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18 pages, 4159 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Metabolomics Analysis Reveals Sterols and Sphingolipids Play a Role in Cotton Fiber Cell Initiation

by Qiaoling Wang, Qian Meng, Fan Xu, Qian Chen, Caixia Ma, Li Huang, Guiming Li and Ming Luo

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(21), 11438; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms222111438 - 23 Oct 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1878

Abstract

Cotton fiber is a seed trichome that protrudes from the outer epidermis of cotton ovule on the day of anthesis (0 day past anthesis, 0 DPA). The initial number and timing of fiber cells are closely related to fiber yield and quality. However, [...] Read more.

Cotton fiber is a seed trichome that protrudes from the outer epidermis of cotton ovule on the day of anthesis (0 day past anthesis, 0 DPA). The initial number and timing of fiber cells are closely related to fiber yield and quality. However, the mechanism underlying fiber initiation is still unclear. Here, we detected and compared the contents and compositions of sphingolipids and sterols in 0 DPA ovules of Xuzhou142 lintless-fuzzless mutants (Xufl) and Xinxiangxiaoji lintless-fuzzless mutants (Xinfl) and upland cotton wild-type Xuzhou142 (XuFL). Nine classes of sphingolipids and sixty-six sphingolipid molecular species were detected in wild-type and mutants. Compared with the wild type, the contents of Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), Sphingosine (Sph), Glucosylceramide (GluCer), and Glycosyl-inositol-phospho-ceramides (GIPC) were decreased in the mutants, while the contents of Ceramide (Cer) were increased. Detail, the contents of two Cer molecular species, d18:1/22:0 and d18:1/24:0, and two Phyto-Cer molecular species, t18:0/22:0 and t18:0/h22:1 were significantly increased, while the contents of all GluCer and GIPC molecular species were decreased. Consistent with this result, the expression levels of seven genes involved in GluCer and GIPC synthesis were decreased in the mutants. Furthermore, exogenous application of a specific inhibitor of GluCer synthase, PDMP (1-phenyl-2-decanoylamino-3-morpholino-1-propanol), in ovule culture system, significantly inhibited the initiation of cotton fiber cells. In addition, five sterols and four sterol esters were detected in wild-type and mutant ovules. Compared with the wild type, the contents of total sterol were not significantly changed. While the contents of stigmasterol and campesterol were significantly increased, the contents of cholesterol were significantly decreased, and the contents of total sterol esters were significantly increased. In particular, the contents of campesterol esters and stigmasterol esters increased significantly in the two mutants. Consistently, the expression levels of some sterol synthase genes and sterol ester synthase genes were also changed in the two mutants. These results suggested that sphingolipids and sterols might have some roles in the initiation of fiber cells. Our results provided a novel insight into the regulatory mechanism of fiber cell initiation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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17 pages, 4031 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diets with Higher ω-6/ω-3 Ratios Show Differences in Ceramides and Fatty Acid Levels Accompanied by Increased Amyloid-Beta in the Brains of Male APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice

by Lara Ordóñez-Gutiérrez, Gemma Fábrias, Josefina Casas and Francisco Wandosell

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(20), 10907; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms222010907 - 09 Oct 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1692

Abstract

Senile plaque formation as a consequence of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) aggregation constitutes one of the main hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This pathology is characterized by synaptic alterations and cognitive impairment. In order to either prevent or revert it, different therapeutic approaches have [...] Read more.

Senile plaque formation as a consequence of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) aggregation constitutes one of the main hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This pathology is characterized by synaptic alterations and cognitive impairment. In order to either prevent or revert it, different therapeutic approaches have been proposed, and some of them are focused on diet modification. Modification of the ω-6/ω-3 fatty acids (FA) ratio in diets has been proven to affect Aβ production and senile plaque formation in the hippocampus and cortex of female transgenic (TG) mice. In these diets, linoleic acid is the main contribution of ω-6 FA, whereas alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) are the contributors of ω-3 FA. In the present work, we have explored the effect of ω-6/ω-3 ratio modifications in the diets of male double-transgenic APPswe/PS1ΔE9 (AD model) and wild-type mice (WT). Amyloid burden in the hippocampus increased in parallel with the increase in dietary ω-6/ω-3 ratio in TG male mice. In addition, there was a modification in the brain lipid profile proportional to the ω-6/ω-3 ratio of the diet. In particular, the higher the ω-6/ω-3 ratio, the lower the ceramides and higher the FAs, particularly docosatetraenoic acid. Modifications to the cortex lipid profile was mostly similar between TG and WT mice, except for gangliosides (higher levels in TG mice) and some ceramide species (lower levels in TG mice). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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17 pages, 2602 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Sphingolipid Profile of Benzo[a]pyrene-Transformed Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells Are Reflected in the Altered Composition of Sphingolipids in Their Exosomes

by Miroslav Machala, Josef Slavík, Ondrej Kováč, Jiřina Procházková, Kateřina Pěnčíková, Martina Pařenicová, Nicol Straková, Jan Kotouček, Pavel Kulich, Steen Mollerup, Jan Vondráček and Martina Hýžďalová

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(17), 9195; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22179195 - 25 Aug 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1942

Abstract

Sphingolipids (SLs), glycosphingolipids (GSLs), and eicosanoids are bioactive lipids, which play important roles in the etiology of various diseases, including cancer. However, their content and roles in cancer cells, and in particular in the exosomes derived from tumor cells, remain insufficiently characterized. In [...] Read more.

