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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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2
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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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3
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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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4
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Tohda C. Pharmacological intervention for chronic phase of spinal cord injury. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1377-1389. [PMID: 38934397 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury is an intractable traumatic injury. The most common hurdles faced during spinal cord injury are failure of axonal regrowth and reconnection to target sites. These also tend to be the most challenging issues in spinal cord injury. As spinal cord injury progresses to the chronic phase, lost motor and sensory functions are not recovered. Several reasons may be attributed to the failure of recovery from chronic spinal cord injury. These include factors that inhibit axonal growth such as activated astrocytes, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan, myelin-associated proteins, inflammatory microglia, and fibroblasts that accumulate at lesion sites. Skeletal muscle atrophy due to denervation is another chronic and detrimental spinal cord injury-specific condition. Although several intervention strategies based on multiple outlooks have been attempted for treating spinal cord injury, few approaches have been successful. To treat chronic spinal cord injury, neural cells or tissue substitutes may need to be supplied in the cavity area to enable possible axonal growth. Additionally, stimulating axonal growth activity by extrinsic factors is extremely important and essential for maintaining the remaining host neurons and transplanted neurons. This review focuses on pharmacotherapeutic approaches using small compounds and proteins to enable axonal growth in chronic spinal cord injury. This review presents some of these candidates that have shown promising outcomes in basic research ( in vivo animal studies) and clinical trials: AA-NgR(310)ecto-Fc (AXER-204), fasudil, phosphatase and tensin homolog protein antagonist peptide 4, chondroitinase ABC, intracellular sigma peptide, (-)-epigallocatechin gallate, matrine, acteoside, pyrvate kinase M2, diosgenin, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, and fampridine-sustained release. Although the current situation suggests that drug-based therapies to recover function in chronic spinal cord injury are limited, potential candidates have been identified through basic research, and these candidates may be subjects of clinical studies in the future. Moreover, cocktail therapy comprising drugs with varied underlying mechanisms may be effective in treating the refractory status of chronic spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Tohda
- Section of Neuromedical Science, Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
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5
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La Barbera L, Krashia P, Nobili A. How dopamine tunes parvalbumin interneurons in the hippocampus: new experimental observations in Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1405-1406. [PMID: 39075905 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Livia La Barbera
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Álvaro del Portillo, Rome, Italy (La Barbera L, Nobili A)
- Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, Rome, Italy (La Barbera L, Krashia P, Nobili A)
| | - Paraskevi Krashia
- Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, Rome, Italy (La Barbera L, Krashia P, Nobili A)
- Department of Science and Technology for Sustainable Development and One Health, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Álvaro del Portillo, Rome, Italy (Krashia P)
| | - Annalisa Nobili
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Álvaro del Portillo, Rome, Italy (La Barbera L, Nobili A)
- Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, Rome, Italy (La Barbera L, Krashia P, Nobili A)
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6
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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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7
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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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8
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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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9
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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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Zheng M, Zhang B, Yau SSY, So KF, Zhang L, Ou H. Exercise preconditioning alleviates ischemia-induced memory deficits by increasing circulating adiponectin. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1445-1454. [PMID: 39075911 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202505000-00027/figure1/v/2024-07-28T173839Z/r/image-tiff Cerebral ischemia is a major health risk that requires preventive approaches in addition to drug therapy. Physical exercise enhances neurogenesis and synaptogenesis, and has been widely used for functional rehabilitation after stroke. In this study, we determined whether exercise training before disease onset can alleviate the severity of cerebral ischemia. We also examined the role of exercise-induced circulating factors in these effects. Adult mice were subjected to 14 days of treadmill exercise training before surgery for middle cerebral artery occlusion. We found that this exercise pre-conditioning strategy effectively attenuated brain infarct area, inhibited gliogenesis, protected synaptic proteins, and improved novel object and spatial memory function. Further analysis showed that circulating adiponectin plays a critical role in these preventive effects of exercise. Agonist activation of adiponectin receptors by AdipoRon mimicked the effects of exercise, while inhibiting receptor activation abolished the exercise effects. In summary, our results suggest a crucial role of circulating adiponectin in the effects of exercise pre-conditioning in protecting against cerebral ischemia and supporting the health benefits of exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meifeng Zheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Borui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sonata S Y Yau
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- Center for Exercise and Brain Science, School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Center for Exercise and Brain Science, School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Haining Ou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Fifth Clinical College of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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11
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MacDonald DS, Penney J. Microglial dysfunction and genetic risk for neurodegenerative disease. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1401-1402. [PMID: 39075903 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Debra S MacDonald
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, AVC, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
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12
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Asimakidou E, Saipuljumri EN, Lo CH, Zeng J. Role of metabolic dysfunction and inflammation along the liver-brain axis in animal models with obesity-induced neurodegeneration. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1069-1076. [PMID: 38989938 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The interaction between metabolic dysfunction and inflammation is central to the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease exacerbate this relationship. Peripheral lipid accumulation, particularly in the liver, initiates a cascade of inflammatory processes that extend to the brain, influencing critical metabolic regulatory regions. Ceramide and palmitate, key lipid components, along with lipid transporters lipocalin-2 and apolipoprotein E, contribute to neuroinflammation by disrupting blood-brain barrier integrity and promoting gliosis. Peripheral insulin resistance further exacerbates brain insulin resistance and neuroinflammation. Preclinical interventions targeting peripheral lipid metabolism and insulin signaling pathways have shown promise in reducing neuroinflammation in animal models. However, translating these findings to clinical practice requires further investigation into human subjects. In conclusion, metabolic dysfunction, peripheral inflammation, and insulin resistance are integral to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Understanding these complex mechanisms holds potential for identifying novel therapeutic targets and improving outcomes for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evridiki Asimakidou
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eka Norfaishanty Saipuljumri
- School of Applied Science, Republic Polytechnic, Singapore, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chih Hung Lo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jialiu Zeng
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
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13
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Osman H, Ashwood P. Evidence supporting the relationship between maternal asthma and risk for autism spectrum disorders. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1101-1102. [PMID: 38989950 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hadley Osman
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and the M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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14
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Chen J, Chen J, Yu C, Xia K, Yang B, Wang R, Li Y, Shi K, Zhang Y, Xu H, Zhang X, Wang J, Chen Q, Liang C. Metabolic reprogramming: a new option for the treatment of spinal cord injury. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1042-1057. [PMID: 38989936 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injuries impose a notably economic burden on society, mainly because of the severe after-effects they cause. Despite the ongoing development of various therapies for spinal cord injuries, their effectiveness remains unsatisfactory. However, a deeper understanding of metabolism has opened up a new therapeutic opportunity in the form of metabolic reprogramming. In this review, we explore the metabolic changes that occur during spinal cord injuries, their consequences, and the therapeutic tools available for metabolic reprogramming. Normal spinal cord metabolism is characterized by independent cellular metabolism and intercellular metabolic coupling. However, spinal cord injury results in metabolic disorders that include disturbances in glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and mitochondrial dysfunction. These metabolic disturbances lead to corresponding pathological changes, including the failure of axonal regeneration, the accumulation of scarring, and the activation of microglia. To rescue spinal cord injury at the metabolic level, potential metabolic reprogramming approaches have emerged, including replenishing metabolic substrates, reconstituting metabolic couplings, and targeting mitochondrial therapies to alter cell fate. The available evidence suggests that metabolic reprogramming holds great promise as a next-generation approach for the treatment of spinal cord injury. To further advance the metabolic treatment of the spinal cord injury, future efforts should focus on a deeper understanding of neurometabolism, the development of more advanced metabolomics technologies, and the design of highly effective metabolic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangjie Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jinyang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chao Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Kaishun Xia
