Sphingosine-1-phosphate Levels Research Articles

Enhanced platelet sensitization is accompanied by increased expression of the transporter MRP4 and elevated plasma S1P levels in mild COVID-19 convalescents

Viral infections can lead to platelet activation and hemostatic complications. However, the extent to which platelet reactivity remains altered after convalescence, contributing to long-term health impairments as observed after COVID-19 is not yet fully understood. Therefore, we conducted a cohort study (DRKS00025217) to determine platelet function in individuals convalesced from mild COVID-19. Assays were performed ex vivo with blood from convalescents at 2–15 weeks and 6–10 months after convalescence, focusing on platelet aggregation, activation markers, and thrombin formation. In addition, two other potentially relevant factors for platelet function were examined: the immunomodulatory mediator sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and the platelet expression of the transporter MRP4 (ABCC4). Our findings indicate that robust platelet functions, including platelet aggregation determined by light transmission aggregometry, and thrombin formation, were not altered in convalescents compared to matched control individuals. However, an elevation in subtle platelet activation markers, such as P-selectin surface expression and activation of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa, was observed 2–15 weeks after convalescence. This was accompanied by an increased expression of MRP4 in platelets and significantly elevated levels of S1P in platelet-poor plasma. Our findings suggest increased platelet sensitization and a pro-inflammatory state even after convalescence from mild COVID-19, pointing toward MRP4 and S1P as associated factors.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate reduces arterial thrombosis via enhanced endothelial thrombomodulin expression by S1PR1 signaling

Abstract Background Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is an important lipid mediator in the cardiovascular system. Numerous links between S1P and blood coagulation have been described. However, results regarding the role of S1P in coagulation are inconclusive. A physiological antithrombotic regulator expressed by endothelial cells (EC) is thrombomodulin (TM). To date, the impact of S1P on TM-expression is unknown. Methods We evaluated S1P effects on TM-expression and subsequent platelet adhesion and thrombus formation. For this, we conducted cell culture with human umbilical cord venous endothelial cells (HUVECs), flow cytometry and flow chamber experiments. Additionally, in vivo arterial thrombus formation in mice was analyzed. Results Sphingosine kinase-1 deficient mice (SphK1-/-) have about 70% less circulating plasma S1P and show a significant reduction in TM expression on the aorta as compared to their littermates (WT: 207.2 ± 45.8 pg/g Aorta vs. SphK1-/- 124.5 ± 40.2 pg/g Aorta, p<0.0001). In contrast, S1P incubation of 24 hours significantly increased TM-expression on HUVECs by about 30 percent. This effect was abolished by S1PR1-inhibition with W146. Treatment with S1P reduced platelet adhesion from whole blood to endothelial cells in the flow chamber experiments (Con: 100.00 ± 28.09% vs. S1P: 80.91 ± 22.85%, p<0.0001). This effect could be reversed both by S1PR1 inhibition and with a TM-neutralizing antibody. P-selectin-expression on platelets was decreased after incubation with TM suggesting (Ctrl: 62.79 ± 13.30% vs. TM: 43.47 ± 11.36%, p=0.0222). Finally, to assess the in vivo effects of our findings, arterial thrombus formation in mice was performed. TM inhibited in vivo thrombus formation. Occlusion of the carotid artery could not be detected during the 30 minutes recording. In contrast, SphK1-/- mice with low S1P levels showed decreased times to first occlusion. Treatment with TM in these animals was able to reverse this effect. Conclusion We can conclude that the main findings of our study were (i) S1P increased endothelial TM-expression, (ii) which subsequently leads to reduced platelet adhesion and (iii) inhibition of arterial thrombus formation in vivo.

Targeting Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Signaling to Prevent the Progression of Aortic Valve Disease.

