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Ye Z, Liu R, Wang H, Zuo A, Jin C, Wang N, Sun H, Feng L, Yang H. Neuroprotective potential for mitigating ischemia-reperfusion-induced damage. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2199-2217. [PMID: 39104164 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Reperfusion following cerebral ischemia causes both structural and functional damage to brain tissue and could aggravate a patient's condition; this phenomenon is known as cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Current studies have elucidated the neuroprotective role of the sirtuin protein family (Sirtuins) in modulating cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. However, the potential of utilizing it as a novel intervention target to influence the prognosis of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury requires additional exploration. In this review, the origin and research progress of Sirtuins are summarized, suggesting the involvement of Sirtuins in diverse mechanisms that affect cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, including inflammation, oxidative stress, blood-brain barrier damage, apoptosis, pyroptosis, and autophagy. The therapeutic avenues related to Sirtuins that may improve the prognosis of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury were also investigated by modulating Sirtuins expression and affecting representative pathways, such as nuclear factor-kappa B signaling, oxidative stress mediated by adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, and the forkhead box O. This review also summarizes the potential of endogenous substances, such as RNA and hormones, drugs, dietary supplements, and emerging therapies that regulate Sirtuins expression. This review also reveals that regulating Sirtuins mitigates cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury when combined with other risk factors. While Sirtuins show promise as a potential target for the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, most recent studies are based on rodent models with circadian rhythms that are distinct from those of humans, potentially influencing the efficacy of Sirtuins-targeting drug therapies. Overall, this review provides new insights into the role of Sirtuins in the pathology and treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Ye
- The Clinical Medical College, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Runqing Liu
- The Clinical Medical College, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Hangxing Wang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Aizhen Zuo
- The Clinical Medical College, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Cen Jin
- School of Medical Imaging, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Huiqi Sun
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| | - Luqian Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
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2
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Hayat M, Syed RA, Qaiser H, Uzair M, Al-Regaiey K, Khallaf R, Albassam LAM, Kaleem I, Wang X, Wang R, Bhatti MS, Bashir S. Decoding molecular mechanisms: brain aging and Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2279-2299. [PMID: 39104174 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The complex morphological, anatomical, physiological, and chemical mechanisms within the aging brain have been the hot topic of research for centuries. The aging process alters the brain structure that affects functions and cognitions, but the worsening of such processes contributes to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease. Beyond these observable, mild morphological shifts, significant functional modifications in neurotransmission and neuronal activity critically influence the aging brain. Understanding these changes is important for maintaining cognitive health, especially given the increasing prevalence of age-related conditions that affect cognition. This review aims to explore the age-induced changes in brain plasticity and molecular processes, differentiating normal aging from the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, thereby providing insights into predicting the risk of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnoor Hayat
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Rafay Ali Syed
- Department of Biotechnology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Hammad Qaiser
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Basic & Applied Sciences, International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Uzair
- Department of Bioengineering, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Al-Regaiey
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Roaa Khallaf
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, King Fahad Specialist Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Imdad Kaleem
- Department of Biosciences, Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS University), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Xueyi Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Mental Health Institute of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Ran Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Mental Health Institute of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Mehwish S Bhatti
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Shahid Bashir
- Neuroscience Center, King Fahad Specialist Hospital Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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3
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Irie T, Matsuda T. In vivo direct neuronal conversion as a therapeutic strategy for ischemic stroke. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2309-2310. [PMID: 39359083 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Irie
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan (Irie T, Matsuda T)
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan (Irie T)
| | - Taito Matsuda
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan (Irie T, Matsuda T)
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4
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You X, Niu L, Fu J, Ge S, Shi J, Zhang Y, Zhuang P. Bidirectional regulation of the brain-gut-microbiota axis following traumatic brain injury. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2153-2168. [PMID: 39359076 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202508000-00002/figure1/v/2024-09-30T120553Z/r/image-tiff Traumatic brain injury is a prevalent disorder of the central nervous system. In addition to primary brain parenchymal damage, the enduring biological consequences of traumatic brain injury pose long-term risks for patients with traumatic brain injury; however, the underlying pathogenesis remains unclear, and effective intervention methods are lacking. Intestinal dysfunction is a significant consequence of traumatic brain injury. Being the most densely innervated peripheral tissue in the body, the gut possesses multiple pathways for the establishment of a bidirectional "brain-gut axis" with the central nervous system. The gut harbors a vast microbial community, and alterations of the gut niche contribute to the progression of traumatic brain injury and its unfavorable prognosis through neuronal, hormonal, and immune pathways. A comprehensive understanding of microbiota-mediated peripheral neuroimmunomodulation mechanisms is needed to enhance treatment strategies for traumatic brain injury and its associated complications. We comprehensively reviewed alterations in the gut microecological environment following traumatic brain injury, with a specific focus on the complex biological processes of peripheral nerves, immunity, and microbes triggered by traumatic brain injury, encompassing autonomic dysfunction, neuroendocrine disturbances, peripheral immunosuppression, increased intestinal barrier permeability, compromised responses of sensory nerves to microorganisms, and potential effector nuclei in the central nervous system influenced by gut microbiota. Additionally, we reviewed the mechanisms underlying secondary biological injury and the dynamic pathological responses that occur following injury to enhance our current understanding of how peripheral pathways impact the outcome of patients with traumatic brain injury. This review aimed to propose a conceptual model for future risk assessment of central nervous system-related diseases while elucidating novel insights into the bidirectional effects of the "brain-gut-microbiota axis."
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu You
- National Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Modernization, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Lin Niu
- National Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Modernization, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiafeng Fu
- National Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Modernization, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Shining Ge
- National Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Modernization, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiangwei Shi
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanjun Zhang
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Pengwei Zhuang
- Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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5
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Song R, Yin S, Wu J, Yan J. Neuronal regulated cell death in aging-related neurodegenerative diseases: key pathways and therapeutic potentials. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2245-2263. [PMID: 39104166 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Regulated cell death (such as apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, cuproptosis, ferroptosis, disulfidptosis) involves complex signaling pathways and molecular effectors, and has been proven to be an important regulatory mechanism for regulating neuronal aging and death. However, excessive activation of regulated cell death may lead to the progression of aging-related diseases. This review summarizes recent advances in the understanding of seven forms of regulated cell death in age-related diseases. Notably, the newly identified ferroptosis and cuproptosis have been implicated in the risk of cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative diseases. These forms of cell death exacerbate disease progression by promoting inflammation, oxidative stress, and pathological protein aggregation. The review also provides an overview of key signaling pathways and crosstalk mechanisms among these regulated cell death forms, with a focus on ferroptosis, cuproptosis, and disulfidptosis. For instance, FDX1 directly induces cuproptosis by regulating copper ion valency and dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase aggregation, while copper mediates glutathione peroxidase 4 degradation, enhancing ferroptosis sensitivity. Additionally, inhibiting the Xc- transport system to prevent ferroptosis can increase disulfide formation and shift the NADP + /NADPH ratio, transitioning ferroptosis to disulfidptosis. These insights help to uncover the potential connections among these novel regulated cell death forms and differentiate them from traditional regulated cell death mechanisms. In conclusion, identifying key targets and their crosstalk points among various regulated cell death pathways may aid in developing specific biomarkers to reverse the aging clock and treat age-related neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Run Song
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
- Neuromolecular Biology Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Shiyi Yin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
- Neuromolecular Biology Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Jiannan Wu
- Neuromolecular Biology Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
| | - Junqiang Yan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
- Neuromolecular Biology Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, China
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6
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Yin L, Xu Y, Mu J, Leng Y, Ma L, Zheng Y, Li R, Wang Y, Li P, Zhu H, Wang D, Li J. CNKSR2 interactome analysis indicates its association with the centrosome/microtubule system. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2420-2432. [PMID: 39359098 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202508000-00031/figure1/v/2024-09-30T120553Z/r/image-tiff The protein connector enhancer of kinase suppressor of Ras 2 (CNKSR2), present in both the postsynaptic density and cytoplasm of neurons, is a scaffolding protein with several protein-binding domains. Variants of the CNKSR2 gene have been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly intellectual disability, although the precise mechanism involved has not yet been fully understood. Research has demonstrated that CNKSR2 plays a role in facilitating the localization of postsynaptic density protein complexes to the membrane, thereby influencing synaptic signaling and the morphogenesis of dendritic spines. However, the function of CNKSR2 in the cytoplasm remains to be elucidated. In this study, we used immunoprecipitation and high-resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to identify the interactors of CNKSR2. Through a combination of bioinformatic analysis and cytological experiments, we found that the CNKSR2 interactors were significantly enriched in the proteome of the centrosome. We also showed that CNKSR2 interacted with the microtubule protein DYNC1H1 and with the centrosome marker CEP290. Subsequent colocalization analysis confirmed the centrosomal localization of CNKSR2. When we downregulated CNKSR2 expression in mouse neuroblastoma cells (Neuro 2A), we observed significant changes in the expression of numerous centrosomal genes. This manipulation also affected centrosome-related functions, including cell size and shape, cell proliferation, and motility. Furthermore, we found that CNKSR2 interactors were highly enriched in de novo variants associated with intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder. Our findings establish a connection between CNKSR2 and the centrosome, and offer new insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Yin
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yalan Xu
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jie Mu
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- College of Life Sciences, and School of Pharmacy, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yu Leng
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lei Ma
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yu Zheng
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Department of Urology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ruizhi Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yin Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Peifeng Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hai Zhu
- Department of Urology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Dong Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jing Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
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7