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Biao Yang
- Qiandongnan Prefecture People's Hospital, Kaili, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Ronghao Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Kesi Shi
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yuang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Haibin Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xuesong Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jingkai Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qixin Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chengzhen Liang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
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15
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Jiao D, Xu L, Gu Z, Yan H, Shen D, Gu X. Pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of epilepsy: electromagnetic stimulation-mediated neuromodulation therapy and new technologies. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:917-935. [PMID: 38989927 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a severe, relapsing, and multifactorial neurological disorder. Studies regarding the accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and in-depth pathogenesis are crucial for the precise and effective treatment of epilepsy. The pathogenesis of epilepsy is complex and involves alterations in variables such as gene expression, protein expression, ion channel activity, energy metabolites, and gut microbiota composition. Satisfactory results are lacking for conventional treatments for epilepsy. Surgical resection of lesions, drug therapy, and non-drug interventions are mainly used in clinical practice to treat pain associated with epilepsy. Non-pharmacological treatments, such as a ketogenic diet, gene therapy for nerve regeneration, and neural regulation, are currently areas of research focus. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the pathogenesis, diagnostic methods, and treatments of epilepsy. It also elaborates on the theoretical basis, treatment modes, and effects of invasive nerve stimulation in neurotherapy, including percutaneous vagus nerve stimulation, deep brain electrical stimulation, repetitive nerve electrical stimulation, in addition to non-invasive transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation. Numerous studies have shown that electromagnetic stimulation-mediated neuromodulation therapy can markedly improve neurological function and reduce the frequency of epileptic seizures. Additionally, many new technologies for the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy are being explored. However, current research is mainly focused on analyzing patients' clinical manifestations and exploring relevant diagnostic and treatment methods to study the pathogenesis at a molecular level, which has led to a lack of consensus regarding the mechanisms related to the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dian Jiao
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lai Xu
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhen Gu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems of Zhejiang Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hua Yan
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Dingding Shen
- Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaosong Gu
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
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16
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Gamez N, Morales R. Role of peripheral amyloid-β aggregates in Alzheimer's disease: mechanistic, diagnostic, and therapeutic implications. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1087-1089. [PMID: 38989944 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00066] [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: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nazaret Gamez
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA (Gamez N, Morales R)
| | - Rodrigo Morales
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA (Gamez N, Morales R)
- Centro Integrativo de Biologia y Quimica Aplicada (CIBQA), Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile (Morales R)
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17
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Pradhan AK, Rupprecht R, Rammes G. Translocator protein and neurodegeneration: insights from Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1090-1091. [PMID: 38989945 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Arpit Kumar Pradhan
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany (Pradhan AK, Rammes G)
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Martinsried, Germany (Pradhan AK)
| | - Rainer Rupprecht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany (Rupprecht R)
| | - Gerhard Rammes
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany (Pradhan AK, Rammes G)
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18
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Zhang L, Wei J, Liu X, Li D, Pang X, Chen F, Cao H, Lei P. Gut microbiota-astrocyte axis: new insights into age-related cognitive decline. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:990-1008. [PMID: 38989933 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
With the rapidly aging human population, age-related cognitive decline and dementia are becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide. Aging is considered the main risk factor for cognitive decline and acts through alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota, microbial metabolites, and the functions of astrocytes. The microbiota-gut-brain axis has been the focus of multiple studies and is closely associated with cognitive function. This article provides a comprehensive review of the specific changes that occur in the composition of the gut microbiota and microbial metabolites in older individuals and discusses how the aging of astrocytes and reactive astrocytosis are closely related to age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. This article also summarizes the gut microbiota components that affect astrocyte function, mainly through the vagus nerve, immune responses, circadian rhythms, and microbial metabolites. Finally, this article summarizes the mechanism by which the gut microbiota-astrocyte axis plays a role in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Our findings have revealed the critical role of the microbiota-astrocyte axis in age-related cognitive decline, aiding in a deeper understanding of potential gut microbiome-based adjuvant therapy strategies for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Zhang
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Geriatrics Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingge Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, National Key Clinical Specialty, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Xilei Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Dai Li
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Geriatrics Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoqi Pang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, National Key Clinical Specialty, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Fanglian Chen
- Tianjin Neurological Institution, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hailong Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, National Key Clinical Specialty, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Ping Lei
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Geriatrics Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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19
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Zhu K, Wang H, Ye K, Chen G, Zhang Z. Netrin-1 signaling pathway mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:960-972. [PMID: 38989931 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Netrin-1 and its receptors play crucial roles in inducing axonal growth and neuronal migration during neuronal development. Their profound impacts then extend into adulthood to encompass the maintenance of neuronal survival and synaptic function. Increasing amounts of evidence highlight several key points: (1) Diminished Netrin-1 levels exacerbate pathological progression in animal models of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, and potentially, similar alterations occur in humans. (2) Genetic mutations of Netrin-1 receptors increase an individuals' susceptibility to neurodegenerative disorders. (3) Therapeutic approaches targeting Netrin-1 and its receptors offer the benefits of enhancing memory and motor function. (4) Netrin-1 and its receptors show genetic and epigenetic alterations in a variety of cancers. These findings provide compelling evidence that Netrin-1 and its receptors are crucial targets in neurodegenerative diseases. Through a comprehensive review of Netrin-1 signaling pathways, our objective is to uncover potential therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kedong Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Hualong Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University; Brain Aging and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory of Heibei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Keqiang Ye
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guiqin Chen
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhaohui Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
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20
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Yang X, Huang YWA, Marshall J. Targeting TrkB-PSD-95 coupling to mitigate neurological disorders. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:715-724. [PMID: 38886937 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-02000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) signaling plays a pivotal role in dendritic growth and dendritic spine formation to promote learning and memory. The activity-dependent release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor at synapses binds to pre- or postsynaptic TrkB resulting in the strengthening of synapses, reflected by long-term potentiation. Postsynaptically, the association of postsynaptic density protein-95 with TrkB enhances phospholipase Cγ-Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-mechanistic target of rapamycin signaling required for long-term potentiation. In this review, we discuss TrkB-postsynaptic density protein-95 coupling as a promising strategy to magnify brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling towards the development of novel therapeutics for specific neurological disorders. A reduction of TrkB signaling has been observed in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease, and enhancement of postsynaptic density protein-95 association with TrkB signaling could mitigate the observed deficiency of neuronal connectivity in schizophrenia and depression. Treatment with brain-derived neurotrophic factor is problematic, due to poor pharmacokinetics, low brain penetration, and side effects resulting from activation of the p75 neurotrophin receptor or the truncated TrkB.T1 isoform. Although TrkB agonists and antibodies that activate TrkB are being intensively investigated, they cannot distinguish the multiple human TrkB splicing isoforms or cell type-specific functions. Targeting TrkB-postsynaptic density protein-95 coupling provides an alternative approach to specifically boost TrkB signaling at localized synaptic sites versus global stimulation that risks many adverse side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Yu-Wen Alvin Huang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Neurology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Center for Translational Neuroscience, Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science and Brown Institute for Translational Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - John Marshall
