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Arturo Tozzi, Minella R. Dynamics and metabolic effects of intestinal gases in healthy humans. Biochimie 2024; 221:81-90. [PMID: 38325747 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Many living beings use exogenous and/or endogenous gases to attain evolutionary benefits. We make a comprehensive assessment of one of the major gaseous reservoirs in the human body, i.e., the bowel, providing extensive data that may serve as reference for future studies. We assess the intestinal gases in healthy humans, including their volume, composition, source and local distribution in proximal as well as distal gut. We analyse each one of the most abundant intestinal gases including nitrogen, oxygen, nitric oxide, carbon dioxide, methane, hydrogen, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide and cyanide. For every gas, we describe diffusive patterns, active trans-barrier transport dynamics, chemical properties, intra-/extra-intestinal metabolic effects mediated by intracellular, extracellular, paracrine and distant actions. Further, we highlight the local and systemic roles of gasotransmitters, i.e., signalling gaseous molecules that can freely diffuse through the intestinal cellular membranes. Yet, we provide testable hypotheses concerning the still unknown effects of some intestinal gases on the myenteric and submucosal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Tozzi
- Center for Nonlinear Science, Department of Physics, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle, #311427, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA.
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Idrizaj E, Biagioni C, Traini C, Vannucchi MG, Baccari MC. Glucagon-like Peptide-2 Depresses Ileal Contractility in Preparations from Mice through Opposite Modulatory Effects on Nitrergic and Cholinergic Neurotransmission. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1855. [PMID: 38339131 PMCID: PMC10855646 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) has been reported to influence gastrointestinal motor responses, exerting a modulatory role on enteric neurotransmission. To our knowledge, no data on GLP-2 effects on the motility of the isolated ileum are available; therefore, we investigated whether GLP-2 affects the contractile activity of mouse ileal preparations and the neurotransmitters engaged. Ileal preparations showed tetrodotoxin (TTX)- and atropine-insensitive spontaneous contractile activity, which was unaffected by the nitric oxide synthesis inhibitor, L-NNA. GLP-2 depressed the spontaneous contractility, an effect that was abolished by TTX or L-NNA and not influenced by atropine. Electrical field stimulation induced TTX- and atropine-sensitive contractile responses, which were reduced in amplitude by GLP-2 even in the presence of L-NNA. Immunohistochemical results showed a significant increase in nNOS-positive fibers in the ileal muscle wall and a significant decrease in ChAT-positive myenteric neurons in GLP-2-exposed preparations. The present results offer the first evidence that GLP-2 acts on ileal preparations. The hormone appears to depress ileal contractility through a dual opposite modulatory effect on inhibitory nitrergic and excitatory cholinergic neurotransmission. From a physiological point of view, it could be hypothesized that GLP-2 inhibitory actions on ileal contractility can increase transit time, facilitating nutrient absorption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eglantina Idrizaj
- Section of Physiological Sciences, Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Cristina Biagioni
- Research Unit of Histology & Embryology, Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (C.B.); (C.T.)
| | - Chiara Traini
- Research Unit of Histology & Embryology, Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (C.B.); (C.T.)
| | - Maria Giuliana Vannucchi
- Research Unit of Histology & Embryology, Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (C.B.); (C.T.)
