Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Charles Kennedy
Summary: Extracellular purine and pyrimidine nucleotides produce pharmacological effects through P2 receptors, which are divided into P2X and P2Y families based on pharmacological criteria. Progress in cloning and high resolution imaging has provided insights into how agonists and antagonists bind to receptors, leading to changes in receptor conformation and activity. This has led to the development of subtype-selective agonists and antagonists, some of which are now in clinical use, showcasing the foresight and drive of Geoff Burnstock in advancing the field.
BIOCHEMICAL PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Shanu Jain, Kenneth A. Jacobson
Summary: Purinergic signaling, originally proposed by Geoffrey Burnstock, plays a crucial role in modulating pathways in various physiological systems. Adenosine receptors and P2 nucleotide receptors are involved in metabolic disorders, affecting specific cell types like adipocytes, skeletal muscle, liver cells, and immune cells. Selective ligands for adenosine and P2 receptors may have therapeutic potential for diabetes and obesity, but conflicting conclusions exist in drug discovery related to this topic.
BIOCHEMICAL PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Claudia Pommerenke, Ulfert Rand, Cord C. Uphoff, Stefan Nagel, Margarete Zaborski, Vivien Hauer, Maren Kaufmann, Corinna Meyer, Sabine A. Denkmann, Peggy Riese, Kathrin Eschke, Yeonsu Kim, Zeljka Macak Safranko, Ivan-Christian Kurolt, Alemka Markotic, Luka Cicin-Sain, Laura Steenpass
Summary: This study aims to identify suitable cancer cell lines for drug screening and virus research by screening ACE2 and TMPRSS2 genes in cancer cell lines; however, limited correlation between receptor expression and cell permissiveness was found in experimental results; in terms of viral infection, cell permissiveness is not only influenced by the presence of entry receptors but also by factors such as cellular resources, intrinsic immunity, and apoptosis.
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Alexei Verkhratsky
Summary: Purines and pyrimidines are essential molecules for genetic code and bioenergetics. Through evolution, purines have been associated with damage-related extracellular signaling, while plants have developed a sophisticated purinergic signaling system. In vertebrates, the purinergic signaling system operates universally without anatomical or functional segregation.
BIOCHEMICAL PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Neurosciences
Marta S. Sousa, Joao L. Alves, Johnattan C. S. Freitas, Joao N. Miraldo, Fernando D. S. Sampaio dos Aidos, Rosa M. Santos, Luis M. Rosario, Rosa M. Quinta-Ferreira, M. Emilia Quinta-Ferreira, Carlos M. Matias
Summary: Zinc is abundant in the mossy fibers of the hippocampal CA3 area and its role in synaptic mechanisms is still not fully understood. Computational models have been used to study the dynamics of zinc at the mossy fiber synaptic cleft. The models were extended to include postsynaptic zinc effluxes and the results showed that the main escape routes for cleft zinc are L-type calcium channels, NMDA receptor channels, and N-type calcium channels.
Review
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Ji-peng Liu, Si-cheng Liu, Shi-qi Hu, Jia-feng Lu, Chang-lei Wu, Dong-xia Hu, Wen-jun Zhang
Summary: Multiple studies have shown that P2X purinergic receptors play a crucial role in inflammation. These receptors, when activated, release inflammatory cytokines and contribute to the progression of inflammatory diseases. In an inflammatory microenvironment, cells release ATP to activate P2X receptors, leading to the activation of various intracellular signaling pathways and the release of multiple inflammatory cytokines, thereby amplifying the inflammatory response. P2X4 and P2X7 receptors are especially important in the process of inflammation, mediating the activation of microglia and different inflammatory cells, respectively, and contributing to tissue-wide inflammation. This paper discusses the role of P2X receptors in mediating inflammation and describes the effects of various antagonists on inflammation relief by targeting P2X receptors.