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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21
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Wang Y, Zhang X, Biverstål H, Bazan NG, Tan S, Li N, Ohshima M, Schultzberg M, Li X. Pro-resolving lipid mediator reduces amyloid-β42-induced gene expression in human monocyte-derived microglia. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:873-886. [PMID: 38886959 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202503000-00031/figure1/v/2024-06-17T092413Z/r/image-tiff Specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators including maresin 1 mediate resolution but the levels of these are reduced in Alzheimer's disease brain, suggesting that they constitute a novel target for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease to prevent/stop inflammation and combat disease pathology. Therefore, it is important to clarify whether they counteract the expression of genes and proteins induced by amyloid-β. With this objective, we analyzed the relevance of human monocyte-derived microglia for in vitro modeling of neuroinflammation and its resolution in the context of Alzheimer's disease and investigated the pro-resolving bioactivity of maresin 1 on amyloid-β42-induced Alzheimer's disease-like inflammation. Analysis of RNA-sequencing data and secreted proteins in supernatants from the monocyte-derived microglia showed that the monocyte-derived microglia resembled Alzheimer's disease-like neuroinflammation in human brain microglia after incubation with amyloid-β42. Maresin 1 restored homeostasis by down-regulating inflammatory pathway related gene expression induced by amyloid-β42 in monocyte-derived microglia, protection of maresin 1 against the effects of amyloid-β42 is mediated by a re-balancing of inflammatory transcriptional networks in which modulation of gene transcription in the nuclear factor-kappa B pathway plays a major part. We pinpointed molecular targets that are associated with both neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease and therapeutic targets by maresin 1. In conclusion, monocyte-derived microglia represent a relevant in vitro microglial model for studies on Alzheimer's disease-like inflammation and drug response for individual patients. Maresin 1 ameliorates amyloid-β42-induced changes in several genes of importance in Alzheimer's disease, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik Biverstål
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Nicolas G Bazan
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Shuai Tan
- Department of Medicine, Solna, Clinical Pharmacology Group, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nailin Li
- Department of Medicine, Solna, Clinical Pharmacology Group, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Makiko Ohshima
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marianne Schultzberg
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xiaofei Li
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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22
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Wu B, Liu Y, Li H, Zhu L, Zeng L, Zhang Z, Peng W. Liver as a new target organ in Alzheimer's disease: insight from cholesterol metabolism and its role in amyloid-beta clearance. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:695-714. [PMID: 38886936 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.391305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease, the primary cause of dementia, is characterized by neuropathologies, such as amyloid plaques, synaptic and neuronal degeneration, and neurofibrillary tangles. Although amyloid plaques are the primary characteristic of Alzheimer's disease in the central nervous system and peripheral organs, targeting amyloid-beta clearance in the central nervous system has shown limited clinical efficacy in Alzheimer's disease treatment. Metabolic abnormalities are commonly observed in patients with Alzheimer's disease. The liver is the primary peripheral organ involved in amyloid-beta metabolism, playing a crucial role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease. Notably, impaired cholesterol metabolism in the liver may exacerbate the development of Alzheimer's disease. In this review, we explore the underlying causes of Alzheimer's disease and elucidate the role of the liver in amyloid-beta clearance and cholesterol metabolism. Furthermore, we propose that restoring normal cholesterol metabolism in the liver could represent a promising therapeutic strategy for addressing Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beibei Wu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yuqing Liu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Hongli Li
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Lemei Zhu
- Academician Workstation, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Lingfeng Zeng
- Academician Workstation, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- Yangsheng College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
- Qinhuangdao Shanhaiguan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, China
| | - Weijun Peng
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorder, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
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23
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Zhang Y, Li T, Miao J, Zhang Z, Yang M, Wang Z, Yang B, Zhang J, Li H, Su Q, Guo J. Gamma-glutamyl transferase 5 overexpression in cerebrovascular endothelial cells improves brain pathology, cognition, and behavior in APP/PS1 mice. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:533-547. [PMID: 38819065 PMCID: PMC11317949 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202502000-00030/figure1/v/2024-05-28T214302Z/r/image-tiff In patients with Alzheimer's disease, gamma-glutamyl transferase 5 (GGT5) expression has been observed to be downregulated in cerebrovascular endothelial cells. However, the functional role of GGT5 in the development of Alzheimer's disease remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the effect of GGT5 on cognitive function and brain pathology in an APP/PS1 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, as well as the underlying mechanism. We observed a significant reduction in GGT5 expression in two in vitro models of Alzheimer's disease (Aβ1-42-treated hCMEC/D3 and bEnd.3 cells), as well as in the APP/PS1 mouse model. Additionally, injection of APP/PS1 mice with an adeno-associated virus encoding GGT5 enhanced hippocampal synaptic plasticity and mitigated cognitive deficits. Interestingly, increasing GGT5 expression in cerebrovascular endothelial cells reduced levels of both soluble and insoluble amyloid-β in the brains of APP/PS1 mice. This effect may be attributable to inhibition of the expression of β-site APP cleaving enzyme 1, which is mediated by nuclear factor-kappa B. Our findings demonstrate that GGT5 expression in cerebrovascular endothelial cells is inversely associated with Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis, and that GGT5 upregulation mitigates cognitive deficits in APP/PS1 mice. These findings suggest that GGT5 expression in cerebrovascular endothelial cells is a potential therapeutic target and biomarker for Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Zhang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Sixth Hospital of Shanxi Medical University (General Hospital of Tisco), Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Physiology, Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Jie Miao
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Zhina Zhang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Mingxuan Yang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Zhuoran Wang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Jiawei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Haiting Li
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Qiang Su
- Department of Physiology, Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine of Fenyang College, Shanxi Medical University, Fenyang, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Junhong Guo
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
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Zhang X, Chen Z, Xiong Y, Zhou Q, Zhu LQ, Liu D. The emerging role of nitric oxide in the synaptic dysfunction of vascular dementia. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:402-415. [PMID: 38819044 PMCID: PMC11317957 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
With an increase in global aging, the number of people affected by cerebrovascular diseases is also increasing, and the incidence of vascular dementia-closely related to cerebrovascular risk-is increasing at an epidemic rate. However, few therapeutic options exist that can markedly improve the cognitive impairment and prognosis of vascular dementia patients. Similarly in Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders, synaptic dysfunction is recognized as the main reason for cognitive decline. Nitric oxide is one of the ubiquitous gaseous cellular messengers involved in multiple physiological and pathological processes of the central nervous system. Recently, nitric oxide has been implicated in regulating synaptic plasticity and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of vascular dementia. This review introduces in detail the emerging role of nitric oxide in physiological and pathological states of vascular dementia and summarizes the diverse effects of nitric oxide on different aspects of synaptic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and blood-brain barrier dysfunction that underlie the progress of vascular dementia. Additionally, we propose that targeting the nitric oxide-sGC-cGMP pathway using certain specific approaches may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for vascular dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorong Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Center for Cognitive Science and Transdisciplinary Studies, Jiujiang University, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zhiying Chen
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Yinyi Xiong
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Qin Zhou
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ling-Qiang Zhu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
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25
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Zha X, Zheng G, Skutella T, Kiening K, Unterberg A, Younsi A. Microglia: a promising therapeutic target in spinal cord injury. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:454-463. [PMID: 38819048 PMCID: PMC11317945 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-02044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia are present throughout the central nervous system and are vital in neural repair, nutrition, phagocytosis, immunological regulation, and maintaining neuronal function. In a healthy spinal cord, microglia are accountable for immune surveillance, however, when a spinal cord injury occurs, the microenvironment drastically changes, leading to glial scars and failed axonal regeneration. In this context, microglia vary their gene and protein expression during activation, and proliferation in reaction to the injury, influencing injury responses both favorably and unfavorably. A dynamic and multifaceted injury response is mediated by microglia, which interact directly with neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and neural stem/progenitor cells. Despite a clear understanding of their essential nature and origin, the mechanisms of action and new functions of microglia in spinal cord injury require extensive research. This review summarizes current studies on microglial genesis, physiological function, and pathological state, highlights their crucial roles in spinal cord injury, and proposes microglia as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Zha