| | - Maria Caterina Baccari
- Section of Physiological Sciences, Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
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Idrizaj E, Nistri S, Nardini P, Baccari MC. Adiponectin affects ileal contractility of mouse preparations. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2024; 326:G187-G194. [PMID: 38111974 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00203.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Adiponectin (ADPN) has been reported to induce inhibitory effects on gastric motor activity, which, being a source of peripheral satiety signals, would contribute to the central anorexigenic effects of the hormone in rodents. However, peripheral satiety signals can also originate from the small intestine. Since there are no data on the effects of ADPN in this gut region, the present study aimed to investigate whether ADPN affects murine ileal contractility. Immunofluorescence experiments and Western blot were also performed to reveal the expression of ADPN receptors. Mechanical responses of ileal preparations were recorded in vitro via force-displacement transducers. Preparations showed a tetrodotoxin- and atropine-insensitive spontaneous contractile activity. Electrical field stimulation (EFS) induced tetrodotoxin- and atropine-sensitive contractile responses. ADPN induced a decay of the basal tension and decreased the amplitude of either the spontaneous contractility or the EFS-induced excitatory responses. All ADPN effects were abolished by the nitric oxide (NO) synthesis inhibitor NG-nitro l-arginine. The expression of the ADPN receptor, AdipoR1, but not AdipoR2, was also revealed in enteric glial cells. The present results offer the first evidence that ADPN acts on ileal preparations. The hormone exerts inhibitory effects, likely involving AdipoR1 on enteric glial cells and NO. From a physiological point of view, it could be hypothesized that the depressant action of ADPN on ileal contractility represents an additional peripheral satiety signal which, as also described for the ileal brake, could contribute to the central anorexigenic effects of the hormone.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study provides the first evidence that adiponectin (ADPN) is able to act on ileal preparations. Functional results demonstrate that the hormone, other than causing a slight decay of the basal tension, depresses the amplitude of both spontaneous contractility and neurally induced excitatory responses of the mouse ileum through the involvement of nitric oxide. The expression of the ADPN receptor AdipoR1 and its localization on glial cells was revealed by Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eglantina Idrizaj
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Physiological Sciences, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Silvia Nistri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Imaging Platform, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Patrizia Nardini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Imaging Platform, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Maria Caterina Baccari
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Physiological Sciences, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
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Wu W, Zhu L, Dou Z, Hou Q, Wang S, Yuan Z, Li B. Ghrelin in Focus: Dissecting Its Critical Roles in Gastrointestinal Pathologies and Therapies. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:948-964. [PMID: 38275675 PMCID: PMC10813987 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46010061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
This review elucidates the critical role of ghrelin, a peptide hormone mainly synthesized in the stomach in various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. Ghrelin participates in diverse biological functions ranging from appetite regulation to impacting autophagy and apoptosis. In sepsis, it reduces intestinal barrier damage by inhibiting inflammatory responses, enhancing GI blood flow, and modulating cellular processes like autophagy and apoptosis. Notably, in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), serum ghrelin levels serve as markers for distinguishing between active and remission phases, underscoring its potential in IBD treatment. In gastric cancer, ghrelin acts as an early risk marker, and due to its significant role in increasing the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells, the ghrelin-GHS-R axis is poised to become a target for gastric cancer treatment. The role of ghrelin in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains controversial; however, ghrelin analogs have demonstrated substantial benefits in treating cachexia associated with CRC, highlighting the therapeutic potential of ghrelin. Nonetheless, the complex interplay between ghrelin's protective and potential tumorigenic effects necessitates a cautious approach to its therapeutic application. In post-GI surgery scenarios, ghrelin and its analogs could be instrumental in enhancing recovery and reducing complications. This article accentuates ghrelin's multifunctionality, shedding light on its influence on disease mechanisms, including inflammatory responses and cancer progression, and examines its therapeutic potential in GI surgeries and disorders, advocating for continued research in this evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wu
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (W.W.); (Q.H.); (S.W.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Lei Zhu
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (L.Z.); (Z.D.)
| | - Zhimin Dou
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (L.Z.); (Z.D.)
| | - Qiliang Hou
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (W.W.); (Q.H.); (S.W.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Sen Wang
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (W.W.); (Q.H.); (S.W.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Ziqian Yuan
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (W.W.); (Q.H.); (S.W.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (W.W.); (Q.H.); (S.W.); (Z.Y.)
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (L.Z.); (Z.D.)
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Felípez N, Montori S, Mendizuri N, Llach J, Delgado PG, Moreira L, Santamaría E, Fernández-Irigoyen J, Albéniz E. The Human Gastric Juice: A Promising Source for Gastric Cancer Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119131. [PMID: 37298081 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a major public health problem worldwide, with high mortality rates due to late diagnosis and limited treatment options. Biomarker research is essential to improve the early detection of GC. Technological advances and research methodologies have improved diagnostic tools, identifying several potential biomarkers for GC, including microRNA, DNA methylation markers, and protein-based biomarkers. Although most studies have focused on identifying biomarkers in biofluids, the low specificity of these markers has limited their use in clinical practice. This is because many cancers share similar alterations and biomarkers, so obtaining them from the site of disease origin could yield more specific results. As a result, recent research efforts have shifted towards exploring gastric juice (GJ) as an alternative source for biomarker identification. Since GJ is a waste product during a gastroscopic examination, it could provide a "liquid biopsy" enriched with disease-specific biomarkers generated directly at the damaged site. Furthermore, as it contains secretions from the stomach lining, it could reflect changes associated with the developmental stage of GC. This narrative review describes some potential biomarkers for gastric cancer screening identified in gastric juice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayra Felípez
