EP4 Agonist Research Articles

Prostaglandin E2 regulates senescence and post-senescence neoplastic escape in primary human keratinocytes.

Aging of the epidermis partially occurs as a consequence of epidermal cell senescence, a non-proliferative state in which cells remain metabolically active and acquire changes in their secretome. We previously reported that senescent normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) have two opposite outcomes: either cell death by excess of autophagic activity or escape from senescence to give rise to post-senescence neoplastic emerging (PSNE) cells. In this study, we investigated the role of PTGS2, the inducible enzyme of the prostaglandin biosynthesis pathway, in the onset of NHEK senescence and in the switch from senescence to pre-transformation. We provide evidence that the PTGS2/PGE2/EP4 pathway plays a critical role in NHEK senescence as well as in senescence escape. We show that treating proliferating NHEKs with prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) or with an agonist of one of its receptors, EP4, induced the establishment of the senescent phenotype, according to several markers including the senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity. Conversely, treating already senescent NHEKs with an antagonist of EP4, or knocking-down PTGS2 by siRNA resulted in the decrease of the percentage of senescence-associated β-galactosidase-positive cells. We also demonstrate that the PSNE frequency was significantly decreased upon PTGS2 silencing by siRNA, pharmacological PTGS2 inhibition, or treatment by an EP4 antagonist, while on the contrary treatments with PGE2 or EP4 agonist increased the PSNE frequency. These results indicate that the PTGS2/PGE2/EP4 pathway is required to induce and maintain the senescent phenotype of NHEKs, and that PGE2 level is a potential determinant of the initial steps of the age-related oncogenic process.

Abstract 4135357: Activation of prostaglandin E receptor 4 attenuates pulmonary vascular remodeling and pulmonary hypertension in monocrotaline-exposed rats via non-inflammatory pathway

Backgrounds: The prostacyclin pathway plays a pivotal role in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Meanwhile, there is evidence that the expression of IP, the target of prostacyclin, is scant in PAH patients, whereas the prostaglandin E receptor 4 (EP 4 ) remains stable. EP 4 , similar to IP, exerts vasodilative effect via cAMP. In addition, an orally administrable selective EP 4 agonist, KAG-308, has shown to exert anti-inflammatory effect in patients with ulcerative colitis and the mouse with surgically induced osteoarthritis. However, the effect of KAG-308 on pulmonary vasculature of PAH remains unknown. Hypothesis: EP4 agonist ameliorates pulmonary vascular remodeling and pulmonary hypertension (PH). Methods and Results: We investigated the effects of KAG-308 on hemodynamics and pulmonary vascular remodeling in a monocrotaline (MCT)-exposed rat model of PH. Compared to normal rats, MCT-exposed rats had higher right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), total pulmonary vascular resistance index (TPRI) and RV hypertrophy, together with medial wall thickening and increased activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB) and inflammatory cytokines in the lungs on day 21 after MCT injection. Chronic oral administration of KAG-308 (1 mg/kg, twice daily, by gavage, day 0 to 21) lowered RVSP (53.1 ± 9.3 vs 81.0±18.5 mmHg, p <0.01), TPRI (112.0 ± 16.6 vs 161.4 ± 37.0 mmHg/mL/min/g, p <0.05) and RV hypertrophy (0.47 ± 0.04 vs 0.57±0.10, p <0.05). Elastica van Gieson staining showed attenuation of medical wall thickening. Furthermore, KAG-308 significantly reduced NFkB activation and inflammatory cytokines such as Il6 , Mcp1 and Il1b in the lungs. In addition, chronic KAG-308 administration didn’t alter the level of cAMP in the lung, suggesting that the reduction of TPRI wasn’t the results of vasodilation. Interestingly, in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) stimulated by TNFα 10ng/ml, pretreatment with KAG-308 significantly upregulated mRNA level of Il6 (5.9±0.1vs 1.0±0.1, p <0.05), whereas downregulated Ki67 (0.4±0.1 vs 1.0±0.2, p <0.05), suggesting anti-proliferative effect via non-inflammatory pathway. Conclusions: KAG-308 ameliorated pulmonary vascular remodeling and PH in MCT-exposed rat, whereas it didn’t show anti-inflammatory effect but anti-proliferative effect in human PASMCs. Although EP 4 agonist KAG-308 could be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of PAH, the mechanism of anti-proliferation remains to be elucidated.