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Guoli Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Skutella
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karl Kiening
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Unterberg
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Younsi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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26
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Luo S, Wang Y, Hisatsune T. P2Y1 receptor in Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:440-453. [PMID: 38819047 PMCID: PMC11317937 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-02103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is the most frequent form of dementia characterized by the deposition of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles consisting of hyperphosphorylated tau. Targeting amyloid-beta plaques has been a primary direction for developing Alzheimer's disease treatments in the last decades. However, existing drugs targeting amyloid-beta plaques have not fully yielded the expected results in the clinic, necessitating the exploration of alternative therapeutic strategies. Increasing evidence unravels that astrocyte morphology and function alter in the brain of Alzheimer's disease patients, with dysregulated astrocytic purinergic receptors, particularly the P2Y1 receptor, all of which constitute the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease. These receptors are not only crucial for maintaining normal astrocyte function but are also highly implicated in neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease. This review delves into recent insights into the association between P2Y1 receptor and Alzheimer's disease to underscore the potential neuroprotective role of P2Y1 receptor in Alzheimer's disease by mitigating neuroinflammation, thus offering promising avenues for developing drugs for Alzheimer's disease and potentially contributing to the development of more effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Luo
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Yifei Wang
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiro Hisatsune
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
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27
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Abokyi S, Tse DYY. Age-related driving mechanisms of retinal diseases and neuroprotection by transcription factor EB-targeted therapy. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:366-377. [PMID: 38819040 PMCID: PMC11317960 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-02033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinal aging has been recognized as a significant risk factor for various retinal disorders, including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma, following a growing understanding of the molecular underpinnings of their development. This comprehensive review explores the mechanisms of retinal aging and investigates potential neuroprotective approaches, focusing on the activation of transcription factor EB. Recent meta-analyses have demonstrated promising outcomes of transcription factor EB-targeted strategies, such as exercise, calorie restriction, rapamycin, and metformin, in patients and animal models of these common retinal diseases. The review critically assesses the role of transcription factor EB in retinal biology during aging, its neuroprotective effects, and its therapeutic potential for retinal disorders. The impact of transcription factor EB on retinal aging is cell-specific, influencing metabolic reprogramming and energy homeostasis in retinal neurons through the regulation of mitochondrial quality control and nutrient-sensing pathways. In vascular endothelial cells, transcription factor EB controls important processes, including endothelial cell proliferation, endothelial tube formation, and nitric oxide levels, thereby influencing the inner blood-retinal barrier, angiogenesis, and retinal microvasculature. Additionally, transcription factor EB affects vascular smooth muscle cells, inhibiting vascular calcification and atherogenesis. In retinal pigment epithelial cells, transcription factor EB modulates functions such as autophagy, lysosomal dynamics, and clearance of the aging pigment lipofuscin, thereby promoting photoreceptor survival and regulating vascular endothelial growth factor A expression involved in neovascularization. These cell-specific functions of transcription factor EB significantly impact retinal aging mechanisms encompassing proteostasis, neuronal synapse plasticity, energy metabolism, microvasculature, and inflammation, ultimately offering protection against retinal aging and diseases. The review emphasizes transcription factor EB as a potential therapeutic target for retinal diseases. Therefore, it is imperative to obtain well-controlled direct experimental evidence to confirm the efficacy of transcription factor EB modulation in retinal diseases while minimizing its risk of adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Abokyi
- School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- Research Center for SHARP Vision, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Dennis Yan-yin Tse
- School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- Research Center for SHARP Vision, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- Center for Eye and Vision Research, Sha Tin, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
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28
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Ji Y, Yang C, Pang X, Yan Y, Wu Y, Geng Z, Hu W, Hu P, Wu X, Wang K. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in Alzheimer's disease: effects on neural and synaptic rehabilitation. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:326-342. [PMID: 38819037 PMCID: PMC11317939 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease resulting from deficits in synaptic transmission and homeostasis. The Alzheimer's disease brain tends to be hyperexcitable and hypersynchronized, thereby causing neurodegeneration and ultimately disrupting the operational abilities in daily life, leaving patients incapacitated. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation is a cost-effective, neuro-modulatory technique used for multiple neurological conditions. Over the past two decades, it has been widely used to predict cognitive decline; identify pathophysiological markers; promote neuroplasticity; and assess brain excitability, plasticity, and connectivity. It has also been applied to patients with dementia, because it can yield facilitatory effects on cognition and promote brain recovery after a neurological insult. However, its therapeutic effectiveness at the molecular and synaptic levels has not been elucidated because of a limited number of studies. This study aimed to characterize the neurobiological changes following repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment, evaluate its effects on synaptic plasticity, and identify the associated mechanisms. This review essentially focuses on changes in the pathology, amyloidogenesis, and clearance pathways, given that amyloid deposition is a major hypothesis in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Apoptotic mechanisms associated with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation procedures and different pathways mediating gene transcription, which are closely related to the neural regeneration process, are also highlighted. Finally, we discuss the outcomes of animal studies in which neuroplasticity is modulated and assessed at the structural and functional levels by using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, with the aim to highlight future directions for better clinical translations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ji
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Chaoyi Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Xuerui Pang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Yibing Yan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Yue Wu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Zhi Geng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Wenjie Hu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Panpan Hu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Mental Health, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Xingqi Wu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Mental Health, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Department of Psychology and Sleep Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
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29
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Zhao XY, Xu DE, Wu ML, Liu JC, Shi ZL, Ma QH. Regulation and function of endoplasmic reticulum autophagy in neurodegenerative diseases. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:6-20. [PMID: 38767472 PMCID: PMC11246128 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-00995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum, a key cellular organelle, regulates a wide variety of cellular activities. Endoplasmic reticulum autophagy, one of the quality control systems of the endoplasmic reticulum, plays a pivotal role in maintaining endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis by controlling endoplasmic reticulum turnover, remodeling, and proteostasis. In this review, we briefly describe the endoplasmic reticulum quality control system, and subsequently focus on the role of endoplasmic reticulum autophagy, emphasizing the spatial and temporal mechanisms underlying the regulation of endoplasmic reticulum autophagy according to cellular requirements. We also summarize the evidence relating to how defective or abnormal endoplasmic reticulum autophagy contributes to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. In summary, this review highlights the mechanisms associated with the regulation of endoplasmic reticulum autophagy and how they influence the pathophysiology of degenerative nerve disorders. This review would help researchers to understand the roles and regulatory mechanisms of endoplasmic reticulum-phagy in neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu-Yun Zhao
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Neuroscience & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Translational Research and Therapy for Neuro-Psycho-Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - De-En Xu
- Department of Neurology, Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ming-Lei Wu
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Neuroscience & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Translational Research and Therapy for Neuro-Psycho-Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ji-Chuan Liu
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Neuroscience & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Translational Research and Therapy for Neuro-Psycho-Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zi-Ling Shi
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Neuroscience & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Translational Research and Therapy for Neuro-Psycho-Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Quan-Hong Ma
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Institute of Neuroscience & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Translational Research and Therapy for Neuro-Psycho-Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
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30