Aortic valve disease (AVD) is associated with high mortality and morbidity. To date, there is no pharmacological therapy available to prevent AVD progression. Because valve calcification is the hallmark of AVD and S1P (sphingosine-1-phosphate) plays an important role in osteogenic signaling, we examined the role of S1P signaling in aortic stenosis disease. AVD progression and its consequences for cardiac function were examined in a murine wire injury-induced AVD model with and without pharmacological and genetic modulation of S1P production, degradation, and receptor signaling. S1P was measured by LC-MS. Calcification of valvular interstitial cells and their response to biomechanical stress were analyzed in the context of S1P signaling. Human explanted aortic valves from patients undergoing aortic valve replacement and cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging were analyzed for S1P by LC-MS. Raising S1P concentrations in mice with injury-induced AVD by pharmacological inhibition of its sole degrading enzyme S1P lyase vastly enhanced AVD progression and impaired cardiac function resembling human disease. In contrast, low S1P levels caused by SphK1 (sphingosine kinase 1) deficiency potently attenuated AVD progression. We found S1P/S1PR2 (S1P receptor 2) signaling to be responsible for the adverse S1P effect because S1PR2-deficient mice were protected against AVD progression and its deterioration by high S1P. It is important to note that pharmacological S1PR2 inhibition administered after wire injury successfully prevented AVD development. Mechanistically, biomechanical stretch stimulated S1P production by SphK1 in human valvular interstitial cells as measured by C17-S1P generation, whereas S1P/S1PR2 signaling induced their osteoblastic differentiation and calcification through osteogenic RUNX2/OPG signaling and the GSK3β-Wnt-β-catenin pathway. In patients with AVD, stenotic valves exposed to high wall shear stress had higher S1P content and increased SphK1 expression. Increased systemic or local S1P levels lead to increased valvular calcification. S1PR2 antagonists and SphK1 inhibitors may offer feasible pharmacological approaches to human AVD in prophylactic, disease-modifying or relapse-preventing manners.

Hepatitis B Virus Increases SphK1-S1P Synthesis by Promoting the Availability of the Transcription Factor USF1.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the most common chronic viral infection globally, affecting ∼360 million people and causing about 1 million deaths annually due to end-stage liver disease or hepatocellular carcinoma. Current antiviral treatments rarely achieve a functional cure for chronic hepatitis B, highlighting the need for improved monitoring and intervention strategies. This study explores the role of the sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1)-sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) axis in HBV-related liver injury. We investigated the association between serum S1P concentration and HBV DNA levels in chronic hepatitis B patients, finding a significant positive correlation. Additionally, SphK1 was elevated in liver tissues of HBV-positive hepatocellular carcinoma patients, particularly in HBsAg-positive regions. HBV infection models in HepG2-sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide cells confirmed that HBV enhances SphK1 expression and S1P production. Inhibition of HBV replication through antiviral agents and the CRISPR-Cas9 system reduced SphK1 and S1P levels. Further, we identified the transcription factor USF1 as a key regulator of SphK1 expression during HBV infection. USF1 binds to the SphK1 promoter, increasing its transcriptional activity, and is upregulated in response to HBV infection. In vivo studies in mice demonstrated that HBV exposure promotes the expression of USF1 and SphK1-S1P. These findings suggest that the SphK1-S1P axis, regulated by HBV-induced USF1, could serve as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for HBV-related liver injury.

MOLECULAR APPROACH TO PREMATURE EJACULATION: A PILOT STUDY ON S1P SERUM LEVELS AND S1PR1, S1PR2, S1PR3 POLYMORPHISMS

Objective: Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and its receptors are involved in various sexual functions, particularly in smooth muscle regulation and vascular responses. However, the role of S1P and its receptors in premature ejaculation (PE) remains unclear. This study investigates the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the S1PR1, S1PR2, and S1PR3 genes and plasma S1P levels in individuals with PE. Materials and Methods: The study included 100 individuals with PE and 100 healthy controls recruited from urology and psychiatry clinics. DNA was isolated from blood samples, and PCR was used to identify SNPs in the S1PR1 (rs2038366), S1PR2 (rs56357614), and S1PR3 (rs7022797) genes. Plasma S1P levels were measured using ELISA. Results: A significant association was observed between the heterozygous GT genotype of the S1PR1 gene and an increased risk of PE (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.215–4.168, p = 0.0099). No significant associations were found between S1PR2 or S1PR3 polymorphisms and PE. Plasma S1P levels were significantly lower in the PE group (median 253.25 ng/L) compared to the control group (median 430.82 ng/L) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: S1PR1 gene polymorphism and reduced plasma S1P levels may be linked to the pathophysiology of PE. In contrast, S1PR2 and S1PR3 do not appear to be associated. Further research with larger samples is needed to confirm these findings.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate signaling regulates the ability of Müller glia to become neurogenic, proliferating progenitor-like cells.

The purpose of these studies is to investigate how Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling regulates glial phenotype, dedifferentiation of Müller glia (MG), reprogramming into proliferating MG-derived progenitor cells (MGPCs), and neuronal differentiation of the progeny of MGPCs. We found that S1P-related genes are highly expressed by retinal neurons and glia, and levels of expression were dynamically regulated following retinal damage. S1PR1 is highly expressed by resting MG and is rapidly downregulated following acute retinal damage. Drug treatments that activate S1PR1 or increase levels of S1P suppressed the formation of MGPCs, whereas treatments that inhibit S1PR1 or decreased levels of S1P stimulated the formation of MGPCs. Inhibition of S1PR1 or SPHK1 significantly enhanced the neuronal differentiation of the progeny of MGPCs. Further, ablation of microglia from the retina, wherein the formation of MGPCs in damaged retinas is impaired, has a significant impact upon expression patterns of S1P-related genes in MG. Inhibition of S1PR1 and SPHK1 partially rescued the formation of MGPCs in damaged retinas missing microglia. Finally, we show that TGFβ/Smad3 signaling in the resting retina maintains S1PR1 expression in MG. We conclude that the S1P signaling is dynamically regulated in MG and MGPCs and activation of S1P signaling depends, in part, on signals produced by reactive microglia.

