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Salama RAM, Raafat FA, Hasanin AH, Hendawy N, Saleh LA, Habib EK, Hamza M, Hassan ANE. A neuroprotective effect of pentoxifylline in rats with diabetic neuropathy: Mitigation of inflammatory and vascular alterations. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 128:111533. [PMID: 38271813 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111533] [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: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of diabetic neuropathic pain does not change the natural history of neuropathy. Improved glycemic control is the recommended treatment in these cases, given that no specific treatment for the underlying nerve damage is available, so far. In the present study, the potential neuroprotective effect of pentoxifylline in streptozotocin (50 mg/kg) induced diabetic neuropathy in rats was investigated. METHODS Pentoxifylline was administered at doses equivalent to 50, 100 & 200 mg/kg, in drinking water, starting one week after streptozotocin injection and for 7 weeks. Mechanical allodynia, body weight and blood glucose level were assessed weekly. Epidermal thickness of the footpad skin, and neuroinflammation and vascular alterations markers were assessed. RESULTS Tactile allodynia was less in rats that received pentoxifylline at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg (60 % mechanical threshold increased by 48 % and 60 %, respectively). The decrease in epidermal thickness of footpad skin was almost completely prevented by the same doses. This was associated with a decrease in spinal tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and nuclear factor kappa B levels and a decrease in microglial ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 immunoreactivity, compared to the control diabetic group. In sciatic nerve, there was decrease in TNF-α and vascular endothelial growth factor levels and intercellular adhesion molecule immunoreactivity. CONCLUSION Pentoxifylline showed a neuroprotective effect in streptozotocin-induced diabetic neuropathy, which was associated with a suppression of both the inflammatory and vascular pathogenic pathways that was not associated with a hypoglycemic effect. Thus, it may represent a potential neuroprotective drug for diabetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghda A M Salama
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Fatema Ahmed Raafat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amany Helmy Hasanin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nevien Hendawy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt; Faculty of Medicine, Galala University, Suez, Egypt
| | - Lobna A Saleh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman K Habib
- Faculty of Medicine, Galala University, Suez, Egypt; Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - May Hamza
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed Nour Eldin Hassan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt; Faculty of Medicine, Galala University, Suez, Egypt
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2
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Radhakrishna U, Ratnamala U, Jhala DD, Uppala LV, Vedangi A, Saiyed N, Patel M, Vadsaria N, Shah SR, Rawal RM, Mercuri SR, McGonagle D, Jemec GBE, Damiani G. Hidradenitis suppurativa associated telomere-methylome dysregulations in blood. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2024; 38:393-403. [PMID: 37872100 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic debilitating disease with a significant burden of both organic and psychological comorbidities. It has been shown that certain telomere-related genes (TRGs) affect a wide range of diseases, including HS and its associated comorbidities, but their exact role in HS pathogenesis is still unknown. OBJECTIVES To determine whether TRG methylomes can be used as biomarkers in HS. METHODS Using the Illumina HumanMethylation450 BeadChip array, we examined methylation variations associated with TRGs in HS cases and age-, sex- and ethnicity-matched healthy controls. The study utilized integrated bioinformatics statistical methods, such as a false discovery rate (FDR), the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and principal component analysis. RESULTS There were a total of 585 different differentially methylated CpG sites identified in 585 TRGs associated with HS (474 hypomethylated and 111 hypermethylated) (FDR p-value < 0.05). A number of these CpGs have been identified as being involved in increased pain sensitivity including EPAS1, AHR, CSNK1D, DNMT1, IKBKAP, NOS3, PLCB1 and PRDM16 genes; GABRB3 as a potential alcohol addiction marker; DDB1, NSMCE2 and HNRNPA2B1 associated with cancers. Pathway analysis identified 67 statistically significant pathways, including DNA repair, telomere maintenance, mismatch repair and cell cycle control (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The disruption of TRGs leads to the shortening of telomeres, which is associated with HS progression, ageing, cellular senescence and an increased risk of various diseases, including cancer and associated comorbidities, such as metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease and inflammatory disorders. Further research is necessary to better understand the underlying mechanisms and establish causal links between TRGs and HS. The present study is the first effort to comprehend potential pathomechanisms of sporadic HS cases concentrating on PBMC methylome since ours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uppala Radhakrishna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Royal Oak, Michigan, USA
| | - Uppala Ratnamala
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, India
| | | | - Lavanya V Uppala
- College of Information Science & Technology, Peter Kiewit Institute, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Aaren Vedangi
- Department of Clinical Research, KIMS ICON Hospital, A Unit of ICON Krishi Institute Medical Sciences, Visakhapatnam, India
| | - Nazia Saiyed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Royal Oak, Michigan, USA
| | | | | | - Sushma R Shah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, BJ Medical College Institute of Medical Post-Graduate Studies and Research, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Rakesh M Rawal
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Santo R Mercuri
- Unit of Dermatology and Cosmetology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Dennis McGonagle
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Gregor B E Jemec
- Department of Dermatology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Giovanni Damiani
- Unit of Dermatology and Cosmetology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milano, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Italian Center of Precision Medicine and Chronic Inflammation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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3
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Pekacar S, Özüpek B, Akkol EK, Taştan H, Ersan H, Orhan DD. Identification of bioactive components on antihemorrhoidal activity of Cistus laurifolius L. using RP-HPLC and LC-QTOF-MS. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117122. [PMID: 37660958 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cistus laurifolius is widely used in folk medicine in Anatolia for the treatment of many ailments. The leaves of the plant are used in the form of tea in the treatment of hemorrhoids in the Western Black Sea Region and Central Anatolia. AIMS OF THE STUDY It was aimed at evaluating the anti-hemorrhoidal effects of C. laurifolus leaves in croton oil-induced hemorrhoid model in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS The methanolic and aqueous extracts of C. laurifolius were tested for in vivo anti-hemorrhoidal efficacy using an experimental hemorrhoid model, followed by histological and biochemical analysis. Hemorrhoid was created by using croton oil on the anal region of the rats. TNF-α and VEGF mRNA expression levels were assessed using real-time PCR detections. The extract was also tested for anti-inflammatory properties, which are based on the suppression of an increase in capillary permeability caused by acetic acid. LC-QTOF-MS and RP-HPLC were used for the phytochemical analysis. RESULTS In comparison to the control, histological and biochemical assessment showed that the methanolic extract of C. laurifolius is particularly effective against hemorrhoids. The same extract group's TNF-α mRNA expression was found to be the lowest. Additionally, the methanolic extract showed a strong inhibitory effect on the increase in capillary permeability resulted on by acetic acid. Three phenolic compounds were discovered in the extracts by phytochemical analyses, while more than eighteen compounds were found by LC-QTOF-MS analysis. Five of these compounds are phenolic acid derivatives, and flavonoids constitute the majority of the group. CONCLUSION This is the first evidence from the research that C. laurifolius possesses strong anti-inflammatory and anti-hemorrhoidal properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sultan Pekacar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacognosy, Gazi University, 06330, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Burçin Özüpek
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacognosy, Gazi University, 06330, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Esra Küpeli Akkol
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacognosy, Gazi University, 06330, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Hakkı Taştan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Gazi University, Etiler, 06330, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Halil Ersan
- Hükümet Konağı Çocuk Büro Amirliği, Kapaklı, 59510, Tekirdağ, Turkey.
| | - Didem Deliorman Orhan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacognosy, Gazi University, 06330, Ankara, Turkey.
