Bile acids serve as endogenous antagonists of the Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) receptor in oncogenesis

The leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is member of interleukin (IL)-6 family of cytokines involved immune regulation, morphogenesis and oncogenesis. In cancer tissues, LIF binds a heterodimeric receptor (LIFR), formed by a LIFRβ subunit and glycoprotein(gp)130, promoting epithelial mesenchymal transition and cell growth. Bile acids are cholesterol metabolites generated at the interface of host metabolism and the intestinal microbiota. Here we demonstrated that bile acids serve as endogenous antagonist to LIFR in oncogenesis. The tissue characterization of bile acids content in non-cancer and cancer biopsy pairs from gastric adenocarcinomas (GC) demonstrated that bile acids accumulate within cancer tissues, with glyco-deoxycholic acid (GDCA) functioning as negative regulator of LIFR expression. In patient-derived organoids (hPDOs) from GC patients, GDCA reverses LIF-induced stemness and proliferation. In summary, we have identified the secondary bile acids as the first endogenous antagonist to LIFR supporting a development of bile acid-based therapies in LIF-mediated oncogenesis.

Inflammation and physical activity in multiple sclerosis patients. A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Due to the inflammatory nature of multiple sclerosis (MS), the most widely used therapeutic approach targets the immune response but can comprise side effects (e.g. secondary immunosuppression). For these reasons, among non-pharmaceutical interventions without known side effects, physical activity (PA) gained importance because it is feasible, safe and a supportive complementary treatment strategy to alleviate symptoms in MS subjects. Consequently, the main aim of this systematic review is to analyze the effect of PA protocols, as a complementary therapy, on inflammatory status in MS patients.

METHODS

Four electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane CENTRAL) were systematically searched up to 01 June 2023 (Prospero Protocol ID=CRD42021244418). The refined search strategy was based on three concepts: "MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS" AND "PHYSICAL ACTIVITY" AND "INFLAMMATION".

RESULTS

three main findings emerged: 1) untrained subjects showed a negative modulation of inflammatory biomarkers concentrations when compared to trained people (-0.74, 95 %C.I.-1.16, -0.32); 2) training modulated positively inflammatory biomarkers (+0.47, 95 %C.I. 0.24,0.71); 3) Aerobic PA protocol enhance higher positive influence on inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Persistent, low-grade inflammation in MS could be upregulated by non-pharmacological complementary therapies, in particular by regular aerobic PA that could reduce and positively modulate inflammation.

The leukemia inhibitory factor regulates fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 transcription in gastric cancer

PURPOSE

The gastric adenocarcinoma (GC) represents the third cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, and available therapeutic options remain sub-optimal. The Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) are oncogenic transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptors. FGFR inhibitors have been approved for the treatment of various cancers and a STAT3-dependent regulation of FGFR4 has been documented in the H.pylori infected intestinal GC. Therefore, the modulation of FGFR4 might be useful for the treatment of GC.

METHODS

To investigate wich factors could modulate FGFR4 signalling in GC, we employed RNA-seq analysis on GC patients biopsies, human patients derived organoids (PDOs) and cancer cell lines.

RESULTS

We report that FGFR4 expression/function is regulated by the leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) an IL-6 related oncogenic cytokine, in JAK1/STAT3 dependent manner. The transcriptomic analysis revealed a direct correlation between the expression of LIFR and FGFR4 in the tissue of an exploratory cohort of 31 GC and confirmed these findings by two external validation cohorts of GC. A LIFR inhibitor (LIR-201) abrogates STAT3 phosphorylation induced by LIF as well as recruitment of pSTAT3 to the promoter of FGFR4. Furthermore, inhibition of FGFR4 by roblitinib or siRNA abrogates STAT3 phosphorylation and oncogentic effects of LIF in GC cells, indicating that FGFR4 is a downstream target of LIF/LIFR complex. Treating cells with LIR-201 abrogates oncogenic potential of FGF19, the physiological ligand of FGFR4.

CONCLUSIONS

Together these data unreveal a previously unregnized regulatory mechanism of FGFR4 by LIF/LIFR and demonstrate that LIF and FGF19 converge on the regulation of oncogenic STAT3 in GC cells.

A label free chemoproteomic-based platform to disclose cannabidiol molecular mechanism of action on chronic myelogenous leukemia cancer cells

The discovery of the interactome of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid from Cannabis sativa L., has been here performed on chronic myelogenous leukemia cancer cells, using an optimized chemo-proteomic stage, which links Drug Affinity Responsive Target Stability with Limited Proteolysis Multiple Reaction Monitoring approaches. The obtained results showed the ability of CBD to target simultaneously some potential protein partners, corroborating its well-known poly-pharmacology activity. In human chronic myelogenous leukemia K562 cancer cells, the most fascinating protein partner was identified as the 116 kDa U5 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein element called EFTUD2, which fits with the spliceosome complex. The binding mode of this oncogenic protein with CBD was clarified using mass spectrometry-based and in silico analysis.

Defective Bile Acid Signaling Promotes Vascular Dysfunction, Supporting a Role for G-Protein Bile Acid Receptor 1/Farnesoid X Receptor Agonism and Statins in the Treatment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

BACKGROUND

Patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are at increased risk to develop atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. FXR and GPBAR1 are 2 bile acid-activated receptors exploited in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: whether dual GPBAR1/FXR agonists synergize with statins in the treatment of the liver and cardiovascular components of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Investigations of human aortic samples obtained from patients who underwent surgery for aortic aneurysms and Gpbar1-/-, Fxr-/-, and dual Gpbar1-/-Fxr-/- mice demonstrated that GPBAR1 and FXR are expressed in the aortic wall and regulate endothelial cell/macrophage interactions. The expression of GPBAR1 in the human endothelium correlated with the expression of inflammatory biomarkers. Mice lacking Fxr and Gpbar1-/-/Fxr-/- display hypotension and aortic inflammation, along with altered intestinal permeability that deteriorates with age, and severe dysbiosis, along with dysregulated bile acid synthesis. Vasomotor activities of aortic rings were altered by Gpbar1 and Fxr gene ablation. In apolipoprotein E-/- and wild-type mice, BAR502, a dual GPBAR1/FXR agonist, alone or in combination with atorvastatin, reduced cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein plasma levels, mitigated the development of liver steatosis and aortic plaque formation, and shifted the polarization of circulating leukocytes toward an anti-inflammatory phenotype. BAR502/atorvastatin reversed intestinal dysbiosis and dysregulated bile acid synthesis, promoting a shift of bile acid pool composition toward FXR antagonists and GPBAR1 agonists.

CONCLUSIONS

FXR and GPBAR1 maintain intestinal, liver, and cardiovascular homeostasis, and their therapeutic targeting with a dual GPBAR1/FXR ligand and atorvastatin holds potential in the treatment of liver and cardiovascular components of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Activation of GPBAR1 attenuates vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis in a mouse model of NAFLD-related cardiovascular disease

While patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are at increased risk to develop clinically meaningful cardiovascular diseases (CVD), there are no approved drug designed to target the liver and CVD component of NAFLD. GPBAR1, also known as TGR5, is a G protein coupled receptor for secondary bile acids. In this study we have investigated the effect of GPBAR1 activation by BAR501, a selective GPBAR1 agonist, in Apolipoprotein E deficient (ApoE-/-) mice fed a high fat diet and fructose (Western diet), a validated model of NAFLD-associated atherosclerosis. Using aortic samples from patients who underwent surgery for abdominal aneurism, and ex vivo experiments with endothelial cells and human macrophages, we were able to co-localize the expression of GPBAR1 in CD14+ and PECAM1+ cells. Similar findings were observed in the aortic plaques from ApoE-/- mice. Treating ApoE-/- mice with BAR501, 30 mg/kg for 14 weeks, attenuated the body weight gain while ameliorated the insulin sensitivity by increasing the plasma concentrations of GLP-1 and FGF15. Activation of GPBAR1 reduced the aorta thickness and severity of atherosclerotic lesions and decreased the amount of plaques macrophages. Treating ApoE-/- mice reshaped the aortic transcriptome promoting the expression of anti-inflammatory genes, including IL-10, as also confirmed by tSNE analysis of spleen-derived macrophages. Feeding ApoE-/- mice with BAR501 redirected the bile acid synthesis and the composition of the intestinal microbiota. In conclusion, GPBAR1 agonism attenuates systemic inflammation and improve metabolic profile in a genetic/dietetic model of atherosclerosis. BAR501 might be of utility in the treatment for NAFLD-related CVD.

