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Affiliation(s)
- Charis Liapi
- Pharmacology, Medical School NKUA, Athens, Greece.
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Papadopulos JS, Mentis AFA, Liapi C. Social Pharmacology as an Underappreciated Field in Medical Education: A Single Medical School's Experience. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:714707. [PMID: 34531746 PMCID: PMC8438604 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.714707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexios-Fotios A Mentis
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The incorporation of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the oncologists' arsenal is a milestone in cancer therapeutics, though not being devoid of toxicities.Areas covered: The present review provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the immune-related hypophysitis with focus on the elusive biological background, the wide spectrum of the epidemiological profile, the varying clinical aspects, and the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.Expert opinion: Historically considered distinctive of anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), the immune-related hypophysitis is increasingly correlated with the anti-programmed cell-death (PD) protein 1 (PD-1)/anti-PD ligand 1 (PD-L1) mAbs. The distinct phenotype of hypophysitis related to anti-PD1/anti-PD-L1 mAbs is highlighted with focus on the immune-related isolated adrenocorticotropic (ACTH) deficiency. The immune-related central diabetes insipidus is discussed as a rare aspect of anti-CTL-A4 mAbs-induced hypophysitis, recently related to anti-PD1/anti-PD-L1 mAbs as well. The present review builds on existing literature concerning immune-related hypophysitis underscoring the pending issues still to be addressed, including (i) pathogenesis; (ii) correlation with preexisting autoimmunity; (iii) predictive value; (iv) utility of high-dose glucocorticoids; and (v) establishment of evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic protocols. Increased awareness and constant vigilance are advocated as cornerstone of a multidisciplinary approach to ensure optimal patients' care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Deligiorgi
- Department of Pharmacology-Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology-Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios T Trafalis
- Department of Pharmacology-Clinical Pharmacology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
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Deligiorgi MV, Liapi C, Trafalis DT. How Far Are We from Prescribing Fasting as Anticancer Medicine? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239175. [PMID: 33271979 PMCID: PMC7730661 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: the present review provides a comprehensive and up-to date overview of the potential exploitation of fasting as an anticancer strategy. The rationale for this concept is that fasting elicits a differential stress response in the setting of unfavorable conditions, empowering the survival of normal cells, while killing cancer cells. (2) Methods: the present narrative review presents the basic aspects of the hormonal, molecular, and cellular response to fasting, focusing on the interrelationship of fasting with oxidative stress. It also presents nonclinical and clinical evidence concerning the implementation of fasting as adjuvant to chemotherapy, highlighting current challenges and future perspectives. (3) Results: there is ample nonclinical evidence indicating that fasting can mitigate the toxicity of chemotherapy and/or increase the efficacy of chemotherapy. The relevant clinical research is encouraging, albeit still in its infancy. The path forward for implementing fasting in oncology is a personalized approach, entailing counteraction of current challenges, including: (i) patient selection; (ii) fasting patterns; (iii) timeline of fasting and refeeding; (iv) validation of biomarkers for assessment of fasting; and (v) establishment of protocols for patients’ monitoring. (4) Conclusion: prescribing fasting as anticancer medicine may not be far away if large randomized clinical trials consolidate its safety and efficacy.
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Al-Humadi AW, Strilakou A, Al-Humadi HW, Al-Saigh R, Liapi C. SAT-630 Nutritional Influences on One Carbon Metabolism Exacerbate Diabetic Cardiomyopathy and Nephropathy. J Endocr Soc 2020. [PMCID: PMC7207594 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa046.1505] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Choline (Ch) exerts a key role as methyl donor in the one carbon pathway and is an essential nutrient for the optimal development and function of a number of biological systems including the cardiovascular and urinary system. Ch-deprivation has been associated with heart function impairment, insulin resistance, abnormal fat metabolism and acute kidney injury. Diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic disorder with increased prevalence in aging and diabetic patients are of higher risk to develop heart and kidney failure. This study aims to investigate the impact of dietary Ch-deprivation on cardiac and renal function in a streptozotocin (STZ) experimentally induced diabetic setting. Twenty-four male adult Wistar rats, were randomly separated into four groups: control, choline deficient through choline deficient diet (CD), STZ induced diabetic (DM) and diabetic-choline deficient (DM+CD) group. After 5 weeks of dietary intervention, echocardiographic measurements, myocardium and kidney histological examination along with Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A (VEGF-A165) and Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1) immunohistochemistry expression were performed. DM+CD rats demonstrated an exacerbation of myocardial inflammation and fibrosis accompanied by preserved ejection fraction but with an increased left ventricular (LV) wall tension index and velocity and a decreased LV posterior wall thickness compared to DM group. VEGF-A165 expression both in heart and kidneys was abruptly upregulated in the CD rats with a downward trend under the diabetes mellitus entity reaching significant downregulation in the renal tissue. KIM-1 expression was significantly increased under the insult of both choline deficiency and diabetes mellitus depicting a possible synergistic, though detrimental, effect compared to each condition alone.
In conclusion, five weeks of dietary choline deprivation aggravates the inflammation and fibrosis in the heart and kidneys of diabetic rats leading to organ dysfunction. The structural impairment of the choline deprived diabetic heart with evidence of stiffness and dilation of the left ventricular cavity with preserved systolic function indicates the emergence of a new distinct phenotype of cardiomyopathy that combines features of the restrictive and dilated type at the same time. Moreover, in this setting the kidney injury gets worse implying that diabetic nephropathy might establish earlier and accelerate more quickly in choline deficiency conditions.
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Stolakis V, Liapi C, Al-Humadi H, Kalafatakis K, Gkanti V, Bimpis A, Skandali N, Tsela S, Theocharis S, Zarros A, Tsakiris S. Effects of gestational thiamine-deprivation and/or exposure to ethanol on crucial offspring rat brain enzyme activities. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2019; 34:2458-2466. [PMID: 31514558 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2019.1667973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a group of clinical conditions associated with the in utero exposure to ethanol (EtOH). We have recently examined the effects of a moderate maternal exposure to EtOH on crucial brain enzyme activities in offspring rats, and discussed the translational challenges arising when attempting to simulate any of the clinical conditions associated with FASD. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this current study, we: (i) address the need for a more consistent and reliable in vivo experimental platform that could simulate milder cases of FASD complicated by simultaneous thiamine-deprivation during gestation and (ii) explore the effects of such a moderate maternal exposure pattern to EtOH and a thiamine-deficient diet (TDD) on crucial enzyme activities in the offspring rat brains. RESULTS We demonstrate a significant decrease in the newborn and 21-day-old offspring body and brain weight due to maternal dietary thiamine-deprivation, as well as evidence of crucial brain enzyme activity alterations that in some cases are present in the offspring rat brains long after birth (and the end of the maternal exposure to both EtOH and TDD). CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide a preliminary characterization of important neurochemical effects due to maternal exposure to EtOH and TDD during gestation that might affect the offspring rat neurodevelopment, and that characterization should be further explored in a brain region-specific manner level as well as through the parallel examination of changes in the offspring rat brain lipid composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Stolakis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Hussam Al-Humadi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,College of Pharmacy, University of Babylon, Hillah, Iraq
| | - Konstantinos Kalafatakis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Department of Informatics & Telecommunications, School of Informatics & Telecommunications, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Gkanti
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexios Bimpis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolina Skandali
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Smaragda Tsela
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Apostolos Zarros
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,College of Pharmacy, University of Babylon, Hillah, Iraq.,Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Stylianos Tsakiris
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Al-Humadi H, Alhumadi A, Al-Saigh R, Strilakou A, Lazaris AC, Gazouli M, Liapi C. "Extracellular matrix remodelling in the liver of rats subjected to dietary choline deprivation and/or thioacetamide administration". Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2018; 45:1245-1256. [PMID: 30019784 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [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: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Choline deprivation is a recognized experimental approach to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, while thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis resembles alcoholic liver fibrogenesis. In order to elucidate the effect of TAA on liver extracellular matrix composition under choline deprivation due to choline-deficient diet (CDD) administration, we evaluated the transcriptional and immunohistochemical (IHC) pattern of major hepatic matrix metalloproteinases (namely, MMP-2, -9) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-1, -2) in adult male albino Wistar rats at 30, 60 and 90 days. In the CDD+TAA group, IHC showed an early progressive increase in MMP-2 expression, while MMP-9 initially exhibited a significant increase followed by a gradual decrease; TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 IHC expressions showed gradual increase throughout the experiment. The MMPs-TIMPs regulation at the transcriptional level was found to be increased in all groups throughout the experiment. The increased MMP-2/TIMP-2 and suppressed MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratios in IHC and in real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) seemed to correlate with the degree of liver fibrosis. These results support the important role of MMPs and TIMPs in controlling the hepatic pathogenesis and shed more light on the recently described experimental approach to liver disease (steatohepatitis) under the impact of two insults (TAA and CDD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussam Al-Humadi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Alhumadi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Rafal Al-Saigh
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Department of Clinical & Laboratory Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Athina Strilakou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas C Lazaris