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Research Unit, Navarrabiomed, Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sheyla Montori
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Research Unit, Navarrabiomed, Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Naroa Mendizuri
- Clinical Neuroproteomics Unit, Proteomics Platform, Navarrabiomed, Hospitalario Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Joan Llach
- Department of Gastroenterology, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), IDIBAPS (Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro G Delgado
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital de Mérida, 06800 Mérida, Spain
| | - Leticia Moreira
- Department of Gastroenterology, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), IDIBAPS (Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enrique Santamaría
- Clinical Neuroproteomics Unit, Proteomics Platform, Navarrabiomed, Hospitalario Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Joaquín Fernández-Irigoyen
- Clinical Neuroproteomics Unit, Proteomics Platform, Navarrabiomed, Hospitalario Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Albéniz
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Navarrabiomed, Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
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Wang Y, Jiang H, Wang L, Gan H, Xiao X, Huang L, Li W, Li Z. Arctiin alleviates functional constipation by enhancing intestinal motility in mice. Exp Ther Med 2023; 25:199. [PMID: 37090075 PMCID: PMC10119619 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.11898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Functional constipation (FC), a common symptom that is primarily associated with intestinal motility dysfunction, is a common problem worldwide. Arctiin (Arc) is a lignan glycoside isolated from the Chinese herbal medicine Arctium lappa L., which is a health food in China. The present study aimed to evaluate the laxative effects of Arc against FC in mice. A model of FC induced by loperamide (5 mg/kg) was established in male Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice. Arc was administered at a dose of 100 mg/kg as a protective agent. The faecal status, intestinal motility and histological analyses were evaluated. Furthermore, the levels of gastrointestinal motility-associated neurotransmitters, such as motilin (MTL), nitric oxide (NO), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the protective effect of Arc on interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) were assessed. Arc treatment reversed the loperamide-induced reduction in faecal number and water content and the intestinal transit ratio in ICR mice. Histological analysis confirmed that Arc administration mitigated colonic injury. Moreover, Arc treatment increased levels of motilin and brain-derived neurotrophic factor while decreasing nitric oxide levels and ICC injury in the colon of FC mice. Arc decreased inflammation induction and aquaporin expression levels. Owing to its pro-intestinal motility property, Arc was shown to have a protective effect against FC and may thus serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for the management of FC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujin Wang
- College of Basic Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712046, P.R. China
| | - Hua Jiang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712046, P.R. China
- Correspondence to: Mrs. Hua Jiang, The First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Qindu, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712046, P.R. China
| | - Lijun Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712046, P.R. China
| | - Huiping Gan
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712046, P.R. China
| | - Xinchun Xiao
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712046, P.R. China
| | - Liangwu Huang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712046, P.R. China
| | - Wenxin Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712046, P.R. China
| | - Zongrun Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712046, P.R. China
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Makowska K, Całka J, Gonkowski S. Effects of the long-term influence of bisphenol A and bisphenol S on the population of nitrergic neurons in the enteric nervous system of the mouse stomach. Sci Rep 2023; 13:331. [PMID: 36609592 PMCID: PMC9822927 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-27511-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor commonly used in the production of plastics. Due to its relatively well-known harmful effects on living organisms, BPA is often replaced by its various analogues. One of them is bisphenol S (BPS), widely used in the plastics industry. Until recently, BPS was considered completely safe, but currently, it is known that it is not safe for various internal organs. However, knowledge about the influence of BPS on the nervous system is scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the influence of two doses of BPA and BPS on the enteric nitrergic neurons in the CD1 strain mouse stomach using the double-immunofluorescence technique. The study found that both substances studied increased the number of nitrergic neurons, although changes under the impact of BPS were less visible than those induced by BPA. Therefore, the obtained results, for the first time, clearly indicate that BPS is not safe for the innervation of the gastrointestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystyna Makowska
- Department of Clinical Diagnostics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 14, 10-957, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Jarosław Całka
- grid.412607.60000 0001 2149 6795Department of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 13, 10-957 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Sławomir Gonkowski
- grid.412607.60000 0001 2149 6795Department of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 13, 10-957 Olsztyn, Poland
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Idrizaj E, Nistri S, Zizi V, Baccari MC. Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase as a Shared Target for the Effects of Adiponectin and Resistin on the Mechanical Responses of the Mouse Gastric Fundus. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23. [PMID: 36555750 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been reported that adiponectin (ADPN) and resistin are co-secreted by white mouse adipocytes and exert similar inhibitory effects in the mouse gastric fundus, in which resistin was observed to increase neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression. On these grounds, the present work aimed to investigate whether the effects of the two adipokines on the neurally-induced relaxant responses potentiate each other and whether there is a possible correlation with changes in nNOS expression in preparations from the mouse gastric fundus. In carbachol (CCh)-precontracted strips, electrical field stimulation elicited nitrergic relaxant responses, whose amplitude was increased by ADPN or resistin, but no additional enhancements were observed in their concomitant presence. Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses revealed that ADPN, like resistin, was able to up-regulate nNOS expression and to increase the percentage of nNOS-positive neurons in the myenteric plexus: co-treatment with the two adipokines did not induce additional changes. The results indicate that the two adipokines modulate nitrergic neurotransmission, and both do so by up-regulating nNOS expression. Therefore, nNOS appears to be a shared target for the two adipokines' effects, which, rather than mutually reinforcing each other, may represent a dual physiological control mechanism to guarantee gastric fundus relaxation.