Oenothera biennis cell culture produce lignans activating Piezo1 triggering the Myosin Light Chain Kinase depending pathways

Piezo1 and Piezo2 are mechanoreceptors involved in sensing both internal and external mechanical forces converting them in electrical signals to the brain. Piezo1 is mainly expressed in the endothelial system and in epidermis sensing shear stress and light touch. The internal traction forces generated by Myosin Light Chain Kinase (MYLK) activate Piezo1, regulating cell contraction. We observed Oenothera biennis cell culture hydro-soluble extract (ObHEx) activated MYLK regulating cell contraction ability. The aim of this work was to test the hypothesis that ObHEx activates Piezo1 through MYLK pathway using CHO cell overexpressing Piezo1, HUVEC and SHSY5Y cells endogenously expressing high levels of Piezo1. Results showed that ObHEx extracts were able to activate Piezo1 and the effect is due to Liriodendrin and Salvadoraside, the two most abundant lignans produced by the cell culture. The effect is lost in presence of MYLK specific inhibitors confirming the key role of this pathway and providing indication about the mechanism of action in Piezo1 activation by lignans. In summary, these results confirmed the connection between Piezo1 and MYLK, opening the possibility of using lignans-containing natural extracts to activate Piezo1.

Identification of a Protein Arginine Methyltransferase 7 (PRMT7)/Protein Arginine Methyltransferase 9 (PRMT9) Inhibitor

Less studied than the other protein arginine methyltransferase isoforms, PRMT7 and PRMT9 have recently been identified as important therapeutic targets. Yet, most of their biological roles and functions are still to be defined, as well as the structural requirements that could drive the identification of selective modulators of their activity. We recently described the structural requirements that led to the identification of potent and selective PRMT4 inhibitors spanning both the substrate and the cosubstrate pockets. The reanalysis of the data suggested a PRMT7 preferential binding for shorter derivatives and prompted us to extend these structural studies to PRMT9. Here, we report the identification of the first potent PRMT7/9 inhibitor and its binding mode to the two PRMT enzymes. Label-free quantification mass spectrometry confirmed significant inhibition of PRMT activity in cells. We also report the setup of an effective AlphaLISA assay to screen small molecule inhibitors of PRMT9.

Targeting phosphoglycerate kinases by tatridin A, a natural sesquiterpenoid endowed with anti-cancer activity, using a proteomic platform

Tatridin A (TatA) is a germacrane sesquiterpenoid containing one E-double bond and one Z-double bond in its 10-membered ring, which is fused to a 3-methylene-dihydrofuran-2-one moiety. Tatridin A bioactivity has been poorly investigated despite its interesting chemical structure. Here, a functional proteomic platform was adapted to disclose its most reliable targets in leukemia monocytic cells, and phosphoglycerate kinases were recognized as the most affine enzymes. Through a combination of limited proteolysis and molecular docking, it has been discovered that tatridin A interacts with the active domains of phosphoglycerate kinase 1, altering its hinge region, and it can be accountable for tatridin A inhibition potency on enzyme activity. A more detailed tatridin A biological profile showed that it is also fully active against gastric cancer cells, downregulating the mRNA levels of chemokine receptor 4 and β-catenin and inhibiting the invasiveness of living KATO III cells as a direct consequence of phosphoglycerate kinase 1 antagonism.

A multidisciplinary functional proteomics-aided strategy as a tool for the profiling of a novel cytotoxic thiadiazolopyrimidone

In recent years, thiadiazolopyrimidine derivatives have been acknowledged for their striking poly-pharmacological framework, thus representing an interesting scaffold for the development of new therapeutic candidates. This paper examines the synthesis and the interactome characterization of a novel bioactive thiadiazolopyrimidone (compound 1), endowed with cytotoxic activity on HeLa cancer cells. In detail, starting from a small set of synthesized thiadiazolopyrimidones, a multi-disciplinary strategy has been carried out on the most bioactive one to disclose its potential biological targets by functional proteomics, using a label-free mass spectrometry based platform coupling Drug Affinity Responsive Target Stability and targeted Limited Proteolysis-Multiple Reaction Monitoring. The identification of Annexin A6 (ANXA6) as compound 1 most reliable cellular partner paved the way to deepen the protein-ligand interaction through bio-orthogonal approaches and to prove compound 1 action on migration and invasion processes governed by ANXA6 modulation. The identification of compund 1 as the first ANXA6 protein modulator represents a relevant tool to further explore the biological role of ANXA6 in cancer, as well as to develop novel anticancer candidates.

Sex Differences in Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Levels Are Dependent on Ceramide Synthase 1 and Ceramidase in Lung Physiology and Tumor Conditions

Sex is a biological variable that can reflect clinical outcomes in terms of quality of life, therapy effectiveness, responsiveness and/or toxicity. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a lipidic mediator whose activity can be influenced by sex. To evaluate whether the S1P axis underlies sex 'instructions' in the lung during physiological and oncological lung conditions, sphingosine and S1P were quantified in the blood of healthy (H) volunteers, lung adenocarcinoma (ADK) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients of both sexes. S1P receptors and their metabolic enzymes were evaluated in the tissues. Circulating levels of S1P were similar among H female and male subjects and female SCC patients. Instead, male and female ADK patients had lower circulating S1P levels. S1P receptor 3 (S1PR3) was physiologically expressed in the lung, but it was overexpressed in male SCC, and female and male ADK, but not in female SCC patients, who showed a significantly reduced ceramide synthase 1 (CERS1) mRNA and an overexpression of the ceramidase (ASAH1) precursor in lung tumor tissues, compared to male SCC and both male and female ADK patients. These findings highlighted sex differences in S1P rheostat in pathological conditions, but not in physiological conditions, identifying S1P as a prognostic mediator depending on lung cancer histotype.

Targeting USP-7 by a Novel Fluorinated 5-Pyrazolyl-Urea Derivative

The impact of innovative technologies on the target discovery has been employed here to characterize the interactome of STIRUR 41, a promising 3-fluoro-phenyl-5-pyrazolyl-urea derivative endowed with anti-cancer activity, on neuroblastoma-related cells. A drug affinity responsive target stability-based proteomic platform has been optimized to elucidate the molecular mechanism at the basis of STIRUR 41 action, together with immunoblotting analysis and in silico molecular docking. Ubiquitin Specific Protease 7 (USP-7), one of the deubiquitinating enzymes which protect substrate proteins from proteasomal degradation, has been identified as the most affine STIRUR 41 target. As further demonstrated by in vitro and in-cell assays, STIRUR 41 was able to inhibit both the enzymatic activity of USP-7 and its expression levels in neuroblastoma-related cells, thus laying an encouraging base for the blockade of USP-7 downstream signaling.

Discovery of BAR502, as potent steroidal antagonist of leukemia inhibitory factor receptor for the treatment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma

Introduction

The leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), is a cytokine belonging to IL-6 family, whose overexpression correlate with poor prognosis in cancer patients, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). LIF signaling is mediate by its binding to the heterodimeric LIF receptor (LIFR) complex formed by the LIFR receptor and Gp130, leading to JAK1/STAT3 activation. Bile acids are steroid that modulates the expression/activity of membrane and nuclear receptors, including the Farnesoid-X-Receptor (FXR) and G Protein Bile Acid Activated Receptor (GPBAR1).

Methods

Herein we have investigated whether ligands to FXR and GPBAR1 modulate LIF/LIFR pathway in PDAC cells and whether these receptors are expressed in human neoplastic tissues.

Results

The transcriptome analysis of a cohort of PDCA patients revealed that expression of LIF and LIFR is increased in the neoplastic tissue in comparison to paired non-neoplastic tissues. By in vitro assay we found that both primary and secondary bile acids exert a weak antagonistic effect on LIF/LIFR signaling. In contrast, BAR502 a non-bile acid steroidal dual FXR and GPBAR1 ligand, potently inhibits binding of LIF to LIFR with an IC50 of 3.8 µM.

Discussion

BAR502 reverses the pattern LIF-induced in a FXR and GPBAR1 independent manner, suggesting a potential role for BAR502 in the treatment of LIFR overexpressing-PDAC.

