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Published on: September 12, 2016
Fluorinated apelin-13 mediates neuroprotective effects in multiple sclerosis models
Dafni Birmpili1, Imane Charmarké-Askar1, Caroline Spenlé1
1Centre national de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMRS7242, Biotechnology and Cell Signaling, Therapeutic Peptides Team, Institut du Médicament de Strasbourg (IMS), ESBS 300 Boulevard S. Brant, 67400 Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France.
A novel fluorinated apelin-13 peptide shows promise for multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment by preserving myelin and offering neuroprotection. This peptide may help manage MS by targeting neurodegeneration and inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative and autoimmune disease characterized by demyelination and axonal loss.
- Current MS treatments focus on inflammation but lack neuroprotective capabilities.
- Altered adipokine balance, specifically decreased apelin levels, is linked to MS risk and severity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neuroprotective potential of apelin in the context of MS.
- To evaluate a novel, stabilized fluorinated apelin-13 peptide as a therapeutic agent for MS.
Main Methods:
- Developed a fluorinated apelin-13 peptide with enhanced stability.
- Administered the peptide in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model.
- Assessed clinical scores, myelin preservation, and cellular functions (in vitro and ex vivo).
Main Results:
- Apelin levels are significantly downregulated in the central nervous system (CNS) of EAE mice and MS patients.
- Fluorinated apelin-13 peptide treatment ameliorated EAE clinical scores and preserved myelin.
- Apelin demonstrated neuroprotective effects and modulated microglia/macrophage function.
Conclusions:
- Apelin plays a crucial role in the CNS and its downregulation is associated with MS.
- The novel fluorinated apelin-13 peptide is a promising therapeutic candidate for MS.
- Apelin exhibits neuroprotective properties and influences immune cell function in the CNS.