Sphingolipids (SLs), glycosphingolipids (GSLs), and eicosanoids are bioactive lipids, which play important roles in the etiology of various diseases, including cancer. However, their content and roles in cancer cells, and in particular in the exosomes derived from tumor cells, remain insufficiently characterized. In this study, we evaluated alterations of SL and GSL levels in transformed cells and their exosomes, using comparative HPLC-MS/MS analysis of parental human bronchial epithelial cells HBEC-12KT and their derivative, benzo[a]pyrene-transformed HBEC-12KT-B1 cells with the acquired mesenchymal phenotype. We examined in parallel SL/GSL contents in the exosomes released from both cell lines. We found significant alterations of the SL/GSL profile in the transformed cell line, which corresponded well with alterations of the SL/GSL profile in exosomes derived from these cells. This suggested that a majority of SLs and GSLs were transported by exosomes in the same relative pattern as in the cells of origin. The only exceptions included decreased contents of sphingosin, sphingosin-1-phosphate, and lactosylceramide in exosomes derived from the transformed cells, as compared with the exosomes derived from the parental cell line. Importantly, we found increased levels of ceramide phosphate, globoside Gb3, and ganglioside GD3 in the exosomes derived from the transformed cells. These positive modulators of epithelial–mesenchymal transition and other pro-carcinogenic processes might thus also contribute to cancer progression in recipient cells. In addition, the transformed HBEC-12KT-B1 cells also produced increased amounts of eicosanoids, in particular prostaglandin E2. Taken together, the exosomes derived from the transformed cells with specifically upregulated SL and GSL species, and increased levels of eicosanoids, might contribute to changes within the cancer microenvironment and in recipient cells, which could in turn participate in cancer development. Future studies should address specific roles of individual SL and GSL species identified in the present study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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17 pages, 3146 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inhibition of Very Long Chain Fatty Acids Synthesis Mediates PI3P Homeostasis at Endosomal Compartments

by Yoko Ito, Nicolas Esnay, Louise Fougère, Matthieu Pierre Platre, Fabrice Cordelières, Yvon Jaillais and Yohann Boutté

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(16), 8450; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22168450 - 06 Aug 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1867

Abstract

A main characteristic of sphingolipids is the presence of a very long chain fatty acid (VLCFA) whose function in cellular processes is not yet fully understood. VLCFAs of sphingolipids are involved in the intracellular traffic to the vacuole and the maturation of early [...] Read more.

A main characteristic of sphingolipids is the presence of a very long chain fatty acid (VLCFA) whose function in cellular processes is not yet fully understood. VLCFAs of sphingolipids are involved in the intracellular traffic to the vacuole and the maturation of early endosomes into late endosomes is one of the major pathways for vacuolar traffic. Additionally, the anionic phospholipid phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate (PtdIns (3)P or PI3P) is involved in protein sorting and recruitment of small GTPase effectors at late endosomes/multivesicular bodies (MVBs) during vacuolar trafficking. In contrast to animal cells, PI3P mainly localizes to late endosomes in plant cells and to a minor extent to a discrete sub-domain of the plant’s early endosome (EE)/trans-Golgi network (TGN) where the endosomal maturation occurs. However, the mechanisms that control the relative levels of PI3P between TGN and MVBs are unknown. Using metazachlor, an inhibitor of VLCFA synthesis, we found that VLCFAs are involved in the TGN/MVB distribution of PI3P. This effect is independent from either synthesis of PI3P by PI3-kinase or degradation of PI(3,5)P₂ into PI3P by the SUPPRESSOR OF ACTIN1 (SAC1) phosphatase. Using high-resolution live cell imaging microscopy, we detected transient associations between TGNs and MVBs but VLCFAs are not involved in those interactions. Nonetheless, our results suggest that PI3P might be transferable from TGN to MVBs and that VLCFAs act in this process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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10 pages, 2472 KiB

Open AccessArticle

N-Palmitoyl Serinol Stimulates Ceramide Production through a CB1-Dependent Mechanism in In Vitro Model of Skin Inflammation

by Kyong-Oh Shin, Sungeun Kim, Byeong Deog Park, Yoshikazu Uchida and Kyungho Park

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(15), 8302; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22158302 - 02 Aug 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3008

Abstract

Ceramides, a class of sphingolipids containing a backbone of sphingoid base, are the most important and effective structural component for the formation of the epidermal permeability barrier. While ceramides comprise approximately 50% of the epidermal lipid content by mass, the content is substantially [...] Read more.

Ceramides, a class of sphingolipids containing a backbone of sphingoid base, are the most important and effective structural component for the formation of the epidermal permeability barrier. While ceramides comprise approximately 50% of the epidermal lipid content by mass, the content is substantially decreased in certain inflammatory skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (AD), causing improper barrier function. It is widely accepted that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) can modulate a number of biological responses in the central nerve system, prior studies revealed that activation of endocannabinoid receptor CB1, a key component of ECS, triggers the generation of ceramides that mediate neuronal cell fate. However, as the impact of ECS on the production of epidermal ceramide has not been studied, we here investigated whether the ECS stimulates the generation of epidermal ceramides in an IL-4-treated in vitro model of skin inflammation using N-palmitoyl serinol (PS), an analog of the endocannabinoid N-palmitoyl ethanolamine. Accordingly, an IL-4-mediated decrease in cellular ceramide levels was significantly stimulated in human epidermal keratinocytes (KC) following PS treatment through both de novo ceramide synthesis- and sphingomyelin hydrolysis-pathways. Importantly, PS selectively increases ceramides with long-chain fatty acids (FAs) (C22–C24), which mainly account for the formation of the epidermal barrier, through activation of ceramide synthase (CerS) 2 and Cer3 in IL-4-mediated inflamed KC. Furthermore, blockade of cannabinoid receptor CB1 activation by AM-251 failed to stimulate the production of total ceramide as well as long-chain ceramides in response to PS. These studies demonstrate that an analog of endocannabinoid, PS, stimulates the generation of specific ceramide species as well as the total amount of ceramides via the endocannabinoid receptor CB1-dependent mechanism, thereby resulting in the enhancement of epidermal permeability barrier function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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26 pages, 2683 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stereoselective Synthesis of Novel Sphingoid Bases Utilized for Exploring the Secrets of Sphinx

by Essa M. Saied and Christoph Arenz

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(15), 8171; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22158171 - 29 Jul 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2941

Abstract

Sphingolipids are ubiquitous in eukaryotic plasma membranes and play major roles in human and animal physiology and disease. This class of lipids is usually defined as being derivatives of sphingosine, a long-chain 1,3-dihydroxy-2-amino alcohol. Various pathological conditions such as diabetes or neuropathy have [...] Read more.