Identification of 2,4,5-trisubstituted-2,4-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazol-3-one-based small molecules as selective BRD9 binders

Targeting bromodomain-containing protein 9 (BRD9) represents a promising strategy for the development of new agents endowed with anticancer properties. With this aim, a set of 2,4,5-trisubstituted-2,4-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazol-3-one-based compounds was investigated following a combined approach that relied on in silico studies, chemical synthesis, biophysical and biological evaluation of the most promising items. The protocol was initially based on molecular docking experiments, accounting a library of 1896 potentially synthesizable items tested in silico against the bromodomain of BRD9. A first set of 21 compounds (1-21) was selected and the binding on BDR9 was assessed through AlphaScreen assays. The obtained results disclosed compounds 17 and 20 able to bind BRD9 in the submicromolar range (IC₅₀ = 0.35 ± 0.18 μM and IC₅₀ = 0.14 ± 0.03 μM, respectively) showing a promising selectivity profile when tested against further nine bromodomains. Taking advantage of 3D structure-based pharmacophore models, additional 10 derivatives were selected in silico for the synthetic step and binding assessment, highlighting seven compounds (22, 23, 25, 26, 28, 29, 31) able to selectively bind BRD9 among different bromodomains. The ability of the identified BRD9 binders to cross artificial membranes in vitro was also assessed, revealing a very good passive permeability profile. Preliminary studies were carried out on a panel of healthy and cancer human cell lines to explore the biological behavior of the selected compounds, disclosing a moderate activity and significant selectivity profile towards leukaemia cells. These results highlighted the applicability of the reported multidisciplinary approach for accelerating the selection of promising items and for driving the chemical synthesis of novel selective BRD9 binders. Moreover, the low molecular weight of the reported 2,4,5-trisubstituted-2,4-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazol-3-one-based BRD9 binders suggests the possibility for further exploring the chemical space in order to obtain new analogues with improved potency.

Curcumin Has Beneficial Effects on Lysosomal Alpha-Galactosidase: Potential Implications for the Cure of Fabry Disease

Fabry disease is a lysosomal storage disease caused by mutations in the GLA gene that encodes alpha-galactosidase (AGAL). The disease causes abnormal globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) storage in the lysosomes. Variants responsible for the genotypic spectrum of Fabry disease include mutations that abolish enzymatic activity and those that cause protein instability. The latter can be successfully treated with small molecules that either bind and stabilize AGAL or indirectly improve its cellular activity. This paper describes the first attempt to reposition curcumin, a nutraceutical, to treat Fabry disease. We tested the efficacy of curcumin in a cell model and found an improvement in AGAL activity for 80% of the tested mutant genotypes (four out of five tested). The fold-increase was dependent on the mutant and ranged from 1.4 to 2.2. We produced evidence that supports a co-chaperone role for curcumin when administered with AGAL pharmacological chaperones (1-deoxygalactonojirimycin and galactose). The combined treatment with curcumin and either pharmacological chaperone was beneficial for four out of five tested mutants and showed fold-increases ranging from 1.1 to 2.3 for DGJ and from 1.1 to 2.8 for galactose. Finally, we tested a long-term treatment on one mutant (L300F) and detected an improvement in Gb3 clearance and lysosomal markers (LAMP-1 and GAA). Altogether, our findings confirmed the necessity of personalized therapies for Fabry patients and paved the way to further studies and trials of treatments for Fabry disease.

Promitotic Action of Oenothera biennis on Senescent Human Dermal Fibroblasts

Accumulation of senescent dermal fibroblasts drives skin aging. The reactivation of proliferation is one strategy to modulate cell senescence. Recently, we reported the exact chemical composition of the hydrophilic extract of Oenothera biennis cell cultures (ObHEx) and we showed its skin anti-aging properties. The aim of this work is to assess its biological effect specifically on cell senescence. ObHEx action has been evaluated on normal human dermal fibroblasts subjected to stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS) through an ultra-deep proteomic analysis, leading to the most global senescence-associated proteome so far. Mass spectrometry data show that the treatment with ObHEx re-establishes levels of crucial mitotic proteins, strongly downregulated in senescent cells. To validate our proteomics findings, we proved that ObHEx can, in part, restore the activity of 'senescence-associated-ß-galactosidase', the most common hallmark of senescent cells. Furthermore, to assess if the upregulation of mitotic protein levels translates into a cell cycle re-entry, FACS experiments have been carried out, demonstrating a small but significative reactivation of senescent cell proliferation by ObHEx. In conclusion, the deep senescence-associated global proteome profiling published here provides a panel of hundreds of proteins deregulated by SIPS that can be used by the community to further understand senescence and the effect of new potential modulators. Moreover, proteomics analysis pointed to a specific promitotic effect of ObHEx on senescent cells. Thus, we suggest ObHEx as a powerful adjuvant against senescence associated with skin aging.

Repositioning Mifepristone as a Leukaemia Inhibitory Factor Receptor Antagonist for the Treatment of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

Pancreatic cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality and is projected to become the second-most common cause of cancer mortality in the next decade. While gene-wide association studies and next generation sequencing analyses have identified molecular patterns and transcriptome profiles with prognostic relevance, therapeutic opportunities remain limited. Among the genes that are upregulated in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC), the leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a cytokine belonging to IL-6 family, has emerged as potential therapeutic candidate. LIF is aberrantly secreted by tumour cells and promotes tumour progression in pancreatic and other solid tumours through aberrant activation of the LIF receptor (LIFR) and downstream signalling that involves the JAK1/STAT3 pathway. Since there are no LIFR antagonists available for clinical use, we developed an in silico strategy to identify potential LIFR antagonists and drug repositioning with regard to LIFR antagonists. The results of these studies allowed the identification of mifepristone, a progesterone/glucocorticoid antagonist, clinically used in medical abortion, as a potent LIFR antagonist. Computational studies revealed that mifepristone binding partially overlapped the LIFR binding site. LIF and LIFR are expressed by human PDAC tissues and PDAC cell lines, including MIA-PaCa-2 and PANC-1 cells. Exposure of these cell lines to mifepristone reverses cell proliferation, migration and epithelial mesenchymal transition induced by LIF in a concentration-dependent manner. Mifepristone inhibits LIFR signalling and reverses STAT3 phosphorylation induced by LIF. Together, these data support the repositioning of mifepristone as a potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of PDAC.

Beneficial effects of UDCA and norUDCA in a rodent model of steatosis are linked to modulation of GPBAR1/FXR signaling

Non-alcoholic steatosis (NAFLD) and steatohepatitis (NASH) are two highly prevalent human disorders for which therapy remains suboptimal. Bile acids play an essential role in regulating liver metabolism, and several bile acids-based therapy are currently investigated for their potential therapeutic efficacy in NAFLD/NASH. Bile acids exert their functions, at least in part, by modulating two main receptors the Farnesoid-x-receptor (FXR) and the G protein-coupled receptor, GPBAR1. In the present study we have compared the pharmacological effects of two bile acids, the ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and its derivative norUDCA, in a model of NAFLD/NASH induced by feeding mice with a Western diet for 12 weeks. The results of these studies demonstrated that both UDCA and norUDCA protected against development of steatosis and fibrosis, but did not reduce the hepatocytes ballooning nor the development of a pro-atherogenic lipid profile. Both agents reduced liver lipogenesis and ameliorated insulin sensitivity and adipocytes signaling as shown by increased expression of adiponectin. Mechanistically, UDCA acts as weak GPBAR1 agonist, while norUDCA exerted no effect on both GPBAR1 and FXR. In vivo administration of UDCA resets bile acid synthesis and promotes a shift toward bile acids species that are GPBAR1 agonists, UDCA, TUDCA and hyodeoxycholic acid, and increases GLP1 expression in the ileum. In contrast norUDCA is poorly metabolized exerting a minimal impact on GPBAR1 signaling. Together, these data, highlight the potential role of UDCA and norUDCA in treating of NAFLD, though these beneficial effects are supported by different mechanisms.

