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Background and Purpose: Adenosine, through the A1 receptor (A1R), is an endogenous anticonvulsant. The development of adenosine receptor agonists as antiseizure medications has been hampered by their cardiac side effects. A moderately A1R‐selective agonist, MRS5474, has been reported to suppress seizures without considerable cardiac action. Hypothesizing that this drug could act through other than A1R and/or through a disease‐specific mechanism, we assessed the effect of MRS5474 on the hippocampus. Experimental Approach: Excitatory synaptic currents, field potentials, spontaneous activity, [3H]GABA uptake and GABAergic currents were recorded from rodent or human hippocampal tissue. Alterations in adenosine A3 receptor (A3R) density in human tissue were assessed by Western blot. Key Results: MRS5474 (50–500 nM) was devoid of effect upon rodent excitatory synaptic signals in hippocampal slices, except when hyperexcitability was previously induced in vivo or ex vivo. MRS5474 inhibited GABA transporter type 1 (GAT‐1)‐mediated γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) uptake, an action not blocked by an A1R antagonist but blocked by an A3R antagonist and mimicked by an A3R agonist. A3R was overexpressed in human hippocampal tissue samples from patients with epilepsy that had focal resection from surgery. MRS5474 induced a concentration‐dependent potentiation of GABA‐evoked currents in oocytes micro‐transplanted with human hippocampal membranes prepared from epileptic hippocampal tissue but not from non‐epileptic tissue, an action blocked by an A3R antagonist. Conclusion and Implications: We identified a drug that activates A3R and has selective actions on epileptic hippocampal tissue. This underscores A3R as a promising target for the development of antiseizure medications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We previously found that chronic adenosine A1 receptor stimulation with N6-Cyclopentyladenosine increased α-synuclein misfolding and neurodegeneration in a novel α-synucleinopathy model, a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. Here, we aimed to synthesize a dimer caffeine-indan linked by a 6-carbon chain to cross the blood–brain barrier and tested its ability to bind α-synuclein, reducing misfolding, behavioral abnormalities, and neurodegeneration in our rodent model. Behavioral tests and histological stains assessed neuroprotective effects of the dimer compound. A rapid synthesis of the 18F-labeled analogue enabled Positron Emission Tomography and Computed Tomography imaging for biodistribution measurement. Molecular docking analysis showed that the dimer binds to α-synuclein N- and C-termini and the non-amyloid-β-component (NAC) domain, similar to 1-aminoindan, and this binding promotes a neuroprotective α-synuclein "loop" conformation. The dimer also binds to the orthosteric binding site for adenosine within the adenosine A1 receptor. Immunohistochemistry and confocal imaging showed the dimer abolished α-synuclein upregulation and aggregation in the substantia nigra and hippocampus, and the dimer mitigated cognitive deficits, anxiety, despair, and motor abnormalities. The 18F-labeled dimer remained stable post-injection and distributed in various organs, notably in the brain, suggesting its potential as a Positron Emission Tomography tracer for α-synuclein and adenosine A1 receptor in Parkinson's disease therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of Lactuca sativa L. extracts (Lactuc) on pentobarbital-induced sleep in mice to elucidate the mechanisms underlying its impact on sleep quality. Mice were randomly assigned to five groups: control, positive control (diazepam 2 mg/kg b.w.), and three groups orally administered with Lactuc (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg b.w.). After 2 weeks of oral administration and intraperitoneal injections, the mice were killed. We found that the Lactuc-administered groups had significantly reduced sleep latency and increased sleep duration compared with the control group. Furthermore, the oral administration of Lactuc induced a significant increase in mRNA expression and protein expression of adenosine A1 receptor in the brains compared with the expressions in the control group. In addition, the Lactuc-administered groups exhibited significantly higher levels of mRNA expressions of GABAA receptors subunits α2, β2, γ1, and, γ2 in the brain tissue. Therefore, we suggest that Lactuc could be used to develop natural products that effectively improve sleep quality and duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant proportion of the world's population suffers from insomnia, a disorder characterized by complications in initiating and maintaining sleep. Many medications used to treat insomnia target the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter system. However, these substances, such as benzodiazepines, induce significant adverse consequences, including dependence and memory impairment, after prolonged use. Thus, current studies are aimed at developing therapeutic hypnotics derived from natural sources that may cause less severe side effects. Heukharang is a variety of lettuce from Korea that was discovered to contain sleep-promoting compounds. Therefore, we investigated the potential effects of sub-chronic administration of Heukharang extract (FSD-LS) on sleep behavior (pentobarbital-induced sleeping test), brain wave activity and sleep architecture (electroencephalography), and physiological behavior (open-field test and rota-rod) in mice, along with radioligand binding assays (GABAA, adenosine A1 and A2A receptors). We found that FSD-LS prolonged the total sleep duration and reduced the onset time of sleep, and enhanced delta wave power and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep duration, all indicating persistent sleep-enhancing effects. FSD-LS lacked adverse effects on the spontaneous locomotor activity and motor coordination of mice, unlike diazepam. Pharmacological blocking using caffeine and bicuculline supported the possible involvement of adenosine receptors in the sleep-promoting effects of FSD-LS, with partial contribution from GABA receptor activity. Overall, our study recommends FSD-LS as a potential source for the development of sleep-aiding therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Morphine withdrawal syndrome is often treated with chemical drugs; however, these drugs can have concerning side effects. Some natural substances might offer safer alternatives for managing withdrawal symptoms. The neuroprotective activity of the adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) in the central nervous system (CNS) has been mentioned before. As a novel natural agent, Japanese sake yeast is enriched with adenosine analogs. Objectives: As the first report, the present study was designed to evaluate the effects of the Japanese sake yeast supplement against the excitatory signs of morphine withdrawal syndrome in mice. Methods: Mice were treated orally (gavage) with sake yeast at doses of 100, 200, and 300 mg kg-1 once daily for a week. Furthermore, during the last 3 days of receiving sake yeast, the animals were made physically dependent on morphine by being given twice-daily subcutaneous injections of increasing doses of morphine (30 - 90 mg/kg) for 3 consecutive days. The withdrawal syndrome was induced in animals through the intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of naloxone (3 mg kg-1) or was elicited spontaneously. After the examination of withdrawal signs, the animals were decapitated, and their brains were prepared for histopathology. Results: Sake yeast alleviated the intensity of ptosis, piloerection, diarrhea, irritability, and tremor during the two withdrawal syndrome protocols (P < 0.05) and diminished the number of jumping in naloxone-induced withdrawal syndrome (P < 0.01). The withdrawal symptom-lowering effect of sake yeast was reversed by the i.p. injection of an A1R-selective antagonist, 8-cyclopentyltheophylline (10 mg kg-1), and maintained following the i.p. injection of ZM241385 (15 mg kg-1), a selective adenosine A2AR antagonist. Furthermore, histopathological findings demonstrated that sake yeast at doses of 200 and 300 mg kg-1 inhibited the CA1 hippocampal neuronal damage induced by withdrawal syndrome (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Sake yeast suppresses the morphine withdrawal syndrome via the activation of A1R. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