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Hu D, Cao Y, Cai C, Wang G, Zhou M, Peng L, Fan Y, Lai Q, Gao Z. Establishment of human cerebral organoid systems to model early neural development and assess the central neurotoxicity of environmental toxins. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:242-252. [PMID: 38767489 PMCID: PMC11246146 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-00928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202501000-00032/figure1/v/2024-05-14T021156Z/r/image-tiff Human brain development is a complex process, and animal models often have significant limitations. To address this, researchers have developed pluripotent stem cell-derived three-dimensional structures, known as brain-like organoids, to more accurately model early human brain development and disease. To enable more consistent and intuitive reproduction of early brain development, in this study, we incorporated forebrain organoid culture technology into the traditional unguided method of brain organoid culture. This involved embedding organoids in matrigel for only 7 days during the rapid expansion phase of the neural epithelium and then removing them from the matrigel for further cultivation, resulting in a new type of human brain organoid system. This cerebral organoid system replicated the temporospatial characteristics of early human brain development, including neuroepithelium derivation, neural progenitor cell production and maintenance, neuron differentiation and migration, and cortical layer patterning and formation, providing more consistent and reproducible organoids for developmental modeling and toxicology testing. As a proof of concept, we applied the heavy metal cadmium to this newly improved organoid system to test whether it could be used to evaluate the neurotoxicity of environmental toxins. Brain organoids exposed to cadmium for 7 or 14 days manifested severe damage and abnormalities in their neurodevelopmental patterns, including bursts of cortical cell death and premature differentiation. Cadmium exposure caused progressive depletion of neural progenitor cells and loss of organoid integrity, accompanied by compensatory cell proliferation at ectopic locations. The convenience, flexibility, and controllability of this newly developed organoid platform make it a powerful and affordable alternative to animal models for use in neurodevelopmental, neurological, and neurotoxicological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiyu Hu
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Geriatrics (Shanghai University), Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), Shanghai University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, Shanghai University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Arrhythmias, Ministry of Education, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanqing Cao
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Geriatrics (Shanghai University), Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), Shanghai University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, Shanghai University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Arrhythmias, Ministry of Education, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenglin Cai
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Arrhythmias, Ministry of Education, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangming Wang
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Arrhythmias, Ministry of Education, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Institute of Geriatrics (Shanghai University), Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), Shanghai University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, Shanghai University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Luying Peng
- Key Laboratory of Arrhythmias, Ministry of Education, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yantao Fan
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Geriatrics (Shanghai University), Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), Shanghai University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, Shanghai University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiong Lai
- Institute of Geriatrics (Shanghai University), Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), Shanghai University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, Shanghai University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengliang Gao
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Geriatrics (Shanghai University), Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), Shanghai University School of Medicine, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, Shanghai University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Han M, Zeng D, Tan W, Chen X, Bai S, Wu Q, Chen Y, Wei Z, Mei Y, Zeng Y. Brain region-specific roles of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in social stress-induced depressive-like behavior. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:159-173. [PMID: 38767484 PMCID: PMC11246125 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor is a key factor in stress adaptation and avoidance of a social stress behavioral response. Recent studies have shown that brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in stressed mice is brain region-specific, particularly involving the corticolimbic system, including the ventral tegmental area, nucleus accumbens, prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus. Determining how brain-derived neurotrophic factor participates in stress processing in different brain regions will deepen our understanding of social stress psychopathology. In this review, we discuss the expression and regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in stress-sensitive brain regions closely related to the pathophysiology of depression. We focused on associated molecular pathways and neural circuits, with special attention to the brain-derived neurotrophic factor-tropomyosin receptor kinase B signaling pathway and the ventral tegmental area-nucleus accumbens dopamine circuit. We determined that stress-induced alterations in brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels are likely related to the nature, severity, and duration of stress, especially in the above-mentioned brain regions of the corticolimbic system. Therefore, BDNF might be a biological indicator regulating stress-related processes in various brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Han
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Deyang Zeng
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Wei Tan
- Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xingxing Chen
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Shuyuan Bai
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Qiong Wu
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yushan Chen
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhen Wei
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yufei Mei
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
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32
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Li JZ, Ramalingam N, Li S. Targeting epigenetic mechanisms in amyloid-β-mediated Alzheimer's pathophysiology: unveiling therapeutic potential. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:54-66. [PMID: 38767476 PMCID: PMC11246147 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a prominent chronic neurodegenerative condition characterized by a gradual decline in memory leading to dementia. Growing evidence suggests that Alzheimer's disease is associated with accumulating various amyloid-β oligomers in the brain, influenced by complex genetic and environmental factors. The memory and cognitive deficits observed during the prodromal and mild cognitive impairment phases of Alzheimer's disease are believed to primarily result from synaptic dysfunction. Throughout life, environmental factors can lead to enduring changes in gene expression and the emergence of brain disorders. These changes, known as epigenetic modifications, also play a crucial role in regulating the formation of synapses and their adaptability in response to neuronal activity. In this context, we highlight recent advances in understanding the roles played by key components of the epigenetic machinery, specifically DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNAs, in the development of Alzheimer's disease, synaptic function, and activity-dependent synaptic plasticity. Moreover, we explore various strategies, including enriched environments, exposure to non-invasive brain stimulation, and the use of pharmacological agents, aimed at improving synaptic function and enhancing long-term potentiation, a process integral to epigenetic mechanisms. Lastly, we deliberate on the development of effective epigenetic agents and safe therapeutic approaches for managing Alzheimer's disease. We suggest that addressing Alzheimer's disease may require distinct tailored epigenetic drugs targeting different disease stages or pathways rather than relying on a single drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennie Z Li
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Geng Q, Xu Y, Hu Y, Wang L, Wang Y, Fan Z, Kong D. Progress in the Application of Organoids-On-A-Chip in Diseases. Organogenesis 2024; 20:2386727. [PMID: 39126669 PMCID: PMC11318694 DOI: 10.1080/15476278.2024.2386727] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
With the rapid development of the field of life sciences, traditional 2D cell culture and animal models have long been unable to meet the urgent needs of modern biomedical research and new drug development. Establishing a new generation of experimental models and research models is of great significance for deeply understanding human health and disease processes, and developing effective treatment measures. As is well known, long research and development cycles, high risks, and high costs are the "three mountains" facing the development of new drugs today. Organoids and organ-on-chips technology can highly simulate and reproduce the human physiological environment and complex reactions in vitro, greatly improving the accuracy of drug clinical efficacy prediction, reducing drug development costs, and avoiding the defects of drug testing animal models. Therefore, organ-on-chips have enormous potential in medical diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Geng
- Chinese Medicine Modernization and Big Data Research Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanyan Xu
- Department of Anoenterology, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Hu
- Chinese Medicine Modernization and Big Data Research Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of colorectal surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of colorectal surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhimin Fan
- Department of colorectal surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Desong Kong
- Chinese Medicine Modernization and Big Data Research Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Blum K, Bowirrat A, Thanos PK, Hanna C, Khalsa J, Baron D, Elman I, Badgaiyan RD, Dennen C, Braverman ER, Carney P, Lewandrowski KU, Sharafshah A, Gold MS. Evidence Based Clinical Analytics Supporting the Genetic Addiction Risk Severity (GARS) Assessment to Early Identify Probands in Preaddiction. EC PSYCHOLOGY AND PSYCHIATRY 2024; 13:1-3. [PMID: 38298272 PMCID: PMC10825809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Blum
- Department of Molecular Biology and Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- Center for Sports, Exercise, Global Mental Health, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA
- The Kenneth Blum Behavioral & Neurogenetic Institute, LLC., Austin, TX, USA
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont School of Medicine, Burlington, VY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Wright University, Boonshoff School of Medicine, Dayton, OH, USA