Combinatorial targeting of G-protein-coupled bile acid receptor 1 and cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1 reveals a mechanistic role for bile acids and leukotrienes in drug-induced liver injury

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a common disorder that involves both direct liver cell toxicity and immune activation. The bile acid receptor, G-protein-coupled bile acid receptor 1 (GPBAR1; Takeda G-protein-coupled receptor 5 [TGR5]), and cysteinyl leukotriene receptor (CYSLTR) 1 are G-protein-coupled receptors activated by bile acids and leukotrienes, exerting opposite effects on cell-to-cell adhesion, inflammation, and immune cell activation. To investigate whether GPBAR1 and CYSLTR1 mutually interact in the development of DILI, we developed an orally active small molecule, CHIN117, that functions as a GPBAR1 agonist and CYSLTR1 antagonist.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

RNA-sequencing analysis of liver explants showed that acetaminophen (APAP) intoxication positively modulates the leukotriene pathway, CYSLTR1, 5-lipoxygenase, and 5-lipoxygenase activating protein, whereas GPBAR1 gene expression was unchanged. In mice, acute liver injury induced by orally dosing APAP (500 mg/kg) was severely exacerbated by Gpbar1 gene ablation and attenuated by anti-Cysltr1 small interfering RNA pretreatment. Therapeutic dosing of wild-type mice with CHIN117 reversed the liver damage caused by APAP and modulated up to 1300 genes, including 38 chemokines and receptors, that were not shared by dosing mice with a selective GPBAR1 agonist or CYSLTR1 antagonist. Coexpression of the two receptors was detected in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), monocytes, and Kupffer cells, whereas combinatorial modulation of CYSLTR1 and GPBAR1 potently reversed LSEC/monocyte interactions. CHIN117 reversed liver damage and liver fibrosis in mice administered CCl₄ .

CONCLUSIONS

By genetic and pharmacological approaches, we demonstrated that GPBAR1 and CYSLTR1 mutually interact in the development of DILI. A combinatorial approach designed to activate GPBAR1 while inhibiting CYSLTR1 reverses liver injury in models of DILI.

Drug affinity-responsive target stability unveils filamins as biological targets for artemetin, an anti-cancer flavonoid

Artemetin is a valuable 5-hydroxy-3,6,7,3′,4′-pentamethoxyflavone present in many different medicinal plants with very good oral bioavailability and drug-likeness values, owing to numerous bioactivities, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer ones. Here, a multi-disciplinary plan has been settled and applied for identifying the artemetin target(s) to inspect its mechanism of action, based on drug affinity-responsive target stability and targeted limited proteolysis. Both approaches point to the disclosure of filamins A and B as direct artemetin targets in HeLa cell lysates, also giving detailed insights into the ligand/protein-binding sites. Interestingly, also 8-prenyl-artemetin, which is an artemetin more permeable semisynthetic analog, directly interacts with filamins A and B. Both compounds alter filamin conformation in living HeLa cells with an effect on cytoskeleton disassembly and on the disorganization of the F-actin filaments. Both the natural compound and its derivative are able to block cell migration, expectantly acting on tumor metastasis occurrence and development.

Drug Repositioning for Fabry Disease: Acetylsalicylic Acid Potentiates the Stabilization of Lysosomal Alpha-Galactosidase by Pharmacological Chaperones

Fabry disease is caused by a deficiency of lysosomal alpha galactosidase and has a very large genotypic and phenotypic spectrum. Some patients who carry hypomorphic mutations can benefit from oral therapy with a pharmacological chaperone. The drug requires a very precise regimen because it is a reversible inhibitor of alpha-galactosidase. We looked for molecules that can potentiate this pharmacological chaperone, among drugs that have already been approved for other diseases. We tested candidate molecules in fibroblasts derived from a patient carrying a large deletion in the gene GLA, which were stably transfected with a plasmid expressing hypomorphic mutants. In our cell model, three drugs were able to potentiate the action of the pharmacological chaperone. We focused our attention on one of them, acetylsalicylic acid. We expect that acetylsalicylic acid can be used in synergy with the Fabry disease pharmacological chaperone and prolong its stabilizing effect on alpha-galactosidase.

Exosomal CD73 from serum of patients with melanoma suppresses lymphocyte functions and is associated with therapy resistance to anti-PD-1 agents

BACKGROUND

CD73 is an ectonucleotidase producing the immunosuppressor mediator adenosine. Elevated levels of circulating CD73 in patients with cancer have been associated with disease progression and poor response to immunotherapy. Immunosuppressive pathways associated with exosomes can affect T-cell function and the therapeutic efficacy of anti-programmed cell-death protein 1 (anti-PD-1) therapy. Here, we conducted a retrospective pilot study to evaluate levels of exosomal CD73 before and early during treatment with anti-PD-1 agents in patients with melanoma and its potential contribution to affect T-cell functions and to influence the clinical outcomes of anti-PD-1 monotherapy.

METHODS

Exosomes were isolated by mini size exclusion chromatography from serum of patients with melanoma (n=41) receiving nivolumab or pembrolizumab monotherapy. Expression of CD73 and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) were evaluated on exosomes enriched for CD63 by on-bead flow cytometry. The CD73 AMPase activity was evaluated by mass spectrometry, also in the presence of selective inhibitors of CD73. Interferon (IFN)-γ production and granzyme B expression were measured in CD3/28 activated T cells incubated with exosomes in presence of the CD73 substrate AMP. Levels of CD73 and PD-L1 on exosomes were correlated with therapy response. Exosomes isolated from healthy subjects were used as control.

RESULTS

Isolated exosomes carried CD73 on their surface, which is enzymatically active in producing adenosine. Incubation of exosomes with CD3/28 activated T cells in the presence of AMP resulted in a significant reduction of IFN-γ release, which was reversed by the CD73 inhibitor APCP or by the selective A2A adenosine receptor antagonist ZM241385. Expression levels of exosomal CD73 from serum of patients with melanoma were not significantly different from those in healthy subjects. Early on-treatment, expression levels of both CD73 and PD-L1 on exosomes isolated from patients receiving pembrolizumab or nivolumab monotherapy were significantly increased compared with baseline. Early during therapy exosomal PD-L1 increased in responders, while exosomal CD73 resulted significantly increased in non-responders.

CONCLUSIONS

CD73 expressed on exosomes from serum of patients with melanoma produces adenosine and contributes to suppress T-cell functions. Early on-treatment, elevated expression levels of exosomal CD73 might affect the response to anti-PD-1 agents in patients with melanoma who failed to respond to therapy.

Atorvastatin protects against liver and vascular damage in a model of diet induced steatohepatitis by resetting FXR and GPBAR1 signaling

Farnesoid-x-receptor (FXR) agonists, currently trialed in patients with non-alcoholic steatosis (NAFLD), worsen the pro-atherogenic lipid profile and might require a comedication with statin. Here we report that mice feed a high fat/high cholesterol diet (HFD) are protected from developing a pro-atherogenic lipid profile because their ability to dispose cholesterol through bile acids. This protective mechanism is mediated by suppression of FXR signaling in the liver by muricholic acids (MCAs) generated in mice from chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA). In contrast to CDCA, MCAs are FXR antagonists and promote a CYP7A1-dependent increase of bile acids synthesis. In mice feed a HFD, the treatment with obeticholic acid, a clinical stage FXR agonist, failed to improve the liver histopathology while reduced Cyp7a1 and Cyp8b1 genes expression and bile acids synthesis and excretion. In contrast, treating mice with atorvastatin mitigated liver and vascular injury caused by the HFD while increased the bile acids synthesis and excretion. Atorvastatin increased the percentage of 7α-dehydroxylase expressing bacteria in the intestine promoting the formation of deoxycholic acid and litocholic acid, two GPBAR1 agonists, along with the expression of GPBAR1-regulated genes in the white adipose tissue and colon. In conclusion, present results highlight the central role of bile acids in regulating lipid and cholesterol metabolism in response to atorvastatin and provide explanations for limited efficacy of FXR agonists in the treatment of NAFLD.

Prevalence and economic burden of major comorbidities in multiple sclerosis

Background

Although comorbidity is important in Multiple Sclerosis (MS), few validated methods for its assessment exist. Our aim is to estimate the prevalence and economic burden of major comorbidities in people with MS (pwMS) in two Northern Italy study areas (Pavia, PV and Genoa, GE), using routinely collected healthcare data.