Prostaglandin E2 signaling through prostaglandin E receptor subtype 2 and Nurr1 induces fibroblast growth factor 23 production

Bone cells produce fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), a hormone regulating renal phosphate and vitamin D homeostasis, and a paracrine factor produced in further tissues. Chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disorders are associated with early elevations of plasma FGF23 levels associated with clinical outcomes. FGF23 production is dependent on many conditions including inflammation. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a major eicosanoid with a broad role in pain, inflammation, and fever. Moreover, it regulates renal blood flow, renin secretion, natriuresis as well as bone formation through prostaglandin E receptor 2 (EP2). Here, we studied the role of PGE2 and its signaling for the production of FGF23. Osteoblast-like UMR-106 cells were exposed to EP receptor agonists, antagonists or RNAi. Wild type and EP2 knockout mice were treated with stable EP2 agonist misoprostol. Fgf23 or Nurr1 gene expression was determined by quantitative real-time PCR, hormone and further blood parameters by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and colorimetric methods. PGE2 and EP2 agonists misoprostol and butaprost enhanced FGF23 production in UMR-106 cells, effects mediated by EP2 and transcription factor Nurr1. A single dose of misoprostol up-regulated bone Fgf23 expression and FGF23 serum levels in wild type mice with subtle effects on parameters of mineral metabolism only. Compared to wild type mice, the FGF23 effect of misoprostol was significantly lower in EP2-deficient mice. To conclude, PGE2 signaling through EP2 and Nurr1 induces FGF23 production. Given the broad physiological and pathophysiological implications of PGE2 signaling, this effect is likely of clinical relevance.

Uterine prostaglandin DP receptor-induced upon implantation contributes to decidualization together with EP4 receptor

To investigate the yet-unknown roles of prostaglandins (PGs) in the uterus, we analyzed the expression of various PG receptors in the uterus. We found that three types of Gs-coupled PG receptors, DP, EP2, and EP4, were expressed in luminal epithelial cells from the peri-implantation period to late pregnancy. DP expression was also induced in stromal cells within the mesometrial region, whereas EP4 was expressed in stromal cells within the anti-mesometrial region during the peri-implantation period. The timing of DP induction after embryo attachment correlated well with that of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2); however, COX-2-expressing stromal cells were located in the vicinity of the embryo, whereas DP-expressing stromal cells surrounded these cells on the mesometrial side. Specific [3H]PGD2-binding activity was detected in the decidua of uteri, with PGD2 synthesis comparable to that of PGE2 detected in the uteri during the peri-implantation period. Administration of the COX-2-specific inhibitor celecoxib caused adverse effects on decidualization, as demonstrated by the attenuated weight of the implantation sites, which was recovered by the simultaneous administration of a DP agonist. Such a rescuing effect of the DP agonist was mimicked by an EP4 agonist, but not an EP2 agonist. While the importance of DP signaling was shown pharmacologically, DP/EP2 double deficiency did not affect implantation and decidualization, suggesting the contribution of EP4 to these processes. Indeed, administration of an EP4 antagonist substantially affected decidualization in DP/EP2-deficient mice. These results suggest that COX-2-derived PGD2 and PGE2 contribute to decidualization via a coordinated pathway of DP and EP4 receptors.

Enhancement of Orthodontic Tooth Movement by Local Administration of Biofunctional Molecules: A Comprehensive Systematic Review.

Enhancement of orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) through local administration of biofunctional molecules has become increasingly significant, particularly for adult patients seeking esthetic and functional improvements. This comprehensive systematic review analyzes the efficacy of various biofunctional molecules in modulating OTM, focusing on the method of administration and its feasibility, especially considering the potential for topical application. A search across multiple databases yielded 36 original articles of experimental human and animal OTM models, which examined biofunctional molecules capable of interfering with the biochemical reactions that cause tooth movement during orthodontic therapy, accelerating the OTM rate through their influence on bone metabolism (Calcitriol, Prostaglandins, Recombinant human Relaxin, RANKL and RANKL expression plasmid, growth factors, PTH, osteocalcin, vitamin C and E, biocompatible reduced graphene oxide, exogenous thyroxine, sclerostin protein, a specific EP4 agonist (ONO-AE1-329), carrageenan, and herbal extracts). The results indicated a variable efficacy in accelerating OTM, with Calcitriol, Prostaglandins (PGE1 and PGE2), RANKL, growth factors, and PTH, among others, showing promising outcomes. PGE1, PGE2, and Calcitriol experiments had statistically significant outcomes in both human and animal studies and, while other molecules underwent only animal testing, they could be validated in the future for human use. Notably, only one of the animal studies explored topical administration, which also suggests a future research direction. This review concluded that while certain biofunctional molecules demonstrated potential for OTM enhancement, the evidence is not definitive. The development of suitable topical formulations for human use could offer a patient-friendly alternative to injections, emphasizing comfort and cost-effectiveness. Future research should focus on overcoming current methodological limitations and advancing translational research to confirm these biomolecules' efficacy and safety in clinical orthodontic practice.