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4
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Singh G, O-Sullivan I, Natarajan Anbazhagan A, Ranjan K C, Farooqui Z, Ma K, Wang J, Mwale F, Votta-Velis G, Bruce B, Ronald Kahn C, van Wijnen AJ, Im HJ. Loss of PKCδ/Prkcd prevents cartilage degeneration in joints but exacerbates hyperalgesia in an experimental osteoarthritis mouse model. Gene 2024; 893:147920. [PMID: 37890601 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147920] [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: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Pain is the prime symptom of osteoarthritis (OA) that directly affects the quality of life. Protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ/Prkcd) plays a critical role in OA pathogenesis; however, its significance in OA-related pain is not entirely understood. The present study investigated the functional role of PKCδ in OA pain sensation. OA was surgically induced in control (Prkcdfl/fl), global- (Prkcdfl/fl; ROSACreERT2), and sensory neuron-specific conditional knockout (cKO) mice (Prkcdfl/fl; NaV1.8/Scn10aCreERT2) followed by comprehensive analysis of longitudinal behavioral pain, histopathology and immunofluorescence studies. GlobalPrkcd cKO mice prevented cartilage deterioration by inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP13) in joint tissues but significantly increased OA pain. Sensory neuron-specificdeletion of Prkcd in mice did not protect cartilage from degeneration but worsened OA-associated pain. Exacerbated pain sensitivity observed in global- and sensory neuron-specific cKO of Prkcd was corroborated with markedly increased specific pain mediators in knee synovium and dorsal root ganglia (DRG). These specific pain markers include nerve growth factor (NGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and their cognate receptors, including tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR1). The increased levels of NGF/TrkA and VEGF/VEGFR1 were comparable in both global- and sensory neuron-specific cKO groups. These data suggest that the absence of Prkcd gene expression in the sensory neurons is strongly associated with OA hyperalgesia independent of cartilage protection. Thus, inhibition of PKCδ may be beneficial for cartilage homeostasis but could aggravate OA-related pain symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurjit Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - InSug O-Sullivan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | | | | | - Zeba Farooqui
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Kaige Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Fackson Mwale
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, SMBD-Jewish General Hospital and Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada.
| | - Gina Votta-Velis
- Anesthesiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Benjamin Bruce
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - C Ronald Kahn
- Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, 02215, MA, USA.
| | - Andre J van Wijnen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
| | - Hee-Jeong Im
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Son GY, Tu NH, Santi MD, Lopez SL, Souza Bomfim GH, Vinu M, Zhou F, Chaloemtoem A, Alhariri R, Idaghdour Y, Khanna R, Ye Y, Lacruz RS. The Ca 2+ channel ORAI1 is a regulator of oral cancer growth and nociceptive pain. Sci Signal 2023; 16:eadf9535. [PMID: 37669398 PMCID: PMC10747475 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.adf9535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Oral cancer causes pain associated with cancer progression. We report here that the function of the Ca2+ channel ORAI1 is an important regulator of oral cancer pain. ORAI1 was highly expressed in tumor samples from patients with oral cancer, and ORAI1 activation caused sustained Ca2+ influx in human oral cancer cells. RNA-seq analysis showed that ORAI1 regulated many genes encoding oral cancer markers such as metalloproteases (MMPs) and pain modulators. Compared with control cells, oral cancer cells lacking ORAI1 formed smaller tumors that elicited decreased allodynia when inoculated into mouse paws. Exposure of trigeminal ganglia neurons to MMP1 evoked an increase in action potentials. These data demonstrate an important role of ORAI1 in oral cancer progression and pain, potentially by controlling MMP1 abundance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ga-Yeon Son
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010
| | - Nguyen Huu Tu
- NYU Dentistry Translational Research Center, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010
| | - Maria Daniela Santi
- NYU Dentistry Translational Research Center, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010
| | - Santiago Loya Lopez
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY 10010
| | | | - Manikandan Vinu
- Program in Biology, Division of Science and Mathematics, New York University Abu Dhabi, 129188, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fang Zhou
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10010
| | - Ariya Chaloemtoem
- Program in Biology, Division of Science and Mathematics, New York University Abu Dhabi, 129188, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rama Alhariri
- Program in Biology, Division of Science and Mathematics, New York University Abu Dhabi, 129188, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Youssef Idaghdour
- Program in Biology, Division of Science and Mathematics, New York University Abu Dhabi, 129188, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY 10010
| | - Yi Ye
- NYU Dentistry Translational Research Center, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY 10010
| | - Rodrigo S. Lacruz
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010
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6
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Antinociceptive Activity of Vanilloids in Caenorhabditis elegans is Mediated by the Desensitization of the TRPV Channel OCR-2 and Specific Signal Transduction Pathways. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:1900-1911. [PMID: 36737562 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-023-03876-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Vanilloids, including capsaicin and eugenol, are ligands of transient receptor potential channel vanilloid subfamily member 1 (TRPV1). Prolonged treatment with vanilloids triggered the desensitization of TRPV1, leading to analgesic or antinociceptive effects. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is a model organism expressing vanilloid receptor orthologs (e.g., OSM-9 and OCR-2) that are associated with behavioral and physiological processes, including sensory transduction. We have shown that capsaicin and eugenol hamper the nocifensive response to noxious heat in C. elegans. The objective of this study was to perform proteomics to identify proteins and pathways responsible for the induced phenotype and to identify capsaicin and eugenol targets using a thermal proteome profiling (TPP) strategy. The results indicated hierarchical differences following Reactome Pathway enrichment analyses between capsaicin- and eugenol-treated nematodes. However, both treated groups were associated mainly with signal transduction pathways, energy generation, biosynthesis and structural processes. Wnt signaling, a specific signal transduction pathway, is involved following treatment with both molecules. Wnt signaling pathway is noticeably associated with pain. The TPP results show that capsaicin and eugenol target OCR-2 but not OSM-9. Further protein-protein interaction (PPI) analyses showed other targets associated with enzymatic catalysis and calcium ion binding activity. The resulting data help to better understand the broad-spectrum pharmacological activity of vanilloids.