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Chen J, Li Y, Quan X, Chen J, Han Y, Yang L, Zhou M, Mok GSP, Wang R, Zhao Y. Utilizing engineered extra cellular vesicles as delivery vectors in the management of ischemic stroke: a special outlook on mitochondrial delivery. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2181-2198. [PMID: 39101653 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a secondary cause of mortality worldwide, imposing considerable medical and economic burdens on society. Extracellular vesicles, serving as natural nano-carriers for drug delivery, exhibit excellent biocompatibility in vivo and have significant advantages in the management of ischemic stroke. However, the uncertain distribution and rapid clearance of extracellular vesicles impede their delivery efficiency. By utilizing membrane decoration or by encapsulating therapeutic cargo within extracellular vesicles, their delivery efficacy may be greatly improved. Furthermore, previous studies have indicated that microvesicles, a subset of large-sized extracellular vesicles, can transport mitochondria to neighboring cells, thereby aiding in the restoration of mitochondrial function post-ischemic stroke. Small extracellular vesicles have also demonstrated the capability to transfer mitochondrial components, such as proteins or deoxyribonucleic acid, or their sub-components, for extracellular vesicle-based ischemic stroke therapy. In this review, we undertake a comparative analysis of the isolation techniques employed for extracellular vesicles and present an overview of the current dominant extracellular vesicle modification methodologies. Given the complex facets of treating ischemic stroke, we also delineate various extracellular vesicle modification approaches which are suited to different facets of the treatment process. Moreover, given the burgeoning interest in mitochondrial delivery, we delved into the feasibility and existing research findings on the transportation of mitochondrial fractions or intact mitochondria through small extracellular vesicles and microvesicles to offer a fresh perspective on ischemic stroke therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Chen
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Yiyang Li
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Xingping Quan
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Jinfen Chen
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Yan Han
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Manfei Zhou
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Greta Seng Peng Mok
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Ruibing Wang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Yonghua Zhao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao Special Administrative Region, China
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8
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Wang X, Niu X, Wang Y, Liu Y, Yang C, Chen X, Qi Z. C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 pathway as a therapeutic target and regulatory mechanism for spinal cord injury. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2231-2244. [PMID: 39104168 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury involves non-reversible damage to the central nervous system that is characterized by limited regenerative capacity and secondary inflammatory damage. The expression of the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis exhibits significant differences before and after injury. Recent studies have revealed that the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis is closely associated with secondary inflammatory responses and the recruitment of immune cells following spinal cord injury, suggesting that this axis is a novel target and regulatory control point for treatment. This review comprehensively examines the therapeutic strategies targeting the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis, along with the regenerative and repair mechanisms linking the axis to spinal cord injury. Additionally, we summarize the upstream and downstream inflammatory signaling pathways associated with spinal cord injury and the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis. This review primarily elaborates on therapeutic strategies that target the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis and the latest progress of research on antagonistic drugs, along with the approaches used to exploit new therapeutic targets within the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis and the development of targeted drugs. Nevertheless, there are presently no clinical studies relating to spinal cord injury that are focusing on the C-C motif chemokine ligand 2/C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 axis. This review aims to provide new ideas and therapeutic strategies for the future treatment of spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangzi Wang
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xiaofei Niu
- Graduate School of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingkai Wang
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Cheng Yang
- Characteristic Medical Center of People's Armed Police Forces, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuyi Chen
- Characteristic Medical Center of People's Armed Police Forces, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhongquan Qi
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
- Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
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9
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Norte-Muñoz M, Portela-Lomba M, Sobrado-Calvo P, Simón D, Di Pierdomenico J, Gallego-Ortega A, Pérez M, Cabrera-Maqueda JM, Sierra J, Vidal-Sanz M, Moreno-Flores MT, Agudo-Barriuso M. Differential response of injured and healthy retinas to syngeneic and allogeneic transplantation of a clonal cell line of immortalized olfactory ensheathing glia: a double-edged sword. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2395-2407. [PMID: 39359096 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202508000-00029/figure1/v/2024-09-30T120553Z/r/image-tiff Olfactory ensheathing glia promote axonal regeneration in the mammalian central nervous system, including retinal ganglion cell axonal growth through the injured optic nerve. Still, it is unknown whether olfactory ensheathing glia also have neuroprotective properties. Olfactory ensheathing glia express brain-derived neurotrophic factor, one of the best neuroprotectants for axotomized retinal ganglion cells. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the neuroprotective capacity of olfactory ensheating glia after optic nerve crush. Olfactory ensheathing glia cells from an established rat immortalized clonal cell line, TEG3, were intravitreally injected in intact and axotomized retinas in syngeneic and allogeneic mode with or without microglial inhibition or immunosuppressive treatments. Anatomical and gene expression analyses were performed. Olfactory bulb-derived primary olfactory ensheathing glia and TEG3 express major histocompatibility complex class II molecules. Allogeneically and syngenically transplanted TEG3 cells survived in the vitreous for up to 21 days, forming an epimembrane. In axotomized retinas, only the allogeneic TEG3 transplant rescued retinal ganglion cells at 7 days but not at 21 days. In these retinas, microglial anatomical activation was higher than after optic nerve crush alone. In intact retinas, both transplants activated microglial cells and caused retinal ganglion cell death at 21 days, a loss that was higher after allotransplantation, triggered by pyroptosis and partially rescued by microglial inhibition or immunosuppression. However, neuroprotection of axotomized retinal ganglion cells did not improve with these treatments. The different neuroprotective properties, different toxic effects, and different responses to microglial inhibitory treatments of olfactory ensheathing glia in the retina depending on the type of transplant highlight the importance of thorough preclinical studies to explore these variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Norte-Muñoz
- Grupo de Investigación Oftalmología Experimental, Departamento de Oftalmología, Optometría, Otorrinolaringología y Anatomía Patológica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
| | - María Portela-Lomba
- Experimental Sciences Faculty, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Sobrado-Calvo
- Grupo de Investigación Oftalmología Experimental, Departamento de Oftalmología, Optometría, Otorrinolaringología y Anatomía Patológica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
| | - Diana Simón
- Experimental Sciences Faculty, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Johnny Di Pierdomenico
- Grupo de Investigación Oftalmología Experimental, Departamento de Oftalmología, Optometría, Otorrinolaringología y Anatomía Patológica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
| | - Alejandro Gallego-Ortega
- Grupo de Investigación Oftalmología Experimental, Departamento de Oftalmología, Optometría, Otorrinolaringología y Anatomía Patológica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
| | - Mar Pérez
- Anatomy, Histology and Neuroscience Department, Medicine Faculty, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M Cabrera-Maqueda
- Grupo de Investigación Oftalmología Experimental, Departamento de Oftalmología, Optometría, Otorrinolaringología y Anatomía Patológica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
- Center of Neuroimmunology, Service of Neurology, Laboratory of Advanced Imaging in Neuroimmunological Diseases, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), and Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Sierra
- Medicine Faculty, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Vidal-Sanz
- Grupo de Investigación Oftalmología Experimental, Departamento de Oftalmología, Optometría, Otorrinolaringología y Anatomía Patológica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
| | - María Teresa Moreno-Flores
- Anatomy, Histology and Neuroscience Department, Medicine Faculty, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Agudo-Barriuso
- Grupo de Investigación Oftalmología Experimental, Departamento de Oftalmología, Optometría, Otorrinolaringología y Anatomía Patológica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), Campus de Ciencias de la Salud, Murcia, Spain
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10
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Wu Y, Yang L, Jiang W, Zhang X, Yao Z. Glycolytic dysregulation in Alzheimer's disease: unveiling new avenues for understanding pathogenesis and improving therapy. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2264-2278. [PMID: 39101629 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease poses a significant global health challenge owing to the progressive cognitive decline of patients and absence of curative treatments. The current therapeutic strategies, primarily based on cholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists, offer limited symptomatic relief without halting disease progression, highlighting an urgent need for novel research directions that address the key mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's disease. Recent studies have provided insights into the critical role of glycolysis, a fundamental energy metabolism pathway in the brain, in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Alterations in glycolytic processes within neurons and glial cells, including microglia, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes, have been identified as significant contributors to the pathological landscape of Alzheimer's disease. Glycolytic changes impact neuronal health and function, thus offering promising targets for therapeutic intervention. The purpose of this review is to consolidate current knowledge on the modifications in glycolysis associated with Alzheimer's disease and explore the mechanisms by which these abnormalities contribute to disease onset and progression. Comprehensive focus on the pathways through which glycolytic dysfunction influences Alzheimer's disease pathology should provide insights into potential therapeutic targets and strategies that pave the way for groundbreaking treatments, emphasizing the importance of understanding metabolic processes in the quest for clarification and management of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Wu
- Department of Geriatrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
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11
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Bai Y, Ma H, Zhang Y, Li J, Hou X, Yang Y, Wang G, Li Y. Hypidone hydrochloride (YL-0919) ameliorates functional deficits after traumatic brain injury in mice by activating the sigma-1 receptor for antioxidation. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2325-2336. [PMID: 39359091 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202508000-00023/figure1/v/2024-09-30T120553Z/r/image-tiff Traumatic brain injury involves complex pathophysiological mechanisms, among which oxidative stress significantly contributes to the occurrence of secondary injury. In this study, we evaluated hypidone hydrochloride (YL-0919), a self-developed antidepressant with selective sigma-1 receptor agonist properties, and its associated mechanisms and targets in traumatic brain injury. Behavioral experiments to assess functional deficits were followed by assessment of neuronal damage through histological analyses and examination of blood-brain barrier permeability and brain edema. Next, we investigated the antioxidative effects of YL-0919 by assessing the levels of traditional markers of oxidative stress in vivo in mice and in vitro in HT22 cells. Finally, the targeted action of YL-0919 was verified by employing a sigma-1 receptor antagonist (BD-1047). Our findings demonstrated that YL-0919 markedly improved deficits in motor function and spatial cognition on day 3 post traumatic brain injury, while also decreasing neuronal mortality and reversing blood-brain barrier disruption and brain edema. Furthermore, YL-0919 effectively combated oxidative stress both in vivo and in vitro. The protective effects of YL-0919 were partially inhibited by BD-1047. These results indicated that YL-0919 relieved impairments in motor and spatial cognition by restraining oxidative stress, a neuroprotective effect that was partially reversed by the sigma-1 receptor antagonist BD-1047. YL-0919 may have potential as a new treatment for traumatic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafan Bai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Ma
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jinfeng Li
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Hou
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yixin Yang
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yunfeng Li
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing, China
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12