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Gao D, Asghar S, Hu R, Chen S, Niu R, Liu J, Chen Z, Xiao Y. Recent advances in diverse nanosystems for nitric oxide delivery in cancer therapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 13:1498-1521. [PMID: 37139410 PMCID: PMC10149905 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gas therapy has been proven to be a promising and advantageous treatment option for cancers. Studies have shown that nitric oxide (NO) is one of the smallest structurally significant gas molecules with great potential to suppress cancer. However, there is controversy and concern about its use as it exhibits the opposite physiological effects based on its levels in the tumor. Therefore, the anti-cancer mechanism of NO is the key to cancer treatment, and rationally designed NO delivery systems are crucial to the success of NO biomedical applications. This review summarizes the endogenous production of NO, its physiological mechanisms of action, the application of NO in cancer treatment, and nano-delivery systems for delivering NO donors. Moreover, it briefly reviews challenges in delivering NO from different nanoparticles and the issues associated with its combination treatment strategies. The advantages and challenges of various NO delivery platforms are recapitulated for possible transformation into clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Sajid Asghar
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Rongfeng Hu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Preparation Technology and Application, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Su Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ruixin Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Jiangyin Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangyin 214499, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +86 510 86700000 (Jia Liu); +86 25 85811050 (Zhipeng Chen); +86 25 83271079 (Yanyu Xiao).
| | - Zhipeng Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +86 510 86700000 (Jia Liu); +86 25 85811050 (Zhipeng Chen); +86 25 83271079 (Yanyu Xiao).
| | - Yanyu Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +86 510 86700000 (Jia Liu); +86 25 85811050 (Zhipeng Chen); +86 25 83271079 (Yanyu Xiao).
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Qiu B, Zhu L, Zhang S, Han S, Fei Y, Ba F, Berglund B, Li L, Yao M. Prevention of Loperamide-Induced Constipation in Mice and Alteration of 5-Hydroxytryotamine Signaling by Ligilactobacillus salivarius Li01. Nutrients 2022; 14. [PMID: 36235735 DOI: 10.3390/nu14194083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Although Ligilactobacillus salivarius Li01 (Li01) has shown much promise in preventing multiple gastrointestinal diseases, the potential of the probiotic in alleviating constipation and the related mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the effects of Li01 were evaluated in a loperamide-induced constipation mouse model. The results demonstrated that Li01 intervention can relieve constipation symptoms by improving water content, quantity, and morphology of feces and act as an intestinal barrier structure protector. Furthermore, Li01 can modulate gut motility (gastrointestinal transit rate), the fluid transit-associated expression of aquaporins, and the serum parameters vasoactive intestinal peptide, substance P, and somatostatin. Constipation significantly increased the levels of 5-hydroxytryotamine (5-HT) in serum (p < 0.01) and decreased the levels in the intestine (p < 0.001). Due to its function of elevating the expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 1, this was reversed after Li01 treatment. Li01 also promoted the expression of 5-HT receptor 3 and 4, indicating that the 5-HT signaling pathway may play a critical role in the mechanism by which Li01 alleviate constipation symptoms. Additionally, Li01 significantly altered the gut microbiota composition by enhancing the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes and increasing the abundance of Rikenellaceae_RC9 genera. Based on the above results, Li01 may have the potential to effectively alleviate constipation by regulating the 5-HT pathway and alteration of the gut microbiota.