L-Glutamate (L-Glu) is an amino acid present in the diet that plays a fundamental role in the central nervous system, as the main excitatory neurotransmitter participating in learning and memory processes. In addition, the nucleoside adenosine has a crucial role in L-Glu metabolism, by regulating the liberation of this neurotransmitter through four different receptors: A1, A2A, A2B and A3, which activate (A2A and A2B) or inhibit (A1 and A3) adenylate cyclase pathway. L-Glu at high concentrations can act as a neurotoxin and induce oxidative stress. The study of the oxidative stress correlated with an excess of L-Glu consumption during maternity is key to understand its effects on foetuses and neonates. Previous studies have shown that there is a change in the receptor levels in the brain of pregnant rats and their foetuses when mothers are administered L-Glu during gestation; however, its effect on the cerebellum is unknown. Cerebellum is known to be responsible for motor, cognitive and emotional functions, so its possible involvement after L-Glu consumption is an important issue to study. Therefore, the aim of the present work was to study the effect of L-Glu exposure during gestation and lactation on oxidative stress biomarkers and neurotransmitter receptors from the cerebellum of foetuses and neonates. After maternal L-Glu intake during gestation, oxidative stress was increased, as the ionotropic L-Glu receptors, and GluR1 AMPA subunit levels were altered in foetuses. A1 adenosine receptor suffered changes after L-Glu treatment during gestation, lactation or both, in lactating neonate cerebellum, while adenylate cyclase activity remain unaltered. Further studies will be necessary to elucidate the importance of L-Glu intake and its possible excitotoxicity in the cerebellum of Wistar rats during the pregnancy period and their involvement in long-term neurodegeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perilla frutescens (PF) is a plant with various biological activities, including antioxidant and antidepressant activities; however, the efficacy of its fermented product has not been evaluated. Herein, we found that the Bacillus subtilis-fermented PF (FPF) increased non-rapid eye movement sleep and slow wave activity. FPF improved the sleep onset latency and sleep duration in a pentobarbital-induced sleep model, and this efficacy was abolished by the adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) antagonist. In addition, FPF increased and decreased the neuronal activity in sleep-activating and inhibiting brain regions, respectively, and these effects were also blocked by A1R antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine. Furthermore, FPF exhibited direct binding and agonistic activities for A1R. HPLC/NMR analysis revealed uracil, protocatechuic acid, apigenin-7-O-diglucuronide, and luteolin-7-O-glucuronide to be the major active components responsible for the sleep-promoting efficacy of FPF. In conclusion, this study suggests that FPF has A1R agonistic activity and this novel activity may be critical for its sleep-promoting effect.

AIM: To observe the effect of acupuncture on adenosine A1 receptor （A1R） in the caudate putamen （CPu） of complete Freund's adjuvant （CFA） rats, and to explore the potential mechanism of acupuncture in treatment of inflammatory pain. METHODS: Sixty-four 6~8-week-old male Wistar rats were randomly divided into saline group, model group （CFA group）, CFA+manual acupuncture （MA） group, CFA+solvent dimethyl sulfoxide （DMSO） group, CFA+A1R agonist 2-chloro-N6-cyclopentyladenosine （CCPA） group, CFA+A1R antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1, 3-dipropylxanthine（ DPCPX） group, CFA+MA+DMSO group and CFA+MA+DPCPX group. In MA groups, on the 2nd day after modeling, the rats were needled at Zusanli points on both sides, 30 min at a time, once per day, for 7 d. Pain threshold of plantar thermal radiation was used to observe the pain response of the rats. The content of cyclic adenosine monophosphate （cAMP） in the CPu was detected by ELISA. The protein expression and phosphorylation levels of protein kinase A （PKA） and cAMP response element-binding protein （CREB） were detected by Western blot. The expression of A1R in the CPu was detected by immunofluorescence staining. RESULTS: Compared with saline group, CFA modeling significantly lowered the thermal pain threshold of the rats （P<0. 01）. Compared with CFA group, the thermal pain threshold of the rats in CFA+MA group and CFA+CCPA group was significantly increased （P<0. 05 or P<0. 01）. Compared with CFA+ MA+DMSO group, the thermal pain threshold of the rats in CFA+MA+DPCPX group was decreased （P<0. 05）. Compared with CFA group, A1R protein relative expression level and positive cells in the CPu of the rats in CFA+MA group were increased （P<0. 05 or P<0. 01）. Compared with saline group, cAMP content and p-CREB protein level in the CPu of the rats in CFA+MA group were decreased （P<0. 05）. Compared with CFA+DMSO group, cAMP content and p-CREB protein level in CFA+MA+DMSO and CFA+CCPA groups were significantly decreased （P<0. 01）. Compared with CFA+MA+ DMSO group, the levels of cAMP, p-PKA and p-CREB in CFA+MA+DPCPX group were significantly increased （P<0. 05 or P<0. 01）. CONCLUSION: Acupuncture on bilateral Zusanli can relieve inflammatory pain in CFA rats, and its mechanism may be related to A1R/cAMP/p-CREB signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and Honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) are popular tisanes in South Africa and are of growing interest due to the wide variety of flavonoids and other phytochemicals they contain. Despite their history as herbal teas and traditional medicines, the chemical constituents of these tisanes have yet to be studied for their effects on adenosine receptors. A series of 30 commercially available chemical constituents of Rooibos and Honeybush were investigated via radioligand binding studies to determine their adenosine A1 and A2A receptor affinity at both rat and human subtypes in order to establish structure-activity relationships and identify novel adenosine receptor ligands. In addition, in silico evaluations of the 30 test compounds were also performed to predict their physiochemical and pharmacokinetic properties. The most promising chemical constituent was kaempferol (28) which showed sub-micromolar affinity towards the rat A1 subtype (rA1Ki = 0.7287 μM; hA1Ki = 9.88 µM) and acted as an antagonist toward adenosine rA1 receptors. Additionally, quercetin (2), chrysoeriol (8), luteolin (9), eriodyctiol (12), and naringenin (27) also showed adenosine A1 and/or A2A receptor affinity. It was observed that a flavonol scaffold is preferred to flavone and flavanone scaffolds, and within the flavonols, C4'-OH substitution on ring B is preferred to C3',4'-diOH substitution. These phytochemicals, specifically kaempferol (28), may be considered lead-like and valuable in designing novel ligands, based on in vitro and in silico evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic inflammation plays an important role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD). In the present study, we synthesized 25 novel xanthine derivatives with variable substituents at the N1-, N3- and C8-position as adenosine receptor antagonists with potential anti-inflammatory activity. The compounds were investigated in radioligand binding studies at all four human adenosine receptor subtypes, A1, A2A, A2B and A3. Compounds showing nanomolar A2A and dual A1/A2A affinities were obtained. Three compounds, 19, 22 and 24, were selected for further studies. Docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies indicated binding poses and interactions within the orthosteric site of adenosine