Sphingolipids are ubiquitous in eukaryotic plasma membranes and play major roles in human and animal physiology and disease. This class of lipids is usually defined as being derivatives of sphingosine, a long-chain 1,3-dihydroxy-2-amino alcohol. Various pathological conditions such as diabetes or neuropathy have been associated with changes in the sphingolipidome and an increased biosynthesis of structurally altered non-canonical sphingolipid derivatives. These unusual or non-canonical sphingolipids hold great promise as potential diagnostic markers. However, due to their low concentrations and the unavailability of suitable standards, the research to explore the secret of this class of ‘Sphinx’ lipids is ultimately hampered. Therefore, the development of efficient and facile syntheses of standard compounds is a key endeavor. Here, we present various chemical approaches for stereoselective synthesis and in-depth chemical characterization of a set of novel sphingoid bases which were recently utilized as valuable tools to explore the metabolism and biophysical properties of sphingolipids, but also to develop efficient analytical methods for their detection and quantification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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12 pages, 3073 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Skin Mast Cell-Driven Ceramides Drive Early Apoptosis in Pre-Symptomatic Eczema in Mice

by Piper A. Robida, Alena P. Chumanevich, Alexa Orr Gandy, John W. Fuseler, Prakash Nagarkatti, Mitzi Nagarkatti and Carole A. Oskeritzian

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(15), 7851; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22157851 - 22 Jul 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2075

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD or eczema) is the most common chronic inflammatory skin disorder worldwide. Ceramides (Cer) maintain skin barrier functions, which are disrupted in lesional skin of AD patients. However, Cer status during the pre-lesional phase of AD is not well defined. Using [...] Read more.

Atopic dermatitis (AD or eczema) is the most common chronic inflammatory skin disorder worldwide. Ceramides (Cer) maintain skin barrier functions, which are disrupted in lesional skin of AD patients. However, Cer status during the pre-lesional phase of AD is not well defined. Using a variation of human AD-like preclinical model consisting of a 7-day topical exposure to ovalbumin (OVA), or control, we observed elevation of Cer C16 and C24. Skin mRNA quantification of enzymes involved in Cer metabolism [Cer synthases (CerS) and ceramidases (Asah1/Asah2)], which revealed augmented CerS 4, 5 and 6 and Asah1. Given the overall pro-apoptotic nature of Cer, local apoptosis was assessed, then quantified using novel morphometric measurements of cleaved caspase (Casp)-3-restricted immunofluorescence signal in skin samples. Apoptosis was induced in response to OVA. Because apoptosis may occur downstream of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, we measured markers of ER stress-induced apoptosis and found elevated skin-associated CHOP protein upon OVA treatment. We previously substantiated the importance of mast cells (MC) in initiating early skin inflammation. OVA-induced Cer increase and local apoptosis were prevented in MC-deficient mice; however, they were restored following MC reconstitution. We propose that the MC/Cer axis is an essential pathogenic feature of pre-lesional AD, whose targeting may prevent disease development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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17 pages, 4454 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Short Chain Fatty Acid Acetate Increases TNFα-Induced MCP-1 Production in Monocytic Cells via ACSL1/MAPK/NF-κB Axis

by Areej Al-Roub, Nadeem Akhter, Amnah Al-Sayyar, Ajit Wilson, Reeby Thomas, Shihab Kochumon, Fatema Al-Rashed, Fahd Al-Mulla, Sardar Sindhu and Rasheed Ahmad

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(14), 7683; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22147683 - 19 Jul 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3491

Abstract

Short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) acetate, a byproduct of dietary fiber metabolism by gut bacteria, has multiple immunomodulatory functions. The anti-inflammatory role of acetate is well documented; however, its effect on monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) production is unknown. Similarly, the comparative effect of SCFA [...] Read more.

Short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) acetate, a byproduct of dietary fiber metabolism by gut bacteria, has multiple immunomodulatory functions. The anti-inflammatory role of acetate is well documented; however, its effect on monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) production is unknown. Similarly, the comparative effect of SCFA on MCP-1 expression in monocytes and macrophages remains unclear. We investigated whether acetate modulates TNFα-mediated MCP-1/CCL2 production in monocytes/macrophages and, if so, by which mechanism(s). Monocytic cells were exposed to acetate with/without TNFα for 24 h, and MCP-1 expression was measured. Monocytes treated with acetate in combination with TNFα resulted in significantly greater MCP-1 production compared to TNFα treatment alone, indicating a synergistic effect. On the contrary, treatment with acetate in combination with TNFα suppressed MCP-1 production in macrophages. The synergistic upregulation of MCP-1 was mediated through the activation of long-chain fatty acyl-CoA synthetase 1 (ACSL1). However, the inhibition of other bioactive lipid enzymes [carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT I) or serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT)] did not affect this synergy. Moreover, MCP-1 expression was significantly reduced by the inhibition of p38 MAPK, ERK1/2, and NF-κB signaling. The inhibition of ACSL1 attenuated the acetate/TNFα-mediated phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, ERK1/2, and NF-κB. Increased NF-κB/AP-1 activity, resulting from acetate/TNFα co-stimulation, was decreased by ACSL1 inhibition. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the proinflammatory effects of acetate on TNF-α-mediated MCP-1 production via the ACSL1/MAPK/NF-κB axis in monocytic cells, while a paradoxical effect was observed in THP-1-derived macrophages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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13 pages, 1255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Glucosylceramide Synthase Inhibitor PDMP Causes Lysosomal Lipid Accumulation and mTOR Inactivation

by Pia Hartwig and Doris Höglinger

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(13), 7065; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22137065 - 30 Jun 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2915