Effect of phospholipid transfer protein on plasma sphingosine-1-phosphate

Plasma phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) is a risk factor for human coronary artery disease (CAD). Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), carried by high-density lipoprotein (HDL), is a potent lipid mediator and is also associated with CAD. Previous studies indicate that Pltp knockout (KO) (germline) mice have decreased circulating S1P without influencing apoM, a major S1P carrier on HDL. We then hypothesized that, like apoM, PLTP is another S1P carrier. We established inducible Pltp-KO, germline Apom-KO, and Pltp/Apom double KO mice and measured plasma lipoprotein and S1P levels under chow and a Western diet. We found that PLTP deficiency and the double deficiency have a similar effect on HDL reduction, while apoM deficiency has no such effect. Importantly, we found that all mice have about 50% reduction in plasma S1P levels, compared to wild type mice, and PLTP deficiency significantly reduces apoM levels (about 40%), while apoM deficiency has no effect on PLTP activity, indicating that PLTP depletion reduces S1P through HDL reduction and there is no additive effect with the double deficiency. To further evaluate this HDL-reduction-mediated effect, we overexpressed PLTP which also caused a reduction of HDL. We found that the overexpression significantly reduces S1P and apoM as well as apoA-I, a major apolipoprotein on HDL. Furthermore, we found that albumin (another reported S1P carrier) deficiency in mice has no effect on plasma S1P. We also found that the influence of PLTP on HDL may not require its direct binding to the particle. In conclusion, PLTP is not a direct S1P carrier. PLTP depletion or overexpression in adulthood dramatically reduces plasma S1P through HDL reduction. ApoM, but not albumin, deficiency reduces plasma S1P levels.

The sphingosine kinase 2 inhibitors ABC294640 and K145 elevate (dihydro)sphingosine 1-phosphate levels in various cells

Sphingosine kinases (SphKs), enzymes that produce the bioactive lipids dihydrosphingosine 1-phosphate (dhS1P) and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), are associated with various diseases, including cancer and infections. For this reason, a number of SphK inhibitors have been developed. Although off-target effects have been described for selected agents, SphK inhibitors are mostly used in research without monitoring the effects on the sphingolipidome. We have now investigated the effects of seven commonly used SphK inhibitors (5c, ABC294640 (opaganib), N,N-dimethylsphingosine, K145, PF-543, SLM6031434, and SKI-II) on profiles of selected sphingolipids in Chang, HepG2, and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. While we observed the expected (dh)S1P reduction for N,N-dimethylsphingosine, PF-543, SKI-II, and SLM6031434, 5c showed hardly any effect. Remarkably, for K145 and ABC294640, both reported to be specific for SphK2, we observed dose-dependent strong increases in dhS1P and S1P across cell lines. Compensatory effects of SphK1 could be excluded, as this observation was also made in SphK1-deficient HK-2 cells. Furthermore, we observed effects on dihydroceramide desaturase activity for all inhibitors tested, as has been previously noted for ABC294640 and SKI-II. In additional mechanistic studies, we investigated the massive increase of dhS1P and S1P after short-term cell treatment with ABC294640 and K145 in more detail. We found that both compounds affect sphingolipid de novo synthesis, with 3-ketodihydrosphingosine reductase and dihydroceramide desaturase as their targets. Our study indicates that none of the seven SphK inhibitors tested was free of unexpected on-target and/or off-target effects. Therefore, it is important to monitor cellular sphingolipid profiles when SphK inhibitors are used in mechanistic studies.

Effects of the S1P/S1PR1 Signaling Pathway on High Glucose-Induced NRK-52E Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Via Regulation of ROS/NLRP3.

