.5) concentrations respectively were higher (P < .05) in calves compared to cows. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Dehydroepiandrosterone, 17α,20α-dihydroxyprogesterone, and pregnanediol could be potential markers of disease in neonatal heifer calves with unexplained failure to thrive or encephalopathy. However, because of the wide 95% confidence interval of the half-life, pregnanediol in saliva might not be a potential marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Aleman
- Department of Medicine and EpidemiologySchool of Veterinary Medicine, University of CaliforniaDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - Munashe Chigerwe
- Department of Medicine and EpidemiologySchool of Veterinary Medicine, University of CaliforniaDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - Anita Varga
- Department of Medicine and EpidemiologySchool of Veterinary Medicine, University of CaliforniaDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - John E. Madigan
- Department of Medicine and EpidemiologySchool of Veterinary Medicine, University of CaliforniaDavisCaliforniaUSA
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44
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Guignet M, Campbell A, White HS. Cenobamate (XCOPRI): Can preclinical and clinical evidence provide insight into its mechanism of action? Epilepsia 2020; 61:2329-2339. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.16718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Guignet
- Department of Pharmacy School of Pharmacy University of Washington Seattle WA USA
| | - Amanda Campbell
- Department of Pharmacy School of Pharmacy University of Washington Seattle WA USA
| | - H. Steve White
- Department of Pharmacy School of Pharmacy University of Washington Seattle WA USA
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45
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Gholaminejad A, Gholamipour-Badie H, Nasehi M, Naghdi N. Prelimbic of Medial Prefrontal Cortex GABA Modulation through Testosterone on Spatial Learning and Memory. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2020; 18:1429-1444. [PMID: 32641952 PMCID: PMC6934985 DOI: 10.22037/ijpr.2019.1100745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Prefrontal cortex (PFC) is involved in multiple functions including attentional processes, spatial orientation, short-term memory, and long-term memory. Our previous study indicated that microinjection of testosterone in CA1 impaired spatial learning and memory. Some evidence suggests that impairment effect of testosterone is mediated by GABAergic system. In the present study, we investigated the interaction of testosterone (androgenic receptor agonist) and bicuculline (GABAA receptor antagonist) on spatial learning and memory performance in the prelimbic (PL) of male Wistar rats. Cannulae were bilaterally implanted into the PL region of PFC and drugs were daily microinjected for two minutes in each side. There are 4 experiments. In the first experiment, three sham groups were operated (solvent of testosterone, bicuculline, testosterone plus bicuculline). In the second experiment, different doses of testosterone (40, 80 μg /0.5 μL DMSO/each side) were injected into the PL before each session. In the third experiment, intra PL injections of bicuculline (2, 4 μg/0.5 μL DMSO/each side) were given before every session. In the last experiment, testosterone (80μg/0.5 μL DMSO/each side) along with bicuculline (2 μg/0.5 μL DMSO/each side) was injected into the PL. The results showed there is no difference between control group and sham operated group. Testosterone 80 μg and bicuculline 2 μg, each given separately, and also in combination increased escape latency to find the platform compared to the sham operated and cause to impaired spatial learning and memory. It is shown that intra PL microinjection of bicuculline after testosterone treatment could not rescue the spatial learning and memory impaired induced by testosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Gholaminejad
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Pasteur Institute of Iran (IPI), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Nasehi
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran.,Cognitive and neuroscience research center (CNRC), Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasser Naghdi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Pasteur Institute of Iran (IPI), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran
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46
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Sharma R, Nakamura M, Neupane C, Jeon BH, Shin H, Melnick SM, Glenn KJ, Jang IS, Park JB. Positive allosteric modulation of GABAA receptors by a novel antiepileptic drug cenobamate. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 879:173117. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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47
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Cáceres ARR, Vega Orozco AS, Cabrera RJ, Laconi MR. "Rapid actions of the neurosteroid allopregnanolone on ovarian and hypothalamic steroidogenesis: Central and peripheral modulation". J Neuroendocrinol 2020; 32:e12836. [PMID: 32062869 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to determine whether an i.c.v. administration of allopregnanolone (ALLO) rapidly modifies the hypothalamic and ovarian 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) enzymatic activity and gene expression in in vivo and ex vivo systems in pro-oestrus (PE) and dioestrus I (DI) rats. Animals were injected with vehicle, ALLO, bicuculline or bicuculline plus ALLO and were then killed. In the in vivo experiment, the hypothalamus, ovaries and serum were extracted and analysed. In the ex vivo experiment, the superior mesenteric ganglion - ovarian nerve plexus - ovary system was extracted and incubated during 120 minutes at 37 ºC. The serum and ovarian compartment fluids were used to determine progesterone by radioimmunoanalysis. In the in vivo experiments, ALLO caused a decrease in hypothalamic and ovarian 3β-HSD enzymatic activity during PE. During DI, ALLO increased hypothalamic and ovarian 3β-HSD activity and gene expression. The ovarian 3β-HSD activity increased in both stages in the ex vivo system; gene expression increased only during DI. ALLO induced an increase in serum progesterone only in D1 and in the ovarian incubation liquids in both stages. All findings were reversed by an injection of bicuculline before ALLO. Ovarian steroidogenic changes could be attributed to signals coming from ganglion neurones, which are affected by the acute central neurosteroid stimulation. The i.c.v. administration of ALLO via the GABAergic system altered 3β-HSD activity and gene expression, modulating the neuroendocrine axis. The present study reveals the action that ALLO exerts on the GABAA receptor in both the central and peripheral nervous system and its relationship with hormonal variations. ALLO is involved in the "fine tuning" of neurosecretory functions as a potent modulator of reproductive processes in female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Rosario Ramona Cáceres