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7
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Ma K, Singh G, Wang J, O-Sullivan I, Votta-Velis G, Bruce B, Anbazhagan AN, van Wijnen AJ, Im HJ. Targeting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptors as a Therapeutic Strategy for Osteoarthritis and Associated Pain. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:675-690. [PMID: 36632459 PMCID: PMC9830519 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.79125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain is the major reason that patients suffering from osteoarthritis (OA) seek medical care. We found that vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) mediate signaling in OA pain pathways. To determine the specific contributions of VEGFs and their receptors (VEGFRs) to joint pathology and pain transmission during OA progression, we studied intra-articular (IA) injections of VEGF ligands into murine knee joints. Only VEGF ligands specific for the activation of VEGFR1, but not VEGFR2, induced allodynia within 30 min. Interventions in OA by inhibitors of VEGFRs were done in vivo using a preclinical murine OA model by IA injections of selective inhibitors of VEGFR1/VEGFR2 kinase (pazopanib) or VEGFR2 kinase (vandetanib). OA phenotypes were evaluated using pain-associated murine behavioral tests and histopathologic analyses. Alterations in VEGF/VEGFR signaling by drugs were determined in knee joints, dorsal root ganglia, and spinal cord by immunofluorescence microscopy. Pazopanib immediately relieved OA pain by interfering with pain transmission pathways. Pain reduction by vandetanib was mainly due to the inhibition of cartilage degeneration by suppressing VEGFR2 expression. In conclusion, IA administration of pazopanib, which simultaneously inhibits VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, can be developed as an ideal OA disease-modifying drug that rapidly reduces joint pain and simultaneously inhibits cartilage degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaige Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Gurjit Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - InSug O-Sullivan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Gina Votta-Velis
- Department of Anesthesiology, the University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Benjamin Bruce
- Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center (JBVAMC) at Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | | | - Andre J. van Wijnen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.,✉ Corresponding authors: Hee-Jeong Im, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, 851 S. Morgan St, Chicago, IL, USA. E-mail: ; Dr. Andre J. van Wijnen, Department of Biochemistry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA. E-mail address:
| | - Hee-Jeong Im
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center (JBVAMC) at Chicago, IL 60612, USA.,✉ Corresponding authors: Hee-Jeong Im, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, 851 S. Morgan St, Chicago, IL, USA. E-mail: ; Dr. Andre J. van Wijnen, Department of Biochemistry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA. E-mail address:
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8
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Peng Z, Yang F, Huang S, Tang Y, Wan L. Targeting Vascular endothelial growth factor A with soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 ameliorates nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain. Mol Pain 2022; 18:17448069221094528. [PMID: 35354377 PMCID: PMC9706061 DOI: 10.1177/17448069221094528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a distressing medical condition with few effective treatments. The role of Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) in inflammation pain has been confirmed in many researches. However, the mechanism of VEGFA affects neuropathic pain remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that VEGFA plays an important role in spare nerve injury (SNI)-induced neuropathic pain, which is mediated by enhanced expression and colocalized of VEGFA, p-AKT and TRPV1 in SNI-induced neuropathic pain model. Soluble VEGFR1 (sFlt1) not only relieved mechanical hyperalgesia and the expression of inflammatory markers, but ameliorated the expression of VEGFA, VEGFR2, p-AKT, and TRPV1 in spinal cord. However, these effects of sFlt1 can be blocked by rpVEGFA and by 740 Y-P. Therefore, our study indication that targeting VEGFA with sFlt1 reduces neuropathic pain development via the AKT/TRPV1 pathway in SNI-induced nerve injury. This study elucidates a new therapeutic target for neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Peng
- Department of Pain Medicine, The
State Key Clinical Specialty in Pain Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital,
Guangzhou
Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R.
China,Stem Cell Translational Medicine
Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical
University, Guangzhou, P. R. of China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Pain Medicine, The
State Key Clinical Specialty in Pain Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital,
Guangzhou
Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R.
China,Stem Cell Translational Medicine
Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical
University, Guangzhou, P. R. of China
| | - Siting Huang
- Department of Pain Medicine, The
State Key Clinical Specialty in Pain Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital,
Guangzhou
Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R.
China
| | - Yang Tang
- Department of Pain Medicine, The
State Key Clinical Specialty in Pain Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital,
Guangzhou
Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R.
China,Stem Cell Translational Medicine
Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical
University, Guangzhou, P. R. of China
| | - Li Wan
- Department of Pain Medicine, The
State Key Clinical Specialty in Pain Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital,
Guangzhou
Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R.
China,Stem Cell Translational Medicine
Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical
University, Guangzhou, P. R. of China,Li Wan, Department of Pain management, The
Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 250 Changgang Dong Lu,
Guangzhou 510260, P.R. China.
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9
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Davila A, Magee R, France K. A retrospective, single-center cohort study on complications after dental extractions in patients taking biologic agents. J Am Dent Assoc 2022; 153:1060-1069.e5. [PMID: 36115715 DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2022.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although biologic agents represent a growing class of therapeutics, little is known about how these agents affect the provision of dental treatment. METHODS This retrospective case-control study analyzed patients undergoing dental extraction treated with biologic agents from 2017 through 2020. Complications within 30 days postextraction were recorded. RESULTS One-hundred twenty-one patients were treated during 147 encounters. Fifteen patients experienced complications during 16 encounters. Notable or excessive pain was most common (14/16; 88%). Patients who experienced complications were treated with 7 biologic agents: dulaglutide, belimumab, adalimumab, aflibercept, tofacitinib, ranibizumab, and ixekizumab. Complication after extraction-specifically, pain-was elevated for patients receiving aflibercept and ranibizumab. When grouped by class, complications were more common with vascular endothelial growth factor antagonism. CONCLUSIONS The impact of biologics on the provision of and recovery after dental treatment remains unknown. Pain was most commonly reported. Patients treated with vascular endothelial growth factor antagonists experienced an elevated rate of complications. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS This study provides preliminary data on how patients taking biologic agents heal after dental extraction. It is limited by small sample sizes. Further work will build on this data to determine appropriate management of patients taking biologics in the dental setting.
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10
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Neuropilin (NRPs) Related Pathological Conditions and Their Modulators. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158402. [PMID: 35955539 PMCID: PMC9368954 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin 1 (NRP1) represents one of the two homologous neuropilins (NRP, splice variants of neuropilin 2 are the other) found in all vertebrates. It forms a transmembrane glycoprotein distributed in many human body tissues as a (co)receptor for a variety of different ligands. In addition to its physiological role, it is also associated with various pathological conditions. Recently, NRP1 has been discovered as a coreceptor for the SARS-CoV-2 viral entry, along with ACE2, and has thus become one of the COVID-19 research foci. However, in addition to COVID-19, the current review also summarises its other pathological roles and its involvement in clinical diseases like cancer and neuropathic pain. We also discuss the diversity of native NRP ligands and perform a joint analysis. Last but not least, we review the therapeutic roles of NRP1 and introduce a series of NRP1 modulators, which are typical peptidomimetics or other small molecule antagonists, to provide the medicinal chemistry community with a state-of-the-art overview of neuropilin modulator design and NRP1 druggability assessment.
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Idrisova KF, Zeinalova AK, Masgutova GA, Bogov AA, Allegrucci C, Syromiatnikova VY, Salafutdinov II, Garanina EE, Andreeva DI, Kadyrov AA, Rizvanov AA, Masgutov RF. Application of neurotrophic and proangiogenic factors as therapy after peripheral nervous system injury. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:1240-1247. [PMID: 34782557 PMCID: PMC8643040 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.327329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The intrinsic ability of peripheral nerves to regenerate after injury is extremely limited, especially in case of severe injury. This often leads to poor motor function and permanent disability. Existing approaches for the treatment of injured nerves do not provide appropriate conditions to support survival and growth of nerve cells. This drawback can be compensated by the use of gene therapy and cell therapy-based drugs that locally provide an increase in the key regulators of nerve growth, including neurotrophic factors and extracellular matrix proteins. Each growth factor plays its own specific angiotrophic or neurotrophic role. Currently, growth factors are widely studied as accelerators of nerve regeneration. Particularly noteworthy is synergy between various growth factors, that is essential for both angiogenesis and neurogenesis. Fibroblast growth factor 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor are widely known for their proangiogenic effects. At the same time, fibroblast growth factor 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor stimulate neural cell growth and play an important role in neurodegenerative diseases of the peripheral nervous system. Taken together, their neurotrophic and angiogenic properties have positive effect on the regeneration process. In this review we provide an in-depth overview of the role of fibroblast growth factor 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor in the regeneration of peripheral nerves, thus demonstrating their neurotherapeutic efficacy in improving neuron survival in the peripheral nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Cinzia Allegrucci
- Biodiscovery Institute, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ruslan Faridovich Masgutov
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
- Republican Clinical Hospital, Kazan, Russia
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12
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Genetic analyses identify pleiotropy and causality for blood proteins and highlight Wnt/β-catenin signalling in migraine. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2593. [PMID: 35546551 PMCID: PMC9095680 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30184-z] [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: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a common complex disorder with a significant polygenic SNP heritability (\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$${h}_{{SNP}}^{2}$$\end{document}hSNP2). Here we utilise genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics to study pleiotropy between blood proteins and migraine under the polygenic model. We estimate \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$${h}_{{SNP}}^{2}$$\end{document}hSNP2 for 4625 blood protein GWASs and identify 325 unique proteins with a significant \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$${h}_{{SNP}}^{2}$$\end{document}hSNP2 for use in subsequent genetic analyses. Pleiotropy analyses link 58 blood proteins to migraine risk at genome-wide, gene and/or single-nucleotide polymorphism levels—suggesting shared genetic influences or causal relationships. Notably, the identified proteins are largely distinct from migraine GWAS loci. We show that higher levels of DKK1 and PDGFB, and lower levels of FARS2, GSTA4 and CHIC2 proteins have a significant causal effect on migraine. The risk-increasing effect of DKK1 is particularly interesting—indicating a role for downregulation of β-catenin-dependent Wnt signalling in migraine risk, suggesting Wnt activators that restore Wnt/β-catenin signalling in brain could represent therapeutic tools against migraine. Understanding of the causes and treatment of migraine is incomplete. Here, the authors detect pleiotropic genetic effects and causal relationships between migraine and 58 proteins that are largely distinct from migraine-associated loci identified by GWAS.