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Idrizaj E, Garella R, Nistri S, Squecco R, Baccari MC. Evidence that resistin acts on the mechanical responses of the mouse gastric fundus. Front Physiol 2022; 13:930197. [PMID: 35910552 PMCID: PMC9334560 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.930197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistin, among its several actions, has been reported to exert central anorexigenic effects in rodents. Some adipokines which centrally modulate food intake have also been reported to affect the activity of gastric smooth muscle, whose motor responses represent a source of peripheral signals implicated in the control of the hunger-satiety cycle through the gut-brain axis. On this basis, in the present experiments, we investigated whether resistin too could affect the mechanical responses in the mouse longitudinal gastric fundal strips. Electrical field stimulation (EFS) elicited tetrodotoxin- and atropine-sensitive contractile responses. Resistin reduced the amplitude of the EFS-induced contractile responses. This effect was no longer detected in the presence of L-NNA, a nitric oxide (NO) synthesis inhibitor. Resistin did not influence the direct muscular response to methacholine. In the presence of carbachol and guanethidine, EFS elicited inhibitory responses whose amplitude was increased by resistin. L-NNA abolished the inhibitory responses evoked by EFS, indicating their nitrergic nature. In the presence of L-NNA, resistin did not have any effect on the EFS-evoked inhibitory responses. Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis revealed a significant increase in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression in neurons of the myenteric plexus following resistin exposure. In conclusion, the present results offer the first evidence that resistin acts on the gastric fundus, likely through a modulatory action on the nitrergic neurotransmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eglantina Idrizaj
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Physiological Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- *Correspondence: Eglantina Idrizaj, ; Maria Caterina Baccari,
| | - Rachele Garella
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Physiological Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Nistri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Research Unit of Histology and Embryology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberta Squecco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Physiological Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Caterina Baccari
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Physiological Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- *Correspondence: Eglantina Idrizaj, ; Maria Caterina Baccari,
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Abstract
The ghrelin system contains several components (e.g., ghrelin with growing number of alternative peptides, growth hormone secretagogue receptors (GHS-Rs), and ghrelin-O-acyl-transferase (GOAT) and participates in regulation of a number of key processes of gastrointestinal (GI) tract cancer progression, including cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, inflammation, and angiogenesis. However, its exact role in promoting or inhibiting cancer progression is still unclear. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common human malignancies worldwide. Molecular studies suggest an autocrine/paracrine mechanism for the secretion of ghrelin in colorectal carcinogenesis and its contribution to its initial stages. However, the signalling pathways of CRC development involving the ghrelin system are poorly understood. Potential mechanisms of colon carcinogenesis involving components of the ghrelin system were previously described in an animal model and in in vitro studies. However, the diagnostic–prognostic role of serum ghrelin concentrations, tissue expression, or genetic changes of this system in various stages of CRC progression remains an open case. Thus, the aim of this study is to discuss the role of the ghrelin system in colon carcinogenesis, diagnostics and CRC prognostics, as well as the results of studies on the use of ghrelin and its analogues in the therapy of CRC-related syndromes (e.g., cachexia and sarcopenia).
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13
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In this review, we evaluate recent findings related to the association between gastrointestinal hormones and regulation of gastric emptying. RECENT FINDINGS Motilin and ghrelin, which act during fasting, promote gastric motility, whereas most of the hormones secreted after a meal inhibit gastric motility. Serotonin has different progastric or antigastric motility effects depending on the receptor subtype. Serotonin receptor agonists have been used clinically to treat dyspepsia symptoms but other hormone receptor agonists or antagonists are still under development. Glucagon-like peptide 1 agonists, which have gastric motility and appetite-suppressing effects are used as a treatment for obesity and diabetes. SUMMARY Gastrointestinal hormones play an important role in the regulation of gastric motility. Various drugs have been developed to treat delayed gastric emptying by targeting gastrointestinal hormones or their receptors but few have been commercialized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Mori
- Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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14
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Olson KR. A Case for Hydrogen Sulfide Metabolism as an Oxygen Sensing Mechanism. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10111650. [PMID: 34829521 PMCID: PMC8615108 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10111650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to detect oxygen availability is a ubiquitous attribute of aerobic organisms. However, the mechanism(s) that transduce oxygen concentration or availability into appropriate physiological responses is less clear and often controversial. This review will make the case for oxygen-dependent metabolism of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and polysulfides, collectively referred to as reactive sulfur species (RSS) as a physiologically relevant O2 sensing mechanism. This hypothesis is based on observations that H2S and RSS metabolism is inversely correlated with O2 tension, exogenous H2S elicits physiological responses identical to those produced by hypoxia, factors that affect H2S production or catabolism also affect tissue responses to hypoxia, and that RSS efficiently regulate downstream effectors of the hypoxic response in a manner consistent with a decrease in O2. H2S-mediated O2 sensing is then compared to the more generally accepted reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated O2 sensing mechanism and a number of reasons are offered to resolve some of the confusion between the two.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth R Olson
- Department of Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine-South Bend, South Bend, IN 46617, USA
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