Methods

We estimated prevalence of comorbid conditions in pwMS in the period 2012-2017. Anxiety, depression, cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, hypertension, heart disease, cerebrovascular diseases, vascular diseases, ischemic stroke, hyperlipidaemia, bronchopathy, diabetes, gastropathy, gastric ulcer, autoimmune diseases, chronic renal failure, connective tissue diseases and HIV/AIDS were identified by a specific algorithm currently used for monitoring prevalence of chronic diseases by Italian Local Health Authorities (BDA system). Direct healthcare costs were defined by regional and governmental contracts; the aggregated healthcare expenditure was compared between pwMS with/without comorbidities.

Results

The MS cases identified were 2983, 2035 in GE and 948 in PV. 55.6% of pwMS had at least one comorbidity (50.6% GE and 66.5% PV, p < 0.001). The most prevalent comorbidities were: depression (32.9%), hypertension (18.0%), cancer (10.9%), heart disease (7.8%), cerebrovascular diseases (7.0%) and hyperlipidaemia (6.1%). Comorbidity ranking was similar in the two provinces, although we observed significant differences considering specific prevalence rates. The mean direct healthcare costs of MS were substantially higher for individuals with comorbidity (36,463 €vs 26,284 €, p < 0.001), showing 39% of additive costs.

Conclusions

Our study provides evidence of the burden of comorbidities in MS. Comorbidity is common in MS and produce additive costs.

Key messages

The use of administrative data for tracking the MS comorbidity could help knowledge gaps. When additivity situation is involved, preventive policies could lead to monetary savings.

Serum CD73 is a prognostic factor in patients with metastatic melanoma and is associated with response to anti-PD-1 therapy

Background

Inhibitors of immune checkpoint programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) receptor on T cells have shown remarkable clinical outcomes in metastatic melanoma. However, most patients are resistant to therapy. Production of extracellular adenosine, via CD73-mediated catabolism of AMP, contributes to suppress T-cell-mediated responses against cancer. In this study, we analyzed the expression and activity of soluble CD73 in sera of patients with melanoma undergoing anti-PD-1± cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 therapy.

Methods

Soluble CD73 expression and activity were retrospectively analyzed in serum of a total of 546 patients with melanoma from different centers before starting treatment (baseline) with anti-PD-1 agents, nivolumab or pembrolizumab, and compared with those of 96 healthy subjects. The CD73 activity was correlated with therapy response and survival of patients.

Results

Patients with melanoma show significantly higher CD73 activity and expression than those observed in healthy donors (p<0.0001). Elevated pretreatment levels of CD73 activity were associated with non-response to therapy with nivolumab or pembrolizumab. During treatment, levels of soluble CD73 activity remain unchanged from baseline and still stratify clinical responders from non-responders. High levels of serum CD73 enzymatic activity associate with reduced overall survival (OS; HR=1.36, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.78; p=0.03) as well as progression-free survival (PFS; HR=1.42, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.79, p=0.003). Further, the multivariate Cox regression analysis indicates that serum CD73 activity is an independent prognostic factor besides serum lactate dehydrogenase levels and the presence of brain metastases for both OS (p=0.009) and PFS (p=0.001).

Conclusion

Our data indicate the relevance of serum CD73 in patients with advanced melanoma receiving anti-PD-1 therapy and support further investigation on targeting CD73 in combination with anti-PD-1 antibodies.

Intracellular Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptor 3 Contributes to Lung Tumor Cell Proliferation

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The pleiotropic lipid mediator sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) exerts a multitude of effects on respiratory cell physiology and pathology through five S1P receptors (S1PR1-5). Epidemiological studies proved high levels of circulating S1P in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Studies in literature suggest that high levels of S1P support carcinogenesis but the exact mechanism is still elusive. The aim of this study was to understand the mechanism/s underlying S1P-mediated lung tumor cell proliferation.

METHODS

We used human samples of NSCLC, a mouse model of first-hand smoking and of Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP)-induced tumor-bearing mice and A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells.

RESULTS

We found that the expression of S1PR3 was also into the nucleus of lung cells in vitro, data that were confirmed in lung tissues of NSCLC patients, smoking and tumor bearing BaP-exposed mice. The intranuclear, but not the membrane, localization of S1PR3 was associated to S1P-mediated proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma cells. Indeed, the inhibition of the membrane S1PR3 did not alter tumor cell proliferation after Toll Like Receptor (TLR) 9 activation. Instead, according to the nuclear localization of sphingosine kinase (SPHK) II, the inhibition of the kinase completely blocked the endogenous S1P-induced tumor cell proliferation.

CONCLUSION

These results prove that the nuclear S1PR3/SPHK II axis is involved in lung tumor cell proliferation, highlighting a novel molecular mechanism which could provide differential therapeutic approaches especially in non-responsive lung cancer patients.

Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Contributes to TLR9-Induced TNF-α Release in Lung Tumor Cells

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a membrane-derived bioactive phospholipid involved in many lung physiological and pathological processes. Higher levels of S1P have been registered in a broad range of respiratory diseases, including inflammatory disorders and cancer. The aim of our study was to understand the role of S1P in healthy versus tumor cells after Toll-Like Receptors (TLRs) activation, well-known modulators of sphingolipid metabolism.

METHODS

Lung adenocarcinoma cells and non-pathological human fibroblasts were stimulated with unmethylated Cytosine phosphate Guanosine (CpG), the TLR9 ligand, and S1P-dependent TNF-α release was evaluated by means of ELISA. Immunofluorescence and LC-MS/MS analysis were performed to evaluate/quantify S1P generation following TLR9 activation.

RESULTS

We found that S1P was involved in TLR9-induced TNF-α release in that the inhibition of both ceramidase and sphingosine kinase I/II (SPHK I/II) significantly reduced the levels of TNF-α after TLR9 triggering in lung adenocarcinoma cells. These results were not observed in healthy fibroblasts, implying that this pathway was mainly involved in pathological conditions. Moreover, the activation of TLR4 by means of LPS did not have similar effects as in the case of CpG-stimulated TLR9. Importantly, the activation of TLR9 induced S1P generation and allowed it to interact on the outside membrane receptor S1P₁ and S1P₃ via the efflux through its membrane transporter SPNS2. Indeed, both the blockade of S1P₃ and the transporter SPNS2 significantly reduced the activity of S1P on TNF-α release from lung adenocarcinoma cells.

CONCLUSION

Our study identifies a novel inflammatory pathway in that TLR9 increases the pro-inflammatory cytokine release, such as TNF-α, via the induction of a ceramide/S1P imbalance in favor of S1P, adding a novel puzzle piece in TLR9-orchestrated inflammatory pathway and shedding more light on the role of the higher levels of S1P during inflammatory conditions.

An Oenothera biennis Cell Cultures Extract Endowed with Skin Anti-Ageing Activity Improves Cell Mechanical Properties

Skin aging is a very well-known process setting a gradual worsening of skin mechanical features due to a decline in the production of the extra-cellular matrix machinery and to a concurrent change in the contraction process. To slow this progression, it is crucial to induce the expression of several proteins able to promote elastic fibers formation and tissue repair. Here, the Oenothera biennis cell culture aqueous extract has been investigated from a chemical point of view and then it was tested in vitro, in cell, and in ex vivo experiments as adjuvant in counteracting skin aging. Accordingly, it has been shown that the Oenothera biennis extract was able, by increasing MYLK gene expression, to promote matrix collagen contraction, actin polymerization, and the production of essential ECM proteins.

Novel insights on the molecular mechanism of action of the anti-angiogenic pyrazolyl-urea GeGe-3 by functional proteomics

In recent years, 5-pyrazolyl-ureas have mostly been known for their attractive poly-pharmacological outline and, in particular, ethyl 1-(2-hydroxypentyl)-5-(3-(3-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl) ureido)-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate (named GeGe-3) has emerged as a capable anti-angiogenic compound. This paper examines its interactome by functional proteomics using a label-free mass spectrometry based platform, coupling Drug Affinity Responsive Target Stability and targeted Limited Proteolysis-Multiple Reaction Monitoring. Calreticulin has been recognized as the GeGe-3 principal target and this evidence has been supported by immunoblotting and in silico molecular docking. Furthermore, cell studies have shown that GeGe-3 lowers cell calcium mobilization, cytoskeleton organization and focal adhesion kinase expression, thus linking its biological potential to calreticulin binding and, ultimately, shedding light on the reasonable action mechanism of this molecule as an anti-angiogenic factor.