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Skrzypkowska M, Stasiak M, Sakowska J, Chmiel J, Maciejewska A, Buciński A, Słomiński B, Trzonkowski P, Łuczkiewicz P. Cytokines and chemokines multiplex analysis in patients with low disease activity rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatol Int 2022; 42:609-619. [PMID: 35179632 PMCID: PMC8940835 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-022-05103-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis is a severe chronic autoimmune disorder that results from pathological activation of immune cells and altered cytokine/chemokine network. The aim of our study was to evaluate concentrations of chosen cytokines and chemokines in blood sera and synovial fluid samples isolated from low disease activity rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and osteoarthritis (OA) sufferers. Blood sera and synovial fluid samples have been obtained from 24 OA and 14 RA patients. Cytokines/chemokines levels have been determined using a Milliplex® Map 38-plex human cytokine/chemokine magnetic bead-based panel (Merck Millipore, Germany) and Luminex® MAGPIX® platform (Luminex USA). Low disease activity RA patients showed altered concentration of numerous cytokine/chemokine when compared to OA controls—they were characterized by, inter alia, increased: eotaxin/CCL11 (p = 0.037), GRO/CXCL1 (p = 0.037), IL-2 (p = 0.013), IL-4 (p = 0.017), IL-7 (p = 0.003), IL-8 (p = 0.0007) and GM-CSF (p = 0.037) serum levels, whilst MDC/CCL22 concentration was decreased in this group (p = 0.034). Eotaxin/CCL11 (p = 0.001), GRO/CXCL1 (p = 0.041), IL-10 (p = 0.003), GM-CSF (p = 0.01), IL-1RA (p = 0.0005) and VEGF (p = 0.01) concentrations in synovial fluid of RA females were also increased. Even with low disease activity score, RA patients exhibited increased concentrations of cytokines with pro- and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as numerous chemokines, growth factors and regulators of angiogenesis. Surprisingly, RA subjects also shown decreased concentration of CCL22 chemokine. The attempt to restore cytokine balance and tolerogenic environment is ineffective in RA sufferers even with good disease management. Distinguished factors could serve as possible indicators of disease progression even in low disease activity patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Skrzypkowska
- Department of Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Mariusz Stasiak
- Second Clinic of Orthopaedics and Kinetic Organ Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Justyna Sakowska
- Department of Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Joanna Chmiel
- Second Clinic of Orthopaedics and Kinetic Organ Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Agata Maciejewska
- Department of Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Adam Buciński
- Department of Biopharmacy, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Bartosz Słomiński
- Department of Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Piotr Trzonkowski
- Department of Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Piotr Łuczkiewicz
- Second Clinic of Orthopaedics and Kinetic Organ Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
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14
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Fan L, Kan H, Chen XT, Sun YY, Chen LP, Shen W. VEGF-A/VEGFR2 signaling in spinal neurons contributes to bone cancer pain. Mol Pain 2022; 18:17448069221075891. [PMID: 35083936 PMCID: PMC8874205 DOI: 10.1177/17448069221075891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor metastasis to bone is often accompanied by a severe pain syndrome (cancer-induced bone pain, CIBP) that is frequently unresponsive to analgesics, which markedly reduces patient quality of life and cancer treatment tolerance in patients. Prolonged pain can induce hypersensitivity via spinal plasticity, and several recent studies have implicated the involvement of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) signaling in this process. Here, we speculated that CIBP is associated with VEGF-A/VEGFR2 signaling in the spinal cord. A mouse model of CIBP was established by intramedullary injection of Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells in the mouse femur. Pain sensitization and potential amelioration via VEGF-A/VEGFR2 blockade were measured using paw withdrawal threshold to mechanical stimulation and paw withdrawal latency to thermal. Spinal VEGF-A/VEGFR2 signaling was blocked by intrathecal injection of the VEGF-A antibody or the specific VEGFR2 inhibitor ZM323881. Changes in the expression levels of VEGF-A, VEGFR2, and other pain-related signaling factors were measured using western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. Mice after LLC injection demonstrated mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, both of which were suppressed via anti-VEGF-A antibody or ZM323881. Conversely, the intrathecal injection of exogenous VEGF-A was sufficient to cause pain hypersensitivity in naïve mice via the VEGFR2-mediated activation of protein kinase C. Moreover, the spinal blockade of VEGF-A or VEGFR2 also suppressed N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activation and downstream Ca2+-dependent signaling. Thus, spinal VEGF-A/VEGFR2/NMDAR signaling pathways may be critical mediators of CIBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Fan
- 505488Xuzhou Medical University Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology
| | - Houming Kan
- 505488Xuzhou Medical University Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology
| | - Xue-Tai Chen
- 505488Xuzhou Medical University Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology
| | | | | | - Wen Shen
- 117910Xuzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital
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15
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Parthasarathy G, Gadila SKG. Neuropathogenicity of non-viable Borrelia burgdorferi ex vivo. Sci Rep 2022; 12:688. [PMID: 35027599 PMCID: PMC8758786 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03837-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Even after appropriate treatment, a proportion of Lyme disease patients suffer from a constellation of symptoms, collectively called Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). Brain PET scan of patients with PTLDS have demonstrated likely glial activation indicating persistent neuroinflammatory processes. It is possible that unresolved bacterial remnants can continue to cause neuroinflammation. In previous studies, we have shown that non-viable Borrelia burgdorferi can induce neuroinflammation and apoptosis in an oligodendrocyte cell line. In this follow-up study, we analyze the effect of sonicated remnants of B. burgdorferi on primary rhesus frontal cortex (FC) and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) explants. Five FC and three DRG tissue fragments from rhesus macaques were exposed to sonicated B. burgdorferi and analyzed for 26 inflammatory mediators. Live bacteria and medium alone served as positive and negative control, respectively. Tissues were also analyzed for cell types mediating inflammation and overall apoptotic changes. Non-viable B. burgdorferi induced significant levels of several inflammatory mediators in both FC and DRG, similar to live bacteria. However, the levels induced by non-viable B. burgdorferi was often (several fold) higher than those induced by live ones, especially for IL-6, CXCL8 and CCL2. This effect was also more profound in the FC than in the DRG. Although the levels often differed, both live and dead fragments induced the same mediators, with significant overlap between FC and DRG. In the FC, immunohistochemical staining for several inflammatory mediators showed the presence of multiple mediators in astrocytes, followed by microglia and oligodendrocytes, in response to bacterial remnants. Staining was also seen in endothelial cells. In the DRG, chemokine/cytokine staining was predominantly seen in S100 positive (glial) cells. B. burgdorferi remnants also induced significant levels of apoptosis in both the FC and DRG. Apoptosis was confined to S100 + cells in the DRG while distinct neuronal apoptosis was also detected in most FC tissues in response to sonicated bacteria. Non-viable B. burgdorferi can continue to be neuropathogenic to both CNS and PNS tissues with effects likely more profound in the former. Persistence of remnant-induced neuroinflammatory processes can lead to long term health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geetha Parthasarathy
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University, 18703, Three Rivers Road, Covington, LA, 70433, USA. .,Tulane National Primate Research Center, 18703, Three rivers Road, Room 109, Covington, LA, 70433, USA.