A1 and A2A receptors. In vitro studies confirmed the high metabolic stability of the compounds, and the absence of toxicity at concentrations of up to 12.5 µM in various cell lines (SH-SY5Y, HepG2 and BV2). Compounds 19 and 22 showed anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. In vivo studies in mice investigating carrageenan- and formalin-induced inflammation identified compound 24 as the most potent anti-inflammatory derivative. Future studies are warranted to further optimize the compounds and to explore their therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: The goal of the research is to investigate the protocatechuic acid (PCA) potential action, a phenolic acid derivative, on pain induced by neuropathy and to determine its efficacy on activation of KATP type channels and A1 receptors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Neuropathic pain by cause of sciatic nerve damage was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats. Anti-allodynic and anti-hyperalgesic effects were evaluated with von Frey apparatus and Hargreave's plantar test apparatus, respectively. The effects of PCA at the doses of 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg, carbamazepine at the doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg, combination of low effective doses of PCA and carbamazepine were tested. Pretreatments 3 µg/kg DPCPX as adenosine A1 receptor antagonist and 60.7 nmol glibenclamide as KATP channel blocker were applied for mechanistic studies. RESULTS: PCA showed anti-allodynic and anti-hyperalgesic effects without impairing locomotor activity. In addition, the combination treatment was found to be more effective than the separate individual treatments of drugs. KATP channel activation related with A1 receptor stimulation makes a significant contribution to the anti-allodynia and anti-hyperalgesia induced by PCA. CONCLUSIONS: It can be said that PCA has similar effects with carbamazepine, which is used in clinical practice, and that PCA can take place as an adjuvant drug in neuropathic pain with the combination group. In addition, it is seen that the undesirable effects that drugs can cause alone can be avoided and a more effective treatment potential can be created with multiple mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effect of intrathecal administration of CCPA, an adenosine A1 receptor agonist, on voiding function in rats with cystitis induced by cyclophosphamide (CYP). Methods: Thirty 8-week-old Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into a control group (n = 15) and a cystitis group (n = 15). Cystitis was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of CYP (200 mg/kg, dissolved in physiological saline) in rats. Control rats were injected intraperitoneally with physiological saline. The PE10 catheter reached the level of L6-S1 spinal cord through L3-4 intervertebral space for intrathecal injection. Forty-eight hours after intraperitoneal injection, urodynamic tests were conducted to observe the effect of intrathecal administration of 10% dimethylsulfoxide (vehicle) and 1 nmol CCPA on micturition parameters, including basal pressure (BP), threshold pressure (TP), maximal voiding pressure (MVP), intercontraction interval (ICI), voided volume (VV), residual volume (RV), bladder capacity (BC), and voiding efficiency (VE). Histological changes of the bladder of cystitis rats were studied through hematoxylin–eosin staining (HE staining). Moreover, Western blot and immunofluorescence were used to study the expression of adenosine A1 receptor in the L6-S1 dorsal spinal cord in both groups of rats. Results: HE staining revealed submucosal hemorrhage, edema, and inflammatory cell infiltration in the bladder wall of cystitis rats. The urodynamic test showed significant increase in BP, TP, MVP and RV in cystitis rats, while ICI, VV, BC and VE decreased significantly, indicating bladder overactivity. CCPA inhibited the micturition reflex in both control and cystitis rats, and significantly increased TP, ICI, VV, BC, and VE, but had no significant effect on BP, MVP and RV. Western blot and immunofluorescence showed that there was no significant difference in the expression of adenosine A1 receptor in the L6-S1 dorsal spinal cord between the control and cystitis rats. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that intrathecal administration of the adenosine A1 receptor agonist CCPA alleviates CYP-induced bladder overactivity. Furthermore, our results indicate that the adenosine A1 receptor in the lumbosacral spinal cord may be a promising target for treatment of bladder overactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adenosine A1 receptor (A1AR) plays a prominent role in neurological and cardiac diseases and inflammatory processes. Its endogenous ligand adenosine is known to be one of the key players in the sleep-wake cycle. Like other G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), stimulation of A1AR leads to the recruitment of arrestins in addition to the activation of G proteins. So far, little is known about the role of these proteins in signal transduction and regulation of A1AR compared to the activation of G proteins. In this work, we characterized a live cell assay for A1AR-mediated ß-arrestin 2 recruitment. We have applied this assay to a set of different compounds that interact with this receptor. Methods: Based on NanoBit® technology, a protein complementation assay was developed in which the A1AR is coupled to the large part of the nanoluciferase (LgBiT), whereas its small part (SmBiT) is fused to the N-terminus of ß-arrestin 2. Stimulation of A1AR results in the recruitment of ß-arrestin 2 and subsequent complementation of a functional nanoluciferase. For comparison, corresponding data on the effect of receptor stimulation on intracellular cAMP levels were collected for some data sets using the GloSensor™ assay. Results: The assay gives highly reproducible results with a very good signal-tonoise ratio. Capadenoson, in contrast to adenosine, CPA, or NECA, shows only partial agonism in this assay with respect to the recruitment of ß-arrestin 2, whereas it shows full agonism in the case of the inhibitory effect of A1AR on cAMP production. By using a GRK2 inhibitor, it becomes clear that the recruitment is at least partially dependent on the phosphorylation of the receptor by this kinase. Interestingly, this was also the first time that we demonstrate the A1ARmediated recruitment of ß-arrestin 2 by stimulation with a valerian extract. Conclusion: The presented assay is a useful tool for the quantitative study of A1ARmediated ß-arrestin 2 recruitment. It allows data collection for stimulatory, inhibitory, and modulatory substances and is also suitable for more complex substance mixtures such as valerian extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of tau is a hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases and is associated with neuronal hypoactivity and presynaptic dysfunction. Oral administration of the adenosine A1 receptor antagonist rolofylline (KW-3902) has previously been shown to reverse spatial memory deficits and to normalize the basic synaptic transmission in a mouse line expressing full-length pro-aggregant tau (TauΔK) at low levels, with late onset of disease. However, the efficacy of treatment remained to be explored for cases of more aggressive tauopathy. Using a combination of behavioral assays, imaging with several PET-tracers, and analysis of brain tissue, we compared the curative reversal of tau pathology by blocking adenosine A1 receptors in three mouse models expressing different types and levels of tau and tau mutants. We show through positron emission tomography using the tracer [18F]CPFPX (a selective A1 receptor ligand) that intravenous injection of rolofylline effectively blocks A1 receptors in the brain. Moreover, when administered to TauΔK mice, rolofylline can reverse tau pathology and synaptic decay. The beneficial effects are also observed in a line with more aggressive tau pathology, expressing the amyloidogenic repeat domain of tau (TauRDΔK) with higher aggregation propensity. Both