Activation of the PGE2-EP2 pathway as a potential drug target for treating eosinophilic rhinosinusitis.

Current treatments of eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS) involve corticosteroids with various adverse effects and costly therapies such as dupilumab, highlighting the need for improved treatments. However, because of the lack of a proper mouse ECRS model that recapitulates human ECRS, molecular mechanisms underlying this disease are incompletely understood. ECRS is often associated with aspirin-induced asthma, suggesting that dysregulation of lipid mediators in the nasal mucosa may underlie ECRS pathology. We herein found that the expression of microsomal PGE synthase-1 (encoded by PTGES) was significantly lower in the nasal mucosa of ECRS patients than that of non-ECRS subjects. Histological, transcriptional, and lipidomics analyses of Ptges-deficient mice revealed that defective PGE2 biosynthesis facilitated eosinophil recruitment into the nasal mucosa, elevated expression of type-2 cytokines and chemokines, and increased pro-allergic and decreased anti-allergic lipid mediators following challenges with Aspergillus protease and ovalbumin. A nasal spray containing agonists for the PGE2 receptor EP2 or EP4, including omidenepag isopropyl that has been clinically used for treatment of glaucoma, markedly reduced intranasal eosinophil infiltration in Ptges-deficient mice. These results suggest that the present model using Ptges-deficient mice is more relevant to human ECRS than are previously reported models and that eosinophilic inflammation in the nasal mucosa can be efficiently blocked by activation of the PGE2-EP2 pathway. Furthermore, our findings suggest that drug repositioning of omidenepag isopropyl may be useful for treatment of patients with ECRS.

Steroid-Induced Ocular Hypertension in Mice Is Differentially Reduced by Selective EP2, EP3, EP4, and IP Prostanoid Receptor Agonists.

We tested five chemically and metabolically stable prostaglandin (PG) receptor agonists in a mouse model of dexamethasone-induced ocular hypertension (OHT). Whilst all compounds significantly (p < 0.05, ANOVA) lowered intraocular pressure (IOP) after twice-daily bilateral topical ocular dosing (5 µg/dose) over three weeks, the time course and magnitude of the responses varied. The onset of action of NS-304 (IP-PG receptor agonist) and rivenprost (EP4-PG receptor agonist) was slower than that of misoprostol (mixed EP2/EP3/EP4-PG receptor agonist), PF-04217329 (EP2-PG receptor agonist), and butaprost (EP2-PG receptor agonist). The rank order of IOP-lowering efficacies aligned with the onset of actions of these compounds. Peak IOP reductions relative to vehicle controls were as follows: misoprostol (74.52%) = PF-04217329 (74.32%) > butaprost (65.2%) > rivenprost (58.4%) > NS-304 (55.3%). A literature survey indicated that few previously evaluated compounds (e.g., latanoprost, timolol, pilocarpine, brimonidine, dorzolamide, cromakalim analog (CKLP1), losartan, tissue plasminogen activator, trans-resveratrol, sodium 4-phenyl acetic acid, etc.) in various animal models of steroid-induced OHT were able to match the effectiveness of misoprostol, PF-04217329 or butaprost. Since a common feature of the latter compounds is their relatively high affinity and potency at the EP2-PG receptor sub-type, which activates the production of intracellular cAMP in target cells, our studies suggest that drugs selective for the EP2-PG receptor may be suited to treat corticosteroid-induced OHT.

Prostaglandin E2 affects mitochondrial function in adult mouse cardiomyocytes and hearts

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) signals differently through 4 receptor subtypes (EP1-EP4) to elicit diverse physiologic/pathologic effects. We previously reported that PGE2 via its EP3 receptor reduces cardiac contractility and male mice with cardiomyocyte-specific deletion of the EP4 receptor (EP4 KO) develop dilated cardiomyopathy. The aim of this study was to identify pathways responsible for this phenotype. We performed ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) and found that genes differentiating WT mice and EP4 KO mice were significantly overrepresented in mitochondrial (adj. p value = 6.28 × 10−26) and oxidative phosphorylation (adj. p value = 1.58 × 10−27) pathways. Electron microscopy from the EP4 KO hearts show substantial mitochondrial disarray and disordered cristae. Not surprisingly, isolated adult mouse cardiomyocytes (AVM) from these mice have reduced ATP levels compared to their WT littermates and reduced expression of key genes involved in the electron transport chain (ETC) in older mice. Moreover, treatment of AVM from C57Bl/6 mice with PGE2 or the EP3 agonist sulprostone resulted in changes of various genes involved in the ETC, measured by the Mitochondrial Energy Metabolism RT2-profiler assay. Lastly, the EP4 KO mice have reduced expression of superoxide dismuatse-2 (SOD2), whereas treatment of AVM with PGE2 or sulprostone increase superoxide production, suggesting increased oxidative stress levels in these EP4 KO mice. Altogether the current study supports the premise that PGE2 acting via its EP4 receptor is protective, while signaling through its other receptors, likely EP3, is deleterious.