| | - Shiva Kumar Goud Gadila
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University, 18703, Three Rivers Road, Covington, LA, 70433, USA
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16
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Mozafarihashjin M, Togha M, Ghorbani Z, Farbod A, Rafiee P, Martami F. Assessment of peripheral biomarkers potentially involved in episodic and chronic migraine: a case-control study with a focus on NGF, BDNF, VEGF, and PGE2. J Headache Pain 2022; 23:3. [PMID: 34991456 PMCID: PMC8903594 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-021-01377-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Several inflammatory and vascular molecules, and neurotrophins have been suggested to have a possible role in the development of migraine. However, pathophysiological events leading to migraine onset and transformation of episodic migraine (EM) to chronic migraine (CM) are not fully understood. Thus, we aimed to assess peripheral levels of nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in EM and CM patients, and controls. Methods From September 2017 to June 2020, 89 subjects were enrolled in a case-control study; 23 and 36 EM and CM patients, respectively, and 30 age and sex-matched controls. Demographic data and medical history were obtained from all patients. Headache characteristics were recorded at baseline visit and ensuing 30 days for persons with migraine disease. Serum levels of NGF, BDNF, VEGF, and PGE2 were measured once for controls and EM and CM patients, and adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index. Results Serum levels of NGF were significantly lower in EM patients compared to controls and CM patients (P-value=0.003 and 0.042, respectively). Serum levels of BDNF were significantly lower in EM and CM patients as opposed to controls (P-value<0.001), but comparable between EM and CM patients (P-value=0.715). Peripheral blood levels of VEGF were significantly higher in EM and CM patients as opposed to controls (P-value<0.001), but not different between EM and CM patients (P-value=0.859). Serum levels of PGE2 were significantly lower in EM patients compared to controls (P-value=0.011), however similar between EM and CM patients (P-value=0.086). In migraine patients, serum levels of NGF and PGE2 positively correlated with headache frequency (NGF: ρ = 0.476 and P-value<0.001; PGE2: ρ = 0.286 and P-value=0.028), while corresponding levels of BDNF and VEGF did not correlate with headache frequency (BDNF: ρ = 0.037 and P-value=0.778; VEGF: ρ= -0.025 and P-value=0.850). Conclusions Our findings suggest that NGF, BDNF, PGE2, and VEGF may play a significant role in migraine pathogenesis and/or chronification, and therefore might bear potential value for novel targeted abortive and prophylactic migraine therapy. Further prospective cohort studies with larger sample sizes can more robustly evaluate the implications of these findings. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s10194-021-01377-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mozafarihashjin
- Headache Department, Iranian Center of Neurological Research, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mansoureh Togha
- Headache Department, Iranian Center of Neurological Research, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Headache Department, Neurology Ward, School of Medicine, Sina University Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zeinab Ghorbani
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Heshmat Hospital, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.,Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Farbod
- Headache Department, Iranian Center of Neurological Research, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pegah Rafiee
- Headache Department, Iranian Center of Neurological Research, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Martami
- Headache Department, Iranian Center of Neurological Research, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,School of nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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17
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Porwal A, Kundu GC, Bhagwat G, Butti R. Herbal medicine AnoSpray suppresses proinflammatory cytokines COX-2 and RANTES in the management of hemorrhoids, acute anal fissures and perineal wounds. Exp Ther Med 2021; 23:86. [PMID: 34938368 PMCID: PMC8688930 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.11009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemorrhoids, anal fistula and fissure are common anorectal complications. Anorectal diseases are associated with severe pain, inflammation, swelling, itching and bleeding. These diseases may be managed with different medical treatments or surgical procedures, depending on their severity. Surgical procedures, however, are highly invasive and are associated with higher costs and the possibility of recurrence. In addition, surgical removal of fistula-in-ano leads to the formation of perineal wounds. Therefore, developing therapeutic interventions that are effective in alleviating inflammation and pain are desirable for the effective management of anorectal diseases. Herbal compounds have previously been indicated to suppress inflammation and pain in different pathological conditions. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects elicited by a polyherbal formulation, AnoSpray®, on the migration of inflammatory cells and on the expression of inflammatory cytokines in anorectal diseases. The effect of AnoSpray on cell viability and migration was studied using MTT and wound-migration assays, respectively. Furthermore, the effects of AnoSpray on the expression of the inflammatory cytokines regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed and presumably secreted (RANTES) and VEGF, as well as on cyclooxygenase-2 (COX)-2, were investigated using western blot analysis. The expression of RANTES and COX-2 in human hemorrhoid specimens was also analyzed to corroborate the in vitro findings. The results obtained revealed that AnoSpray did not exhibit any cytotoxic effects; however, it did lead to a significant suppression in the migration of RAW 264.7 and BJ cells. Furthermore, the results suggested that AnoSpray suppressed the expression of the inflammatory cytokines RANTES and VEGF, and also the expression of COX-2. In addition, RANTES and COX-2 were significantly downregulated in the clinical specimens of AnoSpray-treated hemorrhoids compared with the controls. Taken together, the results of the present study suggested that AnoSpray may be a potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of bleeding hemorrhoids, anal fissures and perineal wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwin Porwal
- Healing Hands Clinic, Pune, Maharashtra 411001, India
| | - Gopal C Kundu
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science, Pune, Maharashtra 411007, India.,School of Biotechnology and Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, KIIT Deemed to be University, Institute of Eminence, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751024, India
| | - Gajanan Bhagwat
- R&D Center, Healing Hands & Herbs Pvt. Ltd., Pune, Maharashtra 411002, India
| | - Ramesh Butti
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Angiogenesis and Nanomedicine Research, National Centre for Cell Science, Pune, Maharashtra 411007, India.,R&D Center, Healing Hands & Herbs Pvt. Ltd., Pune, Maharashtra 411002, India
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18
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Sallam RA, Saad BS, El Wassefy MA, EL Kady BA. Effect of vascular endothelial growth factor gene polymorphisms on disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis. EGYPTIAN RHEUMATOLOGY AND REHABILITATION 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43166-021-00098-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The full etiology of RA remains unclear; in addition to the contributions of infectious, hormonal, and environmental factors, several lines of evidence have suggested that the disease has a genetic basis. The VEGF gene is also an independent risk factor for RA severity and correlates with multiple disease parameters, such as disease activity, joint damage, and functional disability. This case-control study aimed to investigate the impact of a common genetic polymorphism in the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene on disease activity and synovial lesions in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Results
T allele was present in the RA group more frequently (22.5% vs. 10% respectively in controls). The C allele was less frequent in the RA group (77.7% vs. 90% respectively in controls) (P = 0.002). Homozygous genotype (CC) was found in 61.2% of patients and 82.5% of controls, homozygous genotype (TT) in 6.3% of patients, and 2.5% of controls while heterozygous (CT) genotype in 32.5% of patients and 15% of controls (P = 0.011). Grade 1 PDUS was found in 30.6% of CC and 11.5% of CT and not found in TT genotypes. The grade 2 was found in 69.4%, 65.4%, and only 20% of CC, CT, and TT genotypes, respectively. The grade 3 was found in 80% of TT, 23.1% of CT, and none of CC genotypes (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
An association between VEGF gene SNP rs3025039 and increased risk for RA among a sample of Egyptian population was noticed. VEGF gene polymorphism appears to be a potential diagnostic activity indicator and a promising therapeutic target for RA patients.