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Al Kabbani MA, Köhler C, Zempel H. Effects of P301L-TAU on post-translational modifications of microtubules in human iPSC-derived cortical neurons and TAU transgenic mice. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2348-2360. [PMID: 38934386 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202508000-00025/figure1/v/2024-09-30T120553Z/r/image-tiff TAU is a microtubule-associated protein that promotes microtubule assembly and stability in the axon. TAU is missorted and aggregated in an array of diseases known as tauopathies. Microtubules are essential for neuronal function and regulated via a complex set of post-translational modifications, changes of which affect microtubule stability and dynamics, microtubule interaction with other proteins and cellular structures, and mediate recruitment of microtubule-severing enzymes. As impairment of microtubule dynamics causes neuronal dysfunction, we hypothesize cognitive impairment in human disease to be impacted by impairment of microtubule dynamics. We therefore aimed to study the effects of a disease-causing mutation of TAU (P301L) on the levels and localization of microtubule post-translational modifications indicative of microtubule stability and dynamics, to assess whether P301L-TAU causes stability-changing modifications to microtubules. To investigate TAU localization, phosphorylation, and effects on tubulin post-translational modifications, we expressed wild-type or P301L-TAU in human MAPT -KO induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons (iNeurons) and studied TAU in neurons in the hippocampus of mice transgenic for human P301L-TAU (pR5 mice). Human neurons expressing the longest TAU isoform (2N4R) with the P301L mutation showed increased TAU phosphorylation at the AT8, but not the p-Ser-262 epitope, and increased polyglutamylation and acetylation of microtubules compared with endogenous TAU-expressing neurons. P301L-TAU showed pronounced somatodendritic presence, but also successful axonal enrichment and a similar axodendritic distribution comparable to exogenously expressed 2N4R-wildtype-TAU. P301L-TAU-expressing hippocampal neurons in transgenic mice showed prominent missorting and tauopathy-typical AT8-phosphorylation of TAU and increased polyglutamylation, but reduced acetylation, of microtubules compared with non-transgenic littermates. In sum, P301L-TAU results in changes in microtubule PTMs, suggestive of impairment of microtubule stability. This is accompanied by missorting and aggregation of TAU in mice but not in iNeurons. Microtubule PTMs/impairment may be of key importance in tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Aghyad Al Kabbani
- Institute of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christoph Köhler
- Center Anatomy, Department II, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hans Zempel
- Institute of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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13
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Ma Y, Dong T, Luan F, Yang J, Miao F, Wei P. Interaction of major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A with the blood-brain barrier. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2133-2152. [PMID: 39248155 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The functional and structural integrity of the blood-brain barrier is crucial in maintaining homeostasis in the brain microenvironment; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation and function of the blood-brain barrier remain poorly understood. The major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A has been identified as a key regulator of blood-brain barrier function. It plays a critical role in promoting and maintaining the formation and functional stability of the blood-brain barrier, in addition to the transport of lipids, such as docosahexaenoic acid, across the blood-brain barrier. Furthermore, an increasing number of studies have suggested that major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A is involved in the molecular mechanisms of blood-brain barrier dysfunction in a variety of neurological diseases; however, little is known regarding the mechanisms by which major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A affects the blood-brain barrier. This paper provides a comprehensive and systematic review of the close relationship between major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A proteins and the blood-brain barrier, including their basic structures and functions, cross-linking between major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A and the blood-brain barrier, and the in-depth studies on lipid transport and the regulation of blood-brain barrier permeability. This comprehensive systematic review contributes to an in-depth understanding of the important role of major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A proteins in maintaining the structure and function of the blood-brain barrier and the research progress to date. This will not only help to elucidate the pathogenesis of neurological diseases, improve the accuracy of laboratory diagnosis, and optimize clinical treatment strategies, but it may also play an important role in prognostic monitoring. In addition, the effects of major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A on blood-brain barrier leakage in various diseases and the research progress on cross-blood-brain barrier drug delivery are summarized. This review may contribute to the development of new approaches for the treatment of neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilun Ma
- College of Pharmacy and First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Taiwei Dong
- College of Pharmacy and First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Fei Luan
- College of Pharmacy and First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Juanjuan Yang
- National Drug Clinical Trial Agency, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine/Xixian New District Central Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Feng Miao
- College of Pharmacy and First Clinical Medical College, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Peifeng Wei
- National Drug Clinical Trial Agency, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine/Xixian New District Central Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
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14
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Yang H, Xia Y, Ma Y, Gao M, Hou S, Xu S, Wang Y. Inhibition of the cGAS-STING pathway: contributing to the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1900-1918. [PMID: 38993125 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The cGAS-STING pathway plays an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart, liver, brain, and kidney, but its role and mechanisms in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury have not been systematically reviewed. Here, we outline the components of the cGAS-STING pathway and then analyze its role in autophagy, ferroptosis, cellular pyroptosis, disequilibrium of calcium homeostasis, inflammatory responses, disruption of the blood-brain barrier, microglia transformation, and complement system activation following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. We further analyze the value of cGAS-STING pathway inhibitors in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and conclude that the pathway can regulate cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury through multiple mechanisms. Inhibition of the cGAS-STING pathway may be helpful in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Yang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yulei Xia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yue Ma
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Mingtong Gao
- Department of Emergency, The Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Shuai Hou
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Shanshan Xu
- Department of Emergency, The Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yanqiang Wang
- Department of Neurology II, The Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
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15
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Yao J, Li Y, Liu X, Liang W, Li Y, Wu L, Wang Z, Song W. FUBP3 mediates the amyloid-β-induced neuronal NLRP3 expression. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2068-2083. [PMID: 39254567 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202507000-00028/figure1/v/2024-09-09T124005Z/r/image-tiff Alzheimer's disease is characterized by deposition of amyloid-β, which forms extracellular neuritic plaques, and accumulation of hyperphosphorylated tau, which aggregates to form intraneuronal neurofibrillary tangles, in the brain. The NLRP3 inflammasome may play a role in the transition from amyloid-β deposition to tau phosphorylation and aggregation. Because NLRP3 is primarily found in brain microglia, and tau is predominantly located in neurons, it has been suggested that NLRP3 expressed by microglia indirectly triggers tau phosphorylation by upregulating the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Here, we found that neurons also express NLRP3 in vitro and in vivo, and that neuronal NLRP3 regulates tau phosphorylation. Using biochemical methods, we mapped the minimal NLRP3 promoter and identified FUBP3 as a transcription factor regulating NLRP3 expression in neurons. In primary neurons and the neuroblastoma cell line Neuro2A, FUBP3 is required for endogenous NLRP3 expression and tau phosphorylation only when amyloid-β is present. In the brains of aged wild-type mice and a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, FUBP3 expression was markedly increased in cortical neurons. Transcriptome analysis suggested that FUBP3 plays a role in neuron-mediated immune responses. We also found that FUBP3 trimmed the 5' end of DNA fragments that it bound, implying that FUBP3 functions in stress-induced responses. These findings suggest that neuronal NLRP3 may be more directly involved in the amyloid-β-to-phospho-tau transition than microglial NLRP3, and that amyloid-β fundamentally alters the regulatory mechanism of NLRP3 expression in neurons. Given that FUBP3 was only expressed at low levels in young wild-type mice and was strongly upregulated in the brains of aged mice and Alzheimer's disease mice, FUBP3 could be a safe therapeutic target for preventing Alzheimer's disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yao
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Li
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Wenping Liang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Li
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Liyong Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Weihong Song
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Aging, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Vision, and Brain Health), Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
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16
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Ning W, Lv S, Wang Q, Xu Y. The pivotal role of microglia in injury and the prognosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1829-1848. [PMID: 38993136 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Subarachnoid hemorrhage leads to a series of pathological changes, including vascular spasm, cellular apoptosis, blood-brain barrier damage, cerebral edema, and white matter injury. Microglia, which are the key immune cells in the central nervous system, maintain homeostasis in the neural environment, support neurons, mediate apoptosis, participate in immune regulation, and have neuroprotective effects. Increasing evidence has shown that microglia play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of subarachnoid hemorrhage and affect the process of injury and the prognosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Moreover, microglia play certain neuroprotective roles in the recovery phase of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Several approaches aimed at modulating microglia function are believed to attenuate subarachnoid hemorrhage injury. This provides new targets and ideas for the treatment of subarachnoid hemorrhage. However, an in-depth and comprehensive summary of the role of microglia after subarachnoid hemorrhage is still lacking. This review describes the activation of microglia after subarachnoid hemorrhage and their roles in the pathological processes of vasospasm, neuroinflammation, neuronal apoptosis, blood-brain barrier disruption, cerebral edema, and cerebral white matter lesions. It also discusses the neuroprotective roles of microglia during recovery from subarachnoid hemorrhage and therapeutic advances aimed at modulating microglial function after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Currently, microglia in subarachnoid hemorrhage are targeted with TLR inhibitors, nuclear factor-κB and STAT3 pathway inhibitors, glycine/tyrosine kinases, NLRP3 signaling pathway inhibitors, Gasdermin D inhibitors, vincristine receptor α receptor agonists, ferroptosis inhibitors, genetic modification techniques, stem cell therapies, and traditional Chinese medicine. However, most of these are still being evaluated at the laboratory stage. More clinical studies and data on subarachnoid hemorrhage are required to improve the treatment of subarachnoid hemorrhage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Ning
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, Shandong Province, China
| | - Shi Lv
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Taian, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yuzhen Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, Shandong Province, China
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17
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Cartas-Cejudo P, Cortés A, Lachén-Montes M, Anaya-Cubero E, Fernández-Irigoyen J, Santamaría E. Data-driven drug repositioning using olfactory omics profiles: challenges and perspectives in neurodegeneration. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1997-1998. [PMID: 39254556 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Paz Cartas-Cejudo
- Clinical Neuroproteomics Unit, Proteomics Platform, Navarrabiomed, Hospitalario Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
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18
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Chen Y, Deng H, Zhang N. Autophagy-targeting modulation to promote peripheral nerve regeneration. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1864-1882. [PMID: 39254547 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Nerve regeneration following traumatic peripheral nerve injuries and neuropathies is a complex process modulated by diverse factors and intricate molecular mechanisms. Past studies have focused on factors that stimulate axonal outgrowth and myelin regeneration. However, recent studies have highlighted the pivotal role of autophagy in peripheral nerve regeneration, particularly in the context of traumatic injuries. Consequently, autophagy-targeting modulation has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach to enhancing peripheral nerve regeneration. Our current understanding suggests that activating autophagy facilitates the rapid clearance of damaged axons and myelin sheaths, thereby enhancing neuronal survival and mitigating injury-induced oxidative stress and inflammation. These actions collectively contribute to creating a favorable microenvironment for structural and functional nerve regeneration. A range of autophagy-inducing drugs and interventions have demonstrated beneficial effects in alleviating peripheral neuropathy and promoting nerve regeneration in preclinical models of traumatic peripheral nerve injuries. This review delves into the regulation of autophagy in cell types involved in peripheral nerve regeneration, summarizing the potential drugs and interventions that can be harnessed to promote this process. We hope that our review will offer novel insights and perspectives on the exploitation of autophagy pathways in the treatment of peripheral nerve injuries and neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Women and Children's Diseases, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Reproductive Regulation, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Hongxia Deng
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Women and Children's Diseases, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Reproductive Regulation, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Nannan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Women and Children's Diseases, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- National Center for Birth Defect Monitoring, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
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19