- Center for Advanced Spine Care of Southern Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Abdalla Bowirrat
- Department of Molecular Biology and Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Panayotis K Thanos
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- US National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse and Infections Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Colin Hanna
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jag Khalsa
- US National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse and Infections Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - David Baron
- Center for Sports, Exercise, Global Mental Health, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA
| | - Igor Elman
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rajendra D Badgaiyan
- Department of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Catherine Dennen
- Department of Family Medicine, Jefferson Health Northeast, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Eric R Braverman
- Center for Sports, Exercise, Global Mental Health, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA
| | - Paul Carney
- Division Pediatric Neurology, University of Missouri, School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Kai-Uwe Lewandrowski
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fundación Universitaria Sanitas, Bogotá, DC, Colombia
- Center for Advanced Spine Care of Southern Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Alireza Sharafshah
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mark S Gold
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Mamede T, Lordêlo P. Mental health in the virtual world: Are we ready for the metaverse era? World J Methodol 2024; 14:95064. [DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v14.i4.95064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The advent of the metaverse, including virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence, is an undeniable issue that health care scientists need to update. It influences all fields of knowledge, interpersonal relationships, and health. Regarding mental health since the post-coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, it is necessary to consider and understand the potential, possibilities, weaknesses, and consequences arising from and provided by this new scenario. Due to the increasing need for mental health monitoring and care, mental health treatments require in-depth training and preparation to achieve the maximum use of the metaverse advantages and possibilities. Currently, very little is known about the effectiveness of remote mental health treatment, but it is certainly suggested that accessibility and the characteristics associated with the use of metaverse technologies may represent new horizons for accessibility and approach tools, as long as more studies are carried out and more evidence is collected to develop accurate guidelines, safe training, solve ethical concerns, and overcome limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuffy Mamede
- Post Graduation in Medicine and Human Health, Bahiana School of Medicine and Public Health, Salvador 40290-000, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Lordêlo
- Pelvic Floor Care Center and Postgraduate, Patricia Lordelo Institute, Bahiana School of Medicine and Public Health, Salvador 40290-000, Brazil
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Yao M, Zhang L, Teng X, Lei Y, Xing X, Ren T, Pan Y, Zhang L, Li Z, Lin J, Zheng Y, Xing L, Zhou J, Wu C. Transcriptomic profiling of Dip2a in the neural differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:700-710. [PMID: 38292475 PMCID: PMC10825174 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The disconnected-interacting protein 2 homolog A (DIP2A), a member of disconnected-interacting 2 protein family, has been shown to be involved in human nervous system-related mental illness. This protein is highly expressed in the nervous system of mouse. Mutation of mouse DIP2A causes defects in spine morphology and synaptic transmission, autism-like behaviors, and defective social novelty [5], [27], indicating that DIP2A is critical to the maintenance of neural development. However, the role of DIP2A in neural differentiation has yet to be investigated. Objective To determine the role of DIP2A in neural differentiation, a neural differentiation model was established using mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) and studied by using gene-knockout technology and RNA-sequencing-based transcriptome analysis. Results We found that DIP2A is not required for mESCs pluripotency maintenance, but loss of DIP2A causes the neural differentiation abnormalities in both N2B27 and KSR medium. Functional knockout of Dip2a gene also decreased proliferation of mESCs by perturbation of the cell cycle and profoundly inhibited the expression of a large number of neural development-associated genes which mainly enriched in spinal cord development and postsynapse assembly. Conclusions The results of this report demonstrate that DIP2A plays an essential role in regulating differentiation of mESCs towards the neural fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingze Yao
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Xiaojuan Teng
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Yu Lei
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Xiaoyu Xing
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Tinglin Ren
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Yuanqing Pan
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Liwen Zhang
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Zhengfeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Jingxia Lin
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Yaowu Zheng
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Li Xing
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Jiajian Zhou
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Changxin Wu
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
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Idowu OK, Oremosu AA, Dosumu OO, Mohammed AA. Ribose-cysteine and levodopa abrogate Parkinsonism via the regulation of neurochemical and redox activities in alpha-synuclein transgenic Drosophila melanogaster models. Fly (Austin) 2024; 18:2306687. [PMID: 38286464 PMCID: PMC10826630 DOI: 10.1080/19336934.2024.2306687] [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: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD), the most prevalent type of parkinsonism, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition marked by several non-motor and motor symptoms. PD is thought to have a complex aetiology that includes a combination of age, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors. Increased expression of α-synuclein (α-Syn) protein is central to the evolvement of neuropathology in this devastating disorder, but the potential of ribose-cysteine and levodopa in abating pathophysiologic changes in PD model is unknown. Crosses were set up between flies conditionally expressing a pathological variant of human α-Syn (UAS-α-Syn) and those expressing GAL4 in neurons (elav-GAL4) to generate offspring referred to as PD flies. Flies were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 40) from the total population of flies, with each group having five replicates. Groups of PD flies were treated with either 500 mg/kg ribose-cysteine diet, 250 mg/kg levodopa diet, or a combination of the two compounds for 21 days, whereas the control group (w1118) and the PD group were exposed to a diet without ribose-cysteine or levodopa. In addition to various biochemical and neurochemical assays, longevity, larval motility, and gravitaxis assays were carried out. Locomotive capability, lifespan, fecundity, antioxidant state, and neurotransmitter systems were all significantly (p < 0.05) compromised by overexpression of α-Syn. However, flies treated both ribose cysteine and levodopa showed an overall marked improvement in motor functions, lifespan, fecundity, antioxidant status, and neurotransmitter system functions. In conclusion, ribose-cysteine and levodopa, both singly and in combination, potentiated a therapeutic effect on alpha-synuclein transgenic Drosophila melanogaster models of Parkinsonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olumayowa K. Idowu
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
- Department of Anatomy, College of Health Sciences, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Ademola A. Oremosu
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Olufunke O. Dosumu
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Abdullahi A. Mohammed
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Rwanda
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Sidky H, Hansen KA, Girvin AT, Hotaling N, Michael SG, Gersing K, Sahner DK. Assessing the effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in the prevention of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 24:115-125. [PMID: 38318198 PMCID: PMC10839808 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) produce significant morbidity, prompting evaluation of interventions that might lower risk. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) potentially could modulate risk of PASC via their central, hypothesized immunomodulatory, and/or antiplatelet properties although clinical trial data are lacking. Materials and Methods This retrospective study was conducted leveraging real-world clinical data within the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C) to evaluate whether SSRIs with agonist activity at the sigma-1 receptor (S1R) lower the risk of PASC, since agonism at this receptor may serve as a mechanism by which SSRIs attenuate an inflammatory response. Additionally, determine whether the potential benefit could be traced to S1R agonism. Presumed PASC was defined based on a computable PASC phenotype trained on the U09.9 ICD-10 diagnosis code. Results Of the 17,908 patients identified, 1521 were exposed at baseline to a S1R agonist SSRI, 1803 to a non-S1R agonist SSRI, and 14,584 to neither. Using inverse probability weighting and Poisson regression, relative risk (RR) of PASC was assessed.A 29% reduction in the RR of PASC (0.704 [95% CI, 0.58-0.85]; P = 4 ×10-4) was seen among patients who received an S1R agonist SSRI compared to SSRI unexposed patients and a 21% reduction in the RR of PASC was seen among those receiving an SSRI without S1R agonist activity (0.79 [95% CI, 0.67 - 0.93]; P = 0.005).Thus, SSRIs with and without reported agonist activity at the S1R were associated with a significant decrease in the risk of PASC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hythem Sidky
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kristen A. Hansen
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Axle Research and Technologies, Rockville, MD, USA
| | | | - Nathan Hotaling
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Axle Research and Technologies, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Sam G. Michael
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Palantir Technologies, Denver, CO, USA
- Axle Research and Technologies, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Ken Gersing
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David K. Sahner
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Axle Research and Technologies, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - on behalf of the N3C consortium
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Palantir Technologies, Denver, CO, USA
- Axle Research and Technologies, Rockville, MD, USA
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Werthmann GC, Herz J. Apoer2/Lrp8: the undercover cop of synaptic homeostasis. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2563-2564. [PMID: 38808982 PMCID: PMC11168519 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-02002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gordon C. Werthmann