BIOMEDICINE & PHARMACOTHERAPY
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Wen Juan Tu, Michelle Melino, Jenny Dunn, Robert D. McCuaig, Helle Bielefeldt-Ohmann, Sofiya Tsimbalyuk, Jade K. Forwood, Taniya Ahuja, John Vandermeide, Xiao Tan, Minh Tran, Quan Nguyen, Liang Zhang, Andy Nam, Liuliu Pan, Yan Liang, Corey Smith, Katie Lineburg, Tam H. H. Nguyen, Julian D. J. Sng, Zhen Wei Marcus Tong, Keng Yih Chew, Kirsty R. R. Short, Roger Le Grand, Nabila Seddiki, Sudha Rao
Summary: In vitro, ACE2 can induce SARS-CoV-2 replication by translocating to the nucleus. However, a peptide inhibitor called NACE2i can inhibit viral replication, reduce inflammation and macrophage infiltration, and increase NK cell infiltration in lung tissues from infected Syrian hamsters. NACE2i treatment also leads to ACE2 methylation, decreased viral reservoir, and enhanced immune protection against SARS-CoV-2.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Jasmin Ballout, Rebecca Classen, Katrin Richter, Veronika Grau, Martin Diener
Summary: This study found that ionotropic P2X receptors are involved in the regulation of intestinal ion transport in rat colonic epithelia.
BRITISH JOURNAL OF PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Srdjan M. M. Vlajkovic, Peter R. R. Thorne
Summary: The mammalian cochlea, as the sensory organ for hearing, is regulated by ATP release and adenosine signaling, triggering various physiological responses and playing important roles in cochlear development, homeostasis, and sensory transduction. Understanding these mechanisms may provide therapeutic strategies for cochlear rescue and prevention of hearing loss.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Supaporn Kulthinee, Adis Tasanarong, Martha Franco, Luis Gabriel Navar
Summary: In angiotensin II (Ang II)-dependent hypertension, both angiotensin II type 1 receptors (AT1R) and purinergic P2X receptors (P2XR) are involved in maintaining renal vasoconstriction. The interaction between AT1R and P2XR activation is regulated by the release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). P2XR exerts a dominant influence that can abrogate the actions of AT1R on renal afferent arterioles in Ang II-dependent hypertension. This finding has important clinical implications for the treatment of kidney function impairment.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sahithi J. Kuravi, Niaz S. Ahmed, Kirk A. Taylor, Emily M. Capes, Alex Bye, Amanda J. Unsworth, Jonathan M. Gibbins, Nicholas Pugh
Summary: Zinc ions are released by platelets and can activate platelets. The mechanisms of zinc influx and platelet activation were investigated using fluorescence and flow cytometry. The results showed that blocking the sodium/calcium exchange, TRP channels, and ZIP7 can inhibit zinc influx and platelet activation. These mechanisms may affect thrombosis and hemostasis.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Cell Biology
Barbora Salcman, Karen Affleck, Silvia Bulfone-Paus
Summary: Localisation of mast cells at the abluminal side of blood vessels in the brain promotes their interaction with other brain cells, leading to the release of inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, activation of P2X receptors in mast cells and glial cells plays a crucial role in regulating neuroinflammation.
Article
Biochemical Research Methods
Jim Warwicker
Summary: This study explored the stability of spike proteins from SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses under different conditions, identifying key residues that may affect their pH-dependence. These findings provide new insights into the infection mechanism and mutations of SARS-CoV-2.
BRIEFINGS IN BIOINFORMATICS
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jarrod Shilts, Thomas W. M. Crozier, Ana M. Teixeira-Silva, Ildar M. Gabaev, Pehuen Pereyra Gerber, Edward J. D. Greenwood, Samuel James A. Watson, Brian M. Ortmann, Christian M. J. Gawden-Bone, Tekle J. Pauzaite, Markus J. Hoffmann, James A. Nathan, Stefan Pohlmann, Nicholas J. Matheson, Paul J. Lehner, Gavin J. Wright
Summary: In addition to ACE2, LRRC15 has been identified as a protein that interacts with the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. The expression of LRRC15 is common in human lung vasculature cells and fibroblasts. Inflammatory signals greatly increase the levels of LRRC15 in the lungs of COVID-19 patients. Although LRRC15 alone is not sufficient for viral entry, it may modulate infection of human cells. Further investigation is needed to understand how SARS-CoV-2 exploits host LRRC15 and its role in COVID-19.