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the most significant complication in diabetic patients, ultimately leading to renal fibrosis. The most important manifestation of DKD is the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of renal tubular cells, which can lead to renal fibrosis and inflammatory injury in special situations. Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is involved in various signal transduction pathways and plays a role through G protein-coupled receptors. Research has demonstrated that blocking the S1P / S1PR2pathway inhibits inflammation and fibrosis. However, the interaction between S1P/S1PR1and the pathophysiology of EMT remains ambiguous. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of S1P/S1PR1 on high glucose (HG)-induced renal EMT. We found that HG markedly increased the S1P and EMT marker levels in renal tubular epithelial cells. At the same time, HG could stimulate NF-κB/ROS/NLRP3 expression, but these phenomena were reversed after blocking S1PR1. In mice models of DKD, FTY720 (S1P antagonist) could significantly improve renal function and reduce the infiltration of inflammatory cells. ROS, as well as NLPR3 inflammasome, were markedly decreased in the treatment group. FTY720 inhibits extracellular matrix synthesis and improves renal fibrosis. In brief, the HG stimulates S1P/S1PR1 synthesis and activates the S1P/S1PR1 pathway. Through the S1P/S1PR1 pathway, activates NF-κB, promotes ROS generation and NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and ultimately causes EMT.

Sphingosine-1-Phosphate–Cathelicidin Axis Plays a Pivotal Role in the Development of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a common skin cancer, caused by mutagenesis resulting from excess ultraviolet radiation or other types of oxidative stress. These stressors also upregulate production of a cutaneous innate immune element, cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (CAMP), via endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-initiated, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling pathway. While CAMP has beneficial antimicrobial activities, it also can be pro-inflammatory and pro-carcinogenic. We addressed whether and how S1P-induced CAMP production leads to cSCC development. Our study demonstrated that: 1) CAMP expression is increased in cSCC cells and skin from cSCC patients; 2) S1P levels are elevated in cSCC cells, while inhibition of S1P production attenuates CAMP-stimulated cSCC growth; 3) exogenous CAMP stimulates cSCC, but not normal human keratinocyte growth; 4) blockade of formyl peptide receptor-like (FPRL) 1 protein, a CAMP receptor, attenuates cSCC growth as well as the growth and invasion of cSCC cells mediated by CAMP into an extracellular matrix-containing fibroblast substrate; 5) Foxp3+ regulatory T cell (which decreases anti-tumor immunity) levels increase in cSCC skin; and 6) CAMP induces ER stress in cSCC cells. Together, the ER stress-S1P-CAMP axis forms a vicious circle, creating a favorable environment for cSCC development, i.e., cSCC growth and invasion impedes anti-cancer immunity.

Zonation, ligand and dose dependence of S1PR1 signalling in blood and lymphatic vasculature.

Circulating levels of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), an HDL-associated ligand for endothelial cell (EC) protective S1P receptor-1 (S1PR1), are reduced in disease states associated with endothelial dysfunction. Yet as S1PR1 has high affinity for S1P and can be activated by ligand-independent mechanisms and EC-autonomous S1P production, it is unclear if relative reductions in circulating S1P impact endothelial function. It is also unclear how EC S1PR1 insufficiency, whether induced by ligand deficiency or by S1PR1-directed immunosuppressive therapy, affects different vascular subsets. We here fine-map the zonation of S1PR1 signalling in the murine blood and lymphatic vasculature, superimpose cell type-specific and relative deficiencies in S1P production to define ligand source- and dose-dependence, and correlate receptor engagement to essential functions. In naïve blood vessels, despite broad expression, EC S1PR1 engagement was restricted to resistance-size arteries, lung capillaries and high-endothelial venules (HEV). Similar zonation was observed for albumin extravasation in EC S1PR1 deficient mice, and brain extravasation was reproduced with arterial EC-selective S1pr1 deletion. In lymphatic EC, S1PR1 engagement was high in collecting vessels and lymph nodes and low in terminal capillaries that drain tissue fluids. While EC S1P production sustained S1PR1 signaling in lymphatics and HEV, hematopoietic cells provided ∼90% of plasma S1P and sustained signaling in resistance arteries and lung capillaries. S1PR1 signaling and endothelial function were both surprisingly sensitive to reductions in plasma S1P with apparent saturation around 50% of normal levels. S1PR1 engagement did not depend on sex or age, but modestly increased in arteries in hypertension and diabetes. Sphingosine kinase (Sphk)-2 deficiency also increased S1PR1 engagement selectively in arteries, which could be attributed to Sphk1-dependent S1P release from perivascular macrophages. This study highlights vessel subtype-specific S1PR1 functions and mechanisms of engagement and supports the relevance of S1P as circulating biomarker for endothelial function.