Abstract

For many years, the biology of glycosphingolipids was elucidated with the help of glucosylceramide synthase (GCS) inhibitors such as 1-phenyl-2-decanoylamino-3-morpholino-1-propanol (PDMP). Additionally, PDMP gained interest because of its chemosensitizing effects. Several studies have successfully combined PDMP and anti-cancer drugs in the context of [...] Read more.

For many years, the biology of glycosphingolipids was elucidated with the help of glucosylceramide synthase (GCS) inhibitors such as 1-phenyl-2-decanoylamino-3-morpholino-1-propanol (PDMP). Additionally, PDMP gained interest because of its chemosensitizing effects. Several studies have successfully combined PDMP and anti-cancer drugs in the context of cancer therapy. However, the mechanism of action of PDMP is not fully understood and seems to go beyond glycolipid inhibition. Here, we used a functionalized sphingosine analogue (pacSph) to investigate the acute effects of PDMP on cellular sphingolipid distribution and found that PDMP, but not other GCS inhibitors, such as ND-DNJ (also called Miglustat), induced sphingolipid accumulation in lysosomes. This effect could be connected to defective export from lysosome, as monitored by the prolonged lysosomal staining of sphingolipids as well as by a delay in the metabolic conversion of the pacSph precursor. Additionally, other lipids such as lysobisphosphatidic acid (LBPA) and cholesterol were enriched in lysosomes upon PDMP treatment in a time-dependent manner. We could further correlate early LBPA enrichment with dissociation of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) from lysosomes followed by nuclear translocation of its downtream target, transcription factor EB (TFEB). Altogether, we report here a timeline of lysosomal lipid accumulation events and mTOR inactivation arising from PDMP treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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14 pages, 1621 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extracellular Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Downstream of EGFR Increases Human Glioblastoma Cell Survival

by Rosaria Bassi, Stefania Brambilla, Cristina Tringali and Paola Giussani

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(13), 6824; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22136824 - 25 Jun 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2240

Abstract

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a crucial mediator involved in the progression of different cancers, including glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most frequent and deadly human brain tumor, characterized by extensive invasiveness and rapid cell growth. Most of GBMs overexpress the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), [...] Read more.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a crucial mediator involved in the progression of different cancers, including glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most frequent and deadly human brain tumor, characterized by extensive invasiveness and rapid cell growth. Most of GBMs overexpress the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and we investigated the possible link between S1P and EGFR signaling pathways, focusing on its role in GBM survival, using the U87MG human cell line overexpressing EGFR (EGFR+). We previously demonstrated that EGFR+ cells have higher levels of extracellular S1P and increased sphingosine kinase-1 (SK1) activity than empty vector expressing cells. Notably, we demonstrated that EGFR+ cells are resistant to temozolomide (TMZ), the standard chemotherapeutic drug in GBM treatment, and the inhibition of SK1 or S1P receptors made EGFR+ cells sensitive to TMZ; moreover, exogenous S1P reverted this effect, thus involving extracellular S1P as a survival signal in TMZ resistance in GBM cells. In addition, both PI3K/AKT and MAPK inhibitors markedly reduced cell survival, suggesting that the enhanced resistance to TMZ of EGFR+ cells is dependent on the increased S1P secretion, downstream of the EGFR-ERK-SK1-S1P pathway. Altogether, our study provides evidence of a functional link between S1P and EGFR signaling pathways enhancing the survival properties of GBM cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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17 pages, 12137 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inhibition of Ceramide Synthesis Reduces α-Synuclein Proteinopathy in a Cellular Model of Parkinson’s Disease

by Alessandra Mingione, Francesca Pivari, Nicoletta Plotegher, Michele Dei Cas, Aida Zulueta, Tommaso Bocci, Marco Trinchera, Elisabetta Albi, Vittorio Maglione, Anna Caretti, Luigi Bubacco, Rita Paroni, Daniele Bottai, Riccardo Ghidoni and Paola Signorelli

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(12), 6469; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22126469 - 16 Jun 2021

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3307

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a proteinopathy associated with the aggregation of α-synuclein and the formation of lipid–protein cellular inclusions, named Lewy bodies (LBs). LB formation results in impaired neurotransmitter release and uptake, which involve membrane traffic and require lipid synthesis and metabolism. Lipids, [...] Read more.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a proteinopathy associated with the aggregation of α-synuclein and the formation of lipid–protein cellular inclusions, named Lewy bodies (LBs). LB formation results in impaired neurotransmitter release and uptake, which involve membrane traffic and require lipid synthesis and metabolism. Lipids, particularly ceramides, are accumulated in postmortem PD brains and altered in the plasma of PD patients. Autophagy is impaired in PD, reducing the ability of neurons to clear protein aggregates, thus worsening stress conditions and inducing neuronal death. The inhibition of ceramide synthesis by myriocin (Myr) in SH-SY5Y neuronal cells treated with preformed α-synuclein fibrils reduced intracellular aggregates, favoring their sequestration into lysosomes. This was associated with TFEB activation, increased expression of TFEB and LAMP2, and the cytosolic accumulation of LC3II, indicating that Myr promotes autophagy. Myr significantly reduces the fibril-related production of inflammatory mediators and lipid peroxidation and activates NRF2, which is downregulated in PD. Finally, Myr enhances the expression of genes that control neurotransmitter transport (SNARE complex, VMAT2, and DAT), whose progressive deficiency occurs in PD neurodegeneration. The present study suggests that counteracting the accumulation of inflammatory lipids could represent a possible therapeutic strategy for PD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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13 pages, 822 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Antipsychotic Risperidone Alters Dihydroceramide and Ceramide Composition and Plasma Membrane Function in Leukocytes In Vitro and In Vivo

by Alberto Canfrán-Duque, Óscar Pastor, David García-Seisdedos, Yessenia L. Molina, Bohdan Babiy, Milagros Lerma, Carmen Sánchez-Castellano, Javier Martínez-Botas, Diego Gómez-Coronado, Miguel A. Lasunción, Alfonso J. Cruz-Jentoft and Rebeca Busto