Mesoglycan exerts its fibrinolytic effect through the activation of annexin A2

Mesoglycan is a drug based on a mixture of glycosaminoglycans mainly used for the treatment of blood vessel diseases acting as antithrombotic and profibrinolytic drugs. Besides the numerous clinical studies, there is no information about its function on the fibrinolytic cascade. Here, we have elucidated the mechanism of action by which mesoglycan induces the activation of plasmin from endothelial cells. Surprisingly, by a proteomic analysis, we found that, following mesoglycan treatment, these cells show a notable amount of annexin A2 (ANXA2) at the plasma membrane. This protein has been widely associated with fibrinolysis and appears able to move to the membrane when phosphorylated. In our model, this translocation has proven to enhance cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, the interaction of mesoglycan with syndecan 4 (SDC4), a coreceptor belonging to the class of heparan sulfate proteoglycans, represents the upstream event of the ANXA2 behavior. Indeed, the activation of SDC4 triggers the motility of endothelial cells culminating in angiogenesis. Interestingly, mesoglycan can induce the release of plasmin in endothelial cell supernatants only in the presence of ANXA2. This evaluation suggests that mesoglycan triggers the formation of a chain mechanism starting from the activation of SDC4, and the related cascade of events, including src complex and PKCα activation, promoting the phosphorylation of ANXA2 and its translocation to plasma membrane. This indicates a connection among mesoglycan, SDC4-(PKCα-src), and ANXA2 which, in turn, links the tissue plasminogen activator bringing it closer to plasminogen. This latter is so cleaved to release the plasmin and degrade fibrin sleeves.

Involvement of 3',5'-cyclic inosine monophosphate in cystathionine γ-lyase-dependent regulation of the vascular tone

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

l-cysteine or hydrogen sulfide (H₂ S) donors induce a biphasic effect on precontracted isolated vessels. The contractile effect occurs within a concentration range of 10 nM to 3 μM followed by vasodilatation at 30-100 μM. Here, we have investigated the signalling involved in the H₂ S-induced contraction.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Vascular response to NaHS or l-cysteine is evaluated on isolated precontracted with phenylephrine vessel rings harvested from wild type, cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE^-/- ), soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC_α1 ^-/- ) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS^-/- ) knock-out mice. The cAMP, cGMP and inosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cIMP) levels are simultaneously quantified using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) analysis. The involvement of sGC, phosphodiesterase (PDE) 4A and PDE5 are also evaluated.

KEY RESULTS

CSE-derived H₂ S-induced contraction requires an intact eNOS/NO/sGC pathway and involves cIMP as a second messenger. H₂ S contractile effect involves a transient increase of cGMP and cAMP metabolism caused by PDE5 and PDE4A, thus unmasking cIMP contracting action. The stable cell-permeable analogue of cIMP elicits concentration-dependent contraction on a stable background tone induced by phenylephrine. The lack of cIMP, coupled to the hypocontractility displayed by vessels harvested from CSE^-/- mice, confirms that H₂ S-induced contraction involves cIMP.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

The endothelium dynamically regulates vessel homeostasis by modulating contractile tone. This also involves CSE-derived H₂ S that is mediated by cIMP.

Quantitative proteomics discloses monacolin K-induced alterations in triple-negative breast cancer cell proteomes and phosphoproteomes

A positive prognosis of triple-negative breast cancer can be considered as one of the major challenges in clinical studies; accordingly, scientific research has the mission to find out novel chemotherapeutics to make it curable. In recent times, a good potential of dietary bioactive natural substances, called nutraceuticals, in suppressing cancer cell proliferation via gene expression regulation has been discovered: this effect and the lack of toxicity make nutraceuticals potentially effective agents against cancers. Monacolin K from red rice, a FDA-approved and well-tolerated compound generally employed to treat hypercholesterolemia, has been proved to have anti-proliferative and apoptotic effects in a wide panel of triple-negative breast cancers. Thus, an unbiased analysis of monacolin K-induced MDA-MB-231 cellular pathway alterations has been carried out by quantitative proteomics exploiting isobaric tags. Despite the positive modulation of some proteins already reported in the literature, an increased concentration of the tissue-type plasminogen activator PLAT has interestingly been found. This is a marker of good prognosis in mammary cancer, suggesting the anti-metastatic properties of this molecule as strongly associated with the alterations in the cytoskeleton organization and the consequent modulation of adhesion, motility and proteolysis. In accordance, some of the found monacolin K-induced phosphoproteome alterations have a tight connection to cell migration mechanisms. In this setting, the over-phosphorylation of Lamin A and of melanophilin induced by monacolin K has been very attractive. Moreover, monacolin K exerts its effect on the over-expression of the tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2), an endogenous metalloproteinase inhibitor. This protein modulates growth, migration and invasion of tumor cells and inhibits tumor angiogenesis.

Determining the Effect of Pterostilbene on Insulin Secretion Using Chemoproteomics

Pterostilbene, the 3,5-dimethoxy derivative of resveratrol, is a well-known polyphenolic compound, mainly found in blueberries, grapevines, and Pterocarpus marsupium heartwood, which has recently attracted a great deal of attention due to its wide bio-pharmacological profile. Moreover, pterostilbene is more lipophilic than resveratrol, with a consequently better bioavailability and a more interesting therapeutic potential. In this work, a chemoproteomic approach, based on affinity chromatography, was applied on pterostilbene in the attempt to identify the biological targets responsible for its bioactivity. On this basis, syntaxins, a group of proteins involved in the formation of SNARE complexes mediating vesicles exocytosis, were selected among the most interesting pterostilbene interactors. In vitro and in cell assays gave evidence of the pterostilbene ability to reduce insulin secretion on glucose-stimulated pancreatic beta cells, opening the way to potential applications of pterostilbene as a supplement in the care of insulin-dependent metabolic disorders.

Carbamoyl-Phosphate Synthase 1 as a Novel Target of Phomoxanthone A, a Bioactive Fungal Metabolite

Phomoxanthone A, a bioactive xanthone dimer isolated from the endophytic fungus Phomopsis sp., is a mitochondrial toxin weakening cellular respiration and electron transport chain activity by a fast breakup of the mitochondrial assembly. Here, a multi-disciplinary strategy has been developed and applied for identifying phomoxanthone A target(s) to fully address its mechanism of action, based on drug affinity response target stability and targeted limited proteolysis. Both approaches point to the identification of carbamoyl-phosphate synthase 1 as a major phomoxanthone A target in mitochondria cell lysates, giving also detailed insights into the ligand/target interaction sites by molecular docking and assessing an interesting phomoxanthone A stimulating activity on carbamoyl-phosphate synthase 1. Thus, phomoxanthone A can be regarded as an inspiring molecule for the development of new leads in counteracting hyperammonemia states.

Genomics-Metabolomics Profiling Disclosed Marine Vibrio spartinae 3.6 as a Producer of a New Branched Side Chain Prodigiosin

A wide range of prescreening tests for antimicrobial activity of 59 bacterial isolates from sediments of Ria Formosa Lagoon (Algarve, Portugal) disclosed Vibrio spartinae 3.6 as the most active antibacterial producing strain. This bacterial strain, which has not previously been submitted for chemical profiling, was subjected to de novo whole genome sequencing, which aided in the discovery and elucidation of a prodigiosin biosynthetic gene cluster that was predicted by the bioinformatic tool KEGG BlastKoala. Comparative genomics led to the identification of a new membrane di-iron oxygenase-like enzyme, annotated as Vspart_02107, which is likely to be involved in the biosynthesis of cycloprodigiosin and analogues. The combined genomics-metabolomics profiling of the strain led to the isolation and identification of one new branched-chain prodigiosin (5) and to the detection of two new cyclic forms. Furthermore, the evaluation of the minimum inhibitory concentrations disclosed the major prodigiosin as very effective against multi-drug-resistant pathogens including Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, a clinical isolate of Listeria monocytogenes, as well as some human pathogens reported by the World Health Organization as prioritized targets.