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Dregalla RC, Herrera JA, Donner EJ. Red blood cells and their releasates compromise bone marrow-derived human mesenchymal stem/stromal cell survival in vitro. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:547. [PMID: 34674751 PMCID: PMC8529765 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02610-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The use of bone marrow aspirate (BMA) and bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMC) in the treatment of inflammatory orthopedic conditions has become a common practice. The therapeutic effect of BMA/BMC is thought to revolve primarily around the mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (MSC) population residing within the nucleated cell fraction. MSCs have the unique ability to respond to site of injury via the secretion of immunomodulating factors, resolving inflammation in diseased joints. Recently, the importance of hematocrit (HCT) in BMC has been debated, as the potential impact on MSC function is unknown. In the present study, we investigate MSC health over a short time-course following exposure to a range of HCT and red blood cell releasate (RBCrel) conditions. METHODS Bone marrow-derived human MSCs in early passage were grown under conditions of 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 10%, 20% and 40% HCT and RBCrel conditions for 3 days. At each day, the percentage of viable, apoptotic and necrotic MSCs was determined via flow cytometry. Relative viable MSC counts in each condition was determined to account for dynamic changes in overall MSC densities over the time-course. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way ANOVA comparing test conditions to the control followed by a Dunnett's multiple comparison test. RESULTS Significant reductions in viable MSCs concurrent with an increase in necrotic MSCs in high HCT and RBCrel conditions was observed within 24 h. At each successive timepoint, the percent and relative number of viable MSCs were reduced, becoming significant in multiple HCT and RBCrel conditions by Day 3. Necrosis appears to be the initial mode of MSC death following exposure to HCT and RBCrel, followed by apoptosis in surviving MSC fractions. CONCLUSION Various levels of HCT and RBCrel severely compromise MSC health within 3 days and HCT should be controlled in the preparation of BMC products. Further, HCT of BMCs should be routinely recorded and tracked with patient outcomes along with routine metrics (e.g. nucleated cell counts, fibroblast-colony forming units). Differences in HCT may account for the inconsistencies in the efficacy of BMC reported when treating orthopedic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Christopher Dregalla
- 4795 Larimer Parkway, Elite Regenerative Stem Cell Specialists, LLC, Johnstown, CO, 80534, USA. .,R&D Regenerative Laboratory Resources, LLC, 4795 Larimer Parkway, Johnstown, CO, 80534, USA.
| | - Jessica Ann Herrera
- 4795 Larimer Parkway, Elite Regenerative Stem Cell Specialists, LLC, Johnstown, CO, 80534, USA.,R&D Regenerative Laboratory Resources, LLC, 4795 Larimer Parkway, Johnstown, CO, 80534, USA
| | - Edward Jeffery Donner
- 4795 Larimer Parkway, Elite Regenerative Stem Cell Specialists, LLC, Johnstown, CO, 80534, USA.,R&D Regenerative Laboratory Resources, LLC, 4795 Larimer Parkway, Johnstown, CO, 80534, USA.,4795 Larimer Parkway, Colorado Spine Institute, PLLC, Johnstown, CO, 80534, USA
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20
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Ngene NC, Moodley J. Pre-delivery angiogenic factors and their association with peripartum perceived stress and pain in pre-eclampsia with severe features and normotensive pregnancies. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2021; 158:398-405. [PMID: 34622454 PMCID: PMC8989713 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13972] [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: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if any of maternal pre-delivery soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), placental growth factor (PIGF), or sFlt-1/PIGF ratio correlate with either perceived stress scale (PSS) or verbal numeric rating scale (VNRS) pain scores. METHODS Among 50 pregnant women with severe pre-eclampsia and 90 normotensive pregnant women observed from 48 h or less before delivery until day 3 postpartum, correlations between the following were performed: (1) serum concentrations of each angiogenic factor (sFlt-1, PIGF, and sFlt-1/PIGF ratio) sampled within 48 h before childbirth and a four-item PSS (pre-delivery and one-off 48-72 h postpartum score); (2) the same angiogenic factors above and VNRS ranging from 0 to 10; and (3) PSS and VNRS (both pre-delivery and postpartum). RESULTS In the normotensive group, there was a positive correlation between sFlt-1 and postpartum PSS (ρ +0.214 and P = 0.043), and between sFlt-1/PIGF ratio and postpartum PSS (ρ +0.213 and P = 0.044). In the normotensive and severe pre-eclampsia groups there were non-significant negative correlations between PIGF and postpartum PSS (P > 0.096) and non-significant positive correlations between pre-delivery PSS and pre-delivery VNRS (P > 0.053). Other correlations were uninformative. CONCLUSION Maternal pre-delivery sFlt-1/PIGF ratio in normotensive pregnancy is a promising biomarker for identifying risk of increased postpartum PSS to enable early counselling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nnabuike Chibuoke Ngene
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Kwa Zulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leratong Hospital, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Jagidesa Moodley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Kwa Zulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Zhang P, Perez OC, Southey BR, Sweedler JV, Pradhan AA, Rodriguez-Zas SL. Alternative Splicing Mechanisms Underlying Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1570. [PMID: 34680965 PMCID: PMC8535871 DOI: 10.3390/genes12101570] [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: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolonged use of opioids can cause opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH). The impact of alternative splicing on OIH remains partially characterized. A study of the absolute and relative modes of action of alternative splicing further the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying OIH. Differential absolute and relative isoform profiles were detected in the trigeminal ganglia and nucleus accumbens of mice presenting OIH behaviors elicited by chronic morphine administration relative to control mice. Genes that participate in glutamatergic synapse (e.g., Grip1, Grin1, Wnk3), myelin protein processes (e.g., Mbp, Mpz), and axon guidance presented absolute and relative splicing associated with OIH. Splicing of genes in the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor pathway was detected in the nucleus accumbens while splicing in the vascular endothelial growth factor, endogenous cannabinoid signaling, circadian clock system, and metabotropic glutamate receptor pathways was detected in the trigeminal ganglia. A notable finding was the prevalence of alternatively spliced transcription factors and regulators (e.g., Ciart, Ablim2, Pbx1, Arntl2) in the trigeminal ganglia. Insights into the nociceptive and antinociceptive modulatory action of Hnrnpk were gained. The results from our study highlight the impact of alternative splicing and transcriptional regulators on OIH and expose the need for isoform-level research to advance the understanding of morphine-associated hyperalgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Zhang
- Illinois Informatics Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
| | - Olivia C. Perez
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (O.C.P.); (B.R.S.)
| | - Bruce R. Southey
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (O.C.P.); (B.R.S.)
| | - Jonathan V. Sweedler
- Department of Chemistry and the Beckman Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
| | - Amynah A. Pradhan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
| | - Sandra L. Rodriguez-Zas
- Illinois Informatics Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (O.C.P.); (B.R.S.)