Vitexin attenuates neuropathic pain by regulating astrocyte autophagy flux and polarization via the S1P/ S1PR1-PI3K/ Akt axis

Neuropathic pain (NP) is associated with astrocytes activation induced by nerve injury. Reactive astrocytes, strongly induced by central nervous system damage, can be classified into A1 and A2 types. Vitexin, a renowned flavonoid compound, is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, its role in NP remains unexplored. This study aims to investigate the effects of vitexin on astrocyte polarization and its underlying mechanisms. A mouse model of NP was established, and primary astrocytes were stimulated with sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) to construct a cellular model. The results demonstrated significant activation of spinal astrocytes on days 14 and 21. Concurrently, reactive astrocytes predominantly differentiated into the A1 type. Western blot analysis revealed an increase in A1 astrocyte-associated protein (C3) and a decrease in A2 astrocyte-associated protein (S100A10). Serum S1P levels increased on days 14 and 21, alongside a significant upregulation of Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1) mRNA expression and elevated expression of chemokines. In vitro, stimulation with S1P inhibited the Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway and autophagy flux, promoting polarization of astrocytes towards the A1 phenotype while suppressing the polarization of A2 astrocytes. Our findings suggest that vitexin, acting on astrocytes but not microglia, attenuates S1P-induced downregulation of PI3K/Akt signaling, restores autophagy flux in astrocytes, regulates A1/A2 astrocyte ratio, and reduces chemokine and S1P secretion, thereby alleviating neuropathic pain caused by nerve injury.

S1P/S1PR1 signaling is involved in the development of nociceptive pain.

Pain is a complex perception involving unpleasant somatosensory and emotional experiences. However, the underlying mechanisms that mediate its different components remain unclear. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a metabolite of sphingomyelin and a potent lipid mediator, initiates signaling via G protein-coupled receptors (S1PRs) on cell surfaces. It serves as a second messenger in cellular processes such as proliferation and apoptosis. Nevertheless, the neuropharmacology of sphingolipid signaling in pain conditions within the central nervous system remains largely unexplored and controversial. Chronic nociceptive pain models were induced in vivo by intraplantar injection of 20μL complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the left hind paws. We assessed S1P and S1PR1 expression in the spinal cords of CFA model mice. Functional antagonists of S1PR1 or S1PR1-specific siRNA were administered daily following CFA model establishment. Paw withdrawal response frequency (PWF) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) were measured to evaluate mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, respectively. RT-PCR assessed interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to analyze glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule (Iba1), STAT3, ERK, and p38 MAPK protein expression. In the chronic nociceptive pain model induced by CFA, S1P and S1PR1 expression levels were significantly elevated, leading to activation of spinal cord glial cells. S1PR1 activation also promoted MMP2-mediated cleavage of mature IL-1β. Additionally, S1PR1 activation upregulated phosphorylation of STAT3, ERK, and p38 MAPK in glial cells, profoundly impacting downstream signaling pathways and contributing to chronic nociceptive pain. The S1P/S1PR1 axis plays a pivotal role in the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying nociceptive pain. This signaling pathway modulates glial cell activation and the expression of pain-related genes (STAT3, ERK, p38 MAPK) and inflammatory factors in the spinal dorsal horn. These findings underscore the potential of targeting the S1P system for developing novel analgesic therapies.

A detrimental role of endothelial S1PR2 in cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury via modulating mitochondrial dysfunction, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and pyroptosis

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), a bioactive lipid molecule, exerts multifaceted effects on cardiovascular functions via S1P receptors, but its effects on cardiac I/R injury are not fully understood. Plasma lipidomics analysis by mass spectrometry revealed that sphingosine lipids, including sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), were significantly down-regulated following cardiac I/R injury in mice. The reduced S1P levels were also observed in the plasma of coronary heart disease (CHD) patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) compared with those without PCI. We found that S1P exerted a cardioprotective effect via endothelial cell (EC)-S1PR1, whereas EC-S1PR2 displayed a detrimental effect on cardiac I/R. Our data showed that EC-specific S1pr2 loss-of-function significantly lessened inflammatory responses and diminished cardiac I/R injury, while EC-specific S1pr2 gain-of-function aggravated cardiac I/R injury. Mechanistically, EC-S1PR2 initiated excessive mitochondrial fission and elevated ROS production via RHO/ROCK1/DRP1 pathway, leading to NLRP3 inflammasome activation and subsequent cell pyroptosis, thereby exacerbating inflammation and I/R injuries. Furthermore, RGD-peptide magnetic nanoparticles packaging S1pr2-siRNA to specifically knockdown S1PR2 in endothelial cells significantly ameliorated cardiac I/R injury. Taken together, our investigations demonstrate that EC-S1PR2 induces excessive mitochondrial fission, which results in NLRP3 inflammasome activation and subsequently triggers cell pyroptosis, ultimately exacerbating inflammatory responses and aggravating heart injuries following I/R.