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Yuemei Wang, Yuanbing Zhu, Junmeng Wang, Longcong Dong, Shuqing Liu, Sihui Li, Qiaofeng Wu
Summary: This review summarizes the evidence that purinergic signaling plays a role in regulating blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Various cell types, including endothelial cells, pericytes, neurons, astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes, contribute to maintaining the integrity of the BBB. Purinergic receptors such as P2Y and A receptors, as well as nucleotidases, are expressed on BBB cells and affect BBB permeability. Selective antagonists of P2Y receptors attenuate BBB damage, while agonists of A receptors protect BBB integrity. Modulating purinergic signaling could be a potential strategy for delivering therapeutic drugs to the central nervous system and restoring CNS homeostasis.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Magdalena Bachmann, Andrea Rossa, Giuseppe Antoniazzi, Lucia Biasutto, Andrea Carrer, Monica Campagnaro, Luigi Leanza, Monika Gonczi, Laszlo Csernoch, Cristina Paradisi, Andrea Mattarei, Mario Zoratti, Ildiko Szabo
Summary: The mitochondrial localization of the TASK-3 potassium channel plays a crucial role in promoting survival and migration of melanoma cells. Inhibition of mitoTASK-3 leads to cell death and impaired mitochondrial function, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for cancer treatment.
PHARMACOLOGICAL RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Physiology
Colline Sanchez, Christine Berthier, Yves Tourneur, Laloe Monteiro, Bruno Allard, Laszlo Csernoch, Vincent Jacquemond
Summary: The study utilized a Ca2+-sensitive probe targeted to the junctional SR membrane of intact muscle fibers to investigate the functional properties of RYR-mediated SR Ca2+ release. Results showed spatial gradients of Ca2+ release and remarkable synchronicity of voltage-dependent Ca2+ release activation among individual triads, highlighting the potential of the approach to visualize activation or closure of single groups of RYR channels.
JOURNAL OF GENERAL PHYSIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Zoltan Singlar, Peter Szentesi, Janos Fodor, Agnes Angyal, Laszlo Csernoch, Monika Sztretye
Summary: This study investigated the effects of nutraceutical supplementation in aging mice and found that AX diet limited weight gain without muscle tissue mass decline, while both AX and krill oil supplementation increased force production without affecting calcium homeostasis. Additionally, krill oil supplementation improved spatial memory and learning ability in aging mice, suggesting that antioxidant nutraceuticals can be beneficial for cognition and healthy aging.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Monika Goenczi, Andrea Csemer, Laszlo Szabo, Monika Sztretye, Janos Fodor, Krisztina Pocsai, Kalman Szenthe, Aniko Keller-Pinter, Zoltan Marton Koehler, Peter Nanasi, Norbert Szentandrassy, Balazs Pal, Laszlo Csernoch
Summary: Astaxanthin, a lipid-soluble carotenoid, has significant effects on lipid metabolism, body weight, and insulin sensitivity. It increases food intake, affects protein levels and metabolism, and strengthens inhibitory inputs in neuronal populations. Both acute and chronic treatment with Astaxanthin can reduce cardiac action potentials and fatty acid biosynthesis.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Cell Biology
Zsuzsanna Gaal, Janos Fodor, Attila Olah, Tamas Radovits, Bela Merkely, Janos Magyar, Laszlo Csernoch
Summary: Studies on the changes in microRNA expression in skeletal muscle after chronic swim training suggest that these changes contribute to an improved metabolic profile in skeletal muscle, which may have a positive impact on the prevention of chronic civilization diseases.
JOURNAL OF MUSCLE RESEARCH AND CELL MOTILITY
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Zsolt Raduly, Robert G. Price, Mark E. C. Dockrell, Laszlo Csernoch, Istvan Pocsi
Summary: The global spread of mycotoxigenic fungal species has increased the risk of mycotoxin contamination in animal feed and human food chain, posing a threat to public health. While some biomarkers are currently used to assess kidney injuries, more sensitive markers are needed to identify potential nephrotoxicity in populations exposed to mycotoxins.
Article
Cell Biology
Zsofia Budai, Nour Al-Zaeed, Peter Szentesi, Hajnalka Halasz, Laszlo Csernoch, Zsuzsa Szondy, Zsolt Sarang
Summary: Skeletal muscle regeneration is triggered by local inflammation and phagocytosis of dead cells, with transglutaminase 2 (TG2) playing a crucial role in the process. Loss of TG2 results in the generation of small size myofibers, decreased grip force, delayed myoblast fusion, and smaller regenerating fibers in mice following injury. Proper efferocytosis and transition of macrophages to GDF3-expressing cells are essential for muscle development and regeneration.
Article
Cell Biology
Attila Bacsi, Andras Penyige, Gergely Becs, Szilvia Benko, Elek Gergo Kovacs, Csaba Jenei, Istvan Pocsi, Jozsef Balla, Laszlo Csernoch, Ildiko Balatoni
Summary: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of endurance exercise on young females. The results showed that endurance exercise caused a significant increase in the percentage of neutrophils and a significant reduction in the ratio of lymphocytes immediately after exercise. Furthermore, it induced gene expression pattern changes in the blood transcriptome, with upregulation of genes involved in immune processes and neutrophil granulocyte activation, and downregulation of genes important in translation and rRNA metabolism. Comparison of immune cell gene signatures and transcriptomic data identified overlapping genes related to T-cell functions, podosome formation, and adhesion to the vessel wall.