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(8), 3919; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22083919 - 10 Apr 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2285

Abstract

Atypical or second-generation antipsychotics are used in the treatment of psychosis and behavioral problems in older persons with dementia. However, these pharmaceutical drugs are associated with an increased risk of stroke in such patients. In this study, we evaluated the effects of risperidone [...] Read more.

Atypical or second-generation antipsychotics are used in the treatment of psychosis and behavioral problems in older persons with dementia. However, these pharmaceutical drugs are associated with an increased risk of stroke in such patients. In this study, we evaluated the effects of risperidone treatment on phospholipid and sphingolipid composition and lipid raft function in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of older patients (mean age >88 years). The results showed that the levels of dihydroceramides, very-long-chain ceramides, and lysophosphatidylcholines decreased in PBMCs of the risperidone-treated group compared with untreated controls. These findings were confirmed by in vitro assays using human THP-1 monocytes. The reduction in the levels of very-long-chain ceramides and dihydroceramides could be due to the decrease in the expression of fatty acid elongase 3, as observed in THP-1 monocytes. Moreover, risperidone disrupted lipid raft domains in the plasma membrane of PBMCs. These results indicated that risperidone alters phospholipid and sphingolipid composition and lipid raft domains in PBMCs of older patients, potentially affecting multiple signaling pathways associated with these membrane domains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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11 pages, 4555 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Expression of Sphingolipid Metabolizing Enzymes in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats: A Possible Substrate for Susceptibility to Brain and Kidney Damage

by Giuseppe Pepe, Maria Cotugno, Federico Marracino, Susy Giova, Luca Capocci, Maurizio Forte, Rosita Stanzione, Franca Bianchi, Simona Marchitti, Alba Di Pardo, Sebastiano Sciarretta, Speranza Rubattu and Vittorio Maglione

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(7), 3796; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22073796 - 06 Apr 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2345

Abstract

Alterations in the metabolism of sphingolipids, a class of biologically active molecules in cell membranes with direct effect on vascular homeostasis, are increasingly recognized as important determinant in different vascular disorders. However, it is not clear whether sphingolipids are implicated in the pathogenesis [...] Read more.

Alterations in the metabolism of sphingolipids, a class of biologically active molecules in cell membranes with direct effect on vascular homeostasis, are increasingly recognized as important determinant in different vascular disorders. However, it is not clear whether sphingolipids are implicated in the pathogenesis of hypertension-related cerebrovascular and renal damage. In this study, we evaluated the existence of possible abnormalities related to the sphingolipid metabolism in the brain and kidneys of two well validated spontaneously hypertensive rat strains, the stroke-prone (SHRSP) and the stroke-resistant (SHRSR) models, as compared to the normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rat strain. Our results showed a global alteration in the metabolism of sphingolipids in both cerebral and renal tissues of both hypertensive strains as compared to the normotensive rat. However, few defects, such as reduced expression of enzymes involved in the metabolism/catabolism of sphingosine-1-phosphate and in the de novo biosynthetic pathways, were exclusively detected in the SHRSP. Although further studies are necessary to fully understand the significance of these findings, they suggest that defects in specific lipid molecules and/or their related metabolic pathways may likely contribute to the pathogenesis of hypertensive target organ damage and may eventually serve as future therapeutic targets to reduce the vascular consequences of hypertension. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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14 pages, 1915 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Silencing of Sphingosine kinase 1 Affects Maturation Pathways in Mouse Neonatal Cardiomyocytes

by Ewelina Jozefczuk, Piotr Szczepaniak, Tomasz Jan Guzik and Mateusz Siedlinski

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(7), 3616; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22073616 - 31 Mar 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2758

Abstract

Sphingosine kinase-1 (Sphk1) and its product, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) are important regulators of cardiac growth and function. Numerous studies have reported that Sphk1/S1P signaling is essential for embryonic cardiac development and promotes pathological cardiac hypertrophy in adulthood. However, no studies have addressed the role [...] Read more.

Sphingosine kinase-1 (Sphk1) and its product, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) are important regulators of cardiac growth and function. Numerous studies have reported that Sphk1/S1P signaling is essential for embryonic cardiac development and promotes pathological cardiac hypertrophy in adulthood. However, no studies have addressed the role of Sphk1 in postnatal cardiomyocyte (CM) development so far. The present study aimed to assess the molecular mechanism(s) by which Sphk1 silencing might influence CMs development and hypertrophy in vitro. Neonatal mouse CMs were transfected with siRNA against Sphk1 or negative control, and subsequently treated with 1 µM angiotensin II (AngII) or a control buffer for 24 h. The results of RNASeq analysis revealed that diminished expression of Sphk1 significantly accelerated neonatal CM maturation by inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing developmental pathways in the stress (AngII-induced) conditions. Importantly, similar effects were observed in the control conditions. Enhanced maturation of Sphk1-lacking CMs was further confirmed by the upregulation of the physiological hypertrophy-related signaling pathway involving Akt and downstream glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (Gsk3β) downregulation. In summary, we demonstrated that the Sphk1 silencing in neonatal mouse CMs facilitated their postnatal maturation in both physiological and stress conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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18 pages, 4039 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ceramide Synthase 2 Null Mice Are Protected from Ovalbumin-Induced Asthma with Higher T Cell Receptor Signal Strength in CD4+ T Cells

by Sun-Hye Shin, Kyung-Ah Cho, Hee-Soo Yoon, So-Yeon Kim, Hee-Yeon Kim, Yael Pewzner-Jung, Sung-Ae Jung, Woo-Jae Park, Anthony H. Futerman and Joo-Won Park