PGE2 Potentiates Orai1-Mediated Calcium Entry Contributing to Peripheral Sensitization.

Peripheral sensitization is one of the primary mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of chronic pain. However, candidate molecules involved in peripheral sensitization remain incompletely understood. We have shown that store-operated calcium channels (SOCs) are expressed in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Whether SOCs contribute to peripheral sensitization associated with chronic inflammatory pain is elusive. Here we report that global or conditional deletion of Orai1 attenuates Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced pain hypersensitivity in both male and female mice. To further establish the role of Orai1 in inflammatory pain, we performed calcium imaging and patch-clamp recordings in wild-type (WT) and Orai1 knockout (KO) DRG neurons. We found that SOC function was significantly enhanced in WT but not in Orai1 KO DRG neurons from CFA- and carrageenan-injected mice. Interestingly, the Orai1 protein level in L3/4 DRGs was not altered under inflammatory conditions. To understand how Orai1 is modulated under inflammatory pain conditions, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was used to sensitize DRG neurons. PGE2-induced increase in neuronal excitability and pain hypersensitivity was significantly reduced in Orai1 KO mice. PGE2-induced potentiation of SOC entry (SOCE) was observed in WT, but not in Orai1 KO DRG neurons. This effect was attenuated by a PGE2 receptor 1 (EP1) antagonist and mimicked by an EP1 agonist. Inhibition of Gq/11, PKC, or ERK abolished PGE2-induced SOCE increase, indicating PGE2-induced SOCE enhancement is mediated by EP1-mediated downstream cascade. These findings demonstrate that Orai1 plays an important role in peripheral sensitization. Our study also provides new insight into molecular mechanisms underlying PGE2-induced modulation of inflammatory pain.Significance Statement Store-operated calcium channel (SOC) Orai1 is expressed and functional in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Whether Orai1 contributes to peripheral sensitization is unclear. The present study demonstrates that Orai1-mediated SOC function is enhanced in DRG neurons under inflammatory conditions. Global and conditional deletion of Orai1 attenuates complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced pain hypersensitivity. We also demonstrate that prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) potentiates SOC function in DRG neurons through EP1-mediated signaling pathway. Importantly, we have found that Orai1 deficiency diminishes PGE2-induced SOC function increase and reduces PGE2-induced increase in neuronal excitability and pain hypersensitivity. These findings suggest that Orai1 plays an important role in peripheral sensitization associated with inflammatory pain. Our study reveals a novel mechanism underlying PGE2/EP1-induced peripheral sensitization. Orai1 may serve as a potential target for pathological pain.

Synergic effects of EP2 and FP receptors co-activation on Blood-Retinal Barrier and Microglia

Macular edema (ME) is caused with disruption of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) followed by fluid accumulation in the subretinal space. Main components of the outer and inner BRB are retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and retinal microvascular endothelial cells, respectively. In addition, glial cells also participate in the functional regulation of the BRB as the member of 'neurovascular unit'. Under various stresses, cells in neurovascular units secrete inflammatory cytokines. Neuroinflammation induced by these cytokines can cause BRB dysfunction by degrading barrier-related proteins and contribute to the pathophysiology of ME. Prostaglandins (PGs) are crucial lipid mediators involved in neuroinflammation. Among PGs, a novel EP2 agonist, omidenepag (OMD) acts on not only the uveoscleral pathway but also the conventional pathway, unlike F prostanoid (FP) receptor agonists. Moreover, the combination use of the EP and the FP agonist is not recommended because of the risk of inflammation. In this study, we investigated effects of OMD and latanoprost acid (LTA), a FP agonist, on BRB and microglia in vitro and in vivo.To investigate the function of outer/inner BRB and microglia, in vitro, ARPE-19 cells, human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs), and MG5 cells were used. Cell viability, inflammatory cytokines mRNA and protein levels, barrier morphology/function, and microglial activation were evaluated using proliferation assays, qRT-PCR, ELISA, immunocytochemistry, trans-epithelial electrical resistance, and permeability assay. Moreover, after vitreous injection into the mouse, outer BRB morphology, glial activation, and cytokine expression were assessed. Each OMD and LTA alone did not affect the viability or cytokines expression of the three types of cells. In ARPE-19 cells, the co-stimulation of OMD and LTA increased the mRNA and protein levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, and VEGF-A) and decreased the barrier function and the junction-related protein (ZO-1 and β-catenin). By contrast in HRMECs, the co-stimulation affected significant differences in the mRNA levels of some cytokine (IL-6 and TNF-α) but enhanced the barrier function. In MG5 cells, the cytokines mRNA and size of Iba1-expressed cell were increased. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory inhibited the barrier dysfunction and the junction-related protein downregulation in ARPE-19 cells and activation of MG5 cells. Also in vivo, the co-stimulation induced outer BRB disruption, cytokine increase, and retinal glial activation. Therefore, the co-stimulation of EP2 and FP induced the inflammatory cytokine-mediated outer BRB disruption, the enhanced inner BRB function, and the microglial activation. The BRB imbalance and the intrinsic prostaglandin production may be involved in OMD-related inflammation.