Opposite effects of the FXR agonist obeticholic acid on Mafg and Nrf2 mediate the development of acute liver injury in rodent models of cholestasis

The farnesoid-X-receptor (FXR) is validated target in the cholestatic disorders treatment. Obeticholic acid (OCA), the first in class of FXR agonist approved for clinical use, causes side effects including acute liver decompensation when administered to cirrhotic patients with primary biliary cholangitis at higher than recommended doses. The V-Maf avian-musculoaponeurotic-fibrosarcoma-oncogene-homolog-G (Mafg) and nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related-factor-2 (Nrf2) mediates some of the downstream effects of FXR. In the present study we have investigated the role of FXR/MafG/NRF2 pathway in the development of liver toxicity caused by OCA in rodent models of cholestasis. Cholestasis was induced by bile duct ligation (BDL) or administration of α-naphtyl-isothiocyanate (ANIT) to male Wistar rats and FXR^-/- and FXR^+/+ mice. Treating BDL and ANIT rats with OCA exacerbated the severity of cholestasis, hepatocytes injury and severely downregulated the expression of basolateral transporters. In mice, genetic ablation FXR or its pharmacological inhibition by 3-(naphthalen-2-yl)-5-(piperidin-4-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazole rescued from negative regulation of MRP4 and protected against liver injury caused by ANIT. By RNAseq analysis we found that FXR antagonism effectively reversed the transcription of over 2100 genes modulated by OCA/ANIT treatment, including Mafg and Nrf2 and their target genes Cyp7a1, Cyp8b1, Mat1a, Mat2a, Gss. Genetic and pharmacological Mafg inhibition by liver delivery of siRNA antisense or S-adenosylmethionine effectively rescued from damage caused by ANIT/OCA. In contrast, Nrf2 induction by sulforaphane was protective. CONCLUSIONS: Liver injury caused by FXR agonism in cholestasis is FXR-dependent and is reversed by FXR and Mafg antagonism or Nrf2 induction.

Daily music listening to reduce work-related stress: a randomized controlled pilot trial

BACKGROUND

Literature shows that music can reduce stress conditions. This pilot study investigated the effects of music listening on work-related stress and well-being in healthcare professionals.

METHOD

A total of 45 subjects were randomly assigned to three treatment groups: No Music, Individualized Music and Melomics-Health Listening. Music groups experienced a daily 30-min-playlist listening for 3 weeks at home. The Maugeri Stress Index-Revised (MASI-R) and the Psychological General Well-Being Index (PGWBI) were administered at baseline, after 3 weeks and after 7 weeks (follow-up). Longitudinal data were analyzed by means of a nested ANOVA model, testing the main effects of time and treatment and the interaction between them.

RESULTS

MASI-R scores showed a positive trend in music groups and a worsening in the control group. Only the interaction time/treatment emerged as supporting a trend toward statistical significance (P = 0.07). PGWBI showed a stability in music groups and a clear decline in controls, without significant effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from the study support the need for a larger clinical trial: it is suggested that daily music listening could be implemented to reduce work-related stress and that the effects may be related, not only to individual musical preferences and familiarity, but also to specific music structures and parameters.

Ursodeoxycholic acid is a GPBAR1 agonist and resets liver/intestinal FXR signaling in a model of diet-induced dysbiosis and NASH

Obeticholic acid (OCA) is a farnesoid-X-receptor (FXR) ligand, shown effective in reducing steatosis and fibrosis in NASH patients. However, OCA causes major side effects including pruritus, while increases the risk for liver decompensation in cirrhotic patients. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), is a safe and unexpensive bile acid used in the treatment of liver disorders whose mechanism of action is poorly defined. Here we have compared the effects of OCA and UDCA in a mouse model of NASH. In mice exposed to a diet rich in fat/cholesterol and fructose (HFD-F), treatment with OCA or UDCA effectively prevented body weight gain, insulin resistance, as demonstrated by OGTT, and AST plasma levels. After 12 weeks HFD-F mice developed liver microvesicular steatosis, inflammation and mild fibrosis, increased expression of inflammatory (TNFα, IL6, F4/80) and fibrosis (αSma, Col1α1, Tgfβ) markers, reduced liver expression of FXR, dysregulated liver FXR signaling and elevated levels of Tauro-α and β-muricholic acid (T-α and βMCA), two FXR antagonists in mice. Both compounds prevented these changes and improved liver histopathology. OCA reduced primary bile acid synthesis worsening the T-CA/T-βMCA ratio. UDCA effectively transactivated GPBAR1 in vitro. By RNAseq analysis we found that among over 2400 genes modulated by the HFD-F, only 32 and 60 genes were modulated by OCA and UDCA, with only 3 genes (Dbp, Adh7, Osgin1) being modulated by both agents. Both agents partially prevented the intestinal dysbiosis. CONCLUSIONS: UDCA is a GPBAR1 ligand and exerts beneficial effects in a rodent model of NASH by activating non-overlapping pathway with OCA.

Transcriptome Analysis of Dual FXR and GPBAR1 Agonism in Rodent Model of NASH Reveals Modulation of Lipid Droplets Formation

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a progressive, chronic, liver disease whose prevalence is growing worldwide. Despite several agents being under development for treating NASH, there are no drugs currently approved. The Farnesoid-x-receptor (FXR) and the G-protein coupled bile acid receptor 1 (GPBAR1), two bile acid activated receptors, have been investigated for their potential in treating NASH. Here we report that BAR502, a steroidal dual ligand for FXR/GPBAR1, attenuates development of clinical and liver histopathology features of NASH in mice fed a high fat diet (HFD) and fructose (F). By RNAseq analysis of liver transcriptome we found that BAR502 restores FXR signaling in the liver of mice feed HFD-F, and negatively regulates a cluster of genes including Srebf1 (Srepb1c) and its target genes-fatty acid synthase (Fasn) and Cell death-inducing DFF45-like effector (CIDE) genes, Cidea and Cidec-involved in lipid droplets formation and triglycerides storage in hepatocytes. Additionally, BAR502 increased the intestinal expression of Fgf15 and Glp1 and energy expenditure by white adipose tissues. Finally, exposure to BAR502 reshaped the intestinal microbiota by increasing the amount of Bacteroidaceae. In conclusion, we have shown that dual FXR/GPBAR1 agonism might have utility in treatment of NASH.

Investigation around the Oxadiazole Core in the Discovery of a New Chemotype of Potent and Selective FXR Antagonists

Recent findings have shown that Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) antagonists might be useful in the treatment of cholestasis and related metabolic disorders. In this paper, we report the discovery of a new chemotype of FXR antagonists featured by a 3,5-disubstituted oxadiazole core. In total, 35 new derivatives were designed and synthesized, and notably, compounds 3f and 13, containing a piperidine ring, displayed the best antagonistic activity against FXR with promising cellular potency (IC₅₀ = 0.58 ± 0.27 and 0.127 ± 0.02 μM, respectively). The excellent pharmacokinetic properties make compound 3f the most promising lead identified in this study.

Novel Isoxazole Derivatives with Potent FXR Agonistic Activity Prevent Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury

Acetaminophen misuse is a leading cause of acute liver failure and liver transplantation for which therapy is poorly effective. FXR ligands have shown effective in reducing liver injury in several experimental and clinical settings. In this Letter, we have elaborated on the structure of GW4064, the first nonsteroidal agonist for FXR, to identify novel isoxazoles endowed with FXR agonistic activity and improved ADME properties. The pharmacological characterization and molecular docking studies for the structure-activity rationalization allowed the identification of several FXR agonists with nanomolar potency in transactivation and SRC-1 recruitment assays. This characterization resulted in the identification of a potent FXR agonist, compound 20 that was orally active, and rescued mice from acute liver failure caused by acetaminophen overdose in a FXR-dependent manner.

Tumor-associated macrophage-secreted 14-3-3ζ signals via AXL to promote pancreatic cancer chemoresistance

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an inherently chemoresistant tumor. Chemotherapy leads to apoptosis of cancer cells, and in previous studies we have shown that tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) infiltration increases following chemotherapy in PDAC. Since one of the main functions of macrophages is to eliminate apoptotic cells, we hypothesized that TAMs phagocytose chemotherapy-induced apoptotic cells and secrete factors, which favor PDAC chemoresistance. To test this hypothesis, primary human PDAC cultures were treated with conditioned media (CM) from monocyte-derived macrophage cultures incubated with apoptotic PDAC cells (MØ^ApopCM). MØ^ApopCM pretreatment rendered naïve PDAC cells resistant to Gemcitabine- or Abraxane-induced apoptosis. Proteomic analysis of MØ^ApopCM identified YWHAZ/14-3-3 protein zeta/delta (14-3-3ζ), a major regulator of apoptotic cellular pathways, as a potential mediator of chemoresistance, which was subsequently validated in patient transcriptional datasets, serum samples from PDAC patients and using recombinant 14-3-3ζ and inhibitors thereof. Moreover, in mice bearing orthotopic PDAC tumors, the antitumor potential of Gemcitabine was significantly enhanced by elimination of TAMs using clodronate liposomes or by pharmacological inhibition of the Axl receptor tyrosine kinase, a 14-3-3ζ interacting partner. These data highlight a unique regulatory mechanism by which chemotherapy-induced apoptosis acts as a switch to initiate a protumor/antiapoptotic mechanism in PDAC via 14-3-3ζ/Axl signaling, leading to phosphorylation of Akt and activation of cellular prosurvival mechanisms. The data presented therefore challenge the idea that apoptosis of tumor cells is therapeutically beneficial, at least when immune sensor cells, such as macrophages, are present.