models develop a progressive tau pathology with missorting, phosphorylation, accumulation of tau, loss of synapses, and cognitive decline. TauRDΔK causes pronounced neurofibrillary tangle assembly concomitant with neuronal death, whereas TauΔK accumulates only to tau pretangles without overt neuronal loss. A third model tested, the rTg4510 line, has a high expression of mutant TauP301L and hence a very aggressive phenotype starting at ~3 months of age. This line failed to reverse pathology upon rolofylline treatment, consistent with a higher accumulation of tau-specific PET tracers and inflammation. In conclusion, blocking adenosine A1 receptors by rolofylline can reverse pathology if the pathological potential of tau remains below a threshold value that depends on concentration and aggregation propensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our previous study found that activation of adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) induced phosphorylation of delta opioid receptor (DOR) and desensitization of its downstream signaling molecules, cAMP and Akt. To further investigate the effect of A1R agonist on DOR signaling and the underlying mechanism, we examined the effect of A1R activation upon binding of its agonist N6-cyclohexyl-adenosine (CHA) on DOR-mediated Raf-1/MEK/ERK activation, and found that prolonged CHA exposure resulted in downregulation of DOR-mediated Raf-1/MEK/ERK signaling pathway. CHA-treatment time dependently attenuated Raf-1-Ser338 phosphorylation induced by [D-Pen2,5] enkephalin (DPDPE), a specific agonist of DOR, and further caused downregulation of the Raf-1/MEK/ERK signaling pathway activated by DOR agonist. Moreover, CHA exposure time-dependently induced the phosphorylation of Raf-1-Ser289/296/301, the inhibitory phosphorylation sites that were regulated by negative feedback, thereby inhibiting activation of the MEK/ERK pathway, and this effect could be blocked by MEK inhibitor U0126. Finally, we proved that the heterologous desensitization of the Raf-1/MEK/ERK cascade was essential in the regulation of anti-nociceptive effect of DOR agonists by confirming that such effect was inhibited by pretreatment of CHA. Therefore, we conclude that the activation of A1R inhibits DOR-mediated MAPK signaling pathway via heterologous desensitization of the Raf-1/MEK/ERK cascade, which is a result of ERK-mediated Raf-1-Ser289/296/301 phosphorylation mediated by activation of A1R. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controversial studies indicate the adenosine compound (a neuromodulator with neuroprotective activity) intervention on cognitive performance. On the other hand, Japanese sake yeast has been enriched with oral adenosine analogs as a novel natural agent. As the first report, we aimed to evaluate the effects of Japanese sake yeast supplement in a mouse model of chronic restraint stress-induced cognitive dysfunction. Mice were subjected to a one-week stress protocol and concomitantly treated orally with sake yeast at the dose level of 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg once daily for a week. The spatial and conditioned fear memory functions were evaluated with the Morris Water Maze (MWM) and the Passive Avoidance Learning (PAL) test, respectively. In all dosing regimens, improvements in spatial cognition were observed significantly in the MWM. 200 and 300 mg/kg of sake yeast significantly improved short- and long-term fear memory functions in the PAL test. Memory-enhancing effect of sake yeast was potentiated by the injection of ZM241385 (15 mg/kg), a selective adenosine A 2A receptor (A 2A R) antagonist, but completely disappeared by the injection of 8-cyclopentyltheophylline (CPT-8, 10 mg/kg), a selective adenosine A 1 receptor (A 1 R) antagonist. The findings of the present study demonstrate the efficacy of sake yeast in acting as a cognitive performance-enhancing agent. Eventually, sake yeast and its ingredient S-adenosyl methionine (SAM) may be useful in improving memory in patients suffering from many dementia forms including Alzheimer's disease (AD). • Adenosine enriched sake yeast supplement inhibits restraint stress-induced spatial memory deficit. • Adenosine enriched sake yeast supplement inhibits restraint stress-induced conditioned fear memory deficit. • Sake yeast increases hippocampal and prefrontal cortical BDNF levels. • Sake yeast alters amygdala inflammatory cytokines involved in memory impartment. • A 1 R and A 2A R are involved in the neuroprotective effects of sake yeast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) present specific activation pathways and signaling among receptor subtypes. Hence, an extensive knowledge of the structural dynamics of the receptor is critical for the development of therapeutics. Here, we target the adenosine A1 receptor (A1R), for which a negligible number of drugs have been approved. We combine molecular dynamics simulations, enhanced sampling techniques, network theory, and pocket detection to decipher the activation pathway of A1R, decode the allosteric networks, and identify transient pockets. The A1R activation pathway reveals hidden intermediate and pre-active states together with the inactive and fully-active states observed experimentally. The protein energy networks computed throughout these conformational states successfully unravel the extra and intracellular allosteric centers and the communication pathways that couple them. We observe that the allosteric networks are dynamic, being increased along activation and fine-tuned in the presence of the trimeric G-proteins. Overlap of transient pockets and energy networks uncovers how the allosteric coupling between pockets and distinct functional regions of the receptor is altered along activation. Through an in-depth analysis of the bridge between the activation pathway, energy networks, and transient pockets, we provide a further understanding of A1R. This information can be useful to ease the design of allosteric modulators for A1R.

Background: Adenosine A1 receptor (A1AR) plays a prominent role in neurological and cardiac diseases and inflammatory processes. Its endogenous ligand adenosine is known to be one of the key players in the sleep–wake cycle. Like other G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), stimulation of A1AR leads to the recruitment of arrestins in addition to the activation of G proteins. So far, little is known about the role of these proteins in signal transduction and regulation of A1AR compared to the activation of G proteins. In this work, we characterized a live cell assay for A1AR-mediated β-arrestin 2 recruitment. We have applied this assay to a set of different compounds that interact with this receptor.Methods: Based on NanoBit® technology, a protein complementation assay was developed in which the A1AR is coupled to the large part of the nanoluciferase (LgBiT), whereas its small part (SmBiT) is fused to the N-terminus of β-arrestin 2. Stimulation of A1AR results in the recruitment of β-arrestin 2 and subsequent complementation of a functional nanoluciferase. For comparison, corresponding data on the effect of receptor stimulation on intracellular cAMP levels were collected for some data sets using the GloSensor™ assay.Results: The assay gives highly reproducible results with a very good signal-to-noise ratio. Capadenoson, in contrast to adenosine, CPA, or NECA, shows only partial agonism in this assay with respect to the recruitment of β-arrestin 2, whereas it shows full agonism in the case of the inhibitory effect of A1AR on cAMP production. By using a GRK2 inhibitor, it becomes clear that the recruitment is at least partially dependent on the phosphorylation of the receptor by this kinase. Interestingly, this was also the first time that we demonstrate the A1AR-mediated recruitment of β-arrestin 2 by stimulation with a valerian extract.Conclusion: The presented assay is a useful tool for the quantitative study of A1AR-mediated β-arrestin 2 recruitment. It allows data collection for stimulatory, inhibitory, and modulatory substances and is also suitable for more complex substance mixtures such as valerian extract.