- Department of Statistics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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22
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Chaudhary JK, Yadav R, Chaudhary PK, Maurya A, Roshan R, Azam F, Mehta J, Handu S, Prasad R, Jain N, Pandey AK, Dhamija P. Host Cell and SARS-CoV-2-Associated Molecular Structures and Factors as Potential Therapeutic Targets. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092427. [PMID: 34572076 PMCID: PMC8467010 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is caused by an enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus, referred to as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which belongs to the realm Riboviria, order Nidovirales, family Coronaviridae, genus Betacoronavirus and the species Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus. This viral disease is characterized by a myriad of varying symptoms, such as pyrexia, cough, hemoptysis, dyspnoea, diarrhea, muscle soreness, dysosmia, lymphopenia and dysgeusia amongst others. The virus mainly infects humans, various other mammals, avian species and some other companion livestock. SARS-CoV-2 cellular entry is primarily accomplished by molecular interaction between the virus’s spike (S) protein and the host cell surface receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), although other host cell-associated receptors/factors, such as neuropilin 1 (NRP-1) and neuropilin 2 (NRP-2), C-type lectin receptors (CLRs), as well as proteases such as TMPRSS2 (transmembrane serine protease 2) and furin, might also play a crucial role in infection, tropism, pathogenesis and clinical outcome. Furthermore, several structural and non-structural proteins of the virus themselves are very critical in determining the clinical outcome following infection. Considering such critical role(s) of the abovementioned host cell receptors, associated proteases/factors and virus structural/non-structural proteins (NSPs), it may be quite prudent to therapeutically target them through a multipronged clinical regimen to combat the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitendra Kumar Chaudhary
- Department of Zoology, Shivaji College, University of Delhi, New Delhi 110027, India; (J.K.C.); (R.R.)
| | - Rohitash Yadav
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rishikesh 249201, India;
- Correspondence: (R.Y.); (P.D.)
| | - Pankaj Kumar Chaudhary
- Molecular Biology & Proteomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Roorkee 247667, India; (P.K.C.); (R.P.)
| | - Anurag Maurya
- Department of Botany, Shivaji College, University of Delhi, New Delhi 110027, India;
| | - Rakesh Roshan
- Department of Zoology, Shivaji College, University of Delhi, New Delhi 110027, India; (J.K.C.); (R.R.)
| | - Faizul Azam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Unaizah 51911, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Jyoti Mehta
- Department of Physiology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Medical College and Hospital, Solan 173229, India;
| | - Shailendra Handu
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rishikesh 249201, India;
| | - Ramasare Prasad
- Molecular Biology & Proteomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Roorkee 247667, India; (P.K.C.); (R.P.)
| | - Neeraj Jain
- Department of Cancer Biology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India;
| | - Avaneesh Kumar Pandey
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India;
| | - Puneet Dhamija
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rishikesh 249201, India;
- Correspondence: (R.Y.); (P.D.)
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23
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Oh KK, Adnan M, Cho DH. Network Pharmacology Study on Morus alba L. Leaves: Pivotal Functions of Bioactives on RAS Signaling Pathway and Its Associated Target Proteins against Gout. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9372. [PMID: 34502281 PMCID: PMC8431517 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
M. alba L. is a valuable nutraceutical plant rich in potential bioactive compounds with promising anti-gouty arthritis. Here, we have explored bioactives, signaling pathways, and key proteins underlying the anti-gout activity of M. alba L. leaves for the first-time utilizing network pharmacology. Bioactives in M. alba L. leaves were detected through GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrum) analysis and filtered by Lipinski's rule. Target proteins connected to the filtered compounds and gout were selected from public databases. The overlapping target proteins between bioactives-interacted target proteins and gout-targeted proteins were identified using a Venn diagram. Bioactives-Proteins interactive networking for gout was analyzed to identify potential ligand-target and visualized the rich factor on the R package via the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway on STRING. Finally, a molecular docking test (MDT) between bioactives and target proteins was analyzed via AutoDock Vina. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) demonstrated that mechanisms of M. alba L. leaves against gout were connected to 17 signaling pathways on 26 compounds. AKT1 (AKT Serine/Threonine Kinase 1), γ-Tocopherol, and RAS signaling pathway were selected as a hub target, a key bioactive, and a hub signaling pathway, respectively. Furthermore, three main compounds (γ-Tocopherol, 4-Dehydroxy-N-(4,5-methylenedioxy-2-nitrobenzylidene) tyramine, and Lanosterol acetate) and three key target proteins-AKT1, PRKCA, and PLA2G2A associated with the RAS signaling pathway were noted for their highest affinity on MDT. The identified three key bioactives in M. alba L. leaves might contribute to recovering gouty condition by inactivating the RAS signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dong Ha Cho
- Department of Bio-Health Convergence, College of Biomedical Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea; (K.K.O.); (M.A.)
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24
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Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Analysis of multiple rodent RNAseq after nerve injury reveals a common gene signature, with suppression of endogenous opioid signalling and overlap with human pain genes The dorsal root ganglia (DRG) are key structures in nociception and chronic pain disorders. Several gene expression studies of DRG in preclinical pain models have been performed, but it is unclear if consistent gene changes are identifiable. We, therefore, compared several recent RNA-Seq data sets on the whole DRG in rodent models of nerve injury. Contrary to previous findings, we show hundreds of common differentially expressed genes and high positive correlation between studies, despite model and species differences. We also find, in contrast to previous studies, that 60% of the common rodent gene response after injury is likely to occur in nociceptors of the DRG. Substantial expression changes are observed at a 1-week time-point, with smaller changes in the same genes at a later 3- to 4-week time-point. However, a subset of genes shows a similar magnitude of changes at both early and late time-points, suggesting their potential involvement in the maintenance of chronic pain. These genes are centred around suppression of endogenous opioid signalling. Reversal of this suppression could allow endogenous and exogenous opioids to exert their analgesic functions and may be an important strategy for treating chronic pain disorders. Currently used drugs, such as amitriptyline and duloxetine, do not seem to appropriately modulate many of the critical pain genes and indeed may transcriptionally suppress endogenous opioid signalling further.
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25
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Perez-Miller S, Patek M, Moutal A, de Haro PD, Cabel CR, Thorne CA, Campos SK, Khanna R. Novel Compounds Targeting Neuropilin Receptor 1 with Potential To Interfere with SARS-CoV-2 Virus Entry. ACS Chem Neurosci 2021; 12:1299-1312. [PMID: 33787218 PMCID: PMC8029449 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is a multifunctional transmembrane receptor for ligands that affect developmental axonal growth and angiogenesis. In addition to a role in cancer, NRP-1 is a reported entry point for several viruses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causal agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The furin cleavage product of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein takes advantage of the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) binding site on NRP-1 which accommodates a polybasic stretch ending in a C-terminal arginine. This site has long been a focus of drug discovery efforts for cancer therapeutics. We recently showed that interruption of the VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling pathway ameliorates neuropathic pain and hypothesize that interference of this pathway by SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein interferes with pain signaling. Here, we report confirmed hits from a small molecule and natural product screen of nearly 0.5 million compounds targeting the VEGF-A binding site on NRP-1. We identified nine chemical series with lead- or drug-like physicochemical properties. Using ELISA, we demonstrate that six compounds disrupt VEGF-A-NRP-1 binding more effectively than EG00229, a known NRP-1 inhibitor. Secondary validation in cells revealed that all tested compounds inhibited VEGF-A triggered VEGFR2 phosphorylation. Further, two compounds displayed robust inhibition of a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus protein that utilizes the SARS-CoV-2 Spike for entry and fusion. These compounds represent a first step in a renewed effort to develop small molecule inhibitors of the VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling for the treatment of neuropathic pain and cancer with the added potential of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 virus entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Perez-Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, The University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Marcel Patek
- Bright Rock Path Consulting, LLC, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Paz Duran de Haro
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Carly R. Cabel
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
| | - Curtis A. Thorne
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
- Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona
| | - Samuel K. Campos
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
- Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona
- Department of Immunobiology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, The University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- Regulonix LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA
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26