- 1st Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Gazouli
- Department of Basic Medical Science/Laboratory of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Strilakou A, Perelas A, Lazaris A, Papavdi A, Karkalousos P, Giannopoulou I, Kriebardis A, Panayiotides I, Liapi C. Immunohistochemical determination of the extracellular matrix modulation in a rat model of choline-deprived myocardium: the effects of carnitine. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2015; 30:47-57. [PMID: 26501493 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 03/25/2015] [Revised: 09/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Choline has been identified as an essential nutrient with crucial role in many vital biological functions. Recent studies have demonstrated that heart dysfunction can develop in the setting of choline deprivation even in the absence of underlying heart disease. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are responsible for extracellular matrix degradation, and the dysregulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 has been involved in the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular disorders. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of MMPs and their inhibitors (TIMPs), in the pathogenesis of choline deficiency-induced cardiomyopathy, and the way they are affected by carnitine supplementation. Male Wistar Albino adult rats were divided into four groups and received standard or choline-deficient diet with or without L-carnitine in drinking water (0.15% w/v) for 1 month. Heart tissue immunohistochemistry for MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 was performed. Choline deficiency was associated with suppressed immunohistochemical expression of MMP-2 and an increased expression of TIMP-2 compared to control, while it had no impact on TIMP-1. MMP-9 expression was decreased without, however, reaching statistical significance. Carnitine did not affect MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 or TIMP-2 expression. The pattern of TIMP and MMP modulation observed in a choline deficiency setting appears to promote fibrosis. Carnitine, although shown to suppress fibrosis, does not seem to affect MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 or TIMP-2 expression. Further studies will be required to identify the mechanism underlying the beneficial effects of carnitine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athina Strilakou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Apostolos Perelas
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Lazaris
- 1st Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Asteria Papavdi
- 1st Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Petros Karkalousos
- Department of Medical Laboratories, Technological Institute of Athens, Agiou Spyridonos and Dimitsanas Street, Egaleo, 12210, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioanna Giannopoulou
- 1st Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasios Kriebardis
- Department of Medical Laboratories, Technological Institute of Athens, Agiou Spyridonos and Dimitsanas Street, Egaleo, 12210, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Panayiotides
- 2nd Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Attikon Hospital, 1Rimini Street, Chaidari, 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece
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Stolakis V, Liapi C, Zarros A, Kalopita K, Memtsas V, Botis J, Tsagianni A, Kimpizi D, Varatsos A, Tsakiris S. Exposure to ethanol during neurodevelopment modifies crucial offspring rat brain enzyme activities in a region-specific manner. Metab Brain Dis 2015; 30:1467-77. [PMID: 26380981 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-015-9730-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The experimental simulation of conditions falling within "the fetal alcohol spectrum disorder" (FASD) requires the maternal exposure to ethanol (EtOH) during crucial neurodevelopmental periods; EtOH has been linked to a number of neurotoxic effects on the fetus, which are dependent upon the extent and the magnitude of the maternal exposure to EtOH and for which very little is known with regard to the exact mechanism(s) involved. The current study has examined the effects of moderate maternal exposure to EtOH (10 % v/v in the drinking water) throughout gestation, or gestation and lactation, on crucial 21-day-old offspring Wistar rat brain parameters, such as the activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and two adenosine triphosphatases (Na(+),K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase), in major offspring CNS regions (frontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, cerebellum and pons). The implemented experimental setting has provided a comparative view of the neurotoxic effects of maternal exposure to EtOH between gestation alone and a wider exposure timeframe that better covers the human third trimester-matching CNS neurodevelopment period (gestation and lactation), and has revealed a CNS region-specific susceptibility of the examined crucial neurochemical parameters to the EtOH exposure schemes attempted. Amongst these parameters, of particular importance is the recorded extensive stimulation of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase in the frontal cortex of the EtOH-exposed offspring that seems to be a result of the deleterious effect of EtOH during gestation. Although this stimulation could be inversely related to the observed inhibition of AChE in the same CNS region, its dependency upon the EtOH-induced modulation of other systems of neurotransmission cannot be excluded and must be further clarified in future experimental attempts aiming to simulate and to shed more light on the milder forms of the FASD-related pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Stolakis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias street, GR-11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Apostolos Zarros
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias street, GR-11527, Athens, Greece
- Research Department of Pharmaceutics, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, UK
| | - Konstantina Kalopita
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias street, GR-11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Vassilios Memtsas
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias street, GR-11527, Athens, Greece
- Ninewells Hospital & Medical School, College of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - John Botis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias street, GR-11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasia Tsagianni
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias street, GR-11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Despoina Kimpizi
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias street, GR-11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexios Varatsos
- Department of Pathology, Panarcadic General Hospital, Tripolis, Greece
| | - Stylianos Tsakiris
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias street, GR-11527, Athens, Greece.
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Koromilas C, Tsakiris S, Kalafatakis K, Zarros A, Stolakis V, Kimpizi D, Bimpis A, Tsagianni A, Liapi C. Experimentally-induced maternal hypothyroidism alters crucial enzyme activities in the frontal cortex and hippocampus of the offspring rat. Metab Brain Dis 2015; 30:241-6. [PMID: 24972880 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-014-9581-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid hormone insufficiency during neurodevelopment can result into significant structural and functional changes within the developing central nervous system (CNS), and is associated with the establishment of serious cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric symptomatology. The aim of the present study was to shed more light on the effects of gestational and/or lactational maternal exposure to propylthiouracil (PTU)-induced hypothyroidism as a multilevel experimental approach to the study of hypothyroidism-induced changes on crucial brain enzyme activities of 21-day-old Wistar rat offspring in a brain region-specific manner. This experimental approach has been recently developed and characterized by the authors based on neurochemical analyses performed on newborn and 21-day-old rat offspring whole brain homogenates; as a continuum to this effort, the current study focused on two CNS regions of major significance for cognitive development: the frontal cortex and the hippocampus. Maternal exposure to PTU in the drinking water during gestation and/or lactation resulted into changes in the activities of acetylcholinesterase and two important adenosinetriphosphatases (Na(+),K(+)- and Mg(2+)-ATPase), that seemed to take place in a CNS-region-specific manner and that were dependent upon the PTU-exposure timeframe followed. As these findings are analyzed and compared to the available literature, they: (i) highlight the variability involved in the changes of the aforementioned enzymatic parameters in the studied CNS regions (attributed to both the different neuroanatomical composition and the thyroid-hormone-dependent neurodevelopmental growth/differentiation patterns of the latter), (ii) reveal important information with regards to the neurochemical mechanisms that could be involved in the way clinical hypothyroidism could affect optimal neurodevelopment and, ultimately, cognitive function, as well as (iii) underline the need for the adoption of more consistent approaches towards the experimental simulation of congenital and early-age-occurring hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Koromilas
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Koromilas C, Liapi C, Zarros A, Tsela S, Zissis KM, Kalafatakis K, Skandali N, Voumvourakis K, Carageorgiou H, Tsakiris S. Inhibition of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase in the hypothalamus, pons and cerebellum of the offspring rat due to experimentally-induced maternal hypothyroidism. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2014; 28:1438-44. [PMID: 25123521 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2014.955003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopment is known to be particularly susceptible to thyroid hormone insufficiency and can result in extensive structural and functional deficits within the central nervous system (CNS), subsequently leading to the establishment of cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric symptomatology. The current study evaluated the effects of gestational and/or lactational maternal exposure to propylthiouracil (PTU)-induced hypothyroidism (as a suggestive multilevel experimental approach to the study of hypothyroidism-induced changes that has been developed and characterized by the authors) on crucial brain enzyme activities of 21-day-old Wistar rat offspring in a CNS region-specific manner. The activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Na(+),K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase in the offspring hypothalamus, cerebellum and pons were assessed. The study demonstrated that maternal exposure to PTU (0.05% w/v in the drinking water) during the critical periods of neurodevelopment can result in an inhibition of hypothalamic, pontine and cerebellar Na(+),K(+)-ATPase; a major marker of neuronal excitability and metabolic energy production as well as an important regulator of important systems of neurotransmission. On the other hand, no significant changes in the activities of the herein offspring CNS regions' AChE and Mg(2+)-ATPase were recorded. The observed Na(+),K(+)-ATPase inhibition: (i) is region-specific (and non-detectable in whole brain homogenetes), (ii) could constitute a central event in the pathophysiology of clinically-relevant hypothyroidism-associated developmental neurotoxicity, (iii) occurs under all examined experimental schemes, and (iv) certainly deserves further clarification at a molecular and histopathological level. As these findings are analyzed and compared to the available literature, they also underline the need for the adoption and further study of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity as a consistent neurochemical marker within the context of a systematic comparative study of existing (and novel) simulation approaches to congenital and early age hypothyroidism.
