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Pharmacological induction of neuroglobin expression
Kunlin Jin1, Xiao Ou Mao, Lin Xie
1Buck Institute for Age Research, Novato, Calif 94945, USA.
Pharmacology
|January 14, 2011
Summary
Researchers identified small molecules that increase neuroglobin (Ngb) protein expression. Cinnamic acid and valproic acid show potential for developing new therapies for neurological disorders like stroke.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Neuroglobin (Ngb) is an intracellular, oxygen-binding protein found in neurons.
- Ngb exhibits protective effects against ischemia and associated pathological conditions.
- Inducing Ngb expression could offer therapeutic benefits for neurological disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify small molecules that can increase neuroglobin protein expression.
- To explore potential therapeutic agents for neurological conditions by targeting Ngb.
Main Methods:
- Western blot analysis was used to measure Ngb expression.
- Cultured HN33 cells (mouse hippocampal neuron x N18TG2 neuroblastoma) were treated with various compounds.
- Tested compounds included short-chain fatty acids, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and anticonvulsants.
Main Results:
- Deferoxamine was confirmed to enhance Ngb levels.
- Cinnamic acid and valproic acid significantly increased Ngb expression at concentrations ≥ 100 micromol/l.
- Other tested short-chain fatty acids, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and anticonvulsants did not increase Ngb expression.
Conclusions:
- Cinnamic acid and valproic acid are identified as potent inducers of neuroglobin expression.
- These findings suggest potential therapeutic applications for stroke and other neurological disorders.
- Targeting Ngb expression represents a promising strategy for neuroprotection.
