Ubiquitin-proteasome system and proteasome inhibition: New strategies in stroke therapy

Cezary Wojcik, Mario Di Napoli

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

124 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background and Purpose - Proteasomes are large multicatalytic proteinase complexes that are found in the cytosol and in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells with a central role in cellular protein turnover. The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) has a central role in the selective degradation of intracellular proteins. Among the key proteins whose levels are modulated by the proteasome are those involved in the control of inflammatory processes, cell cycle regulation, and gene expression. There are now overwhelming data suggesting that the UPS contributes to cerebral ischemic injury. Summary of Review - Proteasome inhibition is a potential treatment option for stroke. Thus far, proof of principle has been obtained from studies in several animal models of cerebral ischemia. Treatment with proteasome inhibitors reduces effectively neuronal and astrocytic degeneration, cortical infarct volume, infarct neutrophil infiltration, and NF-κB immunoreactivity with an extension of the neuroprotective effect at least 6 hours after ischemic insult. However, it is clear that the UPS represents a central pathway for the processing and metabolism of multiple proteins with critical roles in cellular function. To avoid eliciting significant side effects associated with complete inhibition of the proteasome and the possible immunosuppressive effects from persistent suppression of NF-κB activation, it is critical that we understand how to partially and temporally attenuate proteasome function to elicit the desired therapeutic effect before any large-scale use in humans. Conclusion - This review highlights the most recent advances in our knowledge on UPS, as well as the early experience of using proteasome inhibition strategies to treat acute stroke.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1506-1518
Number of pages13
JournalStroke
Volume35
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2004
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Cerebral ischemia
  • Inflammation
  • NF-kappa B
  • Proteasome
  • Ubiquitin

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Neurology
  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Advanced and Specialized Nursing

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Ubiquitin-proteasome system and proteasome inhibition: New strategies in stroke therapy'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this