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Yang J, Wu J, Xie X, Xia P, Lu J, Liu J, Bai L, Li X, Yu Z, Li H. Perilipin-2 mediates ferroptosis in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells and myelin injury after ischemic stroke. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2015-2028. [PMID: 39254564 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202507000-00024/figure1/v/2024-09-09T124005Z/r/image-tiff Differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells into mature myelin-forming oligodendrocytes contributes to remyelination. Failure of remyelination due to oligodendrocyte progenitor cell death can result in severe nerve damage. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death caused by membrane rupture induced by lipid peroxidation, and plays an important role in the pathological process of ischemic stroke. However, there are few studies on oligodendrocyte progenitor cell ferroptosis. We analyzed transcriptome sequencing data from GEO databases and identified a role of ferroptosis in oligodendrocyte progenitor cell death and myelin injury after cerebral ischemia. Bioinformatics analysis suggested that perilipin-2 (PLIN2) was involved in oligodendrocyte progenitor cell ferroptosis. PLIN2 is a lipid storage protein and a marker of hypoxia-sensitive lipid droplet accumulation. For further investigation, we established a mouse model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion. We found significant myelin damage after cerebral ischemia, as well as oligodendrocyte progenitor cell death and increased lipid peroxidation levels around the infarct area. The ferroptosis inhibitor, ferrostatin-1, rescued oligodendrocyte progenitor cell death and subsequent myelin injury. We also found increased PLIN2 levels in the peri-infarct area that co-localized with oligodendrocyte progenitor cells. Plin2 knockdown rescued demyelination and improved neurological deficits. Our findings suggest that targeting PLIN2 to regulate oligodendrocyte progenitor cell ferroptosis may be a potential therapeutic strategy for rescuing myelin damage after cerebral ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jiang Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xueshun Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Pengfei Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jinxin Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jiale Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lei Bai
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhengquan Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Haiying Li
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
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20
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Castillo-González J, González-Rey E. Beyond wrecking a wall: revisiting the concept of blood-brain barrier breakdown in ischemic stroke. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1944-1956. [PMID: 39254550 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier constitutes a dynamic and interactive boundary separating the central nervous system and the peripheral circulation. It tightly modulates the ion transport and nutrient influx, while restricting the entry of harmful factors, and selectively limiting the migration of immune cells, thereby maintaining brain homeostasis. Despite the well-established association between blood-brain barrier disruption and most neurodegenerative/neuroinflammatory diseases, much remains unknown about the factors influencing its physiology and the mechanisms underlying its breakdown. Moreover, the role of blood-brain barrier breakdown in the translational failure underlying therapies for brain disorders is just starting to be understood. This review aims to revisit this concept of "blood-brain barrier breakdown," delving into the most controversial aspects, prevalent challenges, and knowledge gaps concerning the lack of blood-brain barrier integrity. By moving beyond the oversimplistic dichotomy of an "open"/"bad" or a "closed"/"good" barrier, our objective is to provide a more comprehensive insight into blood-brain barrier dynamics, to identify novel targets and/or therapeutic approaches aimed at mitigating blood-brain barrier dysfunction. Furthermore, in this review, we advocate for considering the diverse time- and location-dependent alterations in the blood-brain barrier, which go beyond tight-junction disruption or brain endothelial cell breakdown, illustrated through the dynamics of ischemic stroke as a case study. Through this exploration, we seek to underscore the complexity of blood-brain barrier dysfunction and its implications for the pathogenesis and therapy of brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Castillo-González
- Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine Lopez-Neyra (IPBLN), CSIC, PT Salud, Granada, Spain
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21
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Hu Q, Wang S, Zhang W, Qu J, Liu GH. Unraveling brain aging through the lens of oral microbiota. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1930-1943. [PMID: 38993126 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The oral cavity is a complex physiological community encompassing a wide range of microorganisms. Dysbiosis of oral microbiota can lead to various oral infectious diseases, such as periodontitis and tooth decay, and even affect systemic health, including brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Recent studies have highlighted how oral microbes might be involved in brain aging and neurodegeneration, indicating potential avenues for intervention strategies. In this review, we summarize clinical evidence demonstrating a link between oral microbes/oral infectious diseases and brain aging/neurodegenerative diseases, and dissect potential mechanisms by which oral microbes contribute to brain aging and neurodegeneration. We also highlight advances in therapeutic development grounded in the realm of oral microbes, with the goal of advancing brain health and promoting healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinchao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Si Wang
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Aging Translational Medicine Center, International Center for Aging and Cancer, Beijing Municipal Geriatric Medical Research Center, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Weiqi Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences and China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Qu
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Guang-Hui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Aging Translational Medicine Center, International Center for Aging and Cancer, Beijing Municipal Geriatric Medical Research Center, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
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22
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Maejima I, Sato K. New aspects of a small GTPase RAB35 in brain development and function. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1971-1980. [PMID: 39254551 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
In eukaryotic cells, organelles in the secretory, lysosomal, and endocytic pathways actively exchange biological materials with each other through intracellular membrane trafficking, which is the process of transporting the cargo of proteins, lipids, and other molecules to appropriate compartments via transport vesicles or intermediates. These processes are strictly regulated by various small GTPases such as the RAS-like in rat brain (RAB) protein family, which is the largest subfamily of the RAS superfamily. Dysfunction of membrane trafficking affects tissue homeostasis and leads to a wide range of diseases, including neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, it is important to understand the physiological and pathological roles of RAB proteins in brain function. RAB35, a member of the RAB family, is an evolutionarily conserved protein in metazoans. A wide range of studies using cultured mammalian cells and model organisms have revealed that RAB35 mediates various processes such as cytokinesis, endocytic recycling, actin bundling, and cell migration. RAB35 is also involved in neurite outgrowth and turnover of synaptic vesicles. We generated brain-specific Rab35 knockout mice to study the physiological roles of RAB35 in brain development and function. These mice exhibited defects in anxiety-related behaviors and spatial memory. Strikingly, RAB35 is required for the precise positioning of pyramidal neurons during hippocampal development, and thereby for normal hippocampal lamination. In contrast, layer formation in the cerebral cortex occurred superficially, even in the absence of RAB35, suggesting a predominant role for RAB35 in hippocampal development rather than in cerebral cortex development. Recent studies have suggested an association between RAB35 and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of subcellular functions of RAB35. We also provide insights into the physiological role of RAB35 in mammalian brain development and function, and discuss the involvement of RAB35 dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikuko Maejima
- Laboratory of Molecular Traffic, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
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23
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Brown SJ, Yáñez-Muñoz RJ, Fuller HR. Gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy: perspectives on the possibility of optimizing SMN1 delivery to correct all neurological and systemic perturbations. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2011-2012. [PMID: 39254562 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sharon J Brown
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Keele University, Keele, UK (Brown SJ, Fuller HR)
- Wolfson Center for Inherited Neuromuscular Disease, TORCH Building, RJAH Orthopaedic Hospital, Oswestry, UK (Brown SJ, Fuller HR)
| | - Rafael J Yáñez-Muñoz
- AGCTlab.org, Center of Gene and Cell Therapy, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, UK (Yáñez-Muñoz RJ)
| | - Heidi R Fuller
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Keele University, Keele, UK (Brown SJ, Fuller HR)
- Wolfson Center for Inherited Neuromuscular Disease, TORCH Building, RJAH Orthopaedic Hospital, Oswestry, UK (Brown SJ, Fuller HR)
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24
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Lin Z, Ying C, Si X, Xue N, Liu Y, Zheng R, Chen Y, Pu J, Zhang B. NOX4 exacerbates Parkinson's disease pathology by promoting neuronal ferroptosis and neuroinflammation. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:2038-2052. [PMID: 38993139 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202507000-00026/figure1/v/2024-09-09T124005Z/r/image-tiff Parkinson's disease is primarily caused by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra compacta. Ferroptosis, a novel form of regulated cell death characterized by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation, plays a vital role in the death of dopaminergic neurons. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying ferroptosis in dopaminergic neurons have not yet been completely elucidated. NADPH oxidase 4 is related to oxidative stress, however, whether it regulates dopaminergic neuronal ferroptosis remains unknown. The aim of this study was to determine whether NADPH oxidase 4 is involved in dopaminergic neuronal ferroptosis, and if so, by what mechanism. We found that the transcriptional regulator activating transcription factor 3 increased NADPH oxidase 4 expression in dopaminergic neurons and astrocytes in an 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyridine-induced Parkinson's disease model. NADPH oxidase 4 inhibition improved the behavioral impairments observed in the Parkinson's disease model animals and reduced the death of dopaminergic neurons. Moreover, NADPH oxidase 4 inhibition reduced lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation in the substantia nigra of the Parkinson's disease model animals. Mechanistically, we found that NADPH oxidase 4 interacted with activated protein kinase C α to prevent ferroptosis of dopaminergic neurons. Furthermore, by lowering the astrocytic lipocalin-2 expression, NADPH oxidase 4 inhibition reduced 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyridine-induced neuroinflammation. These findings demonstrate that NADPH oxidase 4 promotes ferroptosis of dopaminergic neurons and neuroinflammation, which contribute to dopaminergic neuron death, suggesting that NADPH oxidase 4 is a possible therapeutic target for Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Lin
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
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25
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Prudinnik DS, Kussanova A, Vorobjev IA, Tikhonov A, Ataullakhanov FI, Barteneva NS. Deformability of Heterogeneous Red Blood Cells in Aging and Related Pathologies. Aging Dis 2025:AD.2024.0526. [PMID: 39012672 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is interrelated with changes in red blood cell parameters and functionality. In this article, we focus on red blood cells (RBCs) and provide a review of the known changes associated with the characterization of RBC deformability in aging and related pathologies. The biophysical parameters complement the commonly used biochemical parameters and may contribute to a better understanding of the aging process. The power of the deformability measurement approach is well established in clinical settings. Measuring RBCs' deformability has the advantage of relative simplicity, and it reflects the complex effects developing in erythrocytes during aging. However, aging and related pathological conditions also promote heterogeneity of RBC features and have a certain impact on the variance in erythrocyte cell properties. The possible applications of deformability as an early biophysical biomarker of pathological states are discussed, and modulating PIEZO1 as a therapeutic target is suggested. The changes in RBCs' shape can serve as a proxy for deformability evaluation, leveraging single-cell analysis with imaging flow cytometry and artificial intelligence algorithms. The characterization of biophysical parameters of RBCs is in progress in humans and will provide a better understanding of the complex dynamics of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry S Prudinnik
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Aigul Kussanova
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Ivan A Vorobjev
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Alexander Tikhonov
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Fazly I Ataullakhanov
- Department of Physiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Natasha S Barteneva
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
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26