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Center for Translational Neurodegeneration Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Joachim Herz
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Center for Translational Neurodegeneration Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience; Department of Neurology; University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
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40
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Le LTHL, Lee JH, Lee MJ. Self-assembly of tau fragments as a key pathologic event in tauopathies. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2565-2566. [PMID: 38808983 PMCID: PMC11168505 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ly Thi Huong Luu Le
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Hoon Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Jae Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Richards-Steed R, Wan N, Bakian A, Medina RM, Brewer SC, Smith KR, VanDerslice JA. Observational methods for human studies of transgenerational effects. Epigenetics 2024; 19:2366065. [PMID: 38870389 PMCID: PMC11178273 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2024.2366065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
There are substantial challenges in studying human transgenerational epigenetic outcomes resulting from environmental conditions. The task requires specialized methods and tools that incorporate specific knowledge of multigenerational relationship combinations of probands and their ancestors, phenotype data for individuals, environmental information of ancestors and their descendants, which can span historical to present datasets, and informative environmental data that chronologically aligns with ancestors and descendants over space and time. As a result, there are few epidemiologic studies of potential transgenerational effects in human populations, thus limiting the knowledge of ancestral environmental conditions and the potential impacts we face with modern human health outcomes. In an effort to overcome some of the challenges in studying human transgenerational effects, we present two transgenerational study designs: transgenerational space-time cluster detection and transgenerational case-control study design. Like other epidemiological methods, these methods determine whether there are statistical associations between phenotypic outcomes (e.g., adverse health outcomes) among probands and the shared environments and environmental factors facing their ancestors. When the ancestor is a paternal grandparent, a statistically significant association provides some evidence that a transgenerational inheritable factor may be involved. Such results may generate useful hypotheses that can be explored using epigenomic data to establish conclusive evidence of transgenerational heritable effects. Both methods are proband-centric: They are designed around the phenotype of interest in the proband generation for case selection and family pedigree creation. In the examples provided, we incorporate at least three generations of paternal lineage in both methods to observe a potential transgenerational effect.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Neng Wan
- Geography, University of Utah Department of Geography, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Amanda Bakian
- Psychiatry, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Richard M. Medina
- Geography, University of Utah Department of Geography, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Simon C. Brewer
- Geography, University of Utah Department of Geography, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Ken R. Smith
- Child and Consumer Studies, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Nawreen N, Oshima K, Chambers J, Smail M, Herman JP. Inhibition of prefrontal cortex parvalbumin interneurons mitigates behavioral and physiological sequelae of chronic stress in male mice. Stress 2024; 27:2361238. [PMID: 38962839 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2024.2361238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress leads to hypofunction of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), mechanisms of which remain to be determined. Enhanced activation of GABAergic of parvalbumin (PV) expressing interneurons (INs) is thought to play a role in stress-induced prefrontal inhibition. In this study, we tested whether chemogenetic inhibition of mPFC PV INs after chronic stress can rescue chronic stress-related behavioral and physiological phenotypes. Mice underwent 2 weeks of chronic variable stress (CVS) followed by a battery of behavioral tests known to be affected by chronic stress exposure, e.g. an open field (OF), novel object recognition (NOR), tail suspension test (TST), sucrose preference test (SPT), and light dark (LD) box. Inhibitory DREADDs were actuated by 3 mg/kg CNO administered 30 min prior to each behavioral test. CVS caused hyperactivity in the OF, reduced sucrose preference in the SPT (indicative of enhanced anhedonia), and increased anxiety-like behavior in the LD box. Inhibition of PV IN after stress mitigated these effects. In addition, CVS also resulted in reduced thymus weight and body weight loss, which were also mitigated by PV IN inhibition. Our results indicate that chronic stress leads to plastic changes in PV INs that may be mitigated by chemogenetic inhibition. Our findings implicate cortical GABAergic INs as a therapeutic target in stress-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawshaba Nawreen
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kristen Oshima
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- College of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - James Chambers
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Marissa Smail
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - James P Herman
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Cai Y, Zhaoxiong Y, Zhu W, Wang H. Association between sleep duration, depression and breast cancer in the United States: a national health and nutrition examination survey analysis 2009-2018. Ann Med 2024; 56:2314235. [PMID: 38329808 PMCID: PMC10854439 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2314235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, threatening both physical and mental health. The epidemiological evidence for association between sleep duration, depression and breast cancer is inconsistent. The aim of this study was to determine the association between them and build machine-learning algorithms to predict breast cancer. METHODS A total of 1,789 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included in the study, and 263 breast cancer patients were identified. Sleep duration was collected using a standardized questionnaire, and the Nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to assess depression. Logistic regression yielded multivariable-adjusted breast cancer odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for sleep duration and depression. Then, six machine learning algorithms, including AdaBoost, random forest, Boost tree, artificial neural network, limit gradient enhancement and support vector machine, were used to predict the development of breast cancer and find out the best algorithm. RESULTS Body mass index (BMI), race and smoking were statistically different between breast cancer and non-breast cancer groups. Participants with depression were associated with breast cancer (OR = 1.99, 95%CI: 1.55-3.51). Compared with 7-9h of sleep, the ORs for <7 and >9 h of sleep were 1.25 (95% CI: 0.85-1.37) and 1.05 (95% CI: 0.95-1.15), respectively. The AdaBoost model outperformed other machine learning algorithms and predicted well for breast cancer, with an area under curve (AUC) of 0.84 (95%CI: 0.81-0.87). CONCLUSIONS No significant association was observed between sleep duration and breast cancer, and participants with depression were associated with an increased risk for breast cancer. This finding provides new clues into the relationship between breast cancer and depression and sleep duration, and provides potential evidence for subsequent studies of pathological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufan Cai
- Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Wei Zhu
- Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haiyu Wang
- Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Zhang Z, Bao C, Li Z, He C, Jin W, Li C, Chen Y. Integrated omics analysis reveals the alteration of gut microbiota and fecal metabolites in Cervus elaphus kansuensis. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:125. [PMID: 38229330 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12841-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The gut microbiota is the largest and most complex microecosystem in animals. It is influenced by the host's dietary habits and living environment, and its composition and diversity play irreplaceable roles in animal nutrient metabolism, immunity, and adaptation to the environment. Although the gut microbiota of red deer has been studied, the composition and function of the gut microbiota in Gansu red deer (Cervus elaphus kansuensis), an endemic subspecies of red deer in China, has not been reported. In this study, the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome and fecal metabolomics of C. elaphus kansuensis were identified and compared for the first time by using 16S rDNA sequencing, metagenomic sequencing, and LC-MS/MS. There were significant differences in gut microbiota structure and diversity between wild and farmed C. elaphus kansuensis. The 16S rDNA sequencing results showed that the genus UCRD-005 was dominant in both captive red deer (CRD) and wild red deer (WRD). Metagenomic sequencing showed similar results to those of 16S rDNA sequencing for gut microbiota in CRD and WRD at the phylum and genus levels. 16S rDNA and metagenomics sequencing data suggested that Bacteroides and Bacillus might serve as marker genera for CRD and WRD, respectively. Fecal metabolomics results showed that 520 metabolites with significant differences were detected between CRD and WRD and most differential metabolites were involved in lipid metabolism. The results suggested that large differences in gut microbiota composition and fecal metabolites between CRD and WRD, indicating that different dietary habits and living environments over time have led to the development of stable gut microbiome characteristics for CRD and WRD to meet their respective survival and reproduction needs. KEY POINTS: • Environment and food affected the gut microbiota and fecal metabolites in red deer • Genera Bacteroides and Bacillus may play important roles in CRD and WRD, respectively • Flavonoids and ascorbic acid in fecal metabolites may influence health of red deer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxiang Zhang
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Qinghai University, No. 251 Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Adaptive Management on Alpine Grassland, Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Changhong Bao
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Qinghai University, No. 251 Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, China
| | - Zhaonan Li
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Qinghai University, No. 251 Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, China
| | - Caixia He
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Qinghai University, No. 251 Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, China
| | - Wenjie Jin
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Qinghai University, No. 251 Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, China
| | - Changzhong Li
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Qinghai University, No. 251 Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, China.
| | - Yanxia Chen
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Qinghai University, No. 251 Ningda Road, Xining, 810016, China.