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(5), 2713; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22052713 - 08 Mar 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2407

Abstract

(1) Background: six mammalian ceramide synthases (CerS1–6) determine the acyl chain length of sphingolipids (SLs). Although ceramide levels are increased in murine allergic asthma models and in asthmatic patients, the precise role of SLs with specific chain lengths is still unclear. The role [...] Read more.

(1) Background: six mammalian ceramide synthases (CerS1–6) determine the acyl chain length of sphingolipids (SLs). Although ceramide levels are increased in murine allergic asthma models and in asthmatic patients, the precise role of SLs with specific chain lengths is still unclear. The role of CerS2, which mainly synthesizes C22–C24 ceramides, was investigated in immune responses elicited by airway inflammation using CerS2 null mice. (2) Methods: asthma was induced in wild type (WT) and CerS2 null mice with ovalbumin (OVA), and inflammatory cytokines and CD4 (cluster of differentiation 4)+ T helper (Th) cell profiles were analyzed. We also compared the functional capacity of CD4+ T cells isolated from WT and CerS2 null mice. (3) Results: CerS2 null mice exhibited milder symptoms and lower Th2 responses than WT mice after OVA exposure. CerS2 null CD4+ T cells showed impaired Th2 and increased Th17 responses with concomitant higher T cell receptor (TCR) signal strength after TCR stimulation. Notably, increased Th17 responses of CerS2 null CD4+ T cells appeared only in TCR-mediated, but not in TCR-independent, treatment. (4) Conclusions: altered Th2/Th17 immune response with higher TCR signal strength was observed in CerS2 null CD4+ T cells upon TCR stimulation. CerS2 and very-long chain SLs may be therapeutic targets for Th2-related diseases such as asthma. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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12 pages, 2393 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Bioassay Using a Pentadecanal Derivative to Measure S1P Lyase Activity

by Kyong-Oh Shin, Maftuna Shamshiddinova, Jung-No Lee, Kwang-Sik Lee and Yong-Moon Lee

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(3), 1438; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22031438 - 01 Feb 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1853

Abstract

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a unique lipid ligand binding to S1P receptors to transduce various cell survival or proliferation signals via small G proteins. S1P lyase (S1PL) is the specific enzyme that degrades S1P to phosphoethanolamine and (2E)-hexadecenal and therefore regulates S1P levels. S1PL [...] Read more.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a unique lipid ligand binding to S1P receptors to transduce various cell survival or proliferation signals via small G proteins. S1P lyase (S1PL) is the specific enzyme that degrades S1P to phosphoethanolamine and (2E)-hexadecenal and therefore regulates S1P levels. S1PL also degrades dihydrosphingosine-1-phosphate (Sa1P), with a higher affinity to produce hexadecanal. Here, we developed a newly designed assay using a C17-Sa1P substrate that degrades into pentadecanal and phosphoethanolamine. For higher sensitivity in pentadecanal analysis, we developed a quantitative protocol as well as a 5,5-dimethyl cyclohexanedione (5,5-dimethyl CHD) derivatization method. The derivatization conditions were optimized for the reaction time, temperature, and concentrations of the 5,5-dimethyl CHD reagent, acetic acid, and ammonium acetate. The S1PL reaction in the cell lysate after spiking 20 µM of C17-Sa1P for 20 min was linear to the total protein concentrations of 50 µg. The S1PL levels (4 pmol/mg/min) were readily detected in this HPLC with fluorescence detection (λex = 366 nm, λem = 455 nm). The S1PL-catalyzed reaction was linear over 30 min and yielded a K_m value of 2.68 μM for C17-Sa1P. This new method was validated to measure the S1PL activity of mouse embryonal carcinoma cell lines of the standard cell (F9-0), S1PL knockdown cells (F9-2), and S1PL-overexpressed cells (F9-4). Furthermore, we treated F9-4 cells with different S1PL inhibitors such as FTY720, 4-deoxypyridoxine (DOP), and the deletion of pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P5P), an essential cofactor for S1PL activity, and observed a significant decrease in pentadecanal relative to the untreated cells. In conclusion, we developed a highly sensitive S1PL assay using a C17-Sa1P substrate for pentadecanal quantification for application in the characterization of S1PL activity in vitro. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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16 pages, 2722 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Selective Sphingosine Kinase 2 Inhibitor, HWG-35D, Ameliorates the Severity of Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis Model by Blocking Th17 Differentiation of Naïve CD4 T Lymphocytes

by Sun-Hye Shin, Hee-Yeon Kim, Hee-Soo Yoon, Woo-Jae Park, David R. Adams, Nigel J. Pyne, Susan Pyne and Joo-Won Park

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(21), 8371; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21218371 - 08 Nov 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2214

Abstract

Sphingosine kinases (SK) catalyze the phosphorylation of sphingosine to generate sphingosine-1-phosphate. Two isoforms of SK (SK1 and SK2) exist in mammals. Previously, we showed the beneficial effects of SK2 inhibition, using ABC294640, in a psoriasis mouse model. However, ABC294640 also induces the degradation [...] Read more.