Recovery from Upper Eyelid Sulcus Deepening Following Switch from Prostaglandin Analogues to EP2 Receptor Agonist

Purpose: To report a case of recovery from deepening of the upper eyelid sulcus after switching from prostaglandin FP receptor agonists to an EP2 receptor agonist.Case summary: A 65-year-old male patient with suspicion of glaucoma presented for detailed examinations. At the initial visit, his best-corrected visual acuity was 1.0 in both eyes, and the intraocular pressure (IOP) was 14/14 mmHg. Examination revealed no specific findings in the anterior segment, mild early cataracts bilaterally, and moderate glaucomatous changes. Therefore, bimatoprost/timolol fixed-combination eye drops were administered in both eyes. After 1 month, the IOP was 11/11 mmHg and no evidence of glaucoma progression was found. After 10 months, the IOP was 17/18 mmHg and there was deepening of the upper eyelid sulcus bilaterally. Consequently, bimatoprost/timolol fixed combination eye drops were switched to omidenepag isopropyl. Within 2 months of the switch, the deepening of the upper eyelid sulcus recovered completely and the IOP was 14/13 mmHg.Conclusions: Patients with prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy should be switched to non-prostaglandin drugs or EP2 receptor agonists. Our patient exhibited complete recovery of the upper eyelid sulcus deepening after switching to an EP2 agonist.

Prorelaxant E-type Prostanoid Receptors Functionally Partition to Different Procontractile Receptors in Airway Smooth Muscle.

Prostaglandin E2 imparts diverse physiological effects on multiple airway cells through its actions on four distinct E-type prostanoid (EP) receptor subtypes (EP1-EP4). Gs-coupled EP2 and EP4 receptors are expressed on airway smooth muscle (ASM), yet their capacity to regulate the ASM contractile state remains subject to debate. We used EP2 and EP4 subtype-specific agonists (ONO-259 and ONO-329, respectively) in cell- and tissue-based models of human ASM contraction-magnetic twisting cytometry (MTC), and precision-cut lung slices (PCLSs), respectively-to study the EP2 and EP4 regulation of ASM contraction and signaling under conditions of histamine or methacholine (MCh) stimulation. ONO-329 was superior (<0.05) to ONO-259 in relaxing MCh-contracted PCLSs (log half maximal effective concentration [logEC50]: 4.9 × 10-7 vs. 2.2 × 10-6; maximal bronchodilation ± SE, 35 ± 2% vs. 15 ± 2%). However, ONO-259 and ONO-329 were similarly efficacious in relaxing histamine-contracted PCLSs. Similar differential effects were observed in MTC studies. Signaling analyses revealed only modest differences in ONO-329- and ONO-259-induced phosphorylation of the protein kinase A substrates VASP and HSP20, with concomitant stimulation with MCh or histamine. Conversely, ONO-259 failed to inhibit MCh-induced phosphorylation of the regulatory myosin light chain (pMLC20) and the F-actin/G-actin ratio (F/G-actin ratio) while effectively inhibiting their induction by histamine. ONO-329 was effective in reversing induced pMLC20 and the F/G-actin ratio with both MCh and histamine. Thus, the contractile-agonist-dependent differential effects are not explained by changes in the global levels of phosphorylated protein kinase A substrates but are reflected in the regulation of pMLC20 (cross-bridge cycling) and F/G-actin ratio (actin cytoskeleton integrity, force transmission), implicating a role for compartmentalized signaling involving muscarinic, histamine, and EP receptor subtypes.

Targeting EP2 Receptor for Drug Discovery: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) Analysis.

Cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 (COX1 and COX2) derived endogenous ligand prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2) triggers several physiological and pathological conditions. It mediates signaling through four G-protein coupled receptors, EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4. Among these, EP2 is expressed throughout the body including the brain and uterus. The functional role of EP2 has been extensively studied using EP2 gene knockout mice, cellular models, and selective small molecule agonists and antagonists for this receptor. The efficacy data from in vitro and in vivo animal models indicate that EP2 receptor is a major proinflammatory mediator with deleterious functions in a variety of diseases suggesting a path forward for EP2 inhibitors as the next generation of selective anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative agents. Interestingly in certain diseases, EP2 action is beneficial; therefore, EP2 agonists seem to be clinically useful. Here, we highlight the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and potential threats (SWOT analysis) for targeting EP2 receptor for therapeutic development for a variety of unmet clinical needs.