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Li Y, Xue J, Ma Y, Ye K, Zhao X, Ge F, Zheng F, Liu L, Gao X, Wang D, Xia Q. The complex roles of m 6 A modifications in neural stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and self-renewal and implications for memory and neurodegenerative diseases. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1582-1598. [PMID: 38845217 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m 6 A), the most prevalent and conserved RNA modification in eukaryotic cells, profoundly influences virtually all aspects of mRNA metabolism. mRNA plays crucial roles in neural stem cell genesis and neural regeneration, where it is highly concentrated and actively involved in these processes. Changes in m 6 A modification levels and the expression levels of related enzymatic proteins can lead to neurological dysfunction and contribute to the development of neurological diseases. Furthermore, the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells, as well as nerve regeneration, are intimately linked to memory function and neurodegenerative diseases. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the roles of m 6 A in neural stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and self-renewal, as well as its implications in memory and neurodegenerative diseases. m 6 A has demonstrated divergent effects on the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells. These observed contradictions may arise from the time-specific nature of m 6 A and its differential impact on neural stem cells across various stages of development. Similarly, the diverse effects of m 6 A on distinct types of memory could be attributed to the involvement of specific brain regions in memory formation and recall. Inconsistencies in m 6 A levels across different models of neurodegenerative disease, particularly Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, suggest that these disparities are linked to variations in the affected brain regions. Notably, the opposing changes in m 6 A levels observed in Parkinson's disease models exposed to manganese compared to normal Parkinson's disease models further underscore the complexity of m 6 A's role in neurodegenerative processes. The roles of m 6 A in neural stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and self-renewal, and its implications in memory and neurodegenerative diseases, appear contradictory. These inconsistencies may be attributed to the time-specific nature of m 6 A and its varying effects on distinct brain regions and in different environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanxi Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Jing Xue
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Yuejia Ma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Ke Ye
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Xue Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Fangliang Ge
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Feifei Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Lulu Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Xu Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- Basic Medical Institute, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Heilongjiang Province for Genetically Modified Animals, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
- Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Qing Xia
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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27
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Qi G, Tang H, Hu J, Kang S, Qin S. Potential role of tanycyte-derived neurogenesis in Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1599-1612. [PMID: 38934388 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Tanycytes, specialized ependymal cells located in the hypothalamus, play a crucial role in the generation of new neurons that contribute to the neural circuits responsible for regulating the systemic energy balance. The precise coordination of the gene networks controlling neurogenesis in naive and mature tanycytes is essential for maintaining homeostasis in adulthood. However, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that govern the proliferation and differentiation of tanycytes into neurons remains limited. This article aims to review the recent advancements in research into the mechanisms and functions of tanycyte-derived neurogenesis. Studies employing lineage-tracing techniques have revealed that the neurogenesis specifically originating from tanycytes in the hypothalamus has a compensatory role in neuronal loss and helps maintain energy homeostasis during metabolic diseases. Intriguingly, metabolic disorders are considered early biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, the neurogenic potential of tanycytes and the state of newborn neurons derived from tanycytes heavily depend on the maintenance of mild microenvironments, which may be disrupted in Alzheimer's disease due to the impaired blood-brain barrier function. However, the specific alterations and regulatory mechanisms governing tanycyte-derived neurogenesis in Alzheimer's disease remain unclear. Accumulating evidence suggests that tanycyte-derived neurogenesis might be impaired in Alzheimer's disease, exacerbating neurodegeneration. Confirming this hypothesis, however, poses a challenge because of the lack of long-term tracing and nucleus-specific analyses of newborn neurons in the hypothalamus of patients with Alzheimer's disease. Further research into the molecular mechanisms underlying tanycyte-derived neurogenesis holds promise for identifying small molecules capable of restoring tanycyte proliferation in neurodegenerative diseases. This line of investigation could provide valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease and related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guibo Qi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Tang
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianian Hu
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Siying Kang
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Song Qin
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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28
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Ye J, Duan C, Han J, Chen J, Sun N, Li Y, Yuan T, Peng D. Peripheral mitochondrial DNA as a neuroinflammatory biomarker for major depressive disorder. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1541-1554. [PMID: 38934398 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In the pathogenesis of major depressive disorder, chronic stress-related neuroinflammation hinders favorable prognosis and antidepressant response. Mitochondrial DNA may be an inflammatory trigger, after its release from stress-induced dysfunctional central nervous system mitochondria into peripheral circulation. This evidence supports the potential use of peripheral mitochondrial DNA as a neuroinflammatory biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of major depressive disorder. Herein, we critically review the neuroinflammation theory in major depressive disorder, providing compelling evidence that mitochondrial DNA release acts as a critical biological substrate, and that it constitutes the neuroinflammatory disease pathway. After its release, mitochondrial DNA can be carried in the exosomes and transported to extracellular spaces in the central nervous system and peripheral circulation. Detectable exosomes render encaged mitochondrial DNA relatively stable. This mitochondrial DNA in peripheral circulation can thus be directly detected in clinical practice. These characteristics illustrate the potential for mitochondrial DNA to serve as an innovative clinical biomarker and molecular treatment target for major depressive disorder. This review also highlights the future potential value of clinical applications combining mitochondrial DNA with a panel of other biomarkers, to improve diagnostic precision in major depressive disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinmei Ye
- Division of Mood Disorder, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Duan
- Division of Mood Disorder, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaxin Han
- Department of Psychiatry, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Jinrong Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Ning Sun
- Department of Psychiatry, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Brain Health Institute, National Center for Mental Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tifei Yuan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Brain Health Institute, National Center for Mental Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Daihui Peng
- Division of Mood Disorder, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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29
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Kim E, Tanzi RE, Choi SH. Therapeutic potential of exercise-hormone irisin in Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1555-1564. [PMID: 38993140 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Irisin is a myokine that is generated by cleavage of the membrane protein fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5) in response to physical exercise. Studies reveal that irisin/FNDC5 has neuroprotective functions against Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia in the elderly, by improving cognitive function and reducing amyloid-β and tau pathologies as well as neuroinflammation in cell culture or animal models of Alzheimer's disease. Although current and ongoing studies on irisin/FNDC5 show promising results, further mechanistic studies are required to clarify its potential as a meaningful therapeutic target for alleviating Alzheimer's disease. We recently found that irisin treatment reduces amyloid-β pathology by increasing the activity/levels of amyloid-β-degrading enzyme neprilysin secreted from astrocytes. Herein, we present an overview of irisin/FNDC5's protective roles and mechanisms against Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunhee Kim
- Genetics and Aging Research Unit, MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- McCance Center for Brain Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rudolph E Tanzi
- Genetics and Aging Research Unit, MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- McCance Center for Brain Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Se Hoon Choi
- Genetics and Aging Research Unit, MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- McCance Center for Brain Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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30
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Naffaa MM. Neurogenesis dynamics in the olfactory bulb: deciphering circuitry organization, function, and adaptive plasticity. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1565-1581. [PMID: 38934393 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis persists after birth in the subventricular zone, with new neurons migrating to the granule cell layer and glomerular layers of the olfactory bulb, where they integrate into existing circuitry as inhibitory interneurons. The generation of these new neurons in the olfactory bulb supports both structural and functional plasticity, aiding in circuit remodeling triggered by memory and learning processes. However, the presence of these neurons, coupled with the cellular diversity within the olfactory bulb, presents an ongoing challenge in understanding its network organization and function. Moreover, the continuous integration of new neurons in the olfactory bulb plays a pivotal role in regulating olfactory information processing. This adaptive process responds to changes in epithelial composition and contributes to the formation of olfactory memories by modulating cellular connectivity within the olfactory bulb and interacting intricately with higher-order brain regions. The role of adult neurogenesis in olfactory bulb functions remains a topic of debate. Nevertheless, the functionality of the olfactory bulb is intricately linked to the organization of granule cells around mitral and tufted cells. This organizational pattern significantly impacts output, network behavior, and synaptic plasticity, which are crucial for olfactory perception and memory. Additionally, this organization is further shaped by axon terminals originating from cortical and subcortical regions. Despite the crucial role of olfactory bulb in brain functions and behaviors related to olfaction, these complex and highly interconnected processes have not been comprehensively studied as a whole. Therefore, this manuscript aims to discuss our current understanding and explore how neural plasticity and olfactory neurogenesis contribute to enhancing the adaptability of the olfactory system. These mechanisms are thought to support olfactory learning and memory, potentially through increased complexity and restructuring of neural network structures, as well as the addition of new granule granule cells that aid in olfactory adaptation. Additionally, the manuscript underscores the importance of employing precise methodologies to elucidate the specific roles of adult neurogenesis amidst conflicting data and varying experimental paradigms. Understanding these processes is essential for gaining insights into the complexities of olfactory function and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moawiah M Naffaa
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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31
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Junaid M, Lee EJ, Lim SB. Single- cell and spatial omics: exploring hypothalamic heterogeneity. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1525-1540. [PMID: 38993130 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Elucidating the complex dynamic cellular organization in the hypothalamus is critical for understanding its role in coordinating fundamental body functions. Over the past decade, single-cell and spatial omics technologies have significantly evolved, overcoming initial technical challenges in capturing and analyzing individual cells. These high-throughput omics technologies now offer a remarkable opportunity to comprehend the complex spatiotemporal patterns of transcriptional diversity and cell-type characteristics across the entire hypothalamus. Current single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing methods comprehensively quantify gene expression by exploring distinct phenotypes across various subregions of the hypothalamus. However, single-cell/single-nucleus RNA sequencing requires isolating the cell/nuclei from the tissue, potentially resulting in the loss of spatial information concerning neuronal networks. Spatial transcriptomics methods, by bypassing the cell dissociation, can elucidate the intricate spatial organization of neural networks through their imaging and sequencing technologies. In this review, we highlight the applicative value of single-cell and spatial transcriptomics in exploring the complex molecular-genetic diversity of hypothalamic cell types, driven by recent high-throughput achievements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Junaid
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Eun Jeong Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
- Department of Brain Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Su Bin Lim
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