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Ambientales, Universidad Juan Agustín Maza, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Adriana Soledad Vega Orozco
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción (LABIR), Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, San Luis, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad de Mendoza (INBIOMED-IMBECU - CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Ricardo Jorge Cabrera
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad de Mendoza (INBIOMED-IMBECU - CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Myriam Raquel Laconi
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina
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48
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Hantsoo L, Epperson CN. Allopregnanolone in premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): Evidence for dysregulated sensitivity to GABA-A receptor modulating neuroactive steroids across the menstrual cycle. Neurobiol Stress 2020; 12:100213. [PMID: 32435664 PMCID: PMC7231988 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2020.100213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe mood disorder with core symptoms (affective lability, irritability, depressed mood, anxiety) and increased sensitivity to stress occurring in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. PMDD can be conceptualized as a disorder of suboptimal sensitivity to neuroactive steroid hormones (NASs). In this review, we describe the role of the NAS allopregnanolone (ALLO), a positive allosteric modulator of the GABAA receptor (GABAA-R), in PMDD's pathophysiology. We review evidence of impaired interaction between ALLO and GABAA-Rs in terms of affective symptom expression, with evidence from rodent and human studies. We discuss evidence of increased luteal phase stress sensitivity as a result of poor ALLO-GABA control of the HPA axis. Finally, we describe how treatments such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and new drugs targeting GABAA-Rs provide evidence for impaired ALLO-GABA function in PMDD. In sum, the literature supports the hypothesis that PMDD pathophysiology is rooted in impaired GABAA-R response to dynamic ALLO fluctuations across the menstrual cycle, manifesting in affective symptoms and poor regulation of physiologic stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liisa Hantsoo
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 550 N, Broadway Street Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - C Neill Epperson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E 17th Place, MS F546, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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49
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Abstract
Understanding the neurobiological basis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is fundamental to accurately diagnose this neuropathology and offer appropriate treatment options to patients. The lack of pharmacological effects, too often observed with the most currently used drugs, the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), makes even more urgent the discovery of new pharmacological approaches. Reliable animal models of PTSD are difficult to establish because of the present limited understanding of the PTSD heterogeneity and of the influence of various environmental factors that trigger the disorder in humans. We summarize knowledge on the most frequently investigated animal models of PTSD, focusing on both their behavioral and neurobiological features. Most of them can reproduce not only behavioral endophenotypes, including anxiety-like behaviors or fear-related avoidance, but also neurobiological alterations, such as glucocorticoid receptor hypersensitivity or amygdala hyperactivity. Among the various models analyzed, we focus on the social isolation mouse model, which reproduces some deficits observed in humans with PTSD, such as abnormal neurosteroid biosynthesis, changes in GABAA receptor subunit expression and lack of pharmacological response to benzodiazepines. Neurosteroid biosynthesis and its interaction with the endocannabinoid system are altered in PTSD and are promising neuronal targets to discover novel PTSD agents. In this regard, we discuss pharmacological interventions and we highlight exciting new developments in the fields of research for novel reliable PTSD biomarkers that may enable precise diagnosis of the disorder and more successful pharmacological treatments for PTSD patients.
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50
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Moffett SX, Klein EA, Brannigan G, Martin JV. L-3,3',5-triiodothyronine and pregnenolone sulfate inhibit Torpedo nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0223272. [PMID: 31584962 PMCID: PMC6777777 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is an excitatory pentameric ligand-gated ion channel (pLGIC), homologous to the inhibitory γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A receptor targeted by pharmaceuticals and endogenous sedatives. Activation of the GABAA receptor by the neurosteroid allopregnanolone can be inhibited competitively by thyroid hormone (L-3,3’,5-triiodothyronine, or T3), but modulation of nAChR by T3 or neurosteroids has not been investigated. Here we show that allopregnanolone inhibits the nAChR from Torpedo californica at micromolar concentrations, as do T3 and the anionic neurosteroid pregnenolone sulfate (PS). We test for the role of protein and ligand charge in mediated receptor inhibition by varying pH in a narrow range around physiological pH. We find that both T3 and PS become less potent with increasing pH, with remarkably similar trends in IC50 when T3 is neutral at pH < 7.3. After deprotonation of T3 (but no additional deprotonation of PS) at pH 7.3, T3 loses potency more slowly with increasing pH than PS. We interpret this result as indicating the negative charge is not required for inhibition but does increase activity. Finally, we show that both T3 and PS affect nAChR channel desensitization, which may implicate a binding site homologous to one that was recently indicated for accelerated desensitization of the GABAA receptor by PS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven X. Moffett
- Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Rutgers University—Camden, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Eric A. Klein
- Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Rutgers University—Camden, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Rutgers University—Camden, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Grace Brannigan
- Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Rutgers University—Camden, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Department of Physics, Rutgers University—Camden, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Joseph V. Martin
- Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Rutgers University—Camden, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Rutgers University—Camden, Camden, New Jersey, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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