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Gkanti V, Stolakis V, Kalafatakis K, Liapi C, Zissis KM, Zarros A, Tsakiris S. Postnuclear supernatants of rat brain regions as substrates for the in vitro assessment of cadmium-induced neurotoxicity on acetylcholinesterase activity. Biol Trace Elem Res 2014; 158:87-9. [PMID: 24504746 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-014-9907-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity is thought to be a major neurotoxicity biomarker. Considering the recently highlighted controversy over the use of AChE activity as a biomarker for the neurotoxicity induced by cadmium (Cd; a major environmental contaminant), we have evaluated the in vitro effects of different concentrations of Cd on AChE activity in postnuclear supernatants of brain regions of newborn, 21-day-old, and adult male Wistar rats. Our findings demonstrate that Cd is a consistent inhibitor of AChE activity at concentrations higher than 10(-3) M as well as that, at a concentration of 10(-2) M, Cd induces an almost absolute inhibition of this crucial enzyme in the examined postnuclear supernatants. These findings confirm previous in vitro experiments of ours, but are not in full agreement with the available in vivo findings; in fact, they underline that this in vitro approach to Cd-induced neurotoxicity does not produce the distinctive brain region-specific responses in terms of AChE activity that we have recently observed in vivo. Our study does not support the use of AChE activity as a biomarker for the assessment of Cd-induced neurotoxicity in rat brain-derived postnuclear supernatants, at least under the examined in vitro experimental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Gkanti
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, PO Box 65257, 15401, Athens, Greece
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Koromilas C, Liapi C, Zarros A, Stolakis V, Tsagianni A, Skandali N, Al‐Humadi H, Tsakiris S. Effects of experimentally‐induced maternal hypothyroidism on crucial offspring rat brain enzyme activities. Int J Dev Neurosci 2014; 35:1-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2014.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2013] [Revised: 02/15/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Christos Koromilas
- Laboratory of PharmacologyMedical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
- Laboratory of PhysiologyMedical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Laboratory of PharmacologyMedical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Apostolos Zarros
- Laboratory of PhysiologyMedical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical SciencesCollege of Medical, Veterinary and Life SciencesUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowUK
| | - Vasileios Stolakis
- Laboratory of PharmacologyMedical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
- Laboratory of PhysiologyMedical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Anastasia Tsagianni
- Laboratory of PhysiologyMedical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Nikolina Skandali
- Laboratory of PhysiologyMedical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Hussam Al‐Humadi
- Department of PharmacologyCollege of PharmacyUniversity of BabylonBabylonIraq
| | - Stylianos Tsakiris
- Laboratory of PhysiologyMedical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
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Gogali F, Paterakis G, Rassidakis GZ, Liakou CI, Liapi C. CD3(-)CD16(-)CD56(bright) immunoregulatory NK cells are increased in the tumor microenvironment and inversely correlate with advanced stages in patients with papillary thyroid cancer. Thyroid 2013; 23:1561-8. [PMID: 23721357 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2012.0560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The innate immune system is the first line of defense and plays a key role in thyroid cancer development. The role of the tumor-infiltrating natural killer (NK) cells is becoming increasingly important in research and potential cancer therapies. NK cell subpopulations, CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(dim) and CD3(-)CD16(-)CD56(bright), demonstrate a significant role in the tumor immuno-surveillance process. METHODS We investigated the distribution of CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(dim) and CD3(-)CD16(-)CD56(bright) NK subpopulations in tissue and blood samples from patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and nodular goiter (NG). Twenty-eight patients with PTC, 13 patients with NG, and 50 healthy donors were included in the study. Tissue and blood samples from all patients and blood samples from healthy donors were analyzed for CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(dim) and CD3(-)CD16(-)CD56(bright) NK cells by flow cytometry. RESULTS A significant predominance of CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(dim) cells compared to CD3(-)CD16(-)CD56(bright) NK cells was found in blood samples in all groups (p<0.0001 in PTC, NG, and healthy donors). Increased infiltration by CD3(-)CD16(-)CD56(bright) NK cells was observed in thyroid tissue of patients with PTC, as compared to CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(dim) NK cells (p=0.046), while CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(dim) NK cells demonstrated a higher infiltration of NG tissues. CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(dim) NK cell tissue infiltration positively correlated with advanced stages of PTC. In contrast, the CD3(-)CD16(-)CD56(bright) NK cell population was negatively associated with tumor stage in patients with PTC. CONCLUSION CD3(-)CD16(-)CD56(bright) NK cell infiltration seems to be associated with PTC progression. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the immune response in PTC and may lead to novel immunotherapeutic approaches in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Foteini Gogali
- 1 Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Greece
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Liapi C, Stolakis V, Zarros A, Zissis KM, Botis J, Al-Humadi H, Tsakiris S. Gestational exposure to cadmium alters crucial offspring rat brain enzyme activities: the role of cadmium-free lactation. Environ Toxicol Pharmacol 2013; 36:835-839. [PMID: 23981373 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2013.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Revised: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/22/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to shed more light on the effects of gestational (in utero) exposure to cadmium (Cd) on crucial brain enzyme activities of Wistar rat offspring, as well as to assess the potential protective/restorative role that a Cd-free lactation might have on these effects. In contrast to earlier findings of ours regarding the pattern of effects that adult-onset exposure to Cd has on brain AChE, Na(+),K(+)- and Mg(2+)-ATPase activities, as well as in contrast to similar experimental approaches implementing the sacrificing mode of anaesthesia, in utero exposure to Cd-chloride results in increased AChE and Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activities in the newborn rat brain homogenates that were ameliorated through a Cd-free lactation (as assessed in the brain of 21-day-old offspring). Mg(2+)-ATPase activity was not found to be significantly modified under the examined experimental conditions. These findings could provide the basis for a further evaluation of the herein discussed neurotoxic effects of in utero exposure to Cd, in a brain region-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charis Liapi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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17
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Stolakis V, Tsakiris S, Kalafatakis K, Zarros A, Skandali N, Gkanti V, Kyriakaki A, Liapi C. Developmental neurotoxicity of cadmium on enzyme activities of crucial offspring rat brain regions. Biometals 2013; 26:1013-21. [PMID: 24065572 DOI: 10.1007/s10534-013-9678-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental contaminant known to exert significant neurotoxic effects on both humans and experimental animals. The aim of this study was to shed more light on the effects of gestational (in utero) and lactational maternal exposure to Cd (50 ppm of Cd as Cd-chloride in the drinking water) on crucial brain enzyme activities in important rat offspring brain regions (frontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, pons and cerebellum). Our study provides a brain region-specific view of the changes in the activities of three crucial brain enzymes as a result of the developmental neurotoxicity of Cd. Maternal exposure to Cd during both gestation and lactation results into significant changes in the activities of acetylcholinesterase and Na(+),K(+)-ATPase in the frontal cortex and the cerebellum of the offspring rats, as well as in a significant increase in the hippocampal Mg(2+)-ATPase activity. These brain-region-specific findings underline the need for further research in the field of Cd-induced developmental neurotoxicity. Deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying the neurodevelopmental deficits taking place due to in utero and early age exposure to Cd could shed more light on the causes of its well-established cognitive implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Stolakis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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18
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Bimpis A, Papalois A, Tsakiris S, Kalafatakis K, Zarros A, Gkanti V, Skandali N, Al-Humadi H, Kouzelis C, Liapi C. Modulation of crucial adenosinetriphosphatase activities due to U-74389G administration in a porcine model of intracerebral hemorrhage. Metab Brain Dis 2013; 28:439-46. [PMID: 23344690 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-013-9380-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2012] [Accepted: 01/11/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) represents a partially-understood cerebrovascular disease of high incidence, morbidity and mortality. We, herein, report the findings of our study concerning the role of two important adenosinetriphosphatases (ATPases) in a porcine model of spontaneous ICH that we have recently developed (by following recent references as well as previously-established models and techniques), with a focus on the first 4 and 24 h following the lesion's induction, in combination with a study of the effectiveness of the lazaroid antioxidant U-74389G administration. Our study demonstrates that the examined ICH model does not cause a decrease in Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity (the levels of which are responsible for a very large part of neuronal energy expenditure) in the perihematomal basal ganglia territory, nor a change in the activity of Mg(2+)-ATPase. This is the first report focusing on these crucial ATPases in the experimental setting of ICH and differs from the majority of the findings concerning the behavior of these (crucial for central nervous system cell survival) enzymes under stroke-related ischemic conditions. The administration of U-74389G (an established antioxidant) in this ICH model revealed an injury specific type of behavior, that could be considered as neuroprotective provided that one considers that Na(+),K(+)- and Mg(2+)-ATPase inhibition might in this case diminish the local ATP consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexios Bimpis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Zarros A, Liapi C, Al-Humadi H, Almpani M, Stolakis V, Skandali N, Voumvourakis K, Katsouni E, Tsakiris S. Experimentally-induced Wernicke's encephalopathy modifies crucial rat brain parameters: the importance of Na+, K+ -ATPase and a potentially neuroprotective role for antioxidant supplementation. Metab Brain Dis 2013; 28:387-96. [PMID: 23475222 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-013-9394-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) is a serious neuropsychiatric syndrome caused by chronic alcoholism and thiamine (T) deficiency. Our aim was to shed more light on the pathophysiology of WE, by introducing a modified in vivo experimental model of WE and by focusing on changes provoked in the total antioxidant status (TAS) and three crucial brain enzyme activities in adult rats. Rats were placed on ethanol (EtOH) consumption (20 % v/v) for a total of 5 weeks. By the end of the third week, rats were fed a T-deficient diet (TDD) and were treated with pyrithiamine (PT; 0.25 mg/kg) for the remaining 2 weeks. Following the induction of WE symptomatology, rats were treated with three consecutive (every 8 h) injections of saline or T (100 mg/kg) and were sacrificed. Brain homogenates were generated and used for spectrophotometrical evaluation of TAS and enzymatic activities. Additionally, in vitro experiments were conducted on brain homogenates or pure enzymes incubated with T or neuromodulatory antioxidants. Pre-exposure to EtOH provided a successful protocol modification that did not affect the expected time of WE symptomatology onset. Administration of T ameliorated this symptomatology. WE provoked oxidative stress that was partially limited by T administration, while T itself also caused oxidative stress to a smaller extent. Brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was found inhibited by WE and was further inhibited by T administration. In vitro experiments demonstrated a potential neuroprotective role for L-carnitine (Carn). Brain sodium-potassium adenosine triphosphatase (Na(+),K(+)-ATPase) activity was found increased in WE and was reduced to control levels by in vivo T administration; this increase was also evident in groups exposed to PT or to TDD, but not to EtOH. In vitro experiments demonstrated a potential neuroprotective role for this Na(+),K(+)-ATPase stimulation through T or L-cysteine (Cys) administration. Brain magnesium adenosine triphosphatase (Mg(2+)-ATPase) activity was found decreased by prolonged exposure to EtOH, but was not affected by the experimental induction of WE. Our data suggest that T administration inhibits AChE, which is also found inhibited in WE. Moreover, increased brain Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity could be a marker of T deficiency in WE, while combined T and antioxidant co-supplementation of Cys and/or Carn could be neuroprotective in terms of restoring the examined crucial brain enzyme activities to control levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apostolos Zarros
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, PO Box 65257, 15401, Athens, Greece
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Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was the development of a simplified technique for bone mineral histomorphology on large undecalcified bone samples. Established techniques, such as undecalcified bone thin sectioning, ultrathin grinding, surface-stained block grinding and micro-computerized tomography (CT), are expensive, time-consuming and put very high demands on equipment, safety standards, personnel and laboratory facilities. METHODS AND RESULTS The method is based on the surface-stained block-grinding principle; however, its novelty lies in the selection of user-friendly, safe and low-cost materials, equipment and digitization techniques. We describe in detail the relevant steps, as well as many practical tips for their successful implementation: accurate bone cutting in thin sections with a customized arrangement on a commercial bandsaw, defatting with sodium hypochlorite, embedding in epoxy resin blocks at room temperature, silicon carbide paper grinding, von Kossa staining, flatbed scanner digitization and image processing. CONCLUSION We believe that the proposed methodology could contribute to the expansion of the study of bone tissue, as it enables the rapid examination of bone specimens on a large scale with minimal laboratory requirements and consumables costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasilis Karantzoulis
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Athens University, Athens, Greece.