PHYSIOLOGICAL GENOMICS
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Zsolt Kohus, Marton Demeter, Laszlo Kun, Eszter Lukacs, Katalin Czako, Gyula Peter Szigeti
Summary: This article proposes an approach to analyze the differences in the JIF quartile share of research articles among European universities in medical science, as well as how the byline positions of affiliated and non-affiliated authors can influence an article’s scientific impact. The study examines the research output of top European universities and identifies that the proportion of Q1 papers is higher for higher-ranked universities. Additionally, the presence of non-affiliated authors in specific byline positions positively affects the Category Normalized Citation Impact and correlates with the university’s ranking.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Zoltan Singlar, Nyamkhuu Ganbat, Peter Szentesi, Nomin Osgonsandag, Laszlo Szabo, Andrea Telek, Janos Fodor, Beatrix Dienes, Monika Gonczi, Laszlo Csernoch, Monika Sztretye
Summary: The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays an important role in human diseases, and the relationship between cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) and intracellular calcium signaling in muscle cells is still not well understood. Through a skeletal muscle-specific conditional CB1 knock-down mouse model, the study found that down-regulation of CB1R affects muscle strength and mitochondrial network structure, indicating the important role of CB1R in maintaining muscle function and morphology.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Neurosciences
Peter Szentesi, Beatrix Dienes, Candice Kutchukian, Tamas Czirjak, Ana Buj-Bello, Vincent Jacquemond, Laszlo Csernoch
Summary: The study demonstrates that the alteration of the plasma membrane invagination network in MTM1 deficiency is sufficient to explain the dysfunctions of excitation-contraction coupling, providing an integrated quantitative framework for understanding the associated contraction failure.
JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY-LONDON
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Monika Sztretye, Zoltan Singlar, Nyamkhuu Ganbat, Dana Al-Gaadi, Kitti Szabo, Zoltan Marton Kohler, Laszlo Dux, Aniko Keller-Pinter, Laszlo Csernoch, Peter Szentesi
Summary: The remodelling of the extracellular matrix plays a crucial role in skeletal muscle development and regeneration. The decreased expression of Syndecan-4 leads to reduced muscle performance and altered calcium homeostasis in mice. These effects are observed at both young and aged stages.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Beatrix Dienes, Tamas Bazso, Laszlo Szabo, Laszlo Csernoch
Summary: Since the discovery of Piezo1 channels, studies have investigated their role in various physiological and pathological processes in different organs. However, our understanding of their effects on the musculoskeletal system is still limited. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding their impact on skeletal muscles, bones, joints and cartilage, tendons and ligaments, and intervertebral discs.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Health Care Sciences & Services
Ildiko Balatoni, Henrietta Varga Szepne, Timea Kiss, Umar Gambo Adamu, Adam Michal Szulc, Laszlo Csernoch
Summary: The workers of the health sector are crucial for the country's economy. A survey conducted in a large healthcare institution in Hungary showed that female workers reported less leisure time, with a majority not exercising regularly and experiencing more fatigue. However, their responses regarding sports participation and reasons for not participating were similar to the overall population. To maintain the health of healthcare workers, it is important for employers to implement programs that prevent burnout and promote healthy lifestyles.
Article
Information Science & Library Science
Zsolt Kohus, Marton Demeter, Gyula Peter Szigeti, Laszlo Kun, Eszter Lukacs, Katalin Czako
Summary: Researchers and research facilities use various strategies to increase scientific production and quality. International collaboration has a higher scientific impact on research publications, and the affiliation of corresponding authors' country also influences scientific impact.
Article
Physiology
Alyssa R. Mickle, Jesus D. Penaloza-Aponte, Richard Coffey, Natale A. Hall, David Baekey, Erica A. Dale
Summary: Closed-loop epidural stimulation (CL-ES) can improve respiratory deficits caused by cervical spinal cord injury, restoring diaphragm activity and enhancing contralateral activity. This treatment has the potential to lead to lasting recovery and device independence.