Most recently, the adenosine is considered as one of the most promising targets for treating pain, with few side effects. It exists in the central nervous system, and plays a key role in nociceptive afferent pathway. It is reported that the A1 receptor (A1R) could inhibit Ca2+ channels to reduce the pain like analgesic mechanism of morphine. And, A2a receptor (A2aR) was reported to enhance the accumulation of AMP (cAMP) and released peptides from sensory neurons, resulting in constitutive activation of pain. Much evidence showed that A1R and A2aR could be served as the interesting targets for the treatment of pain. Herein, virtual screening was utilized to identify the small molecule compounds towards A1R and A2aR, and top six molecules were considered as candidates via amber scores. The molecular dynamic (MD) simulations and molecular mechanics/generalized born surface area (MM/GBSA) were employed to further analyze the affinity and binding stability of the six molecules towards A1R and A2aR. Moreover, energy decomposition analysis showed significant residues in A1R and A2aR, including His1383, Phe1276, and Glu1277. It provided basics for discovery of novel agonists and antagonists. Finally, the agonists of A1R (ZINC19943625, ZINC13555217, and ZINC04698406) and inhibitors of A2aR (ZINC19370372, ZINC20176051, and ZINC57263068) were successfully recognized. Taken together, our discovered small molecules may serve as the promising candidate agents for future pain research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hibernation is an adaptation that allows animals such as the Arctic ground squirrel (AGS) to survive the absence of food or water during the winter season. Understanding mechanisms of metabolic suppression during hibernation torpor promises new therapies for critical care. The activation of the Adenosine A1 receptor (A1AR) has been shown to be necessary and sufficient for entrance into hibernation with a winter season sensitization to the agonist, but the role of the A1AR in seasonal sensitization is unknown. In the current study, we characterize the A1AR in the forebrain, hippocampus and hypothalamus of summer and torpid AGS. For the first time, we define the pharmacological characteristics of the A1AR agonist, N6-cyclohexyladenosine and the A1AR antagonist dipropylcyclopentylxanthine (DPCPX) in the AGS brain. In addition, we test the hypothesis that increased A1AR agonist efficacy is responsible for sensitization of the A1AR during the torpor season. The resulting 35S-GTPγS binding data indicate an increase in agonist potency during torpor in two out of three brain regions. In addition to 35S-GTPγS binding, [3H]DPCPX saturation and competition assays establish for the first-time pharmacological characteristics for the A1AR agonist, N6-cyclohexyladenosine and the A1AR antagonist dipropylcyclopentylxanthine (DPCPX) in AGS brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders, affecting 10–15% of the global population. Because classical remedies used to treat insomnia have various side effects, new therapeutics for insomnia are attracting attention. In the present study, we found that N2-Ethyl-N4-(furan-2-ylmethyl) quinazoline-2,4-diamine (AR-001) has adenosine A 1 receptor agonistic activity and exhibits hypnotic efficacy by decreasing sleep onset latency and increasing total sleep time in a pentobarbital-induced sleep model. This hypnotic effect of AR-001 was significantly inhibited by the adenosine A 1 receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX). As a result of immunohistochemistry, AR-001 was shown to increase neural activity in the sleep-promoting region, ventrolateral preoptic nucleus (VLPO), and decrease neural activity in the wake-promoting region, basal forebrain (BF), and lateral hypothalamus (LH), and that these effects of AR-001 were significantly inhibited by DPCPX treatment. In addition, AR-001 increased adenosine A 1 receptor mRNA levels in the hypothalamus. In conclusion, this study suggests that AR-001 has a hypnotic effect, at least partially, through adenosine A 1 receptor and may have therapeutic potential for insomnia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

N6-clyclohexyladenosine (CHA) is an adenosine A 1 receptor agonist that inhibits thermogenesis. Cardiovascular side effects however, limit use of CHA as a therapeutic. We and others have shown that this can be reversed by administering 8-p-(sulfophenyl)theophylline (8-SPT), a nonspecific antagonist that does not cross the BBB. Other evidence shows that CNS actions of CHA may contribute to bradycardia through enhanced vagal tone and other mechanisms. Here we test the hypothesis that 8-SPT pretreatment alone is sufficient to prevent hypotension caused by CHA. To test this hypothesis, we pretreated rats with 8-SPT alone, and in combination with other antagonists to test the hypothesis that direct action of CHA on the heart is the primary mechanism by which CHA induces bradycardia and hypotension. Results show that pretreatment with 8-SPT alone is not sufficient to prevent CHA-induced hypotension. Pretreatment with 8-SPT or atropine alone did not prevent the fall in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR), however, pretreatment with 8-SPT (25 mg/kg) and atropine (1 mg/kg) 15 min before CHA (1 mg/kg) preserves MAP and HR baseline values after CHA administration. We next asked if blood pressure was managed during the transition into a hypometabolic state, would prolong CHA-mediated inhibition of metabolism after cardiac arrest improve outcome better than anti-shivering medications meperidine and buspirone. We found that CHA-mediated hypotension can be mitigated by pretreatment with atropine and 8-SPT. This combination administered after cardiac arrest facilitated temperature management and metabolic suppression better than meperidine and buspirone, however, did not improve survival. [Display omitted] • CHA-induced hypotension can be prevented with pretreatment of 8-SPT and atropine. • Metabolic suppression was greater with CHA than with meperidine and buspirone. • CHA-induced bradycardia can be prevented with pretreatment of 8-SPT and atropine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Accumulating α-synuclein (α-syn) aggregates in neurons and glial cells are the staples of many synucleinopathy disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). Since brain adenosine becomes greatly elevated in ageing brains and chronic adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) stimulation leads to neurodegeneration, we determined whether adenosine or A1R receptor ligands mimic the action of known compounds that promote α-syn aggregation (e.g., the amphetamine analogue 2-aminoindan) or inhibit α-syn aggregation (e.g., Rasagiline metabolite 1-aminoindan). In the present study, we determined whether adenosine, A1R receptor agonist N6-Cyclopentyladenosine (CPA) and antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX) could directly interact with α-syn to modulate α-syn aggregation and neurodegeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN). Methods Nanopore analysis and molecular docking were used to test the binding properties of CPA and DPCPX with α-syn in vitro. Sprague–Dawley rats were administered with 7-day intraperitoneal injections of the A1R ligands and 1- and 2-aminoindan, and levels of α-syn aggregation and neurodegeneration were examined in the SN pars compacta and hippocampal regions using confocal imaging and Western blotting. Results Using nanopore analysis, we showed that the A1R agonists (CPA and adenosine) interacted with the N-terminus of α-syn, similar to 2-aminoindan, which is expected to promote a “knot” conformation and α-syn misfolding. In contrast, the A1R antagonist DPCPX interacted with the N- and C-termini of α-syn, similar to 1-aminoindan, which is expected to promote a “loop” conformation that prevents α-syn misfolding. Molecular docking studies revealed that adenosine, CPA and 2-aminoindan interacted with the hydrophobic core of α-syn N-terminus, whereas DPCPX and 1-aminoindan showed direct binding to the N- and C-terminal hydrophobic pockets. Confocal imaging and Western blot analyses revealed that chronic treatments with CPA alone or in combination with 2-aminoindan increased α-syn expression/aggregation and neurodegeneration in both SN pars compacta and hippocampus. In contrast, DPCPX and 1-aminoindan attenuated the CPA-induced α-syn expression/aggregation and neurodegeneration in SN and hippocampus. Conclusions The results indicate that A1R agonists and drugs promoting a “knot” conformation of α-syn can cause α-synucleinopathy and increase neuronal degeneration, whereas A1R antagonists and drugs promoting a “loop” conformation of α-syn can be harnessed for possible neuroprotective therapies to decrease α-synucleinopathy in PD.