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Abstract
Choline (Ch) is an important nutrient that is involved in many physiological functions. Deprivation of Ch (CD) may lead to hepatocellular modifications and/or even hepatic tumorigenesis and it can be a frequent problem in clinical settings; it can accompany various common pathological (alcoholism and malnutrition) or physiological states (pregnancy and lactation). The aim of this review is to provide an up-to-date overview of the major metabolic pathways involved in the hepatic response toward the experimentally or clinically induced CD, and to shed more light on the implicated (and probably interrelated) mechanisms responsible for the observed hepatocellular modifications and/or carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussam Al-Humadi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Bimpis A, Papalois A, Tsakiris S, Zarros A, Kalafatakis K, Botis J, Stolakis V, Zissis KM, Liapi C. Activation of acetylcholinesterase after U-74389G administration in a porcine model of intracerebral hemorrhage. Metab Brain Dis 2012; 27:221-5. [PMID: 22476954 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-012-9301-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2011] [Accepted: 03/23/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) accounts for 10-15% of all strokes. Despite high incidence, morbidity and mortality, the precise pathophysiology of spontaneous ICH is not fully understood, while there is little data concerning the mechanisms that follow the primary insult of the hematoma formation. The cholinergic system, apart from its colossal importance as a neurotransmission system, seems to also play an important role in brain injury recovery. It has been recently suggested that the brain possesses a cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway that counteracts the inflammatory responses after ICH, thereby limiting damage to the brain itself. We, herein, report the findings of our study concerning the role of acetylcholinesterase (AChE; a crucial membrane-bound enzyme involved in cholinergic neurotransmission) in a porcine model of spontaneous ICH, with a focus on the first 4 and 24 h following the lesion's induction, in combination with a study of the effectiveness of the lazaroid antioxidant U-74389G administration. Our study demonstrates the activation of AChE activity following U-74389G administration. The lazaroid U-74389G seems to be an established neuroprotectant and this is the first report of its supporting role in the enhancement of cholinergic response to the induction of ICH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexios Bimpis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
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Gogali F, Paterakis G, Rassidakis GZ, Kaltsas G, Liakou CI, Gousis P, Neonakis E, Manoussakis MN, Liapi C. Phenotypical analysis of lymphocytes with suppressive and regulatory properties (Tregs) and NK cells in the papillary carcinoma of thyroid. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2012; 97:1474-82. [PMID: 22399513 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2011-1838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The immune system seems to play a key role in preventing metastasis and recurrence of thyroid cancer. T regulatory lymphocytes (Tregs) and natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in the dysfunction of the host immune system in cancer patients. OBJECTIVE We investigated thyroid gland infiltration by Tregs and NK cells in patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and thyroid nodular goiter (TNG). The correlation between the extent of the disease and the lymphocytic infiltration of Tregs and NK cells was examined. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A total of 65 patients with PTC, 25 with TNG, and 50 healthy controls were studied. Blood and tissue samples from 28 patients with PTC and 13 with TNG and blood samples from the healthy controls were analyzed for T4 (CD3(+)CD4(+)), T8 (CD3(+)CD8(+)), NK (CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(+)), and CD4(+)CD25(+)CD127(-/low) Tregs by flow cytometry (FC). Tissue samples were also analyzed for Foxp3(+) Tregs by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Tregs showed greater infiltration in thyroid tissue of PTC patients compared with patients with TNG (P < 0.0009 for FC and P < 0.0001 for immunohistochemistry); FC analysis of blood samples showed no difference between the groups. Flow cytometry analysis showed significantly increased NK cells in PTC tissue compared with TNG tissue (P = 0.037), whereas blood samples showed no difference. CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells did not differ in blood and tissue samples. Increased Tregs tissue infiltration was positively correlated with advanced disease stage (P < 0.0026), whereas NK infiltration was negatively correlated (P < 0.0041). CONCLUSION Tregs and NK cells may be important regulators of thyroid cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Foteini Gogali
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Liapi C, Zarros A, Theocharis S, Voumvourakis K, Anifantaki F, Gkrouzman E, Mellios Z, Skandali N, Al-Humadi H, Tsakiris S. Short-term exposure to nickel alters the adult rat brain antioxidant status and the activities of crucial membrane-bound enzymes: neuroprotection by L-cysteine. Biol Trace Elem Res 2011; 143:1673-81. [PMID: 21360057 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-011-9006-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2010] [Accepted: 02/16/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Nickel (Ni) is an environmental pollutant towards which human exposure can be both occupational (mainly through inhalation) and dietary (through water and food chain-induced bioaccumulation). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of short-term Ni-administration (as NiCl(2), 13 mg/kg) on the adult rat whole brain total antioxidant status (TAS) and the activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Na(+),K(+)-ATPase, and Mg(2+)-ATPase; in addition, the potential effect of the co-administration of the antioxidant L-cysteine (Cys, 7 mg/kg) on the above parameters was studied. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: A (saline-treated control), B (Ni), C (Cys), and D (Ni and Cys). All rats were treated once daily with intraperitoneal injections of the tested compounds, for 1-week. Rats were sacrificed by decapitation and the above-mentioned parameters were measured spectrophotometrically. Rats treated with Ni exhibited a significant reduction in brain TAS (-47%, p < 0.001, BvsA) that was efficiently limited by the co-administration of Cys (-4%, p > 0.05, DvsA; +83%, p < 0.001, DvsB), while Cys (group C) had no effect on TAS. The rat brain AChE activity was found significantly increased by both Ni (+30%, p < 0.001, BvsA) and Cys (+62%, p < 0.001, CvsA), while it tended to adjust to control levels by the co-administration of Ni and Cys (+13%, p < 0.001, DvsA; -13%, p < 0.001, DvsB). The activity of rat brain Na(+),K(+)-ATPase was significantly decreased by Ni-administration (-49%, p < 0.001, BvsA), while Cys supplementation could not reverse this decrease (-44%, p < 0.001, DvsA). The activity of Mg(2+)-ATPase was not affected by Ni-administration (-3%, p > 0.05, BvsA), but was significantly reduced when combined with Cys administration (-17%, p < 0.001, DvsA). The above findings suggest that Ni short-term in vivo administration causes a statistically significant decrease in the rat brain TAS and an increase in AChE activity. Both effects can be, partially or totally, reversed to control levels by Cys co-administration; Cys could thus be considered (for future applications) as a potential neuroprotective agent against chronic exposure to Ni. The activity of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase that was inhibited by Ni, could not be reversed by Cys co-administration. The matter requires further investigation in order to fully elucidate the spectrum of the neurotoxic effects of Ni.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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25
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Kanelleas A, Liapi C, Katoulis A, Stavropoulos P, Avgerinou G, Georgala S, Economopoulos T, Stavrianeas NG, Katsambas A. The role of inflammatory markers in assessing disease severity and response to treatment in patients with psoriasis treated with etanercept. Clin Exp Dermatol 2011; 36:845-50. [PMID: 21790728 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2011.04131.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psoriasis is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory disease. Inflammatory markers are used in clinical practice to detect acute inflammation, and as markers of treatment response. Etanercept blocks tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, which plays a central role in the psoriatic inflammation process. AIM To reveal any possible association between disease severity [measured by Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI)] and the inflammatory burden (measured by a group of inflammatory markers), before and after etanercept treatment. METHODS In total, 41 patients with psoriasis vulgaris, eligible for biological treatment with etanercept, were enrolled in the study. A set of inflammatory markers was measured, including levels of white blood cells and neutrophils, fibrinogen, ferritin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin and α1-antitrypsin, before and after 12 weeks of etanercept 50 mg twice weekly. RESULTS All markers were reduced after treatment (P < 0.001). PASI correlated with fibrinogen and hs-CRP. Of the 41 patients, 19 (46.3%) achieved reduction of 75% in PASI (PASI75). An increase in hs-CRP and ESR difference (values before minus values after treatment) was related to higher likelihood of achieving PASI75. CONCLUSIONS Inflammatory markers, particularly hs-CRP and to a lesser extent, fibrinogen and ESR, can be used to assist in assessing disease severity and response to treatment in patients with psoriasis. A combination of selected inflammatory factors (which we term the Index of Psoriasis Inflammation) in combination with PASI might reflect inflammatory status in psoriasis more accurately than each one separately.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kanelleas
- Second Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Attikon University General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece.