Simultaneous Effects of a Selective EP2 Agonist, Omidenepag, and a Rho-Associated Coiled-Coil Containing Protein Kinase Inhibitor, Ripasudil, on Human Orbital Fibroblasts.

Purpose: To assess the combined effects of omidenepag (OMD), a selective EP2 agonist, and ripasudil (Rip), an inhibitor of rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinases, on the human orbital adipose tissue, two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) cultures of human orbital fibroblasts (HOFs) were employed. Methods: Cellular metabolic functions (2D), physical (3D), lipid staining (3D), and quantitative polymerase chain reaction for adipogenesis-related genes, PPARγ and AP2, and extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules, including collagen (COL)1, 4, and 6, and fibronectin (FN) (3D) were evaluated in the presence of OMD (100 nM) and/or Rip (10 μM). Results: Real-time metabolic analyses revealed that the adipogenic differentiation (DIF+) with OMD significantly shifted an energetic state toward energetic, whereas DIF+ with Rip significantly shifted that toward quiescent. In the case of both drugs upon DIF+, the metabolic effect of OMD was predominant. DIF+ induced enlargement and stiffed 3D spheroid with increased lipid staining and mRNA expression of adipogenesis-related genes, COL4 and COL6, and decreased the expression of COL1. In the presence of OMD and/or Rip to DIF+, (1) the sizes were further increased by Rip and the stiffness was significantly decreased by OMD or Rip and (2) COL4 or AP2 expression was substantially increased by OMD or Rip, respectively. Conclusion: The results presented herein indicate that the metabolic effects of OMD and Rip exerted opposing effects and the effects of OMD toward Ap2 and ECM expressions were distinct from those of Rip, but the effects of OMD toward the physical aspects and adipogenesis of the 3D cultured HOFs were similar to the effects of Rip.

Discovery of NXT-10796, an orally active, intestinally restricted EP4 agonist prodrug for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

A property-focused optimization strategy was employed to modify the carboxylic acid head group of a class of EP4 agonists in order to minimize its absorption upon oral administration. The resulting oxalic acid monohydrazide-derived carboxylate isostere demonstrated utility as a class of prodrug showing colon-targeted delivery of parent agonist 2, with minimal exposure observed in the plasma. Oral administration of NXT-10796 demonstrated tissue specific activation of the EP4 receptor through modulation of immune genes in the colon, without modulation of EP4 driven biomarkers in the plasma compartment. Although further in depth understanding of the conversion of NXT-10796 is required for further assessment of the developability of this series of prodrugs, using NXT-10796 as a tool molecule has allowed us to confirm that tissue-specific modulation of an EP4-modulated gene signature is possible, which allows for further evaluation of this therapeutic modality in rodent models of human disease.

緑内障に対する眼圧下降治療の現状と限界

Currently, the only reliable treatment for glaucoma is intraocular pressure (IOP) -lowering therapy. Guidelines recommend setting a target IOP for each patient prior to starting treatment. Previous randomized controlled study results have shown that the lower the target IOP is set, the greater the suppression of glaucoma progression. In addition to lowering the mean clinical IOP, there also needs to be increased attention to IOP fluctuations, such as 24-hour and long-term IOP fluctuations. Although first-line drugs normally administered include prostanoid FP receptor agonists (FP agonists), EP2 receptor agonists (EP2 agonists), which do not lead to the periorbitopathy (PAP) associated with prostaglandin, are sometimes prescribed in Japan as first-line drugs. From an adherence viewpoint, the second-line drug is often changed to a fixed combination eye drop, with a fixed combination of an FP receptor agonist and a β-blocker. The IOP-lowering effects of glaucoma eye drops involve specific 24-hour variations that are dependent on the type of drug. While β-blockers have less nighttime IOP-lowering effects, FP agonists, the EP2 agonist, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and ROCK inhibitors exhibit significant 24-h IOP-lowering effects. Unfortunately, even with multidrug therapy, the maximum 24-hour IOP tends to occur in the middle of the night. However, the use of selective laser trabeculoplasty and physiological outflow pathway reconstruction has been shown to not only reduce daytime IOP-lowering, but also nighttime IOP-lowering and 24-hour IOP fluctuations. In addition, trabeculectomy combined with mitomycin C has been shown to exhibit the greatest reduction in the preoperative mean IOP and 24-hour IOP fluctuation. Nevertheless, as the IOP is known to clinically increase postoperatively, multidrug therapy often needs to be restarted, thereby leading to increases in the 24-hour IOP fluctuations that will ultimately reduce the quality of the IOP-lowering effect.