[INLINE:1] Previous studies have suggested that miR-324-3p is related to the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia, but the mechanism underlying this relationship is unclear. In this study, we found that miR-324-3p expression was decreased in patients with acute ischemic stroke and in in vitro and in vivo models of ischemic stroke. miR-324-3p agomir potentiated ischemic brain damage in rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion, as indicated by increased infarct volumes and cell apoptosis rates and greater neurological deficits. In a PC12 cell oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation model, a miR-324-3p mimic decreased cell viability and expression of the anti-apoptotic protein BCL2 and increased expression of the pro-apoptotic protein BAX and rates of cell apoptosis, whereas treatment with a miR-324-3p inhibitor had the opposite effects. Silencing miR-324-3p increased adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) expression through regulation of GATA binding protein 2 (GATA2). These findings suggest that silencing miR-324-3p reduces ischemic brain damage via the GATA2/A1R axis.

GABAergic network activity has been established to be involved in numerous physiological processes and pathological conditions. Extensive studies have corroborated that GABAergic network activity regulates excitatory synaptic networks by activating presynaptic GABAB receptors (GABABRs). It is well documented that astrocytes express GABABRs and respond to GABAergic network activity. However, little is known about whether astrocytic GABABRs regulate excitatory synaptic transmission mediated by GABAergic network activity. To address this issue, we combined whole‐cell recordings, optogenetics, calcium imaging, and pharmacological approaches to specifically activate hippocampal somatostatin‐expressing interneurons (SOM‐INs), a type of interneuron that targets pyramidal cell dendrites, while monitoring excitatory synaptic transmission in CA1 pyramidal cells. We found that optogenetic stimulation of SOM‐INs increases astrocyte Ca2+ signaling via the activation of astrocytic GABABRs and GAT‐3. SOM‐INs depress excitatory neurotransmission by activating presynaptic GABABRs and astrocytic GABABRs, the latter inducing the release of ATP/adenosine. In turn, adenosine inhibits excitatory synaptic transmission by activating presynaptic adenosine A1 receptors (A1Rs). Overall, our results reveal a novel mechanism that SOM‐INs activation‐induced synaptic depression is partially mediated by the activation of astrocytic GABABRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adenosine, acting as a regulator by mediating the activation of G protein-coupled adenosine receptor families (A1, A2A, A2B, and A3), plays an important role under physiological and pathological conditions. As the receptor with the highest affinity for adenosine, the role of adenosine A1 receptor (A1R)-mediated adenosine signaling pathway in the central nervous system has been well addressed. However, functions of A1R on immune cells are less summarized. Considering that some immune cells express multiple types of adenosine receptors with distinct effects and varied density, exogenous adenosine of different concentrations may induce divergent immune cell functions. Materials and methods: The literatures about the expression of A1R and its regulation on immune cells and how it regulates the function of immune cells were searched on PubMed and Google Scholar. Conclusion: In this review, we discussed the effects of A1R on immune cells, including monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, and microglia, and focused on the role of A1R in regulating immune cells in diseases, which may facilitate our understanding of the mechanisms by which adenosine affects immune cells through A1R. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The acute and long-term consequences of perinatal asphyxia have been extensively investigated, but only a few studies have focused on postnatal asphyxia. In particular, electrophysiological changes induced in the motor cortex by postnatal asphyxia have not been examined so far, despite the critical involvement of this cortical area in epilepsy. In this study, we exposed primary motor cortex slices obtained from infant rats in an age window (16–18 day-old) characterized by high incidence of hypoxia-induced seizures associated with epileptiform motor behavior to 10 min of hypoxia. Extracellular field potentials evoked by horizontal pathway stimulation were recorded in layers II/III of the primary motor cortex before, during, and after the hypoxic event. The results show that hypoxia reversibly depressed glutamatergic synaptic transmission and neuronal excitability. Data obtained in the presence of specific blockers suggest that synaptic depression was mediated by adenosine acting on pre-synaptic A1 receptors to decrease glutamate release, and by a nitric oxide (NO)/cGMP postsynaptic pathway. These effects are neuroprotective because they limit energy failure. The present findings may be helpful in the preclinical search for therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing acute and long-term neurological consequences of postnatal asphyxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Adenosine, through the A 1 receptor (A 1 R), is an endogenous anticonvulsant. The development of adenosine receptor agonists as antiseizure medications has been hampered by their cardiac side effects. A moderately A 1 R-selective agonist, MRS5474, has been reported to suppress seizures without considerable cardiac action. Hypothesizing that this drug could act through other than A 1 R and/or through a disease-specific mechanism, we assessed the effect of MRS5474 on the hippocampus., Experimental Approach: Excitatory synaptic currents, field potentials, spontaneous activity, [ 3 H]GABA uptake and GABAergic currents were recorded from rodent or human hippocampal tissue. Alterations in adenosine A 3 receptor (A 3 R) density in human tissue were assessed by Western blot., Key Results: MRS5474 (50-500 nM) was devoid of effect upon rodent excitatory synaptic signals in hippocampal slices, except when hyperexcitability was previously induced in vivo or ex vivo. MRS5474 inhibited GABA transporter type 1 (GAT-1)-mediated γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) uptake, an action not blocked by an A 1 R antagonist but blocked by an A 3 R antagonist and mimicked by an A 3 R agonist. A 3 R was overexpressed in human hippocampal tissue samples from patients with epilepsy that had focal resection from surgery. MRS5474 induced a concentration-dependent potentiation of GABA-evoked currents in oocytes micro-transplanted with human hippocampal membranes prepared from epileptic hippocampal tissue but not from non-epileptic tissue, an action blocked by an A 3 R antagonist., Conclusion and Implications: We identified a drug that activates A 3 R and has selective actions on epileptic hippocampal tissue. This underscores A 3 R as a promising target for the development of antiseizure medications., (© 2024 The Author(s). British Journal of Pharmacology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Pharmacological Society.)