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Schulpis KH, Vlachos GD, Antsaklis A, Liapi C, Stolakis V, Zarros A, Tsakiris S. Modulated human maternal and premature neonatal erythrocyte membrane enzyme activities in relation to the mode of delivery: in vitro restoration with L-carnitine. Clin Chem Lab Med 2011; 49:559-62. [PMID: 21323624 DOI: 10.1515/cclm.2011.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Koromilas C, Liapi C, Schulpis KH, Kalafatakis K, Zarros A, Tsakiris S. Structural and functional alterations in the hippocampus due to hypothyroidism. Metab Brain Dis 2010; 25:339-54. [PMID: 20886273 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-010-9208-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2010] [Accepted: 07/02/2010] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) exert a broad spectrum of effects on the central nervous system (CNS). Hypothyroidism, especially during CNS development, can lead to structural and functional changes (mostly resulting in mental retardation). The hippocampus is considered as one of the most important CNS structures, while the investigation and understanding of its direct and indirect interactions with the THs could provide crucial information on the neurobiological basis of the (frequently-faced in clinical practice) hypothyroidism-induced mental retardation and neurobehavioral dysfunction. THs-deficiency during the fetal and/or the neonatal period produces deleterious effects for neural growth and development (such as reduced synaptic connectivity, delayed myelination, disturbed neuronal migration, deranged axonal projections, decreased synaptogenesis and alterations in neurotransmitters' levels). On the other hand, the adult-onset thyroid dysfunction is usually associated with neurological and behavioural abnormalities. In both cases, genomic and proteomic changes seem to occur. The aim of this review is to provide an up-to-date synopsis of the available knowledge regarding the aforementioned alterations that take place in the hippocampus due to fetal-, neonatal- or adult-onset hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Koromilas
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Liapi C, Kyriakaki A, Zarros A, Galanopoulou P, Al-Humadi H, Dontas I, Voumvourakis K, Tsakiris S. Choline-deprivation alters crucial brain enzyme activities in a rat model of diabetic encephalopathy. Metab Brain Dis 2010; 25:269-76. [PMID: 20838865 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-010-9205-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2009] [Accepted: 04/29/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic encephalopathy describes the moderate cognitive deficits, neurophysiological and structural central nervous system changes associated with untreated diabetes. It involves neurotoxic effects such as the generation of oxidative stress, the enhanced formation of advanced glycation end-products, as well as the disturbance of calcium homeostasis. Due to the direct connection of choline (Ch) with acetylcholine availability and signal transduction, a background of Ch-deficiency might be unfavorable for the pathology and subsequently for the treatment of several metabolic brain diseases, including that of diabetic encephalopathy. The aim of this study was to shed more light on the effects of adult-onset streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes and/or Ch-deprivation on the activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and two important adenosine triphosphatases, namely Na(+),K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase. Male adult Wistar rats were divided into four main groups, as follows: control (C), diabetic (D), Ch-deprived (CD), and Ch-deprived diabetic (D+CD). Deprivation of Ch was provoked through the administration of Ch-deficient diet. Both the induction of diabetes and the beginning of dietary-mediated provoking of Ch-deprivation occurred at the same day, and rats were killed by decapitation after 30 days (1 month; groups C1, D1, CD1 and D1+CD1) and 60 days (2 months; groups C2, D2, CD2 and D2+CD2, respectively). The adult rat brain AChE activity was found to be significantly increased by both diabetes (+10%, p < 0.001 and +11%, p < 0.01) and Ch-deprivation (+19%, p < 0.001 and +14%, p < 0.001) when compared to the control group by the end of the first (C1) and the second month (C2), respectively. However, the Ch-deprived diabetic rats' brain AChE activity was significantly altered only after a 60-day period of exposure, resulting in a +27% increase (D2+CD2 vs. C2, p < 0.001). Although the only significant change recorded in the brain Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity after the end of the first month is attributed to Ch-deprivation (+21%, p < 0.05, CD1 vs. C1), all groups of the second month exhibited a statistically significant decrease in brain Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity (-24%, p < 0.01, D2 vs. C2; -21%, p < 0.01, CD2 vs. C2; -22%, p < 0.01, D2+CD2 vs. C2). As concerns Mg(2+)-ATPase, the enzyme's activity demonstrates no significant changes, with the sole exception of the D2+CD2 group (+21%, p < 0.05, D2+CD2 vs. C2). In addition, statistically significant time-dependent changes concerning the brain Mg(2+)-ATPase activity were recorded within the diabetic (p < 0.05, D2 vs. D1) and the Ch-deprived (p < 0.05, CD2 vs. CD1) rat groups. Our data indicate that Ch-deprivation seems to be an undesirable background for the above-mentioned enzymatic activities under untreated diabetes, in a time-evolving way. Further studies on the issue should focus on a region-specific reevaluation of these crucial enzymes' activities as well as on the possible oxidative mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Drakos SS, Anifantaki F, Zarros A, Liapi C. The role of folate metabolism-related gene polymorphisms in the development of meningiomas. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2010; 7:105-109. [PMID: 20335525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Meningiomas are (usually) slow-growing benign tumors, and several factors have been implicated in their development. Increasing age, previous exposure to ionizing radiation, endogenous hormone status and history, hormone replacement therapy, genetic variants and polymorphisms are the main factors that have been proven or assumed to be involved in meningioma formation. The complex genetic background supporting the pathogenesis of meningiomas includes a large number of mutations and polymorphisms that might be actively involved in tumor development, progression and recurrence. The aim of this mini-review is to summarize the current data concerning the role of folate metabolism-related gene polymorphisms in the development of meningiomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanos S Drakos
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, GR-11527, Athens, Greece
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Stolakis V, Kalafatakis K, Botis J, Zarros A, Liapi C. The regulatory role of neurotensin on the hypothalamic-anterior pituitary axons: emphasis on the control of thyroid-related functions. Neuropeptides 2010; 44:1-7. [PMID: 19878995 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2009.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2009] [Revised: 09/29/2009] [Accepted: 09/30/2009] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurotensin (NT) is a 13 amino acid neurohormone and/or neuromodulator, located in the synaptic vesicles and released from the neuronal terminals in a calcium-dependent manner. This peptide is present among mammalian and nonmammalian species, mainly in the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. Due to its neuroendocrine activity, NT has been related to the pathophysiology of a series of disorders, such as schizophrenia, drug-abuse, Parkinson's disease, cancer, stroke, eating disorders and other neurodegenerative conditions. Moreover, NT participates in the physiology of pain-induction, central blood pressure control and inflammation. NT also plays an important interactive role in all components of the hypothalamic-anterior pituitary circuit, which is mediated by an endocrine, paracrine or/and autocrine manner, towards most of the anatomical regions that define this circuit. A considerable amount of data implicates NT in thyroid-related regulation through this circuit, the exact mechanisms of which should be further investigated for the potential development of more targeted approaches towards the treatment of thyroid-related endocrine diseases. The aim of this study was to provide an up-to-date review of the literature concerning the regulatory role of NT on the hypothalamic-anterior pituitary axons, with an emphasis on the control of thyroid-related functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Stolakis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Al-Humadi H, Zarros A, Al-Saigh R, Liapi C. Genetic basis and gene therapy trials for thyroid cancer. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2010; 7:31-49. [PMID: 20181629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is regarded as one of the most promising novel therapeutic approaches for hopeless cases of thyroid cancer and those not responding to traditional treatment. In the last two decades, many studies have focused on the genetic factors behind the origin and the development of thyroid cancer, in order to investigate and shed more light on the molecular pathways implicated in different differentiated or undifferentiated types of thyroid tumors. We, herein, review the current data on the main genes that have been proven to (or thought to) be implicated in thyroid cancer etiology, and which are involved in several well-known signaling pathways (such as the mitogen-activated protein kinase and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/Akt pathways). Moreover, we review the results of the efforts made through multiple gene therapy trials, via several gene therapy approaches/strategies, on different thyroid carcinomas. Our review leads to the conclusion that future research efforts should seriously consider gene therapy for the treatment of thyroid cancer, and, thus, should: (a) shed more light on the molecular basis of thyroid cancer tumorigenesis, (b) focus on the development of novel gene therapy approaches that can achieve the required antitumoral efficacy with minimum normal tissue toxicity, as well as (c) perform more gene therapy clinical trials, in order to acquire more data on the efficacy of the examined approaches and to record the provoked adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussam Al-Humadi