Abstract 4835: EP4 increases the mitochondrial respiration and promotes cell migration in oral cancer

Abstract Introduction: EP4 is one of the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) receptors. We previously reported that EP4 promoted cell migration via Ca2+ signaling, however the underlying mechanism has remained unclear. In Ca2+ signaling, Store-operated Ca2+entry (SOCE) is a major mechanism of Ca2+ import from the extracellular to the intracellular space. Orai1, one of the selective Ca2+ channels, plays an important role in SOCE. We focused on the correlation with EP4 and Orai1. Additionally, we found that EP4 promoted the phosphorylation of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CaMKK2) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) located downstream of CaMKK2, i.e., cell energy regulators. AMPK activation can control positively or negatively the cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) supply. Therefore, we investigated how EP4 regulated the mitochondrial function via Ca2+ and promoted the cell migration in oral cancer cells. Materials and Methods: HSC-3, human tongue squamous cell carcinoma cell line was used. ONO-AE1-437 was used as EP4 agonist. HSC-3 cells were transduced with Orai1 shRNA, and control shRNA using lentivirus. The migration ability was evaluated by scratch assay. Measurement of intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured using Fura-2. Immunoprecipitation was performed to evaluate the interaction between EP4 and Orai1. XF Cell Mito Stress Test and XF Real-Time ATP Rate Assay were performed to evaluate the mitochondrial aspiration and the ATP production using Extracellular Flux Analyzer. Results: Scratch assay showed EP4 promoted cell migration in oral cancer cells (n=4, p&amp;lt;0.05). In contrast, Orai1 knockdown negated EP4-induced cell migration. EP4 rapidly increased the intracellular Ca2+ concentration, while Orai1 knockdown negated EP4-indued Ca2+ increase (n=4, p&amp;lt;0.05). Immunoprecipitation showed that EP4 was colocalized and formed complexes with Orai1 (n=4, p&amp;lt;0.05). These results indicated that EP4 promoted the cell migration via Ca2+ signaling through Orai1. EP4 increased the maximal respiration 3h after the stimulation (n=6, p&amp;lt;0.05). ATP production rate shifted mitoATP dominant. These data indicated that EP4 increased the mitochondrial function and the respiratory capacity, potentially regulating its energy supply. These results demonstrated that EP4 promoted mitochondria respiration and then increased the energy production from mitochondria in oral cancer cells. Conclusion: We concluded that EP4 regulated the mitochondrial function via Ca2+ through Orai1 and promoted the cell migration in oral cancer cells. Citation Format: Rina Nakakaji, Masanari Umemura, Kohei Osawa, Soichiro Ishikawa, Kenji Mitsudo, Yoshihiro Ishikawa. EP4 increases the mitochondrial respiration and promotes cell migration in oral cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 4835.

Prostaglandin E2-Transporting Pathway and Its Roles via EP2/EP4 in Cultured Human Dental Pulp

IntroductionProstaglandin E2 (PGE2) exerts biological actions through its transport pathway involving intracellular synthesis, extracellular transport, and receptor binding. This study aimed to determine the localization of the components of the PGE2-transporting pathway in human dental pulp and explore the relevance of PGE2 receptors (EP2/EP4) to angiogenesis and dentinogenesis. MethodsProtein localization of microsomal PGE2 (mPGES)synthase, PGE2 transporters (multidrug resistance-associated protein-4 [MRP4] and prostaglandin transporter [PGT]), and EP2/EP4 was analyzed using double immunofluorescence staining. Tooth slices from human third molars were cultured with or without butaprost (EP2 agonist) or rivenprost (EP4 agonist) for 1 week. Morphometric analysis of endothelial cell filopodia was performed to evaluate angiogenesis, and real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to evaluate angiogenesis and odontoblast differentiation markers. ResultsMRP4 and PGT were colocalized with mPGES and EP2/EP4 in odontoblasts and endothelial cells. Furthermore, MRP4 was colocalized with mPGES and EP4 in human leukocyte antigen-DR-expressing dendritic cells. In the tooth slice culture, EP2/EP4 agonists induced significant increases in the number and length of filopodia and mRNA expression of angiogenesis markers (vascular endothelial growth factor and fibroblast growth factor-2) and odontoblast differentiation markers (dentin sialophosphoprotein and collagen type 1). ConclusionsPGE2-producing enzyme (mPGES), transporters (MRP4 and PGT), and PGE2-specific receptors (EP2/EP4) were immunolocalized in various cellular components of the human dental pulp. EP2/EP4 agonists promoted endothelial cell filopodia generation and upregulated angiogenesis- and odontoblast differentiation-related genes, suggesting that PGE2 binding to EP2/EP4 is associated with angiogenic and dentinogenic responses.