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Zheng Y, Ren Z, Liu Y, Yan J, Chen C, He Y, Shi Y, Cheng F, Wang Q, Li C, Wang X. T cell interactions with microglia in immune-inflammatory processes of ischemic stroke. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1277-1292. [PMID: 39075894 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The primary mechanism of secondary injury after cerebral ischemia may be the brain inflammation that emerges after an ischemic stroke, which promotes neuronal death and inhibits nerve tissue regeneration. As the first immune cells to be activated after an ischemic stroke, microglia play an important immunomodulatory role in the progression of the condition. After an ischemic stroke, peripheral blood immune cells (mainly T cells) are recruited to the central nervous system by chemokines secreted by immune cells in the brain, where they interact with central nervous system cells (mainly microglia) to trigger a secondary neuroimmune response. This review summarizes the interactions between T cells and microglia in the immune-inflammatory processes of ischemic stroke. We found that, during ischemic stroke, T cells and microglia demonstrate a more pronounced synergistic effect. Th1, Th17, and M1 microglia can co-secrete pro-inflammatory factors, such as interferon-γ, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-1β, to promote neuroinflammation and exacerbate brain injury. Th2, Treg, and M2 microglia jointly secrete anti-inflammatory factors, such as interleukin-4, interleukin-10, and transforming growth factor-β, to inhibit the progression of neuroinflammation, as well as growth factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor to promote nerve regeneration and repair brain injury. Immune interactions between microglia and T cells influence the direction of the subsequent neuroinflammation, which in turn determines the prognosis of ischemic stroke patients. Clinical trials have been conducted on the ways to modulate the interactions between T cells and microglia toward anti-inflammatory communication using the immunosuppressant fingolimod or overdosing with Treg cells to promote neural tissue repair and reduce the damage caused by ischemic stroke. However, such studies have been relatively infrequent, and clinical experience is still insufficient. In summary, in ischemic stroke, T cell subsets and activated microglia act synergistically to regulate inflammatory progression, mainly by secreting inflammatory factors. In the future, a key research direction for ischemic stroke treatment could be rooted in the enhancement of anti-inflammatory factor secretion by promoting the generation of Th2 and Treg cells, along with the activation of M2-type microglia. These approaches may alleviate neuroinflammation and facilitate the repair of neural tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiao Zheng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zilin Ren
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Juntang Yan
- Library, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Congai Chen
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yanhui He
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yuyu Shi
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Fafeng Cheng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qingguo Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Changxiang Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xueqian Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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Cui Y, Ma X, Wei J, Chen C, Shakir N, Guirram H, Dai Z, Anderson T, Ferguson D, Qiu S. MET receptor tyrosine kinase promotes the generation of functional synapses in adult cortical circuits. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1431-1444. [PMID: 39075910 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202505000-00026/figure1/v/2024-07-28T173839Z/r/image-tiff Loss of synapse and functional connectivity in brain circuits is associated with aging and neurodegeneration, however, few molecular mechanisms are known to intrinsically promote synaptogenesis or enhance synapse function. We have previously shown that MET receptor tyrosine kinase in the developing cortical circuits promotes dendritic growth and dendritic spine morphogenesis. To investigate whether enhancing MET in adult cortex has synapse regenerating potential, we created a knockin mouse line, in which the human MET gene expression and signaling can be turned on in adult (10-12 months) cortical neurons through doxycycline-containing chow. We found that similar to the developing brain, turning on MET signaling in the adult cortex activates small GTPases and increases spine density in prefrontal projection neurons. These findings are further corroborated by increased synaptic activity and transient generation of immature silent synapses. Prolonged MET signaling resulted in an increased α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid/N-methyl-D-aspartate (AMPA/NMDA) receptor current ratio, indicative of enhanced synaptic function and connectivity. Our data reveal that enhancing MET signaling could be an interventional approach to promote synaptogenesis and preserve functional connectivity in the adult brain. These findings may have implications for regenerative therapy in aging and neurodegeneration conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuehua Cui
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Xiaokuang Ma
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Jing Wei
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Chang Chen
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Neha Shakir
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Hitesch Guirram
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Zhiyu Dai
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Trent Anderson
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Deveroux Ferguson
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Shenfeng Qiu
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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Zheng J, Li Y, Zhang T, Fu Y, Long P, Gao X, Wang Z, Guan Z, Qi X, Hong W, Xiao Y. Endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury: PERK as a potential target for intervention. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1455-1466. [PMID: 39075912 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-00794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202505000-00028/figure1/v/2024-07-28T173839Z/r/image-tiff Several studies have shown that activation of unfolded protein response and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays a crucial role in severe cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. Autophagy occurs within hours after cerebral ischemia, but the relationship between ER stress and autophagy remains unclear. In this study, we established experimental models using oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation in PC12 cells and primary neurons to simulate cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. We found that prolongation of oxygen-glucose deprivation activated the ER stress pathway protein kinase-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK)/eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 subunit alpha (eIF2α)-activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4)-C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), increased neuronal apoptosis, and induced autophagy. Furthermore, inhibition of ER stress using inhibitors or by siRNA knockdown of the PERK gene significantly attenuated excessive autophagy and neuronal apoptosis, indicating an interaction between autophagy and ER stress and suggesting PERK as an essential target for regulating autophagy. Blocking autophagy with chloroquine exacerbated ER stress-induced apoptosis, indicating that normal levels of autophagy play a protective role in neuronal injury following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. Findings from this study indicate that cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury can trigger neuronal ER stress and promote autophagy, and suggest that PERK is a possible target for inhibiting excessive autophagy in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
- Guizhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yixin Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yanlin Fu
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Peiyan Long
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Xiao Gao
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Zhengwei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Zhizhong Guan
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Xiaolan Qi
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Endemic and Ethnic Regional Diseases Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Wei Hong
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Endemic and Ethnic Regional Diseases Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yan Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Endemic and Ethnic Regional Diseases Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
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Weng C, Groh AMR, Yaqubi M, Cui QL, Stratton JA, Moore GRW, Antel JP. Heterogeneity of mature oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1336-1349. [PMID: 38934385 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Mature oligodendrocytes form myelin sheaths that are crucial for the insulation of axons and efficient signal transmission in the central nervous system. Recent evidence has challenged the classical view of the functionally static mature oligodendrocyte and revealed a gamut of dynamic functions such as the ability to modulate neuronal circuitry and provide metabolic support to axons. Despite the recognition of potential heterogeneity in mature oligodendrocyte function, a comprehensive summary of mature oligodendrocyte diversity is lacking. We delve into early 20 th -century studies by Robertson and Río-Hortega that laid the foundation for the modern identification of regional and morphological heterogeneity in mature oligodendrocytes. Indeed, recent morphologic and functional studies call into question the long-assumed homogeneity of mature oligodendrocyte function through the identification of distinct subtypes with varying myelination preferences. Furthermore, modern molecular investigations, employing techniques such as single cell/nucleus RNA sequencing, consistently unveil at least six mature oligodendrocyte subpopulations in the human central nervous system that are highly transcriptomically diverse and vary with central nervous system region. Age and disease related mature oligodendrocyte variation denotes the impact of pathological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and psychiatric disorders. Nevertheless, caution is warranted when subclassifying mature oligodendrocytes because of the simplification needed to make conclusions about cell identity from temporally confined investigations. Future studies leveraging advanced techniques like spatial transcriptomics and single-cell proteomics promise a more nuanced understanding of mature oligodendrocyte heterogeneity. Such research avenues that precisely evaluate mature oligodendrocyte heterogeneity with care to understand the mitigating influence of species, sex, central nervous system region, age, and disease, hold promise for the development of therapeutic interventions targeting varied central nervous system pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Weng
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Adam M R Groh
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Moein Yaqubi
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Qiao-Ling Cui
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jo Anne Stratton
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - G R Wayne Moore
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jack P Antel
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Hickmott JW, Morshead CM. Glia-to-neuron reprogramming to the rescue? Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1395-1396. [PMID: 39075900 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jack W Hickmott
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada (Hickmott JW, Morshead CM)
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Toronto, ON, Canada (Hickmott JW, Morshead CM)
| | - Cindi M Morshead
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada (Hickmott JW, Morshead CM)
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Toronto, ON, Canada (Hickmott JW, Morshead CM)
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada (Morshead CM)
- The KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada (Morshead CM)
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Liu Z, Pan C, Huang H. The role of axon guidance molecules in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1244-1257. [PMID: 39075893 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Current treatments for epilepsy can only manage the symptoms of the condition but cannot alter the initial onset or halt the progression of the disease. Consequently, it is crucial to identify drugs that can target novel cellular and molecular mechanisms and mechanisms of action. Increasing evidence suggests that axon guidance molecules play a role in the structural and functional modifications of neural networks and that the dysregulation of these molecules is associated with epilepsy susceptibility. In this review, we discuss the essential role of axon guidance molecules in neuronal activity in patients with epilepsy as well as the impact of these molecules on synaptic plasticity and brain tissue remodeling. Furthermore, we examine the relationship between axon guidance molecules and neuroinflammation, as well as the structural changes in specific brain regions that contribute to the development of epilepsy. Ample evidence indicates that axon guidance molecules, including semaphorins and ephrins, play a fundamental role in guiding axon growth and the establishment of synaptic connections. Deviations in their expression or function can disrupt neuronal connections, ultimately leading to epileptic seizures. The remodeling of neural networks is a significant characteristic of epilepsy, with axon guidance molecules playing a role in the dynamic reorganization of neural circuits. This, in turn, affects synapse formation and elimination. Dysregulation of these molecules can upset the delicate balance between excitation and inhibition within a neural network, thereby increasing the risk of overexcitation and the development of epilepsy. Inflammatory signals can regulate the expression and function of axon guidance molecules, thus influencing axonal growth, axon orientation, and synaptic plasticity. The dysregulation of neuroinflammation can intensify neuronal dysfunction and contribute to the occurrence of epilepsy. This review delves into the mechanisms associated with the pathogenicity of axon guidance molecules in epilepsy, offering a valuable reference for the exploration of therapeutic targets and presenting a fresh perspective on treatment strategies for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Liu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou Province, China
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Qiu Q, Yang M, Gong D, Liang H, Chen T. Potassium and calcium channels in different nerve cells act as therapeutic targets in neurological disorders. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1258-1276. [PMID: 38845230 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system, information integration center of the body, is mainly composed of neurons and glial cells. The neuron is one of the most basic and important structural and functional units of the central nervous system, with sensory stimulation and excitation conduction functions. Astrocytes and microglia belong to the glial cell family, which is the main source of cytokines and represents the main defense system of the central nervous system. Nerve cells undergo neurotransmission or gliotransmission, which regulates neuronal activity via the ion channels, receptors, or transporters expressed on nerve cell membranes. Ion channels, composed of large transmembrane proteins, play crucial roles in maintaining nerve cell homeostasis. These channels are also important for control of the membrane potential and in the secretion of neurotransmitters. A variety of cellular functions and life activities, including functional regulation of the central nervous system, the generation and conduction of nerve excitation, the occurrence of receptor potential, heart pulsation, smooth muscle peristalsis, skeletal muscle contraction, and hormone secretion, are closely related to ion channels associated with passive transmembrane transport. Two types of ion channels in the central nervous system, potassium channels and calcium channels, are closely related to various neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy. Accordingly, various drugs that can affect these ion channels have been explored deeply to provide new directions for the treatment of these neurological disorders. In this review, we focus on the functions of potassium and calcium ion channels in different nerve cells and their involvement in neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, depression, epilepsy, autism, and rare disorders. We also describe several clinical drugs that target potassium or calcium channels in nerve cells and could be used to treat these disorders. We concluded that there are few clinical drugs that can improve the pathology these diseases by acting on potassium or calcium ions. Although a few novel ion-channel-specific modulators have been discovered, meaningful therapies have largely not yet been realized. The lack of target-specific drugs, their requirement to cross the blood-brain barrier, and their exact underlying mechanisms all need further attention. This review aims to explain the urgent problems that need research progress and provide comprehensive information aiming to arouse the research community's interest in the development of ion channel-targeting drugs and the identification of new therapeutic targets for that can increase the cure rate of nervous system diseases and reduce the occurrence of adverse reactions in other systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Qiu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Mengting Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Danfeng Gong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Haiying Liang