- Department of Pharmacology, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
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Gribilas G, Zarros A, Zira A, Giaginis C, Tsourouflis G, Liapi C, Spiliopoulou C, Theocharis SE. Involvement of hepatic stimulator substance in experimentally induced fibrosis and cirrhosis in the rat. Dig Dis Sci 2009; 54:2367-76. [PMID: 19082714 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-008-0623-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2008] [Accepted: 11/03/2008] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis results from sustained wound healing response to chronic liver injury. Liver cirrhosis, the end stage of the fibrotic process, is characterized by disruption of the entire liver architecture and reduced hepatocyte regenerative ability. Hepatic stimulator substance (HSS) is a liver-specific growth factor triggering hepatocyte proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Previous studies have indicated the involvement of HSS in animal models of acute liver injury. The aim of the present study was to investigate the involvement of HSS in the process of fibrosis and cirrhosis induction. Liver fibrosis and cirrhosis were induced in rats by thioacetamide (TAA) administration (300 mg/l) in the drinking water for 3 months, and animals were killed at 0, 1, 2, and 3 months of treatment. TAA administration resulted in progressively increasing liver fibrosis, leading to the onset of cirrhosis at the end of the experimental time. HSS was continuously produced during the course of fibrosis and cirrhosis induction, peaking at the 2nd month of TAA treatment, coinciding with markers of hepatic proliferative capacity, as thymidine kinase activity and DNA biosynthesis. Significantly reduced HSS activity was noted in cirrhotic liver (3rd month). In this case, the exogenous HSS administration during the 3rd month of TAA treatment suppressed the onset of liver cirrhosis, stimulating the hepatic regenerative capacity. Our data indicate the active participation of HSS in the process of fibrosis and cirrhosis induction post-TAA treatment in rats, suggesting also the beneficial effect of HSS treatment against cirrhosis induction with future possible clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Gribilas
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Goudi, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Liapi C, Al-Humadi H, Zarros A, Galanopoulou P, Stolakis V, Gkrouzman E, Mellios Z, Skandali N, Anifantaki F, Tsakiris S. Combined thirty-day exposure to thioacetamide and choline-deprivation alters serum antioxidant status and crucial brain enzyme activities in adult rats. Metab Brain Dis 2009; 24:441-51. [PMID: 19697115 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-009-9147-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2009] [Accepted: 07/09/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Choline (Ch) is an essential nutrient that seems to be involved in a wide variety of metabolic reactions and functions that affect the nervous system, while thioacetamide (TAA) is a well-known hepatotoxic agent. The induction of prolonged Ch-deprivation (CD) in rats receiving TAA (through the drinking water) provides an experimental model of mild progressive hepatotoxicity that could simulate commonly-presented cases in clinical practice. In this respect, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a 30-day dietary CD and/or TAA administration (300 mg/L of drinking water) on the serum total antioxidant status (TAS) and the activities of brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Na(+),K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase of adult rats. Twenty male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: A (control), B (CD), C (TAA), D (CD+TAA). Dietary CD was provoked through the administration of Ch-deficient diet. Rats were sacrificed by decapitation at the end of the 30-day experimental period and whole brain enzymes were determined spectrophotometrically. Serum TAS was found significantly lowered by CD (-11% vs Control, p < 0.01) and CD+TAA administration (-19% vs Control, p < 0.001), but was not significantly altered due to TAA administration. The rat brain AChE activity was found significantly increased by TAA administration (+11% vs Control, p < 0.01), as well as by CD+TAA administration (+14% vs Control, p < 0.01). However, AChE was not found to be significantly altered by the 30-day dietary CD. On the other hand, CD caused a significant increase in brain Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity (+16% vs Control, p < 0.05) and had no significant effect on Mg(2+)-ATPase. Exposure to TAA had no significant effect on Na(+),K(+)-ATPase, but inhibited Mg(2+)-ATPase (-20% vs Control, p < 0.05). When administered to CD rats, TAA caused a significant decrease in Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity (-41% vs Control, p < 0.001), but Mg(2+)-ATPase activity was maintained into control levels. Our data revealed that an adult-onset 30-day dietary-induced CD had no effect on AChE activity. Treatment with TAA not only reversed the stimulatory effect of CD on adult rat brain Na(+),K(+)-ATPase, but caused a dramatic decrease in its activity (-41%). Previous studies have linked this inhibition with metabolic phenomena related to TAA-induced fulminant hepatic failure and encephalopathy. Our data suggest that CD (at least under the examined 30-day period) is an unfavorable background for the effect of TAA-induced hepatic damage on Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity (an enzyme involved in neuronal excitability, metabolic energy production and neurotransmission).
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Affiliation(s)
- Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Katsouni E, Sakkas P, Zarros A, Skandali N, Liapi C. The involvement of substance P in the induction of aggressive behavior. Peptides 2009; 30:1586-91. [PMID: 19442694 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2009.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2009] [Revised: 05/03/2009] [Accepted: 05/04/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Aggression is a complex social behavior that involves a similarly complex neurochemical background. The involvement of substance P (SP) and its potent tachykinin receptor (NK1) in the induction of both defensive rage and predatory attack appears to be a consistent finding. However, an overall understanding of the nature of the SP involvement in the induction of aggressive behavior has not yet been fully achieved. The aim of this review is to summarize and present the current knowledge with regards to the role of SP in the induction of aggressive behavior and to synopsize: (a) its biochemical profile, and (b) the exact anatomical circuits through which it mediates all types of aggressive behavior. Future studies should seriously consider the potential use of this knowledge in their quest for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Katsouni
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias str, GR-11527, Athens, Greece
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Konstandi M, Segos D, Galanopoulou P, Theocharis S, Zarros A, Lang MA, Marselos M, Liapi C. Effects of choline-deprivation on paracetamol- or phenobarbital-induced rat liver metabolic response. J Appl Toxicol 2009; 29:101-9. [PMID: 18798224 DOI: 10.1002/jat.1386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Choline is an essential nutrient that seems to be involved in a wide variety of metabolic reactions and functions in both humans and rodents. Various pathophysiological states have been linked to choline deprivation (CD). The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of CD upon biochemical, histological and metabolic alterations induced by drugs that affect hepatic functional integrity and various drug metabolizing systems via distinct mechanisms. For this purpose, paracetamol (ACET) or phenobarbital (PB) were administered to male Wistar rats that were fed with standard rodent chow (normally fed, NF) or underwent dietary CD. The administration of ACET increased the serum aspartate aminotransferase levels in NF rats, while CD restricted this increase. On the other hand, ACET suppressed alkaline phosphatase levels only in CD rats. Moreover, CD prevented the PB-induced increase of the mitotic activity of hepatocytes. The administration of ACET down-regulated CYP1A2 and CYP2B1 expression in CD rats, while up-regulating them in NF rats. The administration of PB suppressed CYP1A2 apoprotein levels in CD rats, whereas the drug had no effect on NF rats. The PB-induced up-regulation of CYP2B, CYP2E1 and CYP1A1 isozymes was markedly higher in CD than in NF rats. In addition, PB increased glutathione-S-transferase activity only in CD rats. Hepatic glutathione content (GSH) was suppressed by ACET in NF rats, whereas the drug increased GSH in CD rats. Our data suggest that CD has a significant impact on the hepatic metabolic functions, and in particular on those related to drug metabolism. Thus, CD may modify drug effectiveness and toxicity, as well as drug-drug interactions, particularly those related to ACET and PB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Konstandi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