Introduction of Nonacidic Side Chains on 6-Ethylcholane Scaffolds in the Identification of Potent Bile Acid Receptor Agonists with Improved Pharmacokinetic Properties

As a cellular bile acid sensor, farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and the membrane G-coupled receptor (GPBAR1) participate in maintaining bile acid, lipid, and glucose homeostasis. To date, several selective and dual agonists have been developed as promising pharmacological approach to metabolic disorders, with most of them possessing an acidic conjugable function that might compromise their pharmacokinetic distribution. Here, guided by docking calculations, nonacidic 6-ethyl cholane derivatives have been prepared. In vitro pharmacological characterization resulted in the identification of bile acid receptor modulators with improved pharmacokinetic properties.

Chemical Proteomics-Guided Identification of a Novel Biological Target of the Bioactive Neolignan Magnolol

Understanding the recognition process between bioactive natural products and their specific cellular receptors is of key importance in the drug discovery process. In this outline, some potential targets of Magnolol, a natural bioactive compound, have been identified by proteomic approaches. Among them, Importin-β1 has been considered as the most relevant one. A direct binding between Magnolol and this nuclear chaperone has been confirmed by DARTS and molecular docking, while its influence on Importin-β1 translocation has been evaluated by in vitro assays.

Proteomic Analysis of Zn Depletion/Repletion in the Hormone-Secreting Thyroid Follicular Cell Line FRTL-5

Zinc deficiency predisposes to a wide spectrum of chronic diseases. The human Zn proteome was predicted to represent about 10% of the total human proteome, reflecting the broad array of metabolic functions in which this micronutrient is known to participate. In the thyroid, Zn was reported to regulate cellular homeostasis, with a yet elusive mechanism. The Fischer Rat Thyroid Cell Line FRTL-5 cell model, derived from a Fischer rat thyroid and displaying a follicular cell phenotype, was used to investigate a possible causal relationship between intracellular Zn levels and thyroid function. A proteomic approach was applied to compare proteins expressed in Zn deficiency, obtained by treating cells with the Zn-specific chelator N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis (2-pyridylmethyl) ethylene-diamine (TPEN), with Zn repleted cells. Quantitative proteomic analysis of whole cell protein extracts was performed using stable isotope dimethyl labelling coupled to nano-ultra performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). TPEN treatment led to almost undetectable intracellular Zn, while decreasing thyroglobulin secretion. Subsequent addition of ZnSO₄ fully reversed these phenotypes. Comparative proteomic analysis of Zn depleted/repleted cells identified 108 proteins modulated by either treatment. Biological process enrichment analysis identified functions involved in calcium release and the regulation of translation as the most strongly regulated processes in Zn depleted cells.

Chemoproteomic fishing identifies arzanol as a positive modulator of brain glycogen phosphorylase

The interactome of arzanol was investigated by MS-based chemical proteomics, a pioneering technology for small molecule target discovery. Brain glycogen phosphorylase (bGP), a key regulator of glucose metabolism so far refractory to small molecule modulation, was identified as the main high-affinity target of arzanol. Competitive affinity-based proteomics, DARTS, molecular docking, surface plasmon resonance and in vitro biological assays provided molecular mechanistic insights into the arzanol-enzyme interaction, qualifying this positive modulator of bGP for further studies in the realm of neurodegeneration and cancer.

Immigrants Psychopathology: Emerging Phenomena and Adaptation of Mental Health Care Setting by Native Language

Mental health of immigrants is an important social and clinical issue. Immigrants may report higher rates of mental disorders and lower levels of use of mental health service with respect to natives. The aim of the present work is to review recent findings of the psychopathology of immigrants and analyze how to adapt the mental care settings through the use of mother tongues. We searched the literature to individuate and review the most recent scientific articles focused on the psychopathology of immigrants realized in Europe. Moreover, we summarized the guidelines about immigrants mental health care and we focused on the barriers caused by language. We individuated 15 papers reporting data about mental disorders among immigrants and the related risk and protective factors. The articles reported information about psychosis, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, somatization and suicide rates. Risk and protective factors are individuated mainly among social factors (e.g. ethnic density effect, hosting countries' policies). Furthermore, immigrants encounter language barriers in the use of mental care services. The realization of cross-cultural training and the development of a working alliance between clinicians and interpreters resulted to be effective solutions even if these interventions are not frequently implemented. The extent of migratory flows and the related difficulties experienced by immigrants require attention and well-informed interventions. The high rates of incidence of mental disorder and the strict number of services who implement interventions taking into accounts fundamental aspect as language show that there is still a lot to do.

Agonism for the bile acid receptor GPBAR1 reverses liver and vascular damage in a mouse model of steatohepatitis

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular complications and mortality, suggesting that treatment of NASH might benefit from combined approaches that target the liver and the cardiovascular components of NASH. Using genetic and pharmacologic approaches, we show that G protein-coupled bile acid-activated receptor 1 (GPBAR1) agonism reverses liver and vascular damage in mouse models of NASH. NASH is associated with accelerated vascular inflammation representing an independent risk factor for development of cardiovascular diseases and cardiovascular-related mortality. GPBAR1, also known as TGR5, is a G protein-coupled receptor for secondary bile acids that reduces inflammation and promotes energy expenditure. Using genetic and pharmacologic approaches, we investigated whether GPBAR1 agonism by 6β-ethyl-3α,7β-dihydroxy-5β-cholan-24-ol (BAR501) reverses liver and vascular damage induced by exposure to a diet enriched in fat and fructose (HFD-F). Treating HFD-F mice with BAR501 reversed liver injury and promoted the browning of white adipose tissue in a Gpbar1-dependent manner. Feeding HFD-F resulted in vascular damage, as shown by the increased aorta intima-media thickness and increased expression of inflammatory genes (IL-6,TNF-α, iNOS, and F4/80) and adhesion molecules (VCAM, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and endothelial selectin) in the aorta, while reducing the expression of genes involved in NO and hydrogen sulfide generation, severely altering vasomotor activities of aortic rings in an ex vivo assay. BAR501 reversed this pattern in a Gpbar1-dependent manner, highlighting a potential role for GPBAR1 agonism in treating the liver and vascular component of NASH.-Carino, A., Marchianò, S., Biagioli, M., Bucci, M., Vellecco, V., Brancaleone, V., Fiorucci, C., Zampella, A., Monti, M. C., Distrutti, E., Fiorucci, S. Agonism for the bile acid receptor GPBAR1 reverses liver and vascular damage in a mouse model of steatohepatitis.

Discovering the Biological Target of 5-epi-Sinuleptolide Using a Combination of Proteomic Approaches

Sinuleptolide and its congeners are diterpenes with a norcembranoid skeleton isolated from the soft coral genus Sinularia. These marine metabolites are endowed with relevant biological activities, mainly associated with cancer development. 5-epi-sinuleptolide has been selected as a candidate for target discovery studies through the application of complementary proteomic approaches. Specifically, a combination of conventional chemical proteomics based on affinity chromatography, coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry and bioinformatics, as well as drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS), led to a clear identification of actins as main targets for 5-epi-sinuleptolide. Subsequent in-cell assays, performed with cytochalasin D as reference compound, gave information on the ability of 5-epi-sinuleptolide to disrupt the actin cytoskeleton by loss of actin fibers and formation of F-actin amorphous aggregates. These results suggest the potential application of 5-epi-sinuleptolide as a useful tool in the study of the molecular processes impaired in several disorders in which actin is thought to play an essential role.