- Department of Pharmacy, Longyan First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Longyan, Fujian Province, China
| | - Tingting Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
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Yin W, Ma H, Qu Y, Ren J, Sun Y, Guo ZN, Yang Y. Exosomes: the next-generation therapeutic platform for ischemic stroke. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1221-1235. [PMID: 39075892 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-02051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Current therapeutic strategies for ischemic stroke fall short of the desired objective of neurological functional recovery. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new methods for the treatment of this condition. Exosomes are natural cell-derived vesicles that mediate signal transduction between cells under physiological and pathological conditions. They have low immunogenicity, good stability, high delivery efficiency, and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. These physiological properties of exosomes have the potential to lead to new breakthroughs in the treatment of ischemic stroke. The rapid development of nanotechnology has advanced the application of engineered exosomes, which can effectively improve targeting ability, enhance therapeutic efficacy, and minimize the dosages needed. Advances in technology have also driven clinical translational research on exosomes. In this review, we describe the therapeutic effects of exosomes and their positive roles in current treatment strategies for ischemic stroke, including their anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis, autophagy-regulation, angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and glial scar formation reduction effects. However, it is worth noting that, despite their significant therapeutic potential, there remains a dearth of standardized characterization methods and efficient isolation techniques capable of producing highly purified exosomes. Future optimization strategies should prioritize the exploration of suitable isolation techniques and the establishment of unified workflows to effectively harness exosomes for diagnostic or therapeutic applications in ischemic stroke. Ultimately, our review aims to summarize our understanding of exosome-based treatment prospects in ischemic stroke and foster innovative ideas for the development of exosome-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Yin
- Stroke Center, Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Hongyin Ma
- Stroke Center, Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yang Qu
- Stroke Center, Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jiaxin Ren
- Stroke Center, Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yingying Sun
- Stroke Center, Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zhen-Ni Guo
- Stroke Center, Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
- Neuroscience Research Center, Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Stroke Center, Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
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Li H, Seugnet L. Decoding the nexus: branched-chain amino acids and their connection with sleep, circadian rhythms, and cardiometabolic health. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1350-1363. [PMID: 39075896 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-02020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The sleep-wake cycle stands as an integrative process essential for sustaining optimal brain function and, either directly or indirectly, overall body health, encompassing metabolic and cardiovascular well-being. Given the heightened metabolic activity of the brain, there exists a considerable demand for nutrients in comparison to other organs. Among these, the branched-chain amino acids, comprising leucine, isoleucine, and valine, display distinctive significance, from their contribution to protein structure to their involvement in overall metabolism, especially in cerebral processes. Among the first amino acids that are released into circulation post-food intake, branched-chain amino acids assume a pivotal role in the regulation of protein synthesis, modulating insulin secretion and the amino acid sensing pathway of target of rapamycin. Branched-chain amino acids are key players in influencing the brain's uptake of monoamine precursors, competing for a shared transporter. Beyond their involvement in protein synthesis, these amino acids contribute to the metabolic cycles of γ-aminobutyric acid and glutamate, as well as energy metabolism. Notably, they impact GABAergic neurons and the excitation/inhibition balance. The rhythmicity of branched-chain amino acids in plasma concentrations, observed over a 24-hour cycle and conserved in rodent models, is under circadian clock control. The mechanisms underlying those rhythms and the physiological consequences of their disruption are not fully understood. Disturbed sleep, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases can elevate branched-chain amino acid concentrations or modify their oscillatory dynamics. The mechanisms driving these effects are currently the focal point of ongoing research efforts, since normalizing branched-chain amino acid levels has the ability to alleviate the severity of these pathologies. In this context, the Drosophila model, though underutilized, holds promise in shedding new light on these mechanisms. Initial findings indicate its potential to introduce novel concepts, particularly in elucidating the intricate connections between the circadian clock, sleep/wake, and metabolism. Consequently, the use and transport of branched-chain amino acids emerge as critical components and orchestrators in the web of interactions across multiple organs throughout the sleep/wake cycle. They could represent one of the so far elusive mechanisms connecting sleep patterns to metabolic and cardiovascular health, paving the way for potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Laurent Seugnet
- Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, Integrated Physiology of the Brain Arousal Systems (WAKING), Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR 5292, Bron, France
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Han R, Luo L, Wei C, Qiao Y, Xie J, Pan X, Xing J. Stiffness-tunable biomaterials provide a good extra cellular matrix environment for axon growth and regeneration. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1364-1376. [PMID: 39075897 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuronal growth, extension, branching, and formation of neural networks are markedly influenced by the extracellular matrix-a complex network composed of proteins and carbohydrates secreted by cells. In addition to providing physical support for cells, the extracellular matrix also conveys critical mechanical stiffness cues. During the development of the nervous system, extracellular matrix stiffness plays a central role in guiding neuronal growth, particularly in the context of axonal extension, which is crucial for the formation of neural networks. In neural tissue engineering, manipulation of biomaterial stiffness is a promising strategy to provide a permissive environment for the repair and regeneration of injured nervous tissue. Recent research has fine-tuned synthetic biomaterials to fabricate scaffolds that closely replicate the stiffness profiles observed in the nervous system. In this review, we highlight the molecular mechanisms by which extracellular matrix stiffness regulates axonal growth and regeneration. We highlight the progress made in the development of stiffness-tunable biomaterials to emulate in vivo extracellular matrix environments, with an emphasis on their application in neural repair and regeneration, along with a discussion of the current limitations and future prospects. The exploration and optimization of the stiffness-tunable biomaterials has the potential to markedly advance the development of neural tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronglin Han
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lanxin Luo
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Caiyan Wei
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yaru Qiao
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiming Xie
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xianchao Pan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Juan Xing
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
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42
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Nawabi H, Belin S. Translational machinery and translation regulation in axon regeneration. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1392-1394. [PMID: 39075899 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Homaira Nawabi
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, U1216, Grenoble Institut Neurosciences, Grenoble, France
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43
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Gao M, Dong Q, Zou D, Yang Z, Guo L, Xu R. Induced neural stem cells regulate microglial activation through Akt-mediated upregulation of CXCR4 and Crry in a mouse model of closed head injury. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1416-1430. [PMID: 38934402 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202505000-00025/figure1/v/2024-07-28T173839Z/r/image-tiff Microglial activation that occurs rapidly after closed head injury may play important and complex roles in neuroinflammation-associated neuronal damage and repair. We previously reported that induced neural stem cells can modulate the behavior of activated microglia via CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling, influencing their activation such that they can promote neurological recovery. However, the mechanism of CXCR4 upregulation in induced neural stem cells remains unclear. In this study, we found that nuclear factor-κB activation induced by closed head injury mouse serum in microglia promoted CXCL12 and tumor necrosis factor-α expression but suppressed insulin-like growth factor-1 expression. However, recombinant complement receptor 2-conjugated Crry (CR2-Crry) reduced the effects of closed head injury mouse serum-induced nuclear factor-κB activation in microglia and the levels of activated microglia, CXCL12, and tumor necrosis factor-α. Additionally, we observed that, in response to stimulation (including stimulation by CXCL12 secreted by activated microglia), CXCR4 and Crry levels can be upregulated in induced neural stem cells via the interplay among CXCL12/CXCR4, Crry, and Akt signaling to modulate microglial activation. In agreement with these in vitro experimental results, we found that Akt activation enhanced the immunoregulatory effects of induced neural stem cell grafts on microglial activation, leading to the promotion of neurological recovery via insulin-like growth factor-1 secretion and the neuroprotective effects of induced neural stem cell grafts through CXCR4 and Crry upregulation in the injured cortices of closed head injury mice. Notably, these beneficial effects of Akt activation in induced neural stem cells were positively correlated with the therapeutic effects of induced neural stem cells on neuronal injury, cerebral edema, and neurological disorders post-closed head injury. In conclusion, our findings reveal that Akt activation may enhance the immunoregulatory effects of induced neural stem cells on microglial activation via upregulation of CXCR4 and Crry, thereby promoting induced neural stem cell-mediated improvement of neuronal injury, cerebral edema, and neurological disorders following closed head injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mou Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qin Dong
- Department of Neurology, Fu Xing Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Zou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhijun Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lili Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ruxiang Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
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44
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Long Y, Liu J, Wang Y, Guo H, Cui G. The complex effects of miR-146a in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1309-1323. [PMID: 39075895 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive dysfunction and behavioral abnormalities. Neuroinflammatory plaques formed through the extracellular deposition of amyloid-β proteins, as well as neurofibrillary tangles formed by the intracellular deposition of hyperphosphorylated tau proteins, comprise two typical pathological features of Alzheimer's disease. Besides symptomatic treatment, there are no effective therapies for delaying Alzheimer's disease progression. MicroRNAs (miR) are small, non-coding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression at the transcriptional and translational levels and play important roles in multiple physiological and pathological processes. Indeed, miR-146a, a NF-κB-regulated gene, has been extensively implicated in the development of Alzheimer's disease through several pathways. Research has demonstrated substantial dysregulation of miR-146a both during the initial phases and throughout the progression of this disorder. MiR-146a is believed to reduce amyloid-β deposition and tau protein hyperphosphorylation through the TLR/IRAK1/TRAF6 pathway; however, there is also evidence supporting that it can promote these processes through many other pathways, thus exacerbating the pathological manifestations of Alzheimer's disease. It has been widely reported that miR-146a mediates synaptic dysfunction, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuronal death by targeting mRNAs encoding synaptic-related proteins, mitochondrial-related proteins, and membrane proteins, as well as other mRNAs. Regarding the impact on glial cells, miR-146a also exhibits differential effects. On one hand, it causes widespread and sustained inflammation through certain pathways, while on the other hand, it can reverse the polarization of astrocytes and microglia, alleviate neuroinflammation, and promote oligodendrocyte progenitor cell differentiation, thus maintaining the normal function of the myelin sheath and exerting a protective effect on neurons. In this review, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the involvement of miR-146a in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. We aim to elucidate the relationship between miR-146a and the key pathological manifestations of Alzheimer's disease, such as amyloid-β deposition, tau protein hyperphosphorylation, neuronal death, mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic dysfunction, and glial cell dysfunction, as well as summarize recent relevant studies that have highlighted the potential of miR-146a as a clinical diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfan Long