A Phytoprostane from Gracilaria longissima Increases Platelet Activation, Platelet Adhesion to Leukocytes and Endothelial Cell Migration by Potential Binding to EP3 Prostaglandin Receptor.

Plant phytoprostanes (PhytoPs) are lipid oxidative stress mediators that share structural similarities with mammal prostaglandins (PGs). They have been demonstrated to modulate inflammatory processes mediated by prostaglandins. The present study aims to test the effects of the most abundant oxylipin from Gracilaria longissima, ent-9-D1t-Phytoprostane (9-D1t-PhytoP), on platelet activation and vascular cells as well as clarify possible interactions with platelets and the endothelial EP3 receptor Platelet and monocyte activation was assessed by flow cytometry in the presence of purified 9-D1t-PhytoP. Cell migration was studied using the human Ea.hy926 cell line by performing a scratch wound healing assay. The RNA expression of inflammatory markers was evaluated by RT-PCR under inflammatory conditions. Blind docking consensus was applied to the study of the interactions of selected ligands against the EP3 receptor protein. The 9D1t-PhytoP exerts several pharmacological effects; these include prothrombotic and wound-healing properties. In endothelial cells, 9D1t-PhytP mimics the migration stimulus of PGE2. Computational analysis revealed that 9D1t-PhytP forms a stable complex with the hydrophobic pocket of the EP3 receptor by interaction with the same residues as misoprostol and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), thus supporting its potential as an EP3 agonist. The potential to form procoagulant platelets and the higher endothelial migration rate of the 9-D1t-PhytoP, together with its capability to interact with PGE2 main target receptor in platelets suggest herein that this oxylipin could be a strong candidate for pharmaceutical research from a multitarget perspective.

LDL-Dependent Regulation of TNFα/PGE2 Induced COX-2/mPGES-1 Expression in Human Macrophage Cell Lines

Inflammation is a hallmark in severe diseases such as atherosclerosis and non-alcohol-induced steatohepatitis (NASH). In the development of inflammation, prostaglandins, especially prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), are major players alongside with chemo- and cytokines, like tumor-necrosis-factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). During inflammation, PGE2 synthesis can be increased by the transcriptional induction of the two key enzymes: cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), which converts arachidonic acid to PGH2, and microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase 1 (mPGES-1), which synthesizes PGE2 from PGH2. Both COX-2 and mPGES-2 were induced by a dietary intervention where mice were fed a fatty acid-rich and, more importantly, cholesterol-rich diet, leading to the development of NASH. Since macrophages are the main source of PGE2 synthesis and cholesterol is predominantly transported as LDL, the regulation of COX-2 and mPGES-1 expression by native LDL was analyzed in human macrophage cell lines. THP-1 and U937 monocytes were differentiated into macrophages, through which TNFα and PGE-2 induced COX-2 and mPGES-1 expression by LDL could be analyzed on both mRNA and protein levels. In addition, the interaction of LDL- and EP receptor signal chains in COX-2/mPGES-1 expression and PGE2-synthesis were analyzed in more detail using EP receptor specific agonists. Furthermore, the LDL-mediated signal transduction in THP-1 macrophages was analyzed by measuring ERK and Akt phosphorylation as well as transcriptional regulation of transcription factor Egr-1. COX-2 and mPGES-1 were induced in both THP-1 and U937 macrophages by the combination of TNFα and PGE2. Surprisingly, LDL dose-dependently increased the expression of mPGES-1 but repressed the expression of COX-2 on mRNA and protein levels in both cell lines. The interaction of LDL and PGE2 signal chains in mPGES-1 induction as well as PGE2-synthesis could be mimicked by through simultaneous stimulation with EP2 and EP4 agonists. In THP-1 macrophages, LDL induced Akt-phosphorylation, which could be blocked by a PI3 kinase inhibitor. Alongside blocking Akt-phosphorylation, the PI3K inhibitor inhibited LDL-mediated mPGES-1 induction; however, it did not attenuate the repression of COX-2 expression. LDL repressed basal ERK phosphorylation and expression of downstream transcription factor Egr-1, which might lead to inhibition of COX-2 expression. These findings suggest that simultaneous stimulation with a combination of TNFα, PGE2, and native LDL-activated signal chains in macrophage cell lines leads to maximal mPGES-1 activity, as well repression of COX-2 expression, by activating PI3K as well as repression of ERK/Egr-1 signal chains.