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Zira A, Mikros E, Giannioti K, Galanopoulou P, Papalois A, Liapi C, Theocharis S. Acute liver acetaminophen toxicity in rabbits and the use of antidotes: a metabonomic approach in serum. J Appl Toxicol 2009; 29:395-402. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.1425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Zarros A, Liapi C, Galanopoulou P, Marinou K, Mellios Z, Skandali N, Al-Humadi H, Anifantaki F, Gkrouzman E, Tsakiris S. Effects of adult-onset streptozotocin-induced diabetes on the rat brain antioxidant status and the activities of acetylcholinesterase, (Na(+),K (+))- and Mg(2+)-ATPase: modulation by L-cysteine. Metab Brain Dis 2009; 24:337-48. [PMID: 19296211 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-009-9133-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2008] [Accepted: 11/19/2008] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Uncontrolled diabetes is known to affect the nervous system. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the antioxidant L: -cysteine (Cys) on the changes caused by adult-onset streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes on the rat brain total antioxidant status (TAS) and the activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), (Na(+),K(+))-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase. Thirty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: C(A) (8-week-control), C(B) (8-week-control + 1-week-saline-treated), C + Cys (8-week-control + 1-week-Cys-treated), D(A) (8-week-diabetic), D(B) (8-week-diabetic + 1-week-saline-treated) and D + Cys (8-week-diabetic + 1-week-Cys-treated). All diabetic rats were once treated with an intraperitoneal (i.p.) STZ injection (50 mg/kg body weight) at the beginning of the experiment, while all Cys-treated groups received i.p. injections of Cys 7 mg/kg body weight (daily, for 1-week, during the 9th-week). Whole rat brain parameters were measured spectrophotometrically. In vitro incubation with 0.83 mM of Cys or 10 mM of STZ for 3 h was performed on brain homogenate samples from groups C(B) and D(B), in order to study the enzymes' activities. Diabetic rats exhibited a statistically significant reduction in brain TAS (-28%, D(A) vs C(A);-30%, D(B) vs C(B)) that was reversed after 1-week-Cys-administration into basal levels. Diabetes caused a significant increase in AChE activity (+27%, D(A) vs C(A); +15%, D(B) vs C(B)), that was further enhanced by Cys-administration (+57%, D + Cys vs C(B)). The C + Cys group exhibited no significant difference compared to the C(B) group in TAS (+2%), but showed a significantly increased AChE activity (+66%, C + Cys vs C(B)). Diabetic rats exhibited a significant reduction in the activity of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase (-36%, D(A) vs C(A);-48%, D(B) vs C(B)) that was not reversed after 1-week Cys administration. However, in vitro incubation with Cys partially reversed the diabetes-induced Na(+),K(+)-ATPase inhibition. Mg(2+)-ATPase activity was not affected by STZ-induced diabetes, while Cys caused a significant inhibition of the enzyme, both in vivo (-14%, C + Cys vs C(B);-17%, D + Cys vs C(B)) and in vitro (-16%, D(B) + in vitro Cys vs C(B)). In vitro incubation with STZ had no effect on the studied enzymes. The present data revealed a protective role for Cys towards the oxidative effect of diabetes on the adult rat brain. Moreover, an increase in whole brain AChE activity due to diabetes was recorded (not repeatedly established in the literature, since contradictory findings exist), that was further increased by Cys. The inhibition of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase reflects a possible mechanism through which untreated diabetes could affect neuronal excitability, metabolic energy production and certain systems of neurotransmission. As concerns the use of Cys as a neuroprotective agent against diabetes, our in vitro findings could be indicative of a possible protective role of Cys under different in vivo experimental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apostolos Zarros
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Liapi C, Zarros A, Theocharis S, Al-Humadi H, Anifantaki F, Gkrouzman E, Mellios Z, Skandali N, Tsakiris S. The neuroprotective role of l-cysteine towards the effects of short-term exposure to lanthanum on the adult rat brain antioxidant status and the activities of acetylcholinesterase, (Na+,K+)- and Mg2+-ATPase. Biometals 2008; 22:329-35. [DOI: 10.1007/s10534-008-9169-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2008] [Accepted: 10/06/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Liapi C, Kyriakaki A, Zarros A, Al-Humadi H, Stolakis V, Gkrouzman E, Anifantaki F, Skandali N, Margaritis M, Tsakiris S. Effects of adult-onset choline deprivation on the activities of acetylcholinesterase, (Na+,K+)- and Mg2+-ATPase in crucial rat brain regions. Food Chem Toxicol 2008; 47:82-5. [PMID: 18992298 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2008.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2008] [Revised: 09/09/2008] [Accepted: 10/10/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Choline (Ch) plays an important role in brain neurotransmission, while Ch-deprivation (CD) has been linked to various pathophysiological states. Prolonged ingestion of Ch-deficient diet (CDD) is known to produce CD causing a reduction of rat brain acetylcholine (ACh) levels, as well as memory and growth disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a 2-month adult-onset CD on the activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), (Na+,K+)- and Mg2+-ATPase in crucial brain regions of male rats. Adult rats were divided into two groups (control and CD). The CD group was fed with CDD for 2-months. At the end of the second month, rats were sacrificed by decapitation and the brain regions were rapidly removed. Enzyme activities were measured spectrophotometrically in the homogenated frontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, cerebellum, and pons. In CD rats, AChE activity was found statistically significantly increased in the hippocampus and the cerebellum (+28%, P<0.001 and +46%, P<0.001, respectively, as compared to control), while it was found unaltered in the other three regions (frontal cortex, hypothalamus and pons). (Na+,K+)-ATPase activity was found increased by CD in the frontal cortex (+30%, P<0.001), decreased in both hippocampus and hypothalamus (-68%, P<0.001 and -51%, P<0.001, respectively), and unaltered in both cerebellum and pons. No statistically significant changes were observed in the activities of Mg2+-ATPase in the frontal cortex and the hypothalamus, while statistically significant increases were recorded in the hippocampus (+21%, P<0.01), the cerebellum (+85%, P<0.001) and the pons (+19%, P<0.05), as compared to control levels. Our data suggest that adult-onset CD can have significant effects on the examined brain parameters in the examined crucial brain regions, as well as that CD is a metabolic disorder towards which different and brain region specific neurophysiological responses seem to occur. Following a 2-month adult-onset CD, the activity of AChE was found to be increased in the hippocampus and the cerebellum and unaltered in the other three regions (frontal cortex, hypothalamus and pons), while Na+,K+-ATPase activity was found to be increased in the frontal cortex, decreased in both hippocampus and hypothalamus, and unaltered in both cerebellum and pons. Moreover, Mg2+-ATPase activity was found to be unaltered in the frontal cortex and the hypothalamus, and increased in the hippocampus, the cerebellum and the pons. The observed differentially affected activities of AChE, (Na+,K+)-ATPase and Mg2+-ATPase (induced by CD) could result in modulations of cholinergic neurotransmission, neural excitability, metabolic energy production, Mg2+ homeostasis and protein synthesis (that might have a variety of neurophysiological consequences depending on the brain region in which they seem to occur).
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Affiliation(s)
- Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Liapi C, Zarros A, Theocharis S, Galanopoulou P, Anifantaki F, Gkrouzman E, Mellios Z, Skandali N, Al-Humadi H, Tsakiris S. Effects of nickel on the adult rat brain antioxidant status and the activity of acetylcholinesterase: l-Cysteine as a modulator. Toxicol Lett 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2008.06.250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Al-Humadi H, Liapi C, Zarros A, Galanopoulou P, Stolakis V, Gkrouzman E, Mellios Z, Skandali N, Anifantaki F, Tsakiris S. Changes in the adult rat brain activities of Na+,K+-ATPase and Mg2+-ATPase due to 30-day dietary choline-deprivation and/or thioacetamide administration. Toxicol Lett 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2008.06.494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Liapi C, Feskou I, Zarros A, Carageorgiou H, Galanopoulou P, Tsakiris S. Equilibrated diet restores the effects of early age choline-deficient feeding on rat brain antioxidant status and enzyme activities: the role of homocysteine, L-phenylalanine and L-alanine. Metab Brain Dis 2008; 23:289-301. [PMID: 18642068 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-008-9097-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2008] [Accepted: 05/12/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Choline is an essential nutrient that seems to be involved in a wide variety of metabolic reactions and functions, that affect the developing brain. The aim of this study was to: (a)examine the effects of early age choline deficient diet (CDD) administration on the total antioxidant status (TAS) and the activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), (Na(+),K(+))-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase in the rat brain, (b)investigate the effect of feeding restoration into an equilibrated diet on the above parameters, and (c)study the role of homocysteine (Hcy), L: -phenylalanine (Phe) and L: -alanine (Ala) in certain of the above effects. Male and female Wistar rats were continuously kept off choline (Ch) during their gestational period of life, as well as during the first 6 weeks of their post-gestational life. The animals were sacrificed by decapitation and their whole brains were rapidly removed and homogenated. Their enzyme activities were measured spectrophotometrically. Moreover, in vitro experiments were conducted in order to estimate the effects of Hcy (0.3 mM), Phe (1.2 mM) and/or Ala (1.2 mM) on the above parameters. The administration of CDD led to a statistically significant decrease of the rat brain TAS (-29%, p < 0.001) and to a significant increase of both AChE (+20%, p < 0.001) and (Na(+),K(+))-ATPase (+35%, p < 0.001) activities. Mg(2+)-ATPase activity was found unaltered. Equilibrated diet, administered to early age CDD-treated rats of both sexes for an additional period of 18 weeks, restored the above parameters to control levels. Moreover, the in vitro experiments showed that Hcy could simulate these changes (at least under the examined in vitro conditions), while both Phe and Ala act protectively against the CDD-induced effects on the examined rat brain enzyme activities. The effects of early age CDD-feeding on the examined parameters are proved to be reversible through restoration to equilibrated diet, while our data suggest a role for Hcy (as a causative parameter for the CDD-induced effects) and a possible protective role for Phe and Ala (in reversing the observed CDD-induced effects).