Sphingosine kinases (SK) catalyze the phosphorylation of sphingosine to generate sphingosine-1-phosphate. Two isoforms of SK (SK1 and SK2) exist in mammals. Previously, we showed the beneficial effects of SK2 inhibition, using ABC294640, in a psoriasis mouse model. However, ABC294640 also induces the degradation of SK1 and dihydroceramide desaturase 1 (DES1). Considering these additional effects of ABC294640, we re-examined the efficacy of SK2 inhibition in an IMQ-induced psoriasis mouse model using a novel SK2 inhibitor, HWG-35D, which exhibits nM potency and 100-fold selectivity for SK2 over SK1. Topical application of HWG-35D ameliorated IMQ-induced skin lesions and normalized the serum interleukin-17A levels elevated by IMQ. Application of HWG-35D also decreased skin mRNA levels of interleukin-17A, K6 and K16 genes induced by IMQ. Consistent with the previous data using ABC294640, HWG-35D also blocked T helper type 17 differentiation of naïve CD4⁺ T cells with concomitant reduction of SOCS1. Importantly, HWG-35D did not affect SK1 or DES1 expression levels. These results reaffirm an important role of SK2 in the T helper type 17 response and suggest that highly selective and potent SK2 inhibitors such as HWG-35D might be of therapeutic use for the treatment of psoriasis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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Review

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16 pages, 1204 KiB

Open AccessReview

Novelty of Sphingolipids in the Central Nervous System Physiology and Disease: Focusing on the Sphingolipid Hypothesis of Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration

by Maria Ayub, Hee-Kyung Jin and Jae-sung Bae

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(14), 7353; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22147353 - 08 Jul 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3910

Abstract

For decades, lipids were confined to the field of structural biology and energetics as they were considered only structural constituents of cellular membranes and efficient sources of energy production. However, with advances in our understanding in lipidomics and improvements in the technological approaches, [...] Read more.

For decades, lipids were confined to the field of structural biology and energetics as they were considered only structural constituents of cellular membranes and efficient sources of energy production. However, with advances in our understanding in lipidomics and improvements in the technological approaches, astounding discoveries have been made in exploring the role of lipids as signaling molecules, termed bioactive lipids. Among these bioactive lipids, sphingolipids have emerged as distinctive mediators of various cellular processes, ranging from cell growth and proliferation to cellular apoptosis, executing immune responses to regulating inflammation. Recent studies have made it clear that sphingolipids, their metabolic intermediates (ceramide, sphingosine-1-phosphate, and N-acetyl sphingosine), and enzyme systems (cyclooxygenases, sphingosine kinases, and sphingomyelinase) harbor diverse yet interconnected signaling pathways in the central nervous system (CNS), orchestrate CNS physiological processes, and participate in a plethora of neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders. Considering the unequivocal importance of sphingolipids in CNS, we review the recent discoveries detailing the major enzymes involved in sphingolipid metabolism (particularly sphingosine kinase 1), novel metabolic intermediates (N-acetyl sphingosine), and their complex interactions in CNS physiology, disruption of their functionality in neurodegenerative disorders, and therapeutic strategies targeting sphingolipids for improved drug approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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18 pages, 683 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dietary Sphingolipids Contribute to Health via Intestinal Maintenance

by Shinji Yamashita, Mikio Kinoshita and Teruo Miyazawa

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(13), 7052; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22137052 - 30 Jun 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3277

Abstract

As sphingolipids are constituents of the cell and vacuole membranes of eukaryotic cells, they are a critical component acquired from our daily diets. In the present review, we highlight the knowledge regarding how dietary sphingolipids affect our health, particularly our intestinal health. Animal- [...] Read more.

As sphingolipids are constituents of the cell and vacuole membranes of eukaryotic cells, they are a critical component acquired from our daily diets. In the present review, we highlight the knowledge regarding how dietary sphingolipids affect our health, particularly our intestinal health. Animal- and plant-derived foods contain, respectively, sphingomyelin (SM) and glucosylceramide (GlcCer) as their representative sphingolipids, and the sphingoid base as a specific structure of sphingolipids also differs depending upon the source and class. For example, sphingosine is predominant among animal sphingolipids, and tri-hydroxy bases are present in free ceramide (Cer) from plants and fungi. Dietary sphingolipids exhibit low absorption ratios; however, they possess various functions. GlcCer facilitates improvements in intestinal impairments, lipid metabolisms, and skin disorders, and SM can exert both similar and different effects compared to those elicited by GlcCer. We discuss the digestion, absorption, metabolism, and function of sphingolipids while focused on the structure. Additionally, we also review old and new classes in the context of current advancements in analytical instruments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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37 pages, 2844 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Comprehensive Review: Sphingolipid Metabolism and Implications of Disruption in Sphingolipid Homeostasis

by Brianna M. Quinville, Natalie M. Deschenes, Alex E. Ryckman and Jagdeep S. Walia

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(11), 5793; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22115793 - 28 May 2021

Cited by 96 | Viewed by 12663

Abstract

Sphingolipids are a specialized group of lipids essential to the composition of the plasma membrane of many cell types; however, they are primarily localized within the nervous system. The amphipathic properties of sphingolipids enable their participation in a variety of intricate metabolic pathways. [...] Read more.