We report the design, synthesis, and validation of the novel compound photocaged N6-cyclopentyladenosine (cCPA) to achieve precisely localized and timed release of the parent adenosine A1 receptor agonist CPA using 405 nm light. Gi protein-coupled A1 receptors (A1Rs) modulate neurotransmission via pre- and post-synaptic routes. The dynamics of the CPA-mediated effect on neurotransmission, characterized by fast activation and slow recovery, make it possible to implement a closed-loop control paradigm. The strength of neurotransmission is monitored as the amplitude of stimulus-evoked local field potentials. It is used for feedback control of light to release CPA. This system makes it possible to regulate neurotransmission to a pre-defined level in acute hippocampal brain slices incubated with 3 µM cCPA. This novel approach of closed-loop photopharmacology holds therapeutic potential for fine-tuned control of neurotransmission in diseases associated with neuronal hyperexcitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential role of adenosine, a natural neuroprotective agent, and its receptors in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease has been proposed. The present study aims to examine the effect of administering both an A1 receptor agonist and an A2A adenosine receptor antagonist simultaneously on memory, inflammatory factors, and PSD-95 in an LPS-induced Alzheimer's disease model in rats. Fifty-six male Wistar rats were randomly divided into seven groups: Saline, LPS, Saline + Vehicle, LPS + Vehicle, LPS + SCH58261 (A2A receptor antagonist), LPS + CPA (A1 receptor agonist), LPS + SCH58261+CPA. LPS (3 mg/kg/ip) was used to cause memory impairment. Treatment was performed by intraventricular injection of CPA at a dose of 700 μg and SCH-58261 at 40 μg for ten days. Passive avoidance and Y-maze tests were performed to examine animals' memories. IL-10, TNF-α, and PSD-95 levels were measured in the brain using ELISA and western blot, respectively. Compared to the groups receiving each medication separately, the simultaneous administration of CPA and SCH58261 improved memory (P<0.05). Additionally, compared to the single medication groups, there was a significant increase in IL-10, PSD-95, and a significant decrease in TNF-α in the brain tissue (P<0.05). These findings suggest that the activation of A1 receptors along with A2A receptor inhibition could be a potential therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease. These findings suggest that A1 receptor activation combined with A2A receptor inhibition may be a promising therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fermented Perilla frutescens var. acuta (FPF) has a sleep-promoting effect. • FPF increases neuronal activity in sleep-promoting brain regions. • FPF decreases neuronal activity in wake-promoting brain regions. • FPF has a direct binding and agonistic activity for adenosine A 1 receptor (A 1 R). Perilla frutescens (PF) is a plant with various biological activities, including antioxidant and antidepressant activities; however, the efficacy of its fermented product has not been evaluated. Herein, we found that the Bacillus subtilis -fermented PF (FPF) increased non-rapid eye movement sleep and slow wave activity. FPF improved the sleep onset latency and sleep duration in a pentobarbital-induced sleep model, and this efficacy was abolished by the adenosine A 1 receptor (A 1 R) antagonist. In addition, FPF increased and decreased the neuronal activity in sleep-activating and inhibiting brain regions, respectively, and these effects were also blocked by A 1 R antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine. Furthermore, FPF exhibited direct binding and agonistic activities for A 1 R. HPLC/NMR analysis revealed uracil, protocatechuic acid, apigenin-7-O-diglucuronide, and luteolin-7-O-glucuronide to be the major active components responsible for the sleep-promoting efficacy of FPF. In conclusion, this study suggests that FPF has A 1 R agonistic activity and this novel activity may be critical for its sleep-promoting effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohol-related liver fibrosis (ALF) is a form of alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) that generally occurs in response to heavy long-term drinking. Ecto-5′-nucleotidase (NT5E), also known as CD73, is a cytomembrane protein linked to the cell membrane via a GPI anchor that regulates the conversion of extracellular ATP to adenosine. Adenosine and its receptors are important regulators of the cellular response. Previous studies showed that CD73 and adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) were important in alcohol-related liver disease, however the exact mechanism is unclear. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role and mechanism of the CD73-A1R axis in both a murine model of alcohol and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced ALF and in an in vitro model of fibrosis induced by acetaldehyde. The degree of liver injury was determined by measuring serum AST and ALT levels, H & E staining, and Masson's trichrome staining. The expression levels of fibrosis indicators and PLC-IP3-Ca2+/DAG-PKC signaling pathway were detected by quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting, ELISA, and calcium assay. Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) apoptosis was detected using the Annexin V-FITC/PI cell apoptosis detection kit. Knockdown of CD73 significantly attenuated the accumulation of α-SMA and COL1a1 damaged the histological architecture of the mouse liver induced by alcohol and CCl4. In vitro , CD73 inhibition attenuated acetaldehyde-induced fibrosis and downregulated A1R expression in HSC-T6 cells. Inhibition of CD73/A1R downregulated the expression of the PLC-IP3-Ca2+/DAG-PKC signaling pathway. In addition, silencing of CD73/A1R promoted apoptosis in HSC-T6 cells. In conclusion, the CD73-A1R axis can regulate the activation and apoptosis of HSCs through the PLC-IP3-Ca2+/DAG-PKC signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overexpression of the adenosine A1 receptor (A1AR) has been detected in various cancer cell lines. However, the role of A1AR in tumor development is still unclear. Thirteen A1AR mutations were identified in the Cancer Genome Atlas from cancer patient samples. We have investigated the pharmacology of the mutations located at the 7-transmembrane domain using a yeast system. Concentration–growth curves were obtained with the full agonist CPA and compared to the wild type hA1AR. H78L3.23 and S246T6.47 showed increased constitutive activity, while only the constitutive activity of S246T6.47 could be reduced to wild type levels by the inverse agonist DPCPX. Decreased constitutive activity was observed on five mutant receptors, among which A52V2.47 and W188C5.46 showed a diminished potency for CPA. Lastly, a complete loss of activation was observed in five mutant receptors. A selection of mutations was also investigated in a mammalian system, showing comparable effects on receptor activation as in the yeast system, except for residues pointing toward the membrane. Taken together, this study will enrich the view of the receptor structure and function of A1AR, enlightening the consequences of these mutations in cancer. Ultimately, this may provide an opportunity for precision medicine for cancer patients with pathological phenotypes involving these mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) are known to be involved in tumor progression and metastasis. The adenosine A1 receptor (A1AR) has been detected to be over‐expressed in various cancer cell lines. However, the role of A1AR in tumor development is not yet well characterized. A series of A1AR mutations were identified in the Cancer Genome Atlas from cancer patient samples. In this study, we have investigated the pharmacology of mutations located outside of the 7‐transmembrane domain by using a “single‐GPCR‐one‐G protein” yeast system. Concentration‐growth curves were obtained with the full agonist CPA for 12 mutant receptors and compared to the wild‐type hA1AR. Most mutations located at the extracellular loops (EL) reduced the levels of constitutive activity of the receptor and agonist potency. For mutants at the intracellular loops (ILs) of the receptor, an increased constitutive activity was found for mutant receptor L211R5.69, while a decreased constitutive activity and agonist response were found for mutant receptor L113F34.51. Lastly, mutations identified on the C‐terminus did not significantly influence the pharmacological function of the receptor. A selection of mutations was also investigated in a mammalian system. Overall, similar effects on receptor activation compared to the yeast system were found with mutations located at the EL, but some contradictory effects were observed for mutations located at the IL. Taken together, this study will enrich the insight of A1AR structure and function, enlightening the consequences of these mutations in cancer. Ultimately, this may provide potential precision medicine in cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohol-related liver fibrosis (ALF) is a form of alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) that generally occurs in response to heavy long-term drinking. Ecto-5′-nucleotidase (NT5E), also known as CD73, is a cytomembrane protein linked to the cell membrane via a GPI anchor that regulates the conversion of extracellular ATP to adenosine. Adenosine and its receptors are important regulators of the cellular response. Previous studies showed that CD73 and adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) were important in alcohol-related liver disease, however the exact mechanism is unclear. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role and mechanism of the CD73-A1R axis in both a murine model of alcohol and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced ALF and in an in vitro model of fibrosis induced by acetaldehyde. The degree of liver injury was determined by measuring serum AST and ALT levels, H & E staining, and Masson’s trichrome staining. The expression levels of fibrosis indicators and PLC-IP3-Ca2+/DAG-PKC signaling pathway were detected by quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting, ELISA, and calcium assay. Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) apoptosis was detected using the Annexin V-FITC/PI cell apoptosis detection kit. Knockdown of CD73 significantly attenuated the accumulation of α-SMA and COL1a1 damaged the histological architecture of the mouse liver induced by alcohol and CCl4. In vitro, CD73 inhibition attenuated acetaldehyde-induced fibrosis and downregulated A1R expression in HSC-T6 cells. Inhibition of CD73/A1R downregulated the expression of the PLC-IP3-Ca2+/DAG-PKC signaling pathway. In addition, silencing of CD73/A1R promoted apoptosis in HSC-T6 cells. In conclusion, the CD73-A1R axis can regulate the activation and apoptosis of HSCs through the PLC-IP3-Ca2+/DAG-PKC signaling pathway.