Kaempferol mitigates sepsis-induced acute lung injury by modulating the SphK1/S1P/S1PR1/MLC2 signaling pathway to restore the integrity of the pulmonary endothelial cell barrier

Sepsis-induced acute lung injury (SALI) is the common complication of sepsis, resulting in high incidence and mortality rates. The primary pathogenesis of SALI is the interplay between acute inflammation and endothelial barrier damage. Studies have shown that kaempferol (KPF) has anti-sepsis properties. Sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1)/sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling pathway's significance in acute lung damage and S1P receptor 1 (S1PR1) agonists potential in myosin light chain 2 (MLC2) phosphorylation are documented. Whether KPF can regulate the SphK1/S1P/S1PR1/MLC2 signaling pathway to protect the lung endothelial barrier remains unclear. This study investigates the KPF's therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms in repairing endothelial cell barrier damage in both LPS-induced sepsis mice and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). KPF significantly reduced lung tissue damage and showed anti-inflammatory effects by decreasing IL-6 and TNF-α synthesis in the sepsis mice model. Further, KPF administration can reduce the high permeability of the LPS-induced endothelial cell barrier and alleviate lung endothelial cell barrier injury. Mechanistic studies showed that KPF pretreatment can suppress MLC2 hyperphosphorylation and decrease SphK1, S1P, and S1PR1 levels. The SphK1/S1P/S1PR1/MLC2 signaling pathway controls the downstream proteins linked to endothelial barrier damage, and the Western blot (WB) showed that KPF raised the protein levels. These proteins include zonula occludens (ZO)-1, vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin and Occludin. The present work revealed that in mice exhibiting sepsis triggered by LPS, KPF strengthened the endothelial barrier and reduced the inflammatory response. The SphK1/S1P/S1PR1/MLC2 pathway's modulation is the mechanism underlying this impact.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate promotes liver fibrosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is one of the most prevalent liver diseases and is characterized by steatosis and the accumulation of bioactive lipids. This study aims to understand the specific lipid species responsible for the progression of liver fibrosis in MASH. Changes in bioactive lipid levels were examined in the livers of MASH mice fed a choline-deficient diet (CDD). Additionally, sphingosine kinase (SphK)1 mRNA, which generates sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P), was examined in the livers of patients with MASH. CDD induced MASH and liver fibrosis were accompanied by elevated levels of S1P and increased expression of SphK1 in capillarized liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in mice. SphK1 mRNA also increased in the livers of patients with MASH. Treatment of primary cultured mouse hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) with S1P stimulated their activation, which was mitigated by the S1P receptor (S1PR)2 inhibitor, JTE013. The inhibition of S1PR2 or its knockout in mice suppressed liver fibrosis without reducing steatosis or hepatocellular damage. S1P level is increased in MASH livers and contributes to liver fibrosis via S1PR2.

Opaganib Downregulates N-Myc Expression and Suppresses In Vitro and In Vivo Growth of Neuroblastoma Cells.

Neuroblastoma (NB), the most common cancer in infants and the most common solid tumor outside the brain in children, grows aggressively and responds poorly to current therapies. We have identified a new drug (opaganib, also known as ABC294640) that modulates sphingolipid metabolism by inhibiting the synthesis of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) by sphingosine kinase-2 and elevating dihydroceramides by inhibition of dihydroceramide desaturase. The present studies sought to determine the potential therapeutic activity of opaganib in cell culture and xenograft models of NB. Cytotoxicity assays demonstrated that NB cells, including cells with amplified MYCN, are effectively killed by opaganib concentrations well below those that accumulate in tumors in vivo. Opaganib was shown to cause dose-dependent decreases in S1P and hexosylceramide levels in Neuro-2a cells, while concurrently elevating levels of dihydroceramides. As with other tumor cells, opaganib reduced c-Myc and Mcl-1 protein levels in Neuro-2a cells, and also reduced the expression of the N-Myc protein. The in vivo growth of xenografts of human SK-N-(BE)2 cells with amplified MYCN was suppressed by oral administration of opaganib at doses that are well tolerated in mice. Combining opaganib with temozolomide plus irinotecan, considered the backbone for therapy of relapsed or refractory NB, resulted in increased antitumor activity in vivo compared with temozolomide plus irinotecan or opaganib alone. Mice did not lose additional weight when opaganib was combined with temozolomide plus irinotecan, indicating that the combination is well tolerated. Opaganib has additive antitumor activity toward Neuro-2a tumors when combined with the checkpoint inhibitor anti-CTLA-4 antibody; however, the combination of opaganib with anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 antibodies did not provide increased antitumor activity over that seen with opaganib alone. Overall, the data demonstrate that opaganib modulates sphingolipid metabolism and intracellular signaling in NB cells and inhibits NB tumor growth alone and in combination with other anticancer drugs. Amplified MYCN does not confer resistance to opaganib, and, in fact, the drug attenuates the expression of both c-Myc and N-Myc. The safety of opaganib has been established in clinical trials with adults with advanced cancer or severe COVID-19, and so opaganib has excellent potential for treating patients with NB, particularly in combination with temozolomide and irinotecan or anti-CTLA-4 antibody.