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Llorián-Salvador M, Barabas P, Byrne EM, Lechner J, Augustine J, Curtis TM, Chen M, Xu H. VEGF-B Is an Autocrine Gliotrophic Factor for Müller Cells under Pathologic Conditions. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:35. [PMID: 32945843 PMCID: PMC7509798 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.11.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Müller glia are important in retinal health and disease and are a major source of retinal VEGF-A. Of the different VEGF family members, the role of VEGF-A in retinal health and disease has been studied extensively. The potential contribution of other VEGF family members to retinal pathophysiology, however, remains poorly defined. This study aimed to understand the role of VEGF-B in Müller cell pathophysiology. Methods The expression of different VEGFs and their receptors in human MIO-M1 and mouse QMMuC-1 Müller cell lines and primary murine Müller cells was examined by RT-PCR, ELISA, and Western blot. The effect of recombinant VEGF-B or VEGF-B neutralization on Müller cell viability and survival under normal, hypoxic, and oxidative (4-hydroxynonenal [4-HNE]) conditions was evaluated by Alamar Blue, Yo-Pro uptake, and immunocytochemistry. The expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein, aquaporin-4, inward rectifying K+ channel subtype 4.1, glutamine synthetase, and transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 under different treatment conditions was examined by RT-PCR, immunocytochemistry, and Western blot. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 channel activity was assessed using a Fura-2–based calcium assay. Results VEGF-B was expressed in Müller cells at the highest levels compared with other members of the VEGF family. VEGF-B neutralization did not affect Müller cell viability or functionality under normal conditions, but enhanced hypoxia– or 4-HNE–induced Müller cell death and decreased inward rectifying K+ channel subtype 4.1 and aquaporin-4 expression. Recombinant VEGF-B restored Müller cell glutamine synthetase expression under hypoxic conditions and protected Müller cells from 4-HNE–induced damage by normalizing transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 channel expression and activity. Conclusions Autocrine production of VEGF-B protects Müller cells under pathologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Llorián-Salvador
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, BT9 7BL. Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Barabas
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, BT9 7BL. Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Eimear M Byrne
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, BT9 7BL. Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Judith Lechner
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, BT9 7BL. Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Josy Augustine
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, BT9 7BL. Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy M Curtis
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, BT9 7BL. Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Mei Chen
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, BT9 7BL. Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Heping Xu
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, BT9 7BL. Belfast, United Kingdom
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27
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Perez-Miller S, Patek M, Moutal A, Cabel CR, Thorne CA, Campos SK, Khanna R. In silico identification and validation of inhibitors of the interaction between neuropilin receptor 1 and SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2020:2020.09.22.308783. [PMID: 32995772 PMCID: PMC7523098 DOI: 10.1101/2020.09.22.308783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is a multifunctional transmembrane receptor for ligands that affect developmental axonal growth and angiogenesis. In addition to a role in cancer, NRP-1 is a reported entry point for several viruses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causal agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The furin cleavage product of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein takes advantage of the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) binding site on NRP-1 which accommodates a polybasic stretch ending in a C-terminal arginine. This site has long been a focus of drug discovery efforts for cancer therapeutics. We recently showed that interruption of the VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling pathway ameliorates neuropathic pain and hypothesize that interference of this pathway by SARS-CoV-2 spike protein interferes with pain signaling. Here, we report hits from a small molecule and natural product screen of nearly 0.5 million compounds targeting the VEGF-A binding site on NRP-1. We identified nine chemical series with lead- or drug-like physico-chemical properties. Using an ELISA, we demonstrate that six compounds disrupt VEGF-A-NRP-1 binding more effectively than EG00229, a known NRP-1 inhibitor. Secondary validation in cells revealed that almost all tested compounds inhibited VEGF-A triggered VEGFR2 phosphorylation. Two compounds displayed robust inhibition of a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus protein that utilizes the SARS-CoV-2 Spike for entry and fusion. These compounds represent a first step in a renewed effort to develop small molecule inhibitors of the VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling for the treatment of neuropathic pain and cancer with the added potential of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 virus entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Perez-Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, The University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, Arizona 85724, USA
| | - Marcel Patek
- Bright Rock Path Consulting, LLC, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Carly R. Cabel
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
| | - Curtis A. Thorne
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
- Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona
| | - Samuel K. Campos
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
- Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona
- Department of Immunobiology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, The University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, Arizona 85724, USA
- Regulonix LLC, 1555 E. Entrada Segunda, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA
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28
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Stubbs EB. Targeting the blood-nerve barrier for the management of immune-mediated peripheral neuropathies. Exp Neurol 2020; 331:113385. [PMID: 32562668 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2020.113385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Healthy peripheral nerves encounter, with increased frequency, numerous chemical, biological, and biomechanical forces. Over time and with increasing age, these forces collectively contribute to the pathophysiology of a spectrum of traumatic, metabolic, and/or immune-mediated peripheral nerve disorders. The blood-nerve barrier (BNB) serves as a critical first-line defense against chemical and biologic insults while biomechanical forces are continuously buffered by a dense array of longitudinally orientated epineural collagen fibers exhibiting high-tensile strength. As emphasized throughout this Experimental Neurology Special Issue, the BNB is best characterized as a functionally dynamic multicellular vascular unit comprised of not only highly specialized endoneurial endothelial cells, but also associated perineurial cells, pericytes, Schwann cells, basement membrane, and invested axons. The composition of the BNB, while anatomically distinct, is not functionally dissimilar to that of the well characterized neurovascular unit of the central nervous system. While the BNB lacks a glial limitans and an astrocytic endfoot layer, the primary function of both vascular units is to establish, maintain, and protect an optimal endoneurial (PNS) or interstitial (CNS) fluid microenvironment that is vital for proper neuronal function. Altered endoneurial homeostasis as a secondary consequence of BNB dysregulation is considered an early pathological event in the course of a variety of traumatic, immune-mediated, or metabolically acquired peripheral neuropathies. In this review, emerging experimental advancements targeting the endoneurial microvasculature for the therapeutic management of immune-mediated inflammatory peripheral neuropathies, including the AIDP variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan B Stubbs
- Research Service (151), Department of Veterans Affairs, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL 60141, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Loyola University Health Science Division, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
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29
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Efficacy of topical bevacizumab 0.05% eye drops in dry eye disease: A double-masked, randomized trial. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234186. [PMID: 32502179 PMCID: PMC7274382 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this double-masked, placebo-controlled, randomized trial was to assess the efficacy and safety of bevacizumab 0.05% eye drops in dry eye patients. This study included Dry Eye Workshop Study (DEWS) Grade 3–4 dry eye participants (n = 31) whose tear break-up time (TBUT) was ≤5 seconds(s). Participants were randomized to undergo treatment with either bevacizumab 0.05% eye drops (n = 19) or placebo (n = 12). The primary outcome was TBUT, and the proportion of responders (increase of ≥3s in TBUT at week 12), ocular surface disease index (OSDI) score, Schirmer test, and Oxford scheme grade were secondary outcomes. All outcomes were measured at 1-, 4- and 12 weeks. TBUT in bevacizumab group differed significantly from TBUT in placebo group within 12 weeks (P = 0.001). Moreover, the improvement of TBUT in bevacizumab group versus placebo group at 4- and 12 weeks differed significantly from that difference at baseline (P = 0.002 and P = 0.003, respectively). The proportion of participants achieving increase of 3 seconds or more of TBUT at week 12 in the bevacizumab group was significantly greater than that in the placebo group (P = 0.02). Oxford scheme grade at 1-, 4- and 12 weeks differed significantly from the values at baseline in bevacizumab group (P = 0.001, P = 0.01, and P = 0.03, respectively). OSDI scores at 1-, 4- and 12-week follow-ups were significantly lower than that at baseline in bevacizumab group (P<0.001 at each follow-up). Schirmer test were not significantly different within or between groups (the lowest P = 0.92). No adverse events occurred in this study. Patients treated with bevacizumab 0.05% eye drops showed significant improvement in tear film stability, corneal staining and symptoms.
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