Background: Accumulating α-synuclein (α-syn) aggregates in neurons and glial cells are the staples of many synucleinopathy disorders, such as Parkinson's disease (PD). Since brain adenosine becomes greatly elevated in ageing brains and chronic adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) stimulation leads to neurodegeneration, we determined whether adenosine or A1R receptor ligands mimic the action of known compounds that promote α-syn aggregation (e.g., the amphetamine analogue 2-aminoindan) or inhibit α-syn aggregation (e.g., Rasagiline metabolite 1-aminoindan). In the present study, we determined whether adenosine, A1R receptor agonist N6-Cyclopentyladenosine (CPA) and antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX) could directly interact with α-syn to modulate α-syn aggregation and neurodegeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN). Methods: Nanopore analysis and molecular docking were used to test the binding properties of CPA and DPCPX with α-syn in vitro. Sprague–Dawley rats were administered with 7-day intraperitoneal injections of the A1R ligands and 1- and 2-aminoindan, and levels of α-syn aggregation and neurodegeneration were examined in the SN pars compacta and hippocampal regions using confocal imaging and Western blotting. Results: Using nanopore analysis, we showed that the A1R agonists (CPA and adenosine) interacted with the N-terminus of α-syn, similar to 2-aminoindan, which is expected to promote a "knot" conformation and α-syn misfolding. In contrast, the A1R antagonist DPCPX interacted with the N- and C-termini of α-syn, similar to 1-aminoindan, which is expected to promote a "loop" conformation that prevents α-syn misfolding. Molecular docking studies revealed that adenosine, CPA and 2-aminoindan interacted with the hydrophobic core of α-syn N-terminus, whereas DPCPX and 1-aminoindan showed direct binding to the N- and C-terminal hydrophobic pockets. Confocal imaging and Western blot analyses revealed that chronic treatments with CPA alone or in combination with 2-aminoindan increased α-syn expression/aggregation and neurodegeneration in both SN pars compacta and hippocampus. In contrast, DPCPX and 1-aminoindan attenuated the CPA-induced α-syn expression/aggregation and neurodegeneration in SN and hippocampus. Conclusions: The results indicate that A1R agonists and drugs promoting a "knot" conformation of α-syn can cause α-synucleinopathy and increase neuronal degeneration, whereas A1R antagonists and drugs promoting a "loop" conformation of α-syn can be harnessed for possible neuroprotective therapies to decrease α-synucleinopathy in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of Lactuca sativa L. extracts (Lactuc) on pentobarbital-induced sleep in mice to elucidate the mechanisms underlying its impact on sleep quality. Mice were randomly assigned to five groups: control, positive control (diazepam 2 mg/kg b.w.), and three groups orally administered with Lactuc (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg b.w.). After 2 weeks of oral administration and intraperitoneal injections, the mice were killed. We found that the Lactuc-administered groups had significantly reduced sleep latency and increased sleep duration compared with the control group. Furthermore, the oral administration of Lactuc induced a significant increase in mRNA expression and protein expression of adenosine A1 receptor in the brains compared with the expressions in the control group. In addition, the Lactuc-administered groups exhibited significantly higher levels of mRNA expressions of GABA A receptors subunits α 2, β 2, γ 1, and, γ 2 in the brain tissue. Therefore, we suggest that Lactuc could be used to develop natural products that effectively improve sleep quality and duration.

The acute and long-term consequences of perinatal asphyxia have been extensively investigated, but only a few studies have focused on postnatal asphyxia. In particular, electrophysiological changes induced in the motor cortex by postnatal asphyxia have not been examined so far, despite the critical involvement of this cortical area in epilepsy. In this study, we exposed primary motor cortex slices obtained from infant rats in an age window (16–18 day-old) characterized by high incidence of hypoxia-induced seizures associated with epileptiform motor behavior to 10 min of hypoxia. Extracellular field potentials evoked by horizontal pathway stimulation were recorded in layers II/III of the primary motor cortex before, during, and after the hypoxic event. The results show that hypoxia reversibly depressed glutamatergic synaptic transmission and neuronal excitability. Data obtained in the presence of specific blockers suggest that synaptic depression was mediated by adenosine acting on pre-synaptic A1 receptors to decrease glutamate release, and by a nitric oxide (NO)/cGMP postsynaptic pathway. These effects are neuroprotective because they limit energy failure. The present findings may be helpful in the preclinical search for therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing acute and long-term neurological consequences of postnatal asphyxia.

Previous studies suggest that adenosine A1 receptors (A1R) modulate the processing of pain. The aim of this study was to characterize the distribution of A1R in nociceptive tissues and to evaluate whether targeting A1R with the partial agonist capadenoson may reduce neuropathic pain in mice. The cellular distribution of A1R in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and the spinal cord was analyzed using fluorescent in situ hybridization. In behavioral experiments, neuropathic pain was induced by spared nerve injury or intraperitoneal injection of paclitaxel, and tactile hypersensitivities were determined using a dynamic plantar aesthesiometer. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were performed to assess electrophysiological properties of dissociated DRG neurons. We found A1R to be expressed in populations of DRG neurons and dorsal horn neurons involved in the processing of pain. However, administration of capadenoson at established in vivo doses (0.03–1.0 mg/kg) did not alter mechanical hypersensitivity in the spared nerve injury and paclitaxel models of neuropathic pain, whereas the standard analgesic pregabalin significantly inhibited the pain behavior. Moreover, capadenoson failed to affect potassium currents in DRG neurons, in contrast to a full A1R agonist. Despite expression of A1R in nociceptive neurons, our data do not support the hypothesis that pharmacological intervention with partial A1R agonists might be a valuable approach for the treatment of neuropathic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]