Abstract PO3-13-04: The role of sphingolipids in cancer progression and its microenvironment in breast cancer patients

Abstract Background: Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a lipid mediator, and although it is a lipid, it acts as a signaling molecule similar to proteins by stimulating specific receptors. In the cell, ceramide (Cer), a component of the cell membrane, is converted to sphingosine (So), and So is phosphorylated by specific enzymes, named sphingosine kinases 1 and 2, to produce S1P. Based on the results of previous basic and translational researches, it is believed that S1P contributes to cell survival, and ceramide contributes to cell death, such as apoptosis, and that the balance of these sphingolipids regulates cell survival and death. Because sphingolipids are lipids, it is technically difficult to measure their concentration in patients, and their clinical significance has not yet been fully elucidated. The purpose of this study was to quantify sphingolipids in the blood of breast cancer patients and compare them with clinicopathological factors to determine their clinical significance. Methods: Among breast cancer patients who underwent surgery at our hospital from September 2019 to April 2021, 118 cases were included, excluding breast cases with ductal carcinoma in situ and cases who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Plasma was collected from preoperative breast cancer patients, and cryopreserved samples were subjected to lipidomics analysis by mass spectrometry. As sphingolipids, So, dihydro-So (DHSo), S1P, DHS1P, and Cer (C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, C18:1, C20:0, C22:0, C24:0, C24:1, C26:0, C26:1, total Cer) levels were quantified, and S1P/Cer ratios were determined, and those data were compared with clinicopathological factors. Results: The median age of the 118 patients was 58 years (range 29-86), and the types of breast cancer included 103 luminal, 8 HER2-positive, and 7 triple-negative cases. No significant associations were found between age, subtype, and the levels of any of the sphingolipids. Compared to the negative group, the positive lymphatic invasion group had higher So and DHSo levels, and S1P/Cer ratios (p=0.0262, p=0.0167, and p=0.002, respectively) and lower total Cer (p=0.0401). Total Cer was lower in the vascular invasion-positive group than in the negative group (p=0.0365). The lymph node-positive group tended to show higher C24:0 levels (p=0.0867). No association was found between tumor diameter, nuclear grade, or tissue grade and sphingolipid levels. Interestingly, analysis of the association between sphingolipids and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) showed significant differences: So and DHSo levels, and S1P/ceramide ratio were significantly higher in the TILs-high group (p=0.0063, p=0.0011, and p=0.0171, respectively). DHS1P also tended to be higher with higher TILs (p=0.072), and S1P showed a similar trend, although not statistically significant. Conclusion: Our data revealed that plasma sphingolipid concentrations were significantly associated with lymphatic invasion and TILs. These findings suggest that sphingolipids may be involved in shaping the tumor microenvironment in breast cancer patients. Citation Format: Akira Hattori, Masayuki Nagahashi, Aoi Oshiro, Ayumu Mitsuyoshi, Haruka Kanaoka, Ayako Bun, Reiko Fukui, Yukie Fujimoto, Tomoko Higuchi, Arisa Nishimukai, Keiko Murase, Yuichi Takatsuka, Yasuo Miyoshi. The role of sphingolipids in cancer progression and its microenvironment in breast cancer patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO3-13-04.