Sphingolipids are a specialized group of lipids essential to the composition of the plasma membrane of many cell types; however, they are primarily localized within the nervous system. The amphipathic properties of sphingolipids enable their participation in a variety of intricate metabolic pathways. Sphingoid bases are the building blocks for all sphingolipid derivatives, comprising a complex class of lipids. The biosynthesis and catabolism of these lipids play an integral role in small- and large-scale body functions, including participation in membrane domains and signalling; cell proliferation, death, migration, and invasiveness; inflammation; and central nervous system development. Recently, sphingolipids have become the focus of several fields of research in the medical and biological sciences, as these bioactive lipids have been identified as potent signalling and messenger molecules. Sphingolipids are now being exploited as therapeutic targets for several pathologies. Here we present a comprehensive review of the structure and metabolism of sphingolipids and their many functional roles within the cell. In addition, we highlight the role of sphingolipids in several pathologies, including inflammatory disease, cystic fibrosis, cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, and lysosomal storage disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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40 pages, 3538 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Fatty Acids in Ceramide Pathways and Their Influence on Hypothalamic Regulation of Energy Balance: A Systematic Review

by Andressa Reginato, Alana Carolina Costa Veras, Mayara da Nóbrega Baqueiro, Carolina Panzarin, Beatriz Piatezzi Siqueira, Marciane Milanski, Patrícia Cristina Lisboa and Adriana Souza Torsoni

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(10), 5357; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22105357 - 19 May 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4202

Abstract

Obesity is a global health issue for which no major effective treatments have been well established. High-fat diet consumption is closely related to the development of obesity because it negatively modulates the hypothalamic control of food intake due to metaflammation and lipotoxicity. The [...] Read more.

Obesity is a global health issue for which no major effective treatments have been well established. High-fat diet consumption is closely related to the development of obesity because it negatively modulates the hypothalamic control of food intake due to metaflammation and lipotoxicity. The use of animal models, such as rodents, in conjunction with in vitro models of hypothalamic cells, can enhance the understanding of hypothalamic functions related to the control of energy balance, thereby providing knowledge about the impact of diet on the hypothalamus, in addition to targets for the development of new drugs that can be used in humans to decrease body weight. Recently, sphingolipids were described as having a lipotoxic effect in peripheral tissues and the central nervous system. Specifically, lipid overload, mainly from long-chain saturated fatty acids, such as palmitate, leads to excessive ceramide levels that can be sensed by the hypothalamus, triggering the dysregulation of energy balance control. However, no systematic review has been undertaken regarding studies of sphingolipids, particularly ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), the hypothalamus, and obesity. This review confirms that ceramides are associated with hypothalamic dysfunction in response to metaflammation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and lipotoxicity, leading to insulin/leptin resistance. However, in contrast to ceramide, S1P appears to be a central satiety factor in the hypothalamus. Thus, our work describes current evidence related to sphingolipids and their role in hypothalamic energy balance control. Hypothetically, the manipulation of sphingolipid levels could be useful in enabling clinicians to treat obesity, particularly by decreasing ceramide levels and the inflammation/endoplasmic reticulum stress induced in response to overfeeding with saturated fatty acids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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15 pages, 1359 KiB

Open AccessReview

Gangliosides as Signaling Regulators in Cancer

by Norihiko Sasaki, Masashi Toyoda and Toshiyuki Ishiwata

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(10), 5076; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22105076 - 11 May 2021

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 4304

Abstract

At the plasma membrane, gangliosides, a group of glycosphingolipids, are expressed along with glycosphingolipids, phospholipids, and cholesterol in so-called lipid rafts that interact with signaling receptors and related molecules. Most cancers present abnormalities in the intracellular signal transduction system involved in tumor growth, [...] Read more.

At the plasma membrane, gangliosides, a group of glycosphingolipids, are expressed along with glycosphingolipids, phospholipids, and cholesterol in so-called lipid rafts that interact with signaling receptors and related molecules. Most cancers present abnormalities in the intracellular signal transduction system involved in tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. To date, the roles of gangliosides as regulators of signal transduction have been reported in several cancer types. Gangliosides can be expressed by the exogenous ganglioside addition, with their endogenous expression regulated at the enzymatic level by targeting specific glycosyltransferases. Accordingly, the relationship between changes in the composition of cell surface gangliosides and signal transduction has been investigated by controlling ganglioside expression. In cancer cells, several types of signaling molecules are positively or negatively regulated by ganglioside expression levels, promoting malignant properties. Moreover, antibodies against gangliosides have been shown to possess cytotoxic effects on ganglioside-expressing cancer cells. In the present review, we highlight the involvement of gangliosides in the regulation of cancer cell signaling, and we explore possible therapies targeting ganglioside-expressing cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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16 pages, 1029 KiB

Open AccessReview

Application of the Antibody-Inducing Activity of Glycosphingolipids to Human Diseases

by Tetsuya Okuda

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(7), 3776; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22073776 - 06 Apr 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2803

Abstract

Glycosphingolipids (GSLs) are composed of a mono-, di-, or oligosaccharide and a ceramide and function as constituents of cell membranes. Various molecular species of GSLs have been identified in mammalian cells due to differences in the structures of oligosaccharides. The oligosaccharide structure can [...] Read more.

Glycosphingolipids (GSLs) are composed of a mono-, di-, or oligosaccharide and a ceramide and function as constituents of cell membranes. Various molecular species of GSLs have been identified in mammalian cells due to differences in the structures of oligosaccharides. The oligosaccharide structure can vary depending on cell lineage, differentiation stage, and pathology; this property can be used as a cell identification marker. Furthermore, GSLs are involved in various aspects of the immune response, such as cytokine production, immune signaling, migration of immune cells, and antibody production. GSLs containing certain structures exhibit strong immunogenicity in immunized animals and promote the production of anti-GSL antibodies. By exploiting this property, it is possible to generate antibodies that recognize the fine oligosaccharide structure of specific GSLs or glycoproteins. In our study using artificially synthesized GSLs (artGSLs), we found that several structural features are correlated with the antibody-inducing activity of GSLs. Based on these findings, we designed artGSLs that efficiently induce the production of antibodies accompanied by class switching and developed several antibodies that recognize not only certain glycan structures of GSLs but also those of glycoproteins. This review comprehensively introduces the immune activities of GSLs and their application as pharmaceuticals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Diseases)

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