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Physiology
Shawn Miller Jr, Edgar Juarez Lopez, Jessica M. L. Grittner, Brendan J. Dougherty
Summary: This study tested the impact of CO2 supplementation at different concentrations on ventilatory long-term facilitation (vLTF) in rats and found that 2% CO2 supplementation during and after acute, intermittent hypoxia (AIH) was sufficient to maintain isocapnia and induce significant vLTF.
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Physiology
Behnam Vafadari, Yoshitaka Oku, Charlotte Tacke, Ali Harb, Swen Huelsmann
Summary: The preBo·tzinger Complex (preBo·tC) in the brainstem plays a critical role in generating respiratory rhythm. This study aimed to investigate the activity of inhibitory glycinergic neurons in the preBo·tC of anesthetized mice. Using juxtacellular recordings and optogenetic activation, the researchers were able to identify and characterize the activity pattern of these inhibitory neurons in relation to the breathing rhythm.
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Physiology
Stephen M. Johnson, Maia G. Gumnit, Sarah M. Johnson, Tracy L. Baker, Jyoti J. Watters
Summary: Low-level activation of mu-opioid receptors can increase the amplitude of inspiratory bursts in neonatal rat brainstem-spinal cord preparations. Endomorphin-2, an endogenous ligand for these receptors, was found to have similar effects. Disinhibition of inhibitory synaptic transmission may not be involved in the changes induced by endomorphin-2, and different mechanisms may underlie the increase in burst amplitude and decrease in burst frequency.
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Physiology
Raphael Martins de Abreu, Beatrice Cairo, Patricia Rehder-Santos, Claudio Donisete da Silva, Etore De Favari Signini, Juliana Cristina Milan-Mattos, Camila Akemi Sakaguchi, Aparecida Maria Catai, Alberto Porta
Summary: The purpose of this study was to determine the association between exercise capacity based on peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and resting cardiorespiratory coupling (CRC) levels. The results showed that resting CRC values were associated with exercise capacity in athletes but not in non-athletes.
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Physiology
Sarah M. Russel, Raluca E. Gosman, Katherine Gonzalez, Joshua Wright, Dennis O. Frank-Ito
Summary: This study aimed to characterize the response of different nasal morphologies to airflow-related variables during rapid/deep inspiration. The results showed that notched nasal vestibules had higher resistance values and airflow velocities, while standard nasal vestibules had higher mucosal heat flux. Different nasal phenotypes may predispose individuals to exercise-induced rhinitis.
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Physiology
Ivan Poliacek, Lukas Martvon, Michal Simera, Marcel Veternik, Jakub Misek, Lucia Cibulkova, Kimberly E. Iceman, Donald C. Bolser, Teresa Pitts
Summary: An animal model study evaluated the effects of an abdominal incision on cough and swallow, revealing that abdominal wall manipulations can increase pharyngeal muscle activity during swallow without affecting the cough reflex. Swallowing tended to occur more during the inspiratory phase. The results highlight the important role of abdominal wall sensory feedback in regulating swallow motor patterns.
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Physiology
Rui Yu, Tatsuma Okazaki, Yuzhuo Ren, Junko Okuyama, Satoru Ebihara, Shin-Ichi Izumi
Summary: Body postures significantly influence respiratory muscle force, cough pressure, subjective ease of coughing, and pulmonary function. The 60-degree semi-recumbent posture and sitting posture show better results compared to the supine posture.
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Physiology
Suzuna Sato, Koji Ishida, Noriko I. Tanaka, Keisho Katayama
Summary: Respiratory muscle endurance training has beneficial effects on whole-body endurance performance. A novel high-intensity interval (HII) protocol is found to enhance the efficacy of respiratory muscle training programs.
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Letter
Physiology
R. Arieli
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Correction
Physiology
Ivan Poliacek, Michal Simera, Marcel Veternik, Zuzana Kotmanova, Teresa Pitts, Jan Hanacek, Jana Plevkova, Peter Machac, Nadezda Visnovcova, Jakub Misek, Jan Jakus
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Physiology
Dimitrios I. Bourdas, Nickos D. Geladas
Summary: This study examined the effects of breath-hold training on the performance of novice and elite breath-hold divers. The results showed that breath-hold training significantly improved red blood cell concentration, hemoglobin oxygen saturation steady state duration, and breath-hold time in novice divers. Elite divers had better breath-hold performance and higher peak mean arterial pressure compared to novices. The study suggests that breath-hold training can enhance the performance of divers.
RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY & NEUROBIOLOGY
(2024)