Association of plasma sphingosine-1-phosphate levels with disease severity and prognosis after intracerebral hemorrhage.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a signaling lipid involved in many biological processes, including inflammatory and immune regulatory responses. The study aimed to determine whether admission S1P levels are associated with disease severity and prognosis after spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Data of 134 patients with spontaneous ICH and 120 healthy controls were obtained from Biological Resource Sample Database of Intracerebral Hemorrhage at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University. Plasma S1P levels were measured. Regression analyses were used to analyze the association between S1P levels and admission and 90-day modified Rankin scale (mRS) scores. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves assessed the predictive value of S1P levels for ICH severity and prognosis. Patients with ICH exhibited elevated plasma S1P levels compared to the control group (median 286.95 vs. 239.80 ng/mL, p < 0.001). When divided patients into mild-to-moderate and severe groups according to their mRS scores both at admission and discharge, S1P levels were significantly elevated in the severe group compared to the mild-to-moderate group (admission 259.30 vs. 300.54, p < 0.001; 90-day 275.24 vs. 303.25, p < 0.001). The patients were divided into three groups with different concentration gradients, which showed significant statistical differences in admission mRS scores (3 vs. 4 vs. 5, p < 0.001), 90-day mRS scores (2.5 vs. 3 vs. 4, p < 0.001), consciousness disorders (45.5% vs. 68.2% vs. 69.6%, p = 0.033), ICU admission (29.5% vs. 59.1% vs. 89.1%, p < 0.001), surgery (15.9% vs. 47.7% vs. 82.6%, p < 0.001), intraventricular hemorrhages (27.3% vs. 61.4% vs. 65.2%, p < 0.001) and pulmonary infection (25% vs. 47.7% vs. 84.8%, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis displayed that S1P level was an independent risk factor for disease severity (OR = 1.037, 95% CI = 1.020-1.054, p < 0.001) and prognosis (OR = 1.018, 95% CI = 1.006-1.030, p = 0.003). ROC curves revealed a predictive value of S1P levels with an area under the curve of 0.7952 (95% CI = 0.7144-0.8759, p < 0.001) for disease severity and 0.7105 (95% CI = 0.6227-0.7983, p < 0.001) for prognosis. Higher admission S1P is associated with worse initial disease severity and 90-day functional outcomes in intracerebral hemorrhage.

Abstract 3072: BXQ-350: A novel biologic that allosterically activates glucosylcerebrosidase and demonstrates signs of activity in cancer patients

Abstract Background: Ceramides, glucosylceramides and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) are key bioactive signaling molecules. Ceramides are proapoptotic and mitigate chemoresistance while glucosylceramides and S1P promote cancer cell proliferation, activate multiple oncogenic pathways, promote chemoresistance and stimulate a pro-tumoral microenvironment. Many studies have shown a better prognosis and longer survival for patients with high ceramides levels, while high S1P and glucosylceramides levels are associated with shorter survival and worst prognosis. Levels of ceramides, glucosylceramides and S1P are controlled by enzymes involved in sphingolipid metabolism, including glucosylcerebrosidase (Gcase) and sphingosine kinase (Sphk). Methods: BXQ-350 is a nanovesicle of Saposin C, an allosteric activator of enzymes involved in sphingolipid metabolism; preclinically, BXQ-350 was investigated in different in vitro and in vivo models. Clinically, BXQ-350 was investigated in a first-in-human Phase 1 safety dose and escalation study in cancer patients with recurrent advanced solid malignancies (NCT02859857). Results: Preclinical results demonstrated that BXQ-350 allosterically activates Gcase in vitro, in cells and in vivo in a significant and dose-dependent manner; as expected, in vivo, Gcase activation results in lower levels of glucosylceramides, as much as 2/3 lower for picomolar concentrations of BXQ-350. An increase in ceramides and a decrease in S1P are also observed. By impacting glucosylceramides, ceramides and S1P, BXQ-350 rebalances the S1P/ceramide rheostat in favor of an antitumoral state and homeostasis. By lowering S1P and glucosylceramides, BXQ-350 modulates the innate and adaptive immune response and repolarizes macrophages towards the antitumoral M1 phenotype, inhibits differentiation and activity of immunosuppressor of MDSCs, and promotes the proliferation of CD4+ and CD8+ Tcells as well as their activity. Clinical results showed BXQ-350 was safe and well-tolerated (no DLT, no MTD). Also, 13 patients (~17.8% of evaluable patients) had a clinical benefit up to cycle 6 and beyond (PR, SD). Among patients with PFS &amp;gt; 6 months, there were 4 recurrent CRC patients: 1 patient had a PFS of ~12 months, 2 of ~18 months, and 1 is still on study after 6 years. Furthermore, there were signs that BXQ-350 may alleviate symptoms of CIPN as 4 out of 10 patients with chronic CIPN at time of enrollment experienced an improvement of their symptoms. Conclusions: Preclinical and clinical results demonstrated that BXQ-350 activates Gcase and modulates sphingolipid metabolism leading to a novel anticancer MOA that had not been clinically tested. Additional studies are ongoing to further elucidate BXQ-350’s MOA. Citation Format: Gilles H. Tapolsky, Charlie Cruze, Robin Furnish, Michael Gazda, Timothy Stephens, Lexy Stamper, Nikhil Wilkins, Ray Takigiku. BXQ-350: A novel biologic that allosterically activates glucosylcerebrosidase and demonstrates signs of activity in cancer patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 3072.