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Affiliation(s)
- Charis Liapi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Stroubini T, Perrea D, Perelas A, Liapi C, Dontas I, Trapali M, Katsilambros N, Galanopoulou P. Effect of sibutramine on regional fat pads and leptin levels in rats fed with three isocaloric diets. Eur Cytokine Netw 2008; 19:149-155. [PMID: 18775804 DOI: 10.1684/ecn.2008.0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of the study was to investigate: a) the differential effect of the three main macronutrients on food intake, fat depots and serum leptin levels and b) the impact of sibutramine on the above parameters in rats fed ad libitum with three isocaloric diets. METHODS Three groups of male Wistar rats (n = 63) were fed with a high fat diet (HFD), a high carbohydrate diet (HCD) or a high protein diet (HPD) for 13 weeks. In the last three weeks, each group was divided into three subgroups and received sibutramine (S) either at 5 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg, or vehicle. Food intake was measured daily during the last week of the experiment; perirenal and epididymal fat and fat/lean ratio were calculated and serum leptin was assayed. RESULTS HFD-fed rats demonstrated elevated food intake and higher regional fat depots. S at 10 mg/kg decreased food intake in the HFD and epididymal fat in the HCD group. S also reduced perirenal fat in the HCD and HPD groups. Leptin levels were higher in rats fed with either the HFD or the HPD compared to those fed with the HCD. Moreover, S at 10 mg/kg decreased serum leptin levels in the HPD group. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest a preferential effect of S on perirenal visceral fat and support the view that body fat loss is greater when its administration is accompanied by a HCD diet. No effect of S on leptin levels was found, besides that expected as a result of the decrease in body fat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora Stroubini
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Athens, Greece
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Liapi C, Zarros A, Galanopoulou P, Theocharis S, Skandali N, Al-Humadi H, Anifantaki F, Gkrouzman E, Mellios Z, Tsakiris S. Effects of Short-Term Exposure to Manganese on the Adult Rat Brain Antioxidant Status and the Activities of Acetylcholinesterase, (Na+,K+)-ATPase and Mg2+-ATPase: Modulation by l-Cysteine. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2008; 103:171-5. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2008.00281.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Simintzi I, Schulpis KH, Angelogianni P, Liapi C, Tsakiris S. l-Cysteine and glutathione restore the modulation of rat frontal cortex Na+, K+-ATPase activity induced by aspartame metabolites. Food Chem Toxicol 2008; 46:2074-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2008.01.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2007] [Revised: 01/24/2008] [Accepted: 01/29/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Trapali M, Liapi C, Perelas A, Perrea D, Stroubini T, Dontas I, Couvari E, Mavri M, Galanopoulou P. Effect of isocaloric diets and sibutramine on food intake, body mass variation and serum TNF-alpha levels in rats. Pharmacology 2008; 82:15-21. [PMID: 18434760 DOI: 10.1159/000127363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2007] [Accepted: 11/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM The effect of isocaloric diets and sibutramine on dietary behaviour and TNF-alpha is poorly understood. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of isocaloric diets and sibutramine on food intake, body mass variation and serum TNF-alpha in free-feeding rats. METHODS Three groups of male Wistar rats (n = 63) were fed a high-fat diet, high-carbohydrate diet or high-protein diet for 13 weeks. In the last 3 weeks, each group was divided into 3 subgroups. Each subgroup received sibutramine 5 mg/kg, sibutramine 10 mg/kg or vehicle. Food intake was measured daily during the last week of the experiment; serum TNF-alpha was assayed and the body weight increasing rate was calculated. RESULTS The high-fat diet was associated with increased food intake, a greater weight gain ratio and increased TNF-alpha levels. Sibutramine treatment did not affect the dietary behaviour of high-protein- or high-carbohydrate-fed rats, while it significantly attenuated the daily food intake and body weight gain rate in the high-fat group, at the dose of 10 mg/kg. TNF-alpha levels were not affected by sibutramine. CONCLUSIONS High-fat feeding was associated with an increase in daily food intake, TNF-alpha levels and body weight gain rate, as well as with enhanced responsiveness to the anorectic effects of sibutramine. However, sibutramine did not affect TNF-alpha.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Trapali
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Simintzi I, Schulpis KH, Angelogianni P, Liapi C, Tsakiris S. The effect of aspartame metabolites on the suckling rat frontal cortex acetylcholinesterase. An in vitro study. Food Chem Toxicol 2007; 45:2397-401. [PMID: 17673349 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2007.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2007] [Revised: 05/17/2007] [Accepted: 06/12/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Aspartame (ASP) consumption is suggested to be implicated with muscarinic dysfunction. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of ASP and its metabolites on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in rat frontal cortex and pure enzyme. Rat frontal cortex homogenate or pure enzyme AChE (eel E. Electricus) were incubated with ASP and each of ASP components, phenylalanine (Phe), aspartic acid (asp), and methanol (MeOH) for 1 h at 37 degrees C. AChE was measured spectrophotometrically. The results showed that incubation of rat tissue or pure enzyme with the sum of ASP metabolites, as reported to be found in the CSF after 150 or 200 mg/kg ASP consumption, inhibited frontal cortex and pure AChE about -11% to -29% (p<0.001). Asp, Phe or MeOH concentrations related to their CSF levels after ingestion of abuse or toxic ASP doses, when separately incubated with frontal cortex or pure AChE, resulted in a significant decrease of the enzyme activities. IN CONCLUSION ASP compounds may directly and/or indirectly act on the frontal cortex AChE. High or toxic doses of the sweetener remarkably decreased the enzyme activity. If this in vitro finding comes into human reality, it may be suggested that cholinergic symptoms are related to the consumption of the above ASP doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Simintzi
- Department of Experimental Physiology, Medical School, University of Athens, P.O. Box 65257, GR 15401 Athens, Greece
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Liapi C, Anifandis G, Anifantis G, Chinou I, Kourounakis AP, Theodosopoulos S, Galanopoulou P. Antinociceptive properties of 1,8-Cineole and beta-pinene, from the essential oil of Eucalyptus camaldulensis leaves, in rodents. Planta Med 2007; 73:1247-54. [PMID: 17893834 DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-990224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
1,8-cineole (cineole) and beta-pinene, two monoterpenes isolated from the essential oil obtained from Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehn leaves were tested for antinociceptive properties. Tail-flick and hot-plate methods, reflecting the spinal and supraspinal levels, respectively, were used in mice and/or rats using morphine and naloxone for comparison. Cineole exhibited an antinociceptive activity comparable to that of morphine, in both algesic stimuli. A significant synergism between cineole and morphine was observed, but naloxone failed to antagonize the effect of cineole. Beta-pinene exerted supraspinal antinociceptive actions in rats only and it reversed the antinociceptive effect of morphine in a degree equivalent to naloxone, probably acting as a partial agonist through the mu opioid receptors. From structure-activity relationships of the pairs morphine+cineole and naloxone+beta-pinene, it was shown that similarities exist in the stereochemistry and in the respective atomic charges of these molecules. Further studies are in progress in order to elucidate the mechanism of action of the two terpenoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charis Liapi
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Simintzi I, Schulpis KH, Angelogianni P, Liapi C, Tsakiris S. The effect of aspartame on acetylcholinesterase activity in hippocampal homogenates of suckling rats. Pharmacol Res 2007; 56:155-9. [PMID: 17580119 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2007.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2007] [Revised: 04/17/2007] [Accepted: 05/08/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurological disturbances have been implicated with aspartame (ASP) consumption and the cholinergic system with acetylcholinesterase (AChE) seems actively involved. AIM To evaluate the effect of ASP and its metabolites on rat hippocampal AChE activity. METHODS Hippocampal homogenate or pure enzyme AChE (eel E. electricus) was incubated with the sum or each of ASP components, phenylalanine (Phe), aspartic acid (asp) and methanol (MeOH) for 1h at 37 degrees C. AChE activity was measured spectrophotometrically. RESULTS Incubation of rat tissue or pure enzyme with the sum of ASP metabolites in concentrations in CSF (the concentrations were calculated according to the CSF/plasma concentration ratios) following 150 or 200mgkg(-1) of ASP consumption, resulted in significant enzyme activity reductions of 25 and 31% for hippocampal AChE and 11% (p<0.01) and 19% for pure enzyme, respectively. Aspartic acid concentrations of 0.42 or 0.56mM significantly reduced the enzyme activities by 13 and 20% for hippocampal AChE and 15 and 18% for pure enzyme, respectively. Phe concentrations of 0.042 or 0.083mM decreased the enzyme activity by 12% (p<0.01) and 20% (p<0.001) for hippocampal AChE and 15 and 18% (p<0.001) for pure enzyme, respectively. Methanol concentrations of 0.60 or 0.80mM remarkably inhibited hippocampal AChE by about 18 and 22% and pure enzyme by about 14 and 20%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Low concentrations of ASP components had no effect on hippocampal and pure AChE activity, whereas high or toxic concentrations remarkably decreased both enzyme activities. Muscarinic symptoms may be related to the latter concentrations of ASP metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Simintzi
- Department of Experimental Physiology, Medical School, University of Athens, P.O. Box 65257, GR-15401 Athens, Greece
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Simintzi I, Schulpis KH, Angelogianni P, Liapi C, Tsakiris S. l-Cysteine and glutathione restore the reduction of rat hippocampal Na+, K+-ATPase activity induced by aspartame metabolites. Toxicology 2007; 237:177-183. [PMID: 17602817 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2007.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2007] [Revised: 05/10/2007] [Accepted: 05/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Studies have implicated aspartame (ASP) ingestion in neurological problems. The aim of this study was to evaluate hippocampal Na(+),K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase activities after incubation with ASP or each of ASP metabolites, phenylalanine (Phe), methanol (MeOH) and aspartic acid (asp) separately. Suckling rat hippocampal homogenates or pure Na(+),K(+)-ATPase were incubated with ASP metabolites. Na(+),K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase activities were measured spectrophotometrically. Incubation of hippocampal or pure Na(+),K(+)-ATPase with ASP concentrations (expected in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)) after ASP consumption of 34, 150 or 200mg/kg resulted in hippocampal enzyme activity reduction of 26%, 50% or 59%, respectively, whereas pure enzyme was remarkably stimulated. Moreover, incubation with hippocampal homogenate of each one of the corresponding in the CSF ASP metabolites related to the intake of common, high/abuse doses of the sweetener, inhibited Na(+),K(+)-ATPase, while pure enzyme was activated. Hippocampal Mg(2+)-ATPase remained unaltered. Addition of l-cysteine (cys) or reduced glutathione (GSH) in ASP mixtures, related with high/toxic doses of the sweetener, completely or partially restored the inactivated membrane Na(+),K(+)-ATPase, whereas the activated pure enzyme activity returned to normal. CSF concentrations of ASP metabolites related to common, abuse/toxic doses of the additive significantly reduced rat hippocampal Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity, whereas pure enzyme was activated. Cys or GSH completely or partially restored both enzyme activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Simintzi
- Department of Experimental Physiology, Medical School, Athens University, P.O. Box 65257, GR-15401 Athens, Greece
| | - Kleopatra H Schulpis
- Institute of Child Health, Research Center, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagoula Angelogianni
- Department of Experimental Physiology, Medical School, Athens University, P.O. Box 65257, GR-15401 Athens, Greece
| | - Charis Liapi
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Medical School, Athens University, Athens, Greece
| | - Stylianos Tsakiris
- Department of Experimental Physiology, Medical School, Athens University, P.O. Box 65257, GR-15401 Athens, Greece.
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