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai No. 9 People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiajia Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Neurology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haidong Guo
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guohong Cui
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai No. 9 People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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45
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Araúzo-Bravo MJ, Gerovska D, Schwab M, Kretz A. Small extrachromosomal circular DNA in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis matter. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1411-1413. [PMID: 39075908 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marcos J Araúzo-Bravo
- Computational Biology and Systems Biomedicine, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain (Araúzo-Bravo MJ, Gerovska D)
- Basque Foundation for Science, IKERBASQUE, Bilbao, Spain; Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Computational Biology and Bioinformatics Group, Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany (Araúzo-Bravo MJ)
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain (Araúzo-Bravo MJ)
| | - Daniela Gerovska
- Computational Biology and Systems Biomedicine, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain (Araúzo-Bravo MJ, Gerovska D)
| | - Matthias Schwab
- Computational Biology and Systems Biomedicine, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain (Araúzo-Bravo MJ, Gerovska D)
- Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Thuringia, Germany (Schwab M, Kretz A)
| | - Alexandra Kretz
- Computational Biology and Systems Biomedicine, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian, Spain (Araúzo-Bravo MJ, Gerovska D)
- Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Thuringia, Germany (Schwab M, Kretz A)
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46
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Luo W, Xu C, Li L, Ji Y, Wang Y, Li Y, Ye Y. Perfluoropentane-based oxygen-loaded nanodroplets reduce microglial activation through metabolic reprogramming. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1178-1191. [PMID: 38989955 PMCID: PMC11438333 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202504000-00032/figure1/v/2024-07-06T104127Z/r/image-tiff Microglia, the primary immune cells within the brain, have gained recognition as a promising therapeutic target for managing neurodegenerative diseases within the central nervous system, including Parkinson's disease. Nanoscale perfluorocarbon droplets have been reported to not only possess a high oxygen-carrying capacity, but also exhibit remarkable anti-inflammatory properties. However, the role of perfluoropentane in microglia-mediated central inflammatory reactions remains poorly understood. In this study, we developed perfluoropentane-based oxygen-loaded nanodroplets (PFP-OLNDs) and found that pretreatment with these droplets suppressed the lipopolysaccharide-induced activation of M1-type microglia in vitro and in vivo, and suppressed microglial activation in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease. Microglial suppression led to a reduction in the inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and cell migration capacity in vitro. Consequently, the neurotoxic effects were mitigated, which alleviated neuronal degeneration. Additionally, ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry showed that the anti-inflammatory effects of PFP-OLNDs mainly resulted from the modulation of microglial metabolic reprogramming. We further showed that PFP-OLNDs regulated microglial metabolic reprogramming through the AKT-mTOR-HIF-1α pathway. Collectively, our findings suggest that the novel PFP-OLNDs constructed in this study alleviate microglia-mediated central inflammatory reactions through metabolic reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanxian Luo
- Department of Medicine Ultrasonics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chuanhui Xu
- Institute of Neuroscience, Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Linxi Li
- Institute of Neuroscience, Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yunxiang Ji
- Institute of Neuroscience, Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yezhong Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience, Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yingjia Li
- Department of Medicine Ultrasonics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yongyi Ye
- Institute of Neuroscience, Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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Tang X, Zheng N, Lin Q, You Y, Gong Z, Zhuang Y, Wu J, Wang Y, Huang H, Ke J, Chen F. Hypoxia-preconditioned bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells protect neurons from cardiac arrest-induced pyroptosis. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1103-1123. [PMID: 38845218 PMCID: PMC11438345 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202504000-00027/figure1/v/2024-07-06T104127Z/r/image-tiff Cardiac arrest can lead to severe neurological impairment as a result of inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and post-cardiopulmonary resuscitation neurological damage. Hypoxic preconditioning has been shown to improve migration and survival of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and reduce pyroptosis after cardiac arrest, but the specific mechanisms by which hypoxia-preconditioned bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells protect against brain injury after cardiac arrest are unknown. To this end, we established an in vitro co-culture model of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and oxygen-glucose deprived primary neurons and found that hypoxic preconditioning enhanced the protective effect of bone marrow stromal stem cells against neuronal pyroptosis, possibly through inhibition of the MAPK and nuclear factor κB pathways. Subsequently, we transplanted hypoxia-preconditioned bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells into the lateral ventricle after the return of spontaneous circulation in an 8-minute cardiac arrest rat model induced by asphyxia. The results showed that hypoxia-preconditioned bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells significantly reduced cardiac arrest-induced neuronal pyroptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial damage, whereas knockdown of the liver isoform of phosphofructokinase in bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells inhibited these effects. To conclude, hypoxia-preconditioned bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells offer a promising therapeutic approach for neuronal injury following cardiac arrest, and their beneficial effects are potentially associated with increased expression of the liver isoform of phosphofructokinase following hypoxic preconditioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiahong Tang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Nan Zheng
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Qingming Lin
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yan You
- The Second Department of Intensive Care Unit, Fujian Provincial Hospital South Branch, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Zheng Gong
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yangping Zhuang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Jiali Wu
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Hanlin Huang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Jun Ke
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Feng Chen
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
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48
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Qiao L, Lin X, Liu H, Xiang R, Zhan J, Deng F, Bao M, He H, Wen X, Deng H, Wang X, He Y, Yang Z, Han J. T-2 toxin induces cardiac fibrosis by causing metabolic disorders and up-regulating Sirt3/FoxO3α/MnSOD signaling pathway-mediated oxidative stress. J Environ Sci (China) 2025; 150:532-544. [PMID: 39306426 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2024.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
T-2 toxin, an omnipresent environmental contaminant, poses a serious risk to the health of humans and animals due to its pronounced cardiotoxicity. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanism of cardiac tissue damage by T-2 toxin. Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were orally administered T-2 toxin through gavage for 12 weeks at the dose of 0, 10, and 100 nanograms per gram body weight per day (ng/(g·day)), respectively. Morphological, pathological, and ultrastructural alterations in cardiac tissue were meticulously examined. Non-targeted metabolomics analysis was employed to analyze alterations in cardiac metabolites. The expression of the Sirt3/FoxO3α/MnSOD signaling pathway and the level of oxidative stress markers were detected. The results showed that exposure to T-2 toxin elicited myocardial tissue disorders, interstitial hemorrhage, capillary dilation, and fibrotic damage. Mitochondria were markedly impaired, including swelling, fusion, matrix degradation, and membrane damage. Metabonomics analysis unveiled that T-2 toxin could cause alterations in cardiac metabolic profiles as well as in the Sirt3/FoxO3α/MnSOD signaling pathway. T-2 toxin could inhibit the expressions of the signaling pathway and elevate the level of oxidative stress. In conclusion, the T-2 toxin probably induces cardiac fibrotic impairment by affecting amino acid and choline metabolism as well as up-regulating oxidative stress mediated by the Sirt3/FoxO3α/MnSOD signaling pathway. This study is expected to provide targets for preventing and treating T-2 toxin-induced cardiac fibrotic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lichun Qiao
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xue Lin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Haobiao Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Rongqi Xiang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jingming Zhan
- Department of Radiological Medicine and Environmental Medicine, China Institute of Radiation Protection, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Feidan Deng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Miaoye Bao
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Huifang He
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xinyue Wen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Huan Deng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xining Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Yujie He
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Zhihao Yang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jing Han
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; Global Health Institute, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 712000, China; Key Laboratory for Disease Prevention and Control and Health Promotion of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an 710061, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China.
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49
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Kim JH, Afridi R, Jang IS, Lee MG, Suk K. Regulation of sleep by astrocytes in the hypothalamic ventrolateral preoptic nucleus. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1098-1100. [PMID: 38989949 PMCID: PMC11438335 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Hong Kim
- Brain Korea 21 four KNU Convergence Educational Program of Biomedical Sciences for Creative Future Talents, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Kim JH, Afridi R, Suk K)
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Kim JH, Afridi R, Lee MG, Suk K)
| | - Ruqayya Afridi
- Brain Korea 21 four KNU Convergence Educational Program of Biomedical Sciences for Creative Future Talents, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Kim JH, Afridi R, Suk K)
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Kim JH, Afridi R, Lee MG, Suk K)
| | - Il-Sung Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Jang IS)
- Brain Science & Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Jang IS, Lee MG, Suk K)
| | - Maan Gee Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Kim JH, Afridi R, Lee MG, Suk K)
- Brain Science & Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Jang IS, Lee MG, Suk K)
| | - Kyoungho Suk
- Brain Korea 21 four KNU Convergence Educational Program of Biomedical Sciences for Creative Future Talents, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Kim JH, Afridi R, Suk K)
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Kim JH, Afridi R, Lee MG, Suk K)
- Brain Science & Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea (Jang IS, Lee MG, Suk K)
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50
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Wang P, Bi Y, Li M, Chen J, Wang Z, Wen H, Zhou M, Luo M, Zhang W. Cortico-striatal gamma oscillations are modulated by dopamine D3 receptors in dyskinetic rats. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1164-1177. [PMID: 38989954 PMCID: PMC11438323 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202504000-00031/figure1/v/2024-07-06T104127Z/r/image-tiff Long-term levodopa administration can lead to the development of levodopa-induced dyskinesia. Gamma oscillations are a widely recognized hallmark of abnormal neural electrical activity in levodopa-induced dyskinesia. Currently, studies have reported increased oscillation power in cases of levodopa-induced dyskinesia. However, little is known about how the other electrophysiological parameters of gamma oscillations are altered in levodopa-induced dyskinesia. Furthermore, the role of the dopamine D3 receptor, which is implicated in levodopa-induced dyskinesia, in movement disorder-related changes in neural oscillations is unclear. We found that the cortico-striatal functional connectivity of beta oscillations was enhanced in a model of Parkinson's disease. Furthermore, levodopa application enhanced cortical gamma oscillations in cortico-striatal projections and cortical gamma aperiodic components, as well as bidirectional primary motor cortex (M1) ↔ dorsolateral striatum gamma flow. Administration of PD128907 (a selective dopamine D3 receptor agonist) induced dyskinesia and excessive gamma oscillations with a bidirectional M1 ↔ dorsolateral striatum flow. However, administration of PG01037 (a selective dopamine D3 receptor antagonist) attenuated dyskinesia, suppressed gamma oscillations and cortical gamma aperiodic components, and decreased gamma causality in the M1 → dorsolateral striatum direction. These findings suggest that the dopamine D3 receptor plays a role in dyskinesia-related oscillatory activity, and that it has potential as a therapeutic target for levodopa-induced dyskinesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Wang
- Neurosurgery Center, Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Brain Function Repair and Regeneration, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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