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45
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Opsasnick LA, Zhao W, Schmitz LL, Ratliff SM, Faul JD, Zhou X, Needham BL, Smith JA. Epigenome-wide association study of long-term psychosocial stress in older adults. Epigenetics 2024; 19:2323907. [PMID: 38431869 PMCID: PMC10913704 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2024.2323907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Long-term psychosocial stress is strongly associated with negative physical and mental health outcomes, as well as adverse health behaviours; however, little is known about the role that stress plays on the epigenome. One proposed mechanism by which stress affects DNA methylation is through health behaviours. We conducted an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) of cumulative psychosocial stress (n = 2,689) from the Health and Retirement Study (mean age = 70.4 years), assessing DNA methylation (Illumina Infinium HumanMethylationEPIC Beadchip) at 789,656 CpG sites. For identified CpG sites, we conducted a formal mediation analysis to examine whether smoking, alcohol use, physical activity, and body mass index (BMI) mediate the relationship between stress and DNA methylation. Nine CpG sites were associated with psychosocial stress (all p < 9E-07; FDR q < 0.10). Additionally, health behaviours and/or BMI mediated 9.4% to 21.8% of the relationship between stress and methylation at eight of the nine CpGs. Several of the identified CpGs were in or near genes associated with cardiometabolic traits, psychosocial disorders, inflammation, and smoking. These findings support our hypothesis that psychosocial stress is associated with DNA methylation across the epigenome. Furthermore, specific health behaviours mediate only a modest percentage of this relationship, providing evidence that other mechanisms may link stress and DNA methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A. Opsasnick
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Wei Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lauren L. Schmitz
- Robert M. La Follette School of Public Affairs, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Scott M. Ratliff
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jessica D. Faul
- Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Belinda L. Needham
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jennifer A. Smith
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Martinez ME, Karaczyn A, Wu Z, Bennett CA, Matoin KL, Daigle HM, Hernandez A. Transgenerational epigenetic self-memory of Dio3 dosage is associated with Meg3 methylation and altered growth trajectories and neonatal hormones. Epigenetics 2024; 19:2376948. [PMID: 38991122 PMCID: PMC11244338 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2024.2376948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Intergenerational and transgenerational epigenetic effects resulting from conditions in previous generations can contribute to environmental adaptation as well as disease susceptibility. Previous studies in rodent and human models have shown that abnormal developmental exposure to thyroid hormone affects endocrine function and thyroid hormone sensitivity in later generations. Since the imprinted type 3 deiodinase gene (Dio3) regulates sensitivity to thyroid hormones, we hypothesize its epigenetic regulation is altered in descendants of thyroid hormone overexposed individuals. Using DIO3-deficient mice as a model of developmental thyrotoxicosis, we investigated Dio3 total and allelic expression and growth and endocrine phenotypes in descendants. We observed that male and female developmental overexposure to thyroid hormone altered total and allelic Dio3 expression in genetically intact descendants in a tissue-specific manner. This was associated with abnormal growth and neonatal levels of thyroid hormone and leptin. Descendant mice also exhibited molecular abnormalities in the Dlk1-Dio3 imprinted domain, including increased methylation in Meg3 and altered foetal brain expression of other genes of the Dlk1-Dio3 imprinted domain. These molecular abnormalities were also observed in the tissues and germ line of DIO3-deficient ancestors originally overexposed to thyroid hormone in utero. Our results provide a novel paradigm of epigenetic self-memory by which Dio3 gene dosage in a given individual, and its dependent developmental exposure to thyroid hormone, influences its own expression in future generations. This mechanism of epigenetic self-correction of Dio3 expression in each generation may be instrumental in descendants for their adaptive programming of developmental growth and adult endocrine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Elena Martinez
- Center for Molecular Medicine, MaineHealth Institute for Research, MaineHealth, Scarborough, ME, USA
| | - Aldona Karaczyn
- Center for Molecular Medicine, MaineHealth Institute for Research, MaineHealth, Scarborough, ME, USA
| | - Zhaofei Wu
- Center for Molecular Medicine, MaineHealth Institute for Research, MaineHealth, Scarborough, ME, USA
| | - Christian A. Bennett
- Center for Molecular Medicine, MaineHealth Institute for Research, MaineHealth, Scarborough, ME, USA
| | - Kassey L. Matoin
- Center for Molecular Medicine, MaineHealth Institute for Research, MaineHealth, Scarborough, ME, USA
| | - Heather M. Daigle
- Center for Molecular Medicine, MaineHealth Institute for Research, MaineHealth, Scarborough, ME, USA
| | - Arturo Hernandez
- Center for Molecular Medicine, MaineHealth Institute for Research, MaineHealth, Scarborough, ME, USA
- Graduate School for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA
- Department of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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47
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Hermann P, Zerr I. Unmet needs of biochemical biomarkers for human prion diseases. Prion 2024; 18:89-93. [PMID: 38734978 DOI: 10.1080/19336896.2024.2349017] [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: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Although the development of aggregation assays has noticeably improved the accuracy of the clinical diagnosis of prion diseases, research on biomarkers remains vital. The major challenges to overcome are non-invasive sampling and the exploration of new biomarkers that may predict the onset or reflect disease progression. This will become extremely important in the near future, when new therapeutics are clinically evaluated and eventually become available for treatment. This article aims to provide an overview of the achievements of biomarker research in human prion diseases, addresses unmet needs in the field, and points out future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Hermann
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Inga Zerr
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Göttingen, Germany
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48
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Theiner T, Ortner NJ, Oberacher H, Stojanovic G, Tuluc P, Striessnig J. Novel protocol for multiple-dose oral administration of the L-type Ca 2+ channel blocker isradipine in mice: A dose-finding pharmacokinetic study. Channels (Austin) 2024; 18:2335469. [PMID: 38564754 PMCID: PMC10989688 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2024.2335469] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Studies in genetically modified animals and human genetics have recently provided new insight into the role of voltage-gated L-type Ca2+ channels in human disease. Therefore, the inhibition of L-type Ca2+ channels in vivo in wildtype and mutant mice by potent dihydropyridine (DHP) Ca2+ channel blockers serves as an important pharmacological tool. These drugs have a short plasma half-life in humans and especially in rodents and show high first-pass metabolism upon oral application. In the vast majority of in vivo studies, they have therefore been delivered through parenteral routes, mostly subcutaneously or intraperitoneally. High peak plasma concentrations of DHPs cause side effects, evident as DHP-induced aversive behaviors confounding the interpretation of behavioral readouts. Nevertheless, pharmacokinetic data measuring the exposure achieved with these applications are sparse. Moreover, parenteral injections require animal handling and can be associated with pain, discomfort and stress which could influence a variety of physiological processes, behavioral and other functional readouts. Here, we describe a noninvasive oral application of the DHP isradipine by training mice to quickly consume small volumes of flavored yogurt that can serve as drug vehicle. This procedure does not require animal handling, allows repeated drug application over several days and reproducibly achieves peak plasma concentrations over a wide range previously shown to be well-tolerated in humans. This protocol should facilitate ongoing nonclinical studies in mice exploring new indications for DHP Ca2+ channel blockers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Theiner
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Nadine J. Ortner
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Herbert Oberacher
- Institute of Legal Medicine and Core Facility Metabolomics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gospava Stojanovic
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Petronel Tuluc
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jörg Striessnig
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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49
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Peters J, Freund IM, Kindt M, Visser RM, van Emmerik AAP. Convergence of real-time and retrospective assessments: A systematic investigation of naturally occurring and experimentally induced intrusions. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 2024; 85:101981. [PMID: 39084141 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2024.101981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Ecological momentary assessment is a popular method for monitoring symptoms in real-time. Especially for fleeting experiences, such as intrusions, real-time assessments may be more accurate than retrospective estimates. However, there are concerns regarding reactivity effects associated with real-time assessments and, conversely, the reliance on bias-prone retrospective assessments in clinical science and practice. In this study we used a between-groups design to examine whether real-time intrusion assessments influence retrospective reports (aim 1). Then, we investigated whether real-time and retrospective assessments systematically differed within individuals (aim 2). METHODS Over two weeks, 150 non-clinical individuals provided weekly retrospective intrusion assessments, while the majority (n = 102) additionally reported their intrusions in real-time, via smartphones. We examined both naturally occurring intrusions, which individuals experience in their everyday lives, and intrusions related to a standardized stressor (i.e., Trier Social Stress Test), taking place halfway. RESULTS Using Bayesian statistics, we found that assessing intrusions in real-time did not convincingly affect retrospective reports, and there was no strong evidence that real-time and retrospective intrusion assessments differed. However, the evidence of absence was inconclusive for some measures. Real-time and retrospectively reported intrusion frequencies and distress were strongly associated with one another. LIMITATIONS Future research is advised to replicate these findings with larger samples, for other types of stressors, in clinical populations, and over extended assessment periods. CONCLUSIONS The general agreement between real-time and retrospective assessments of intrusions is encouraging, tentatively suggesting that researchers and clinicians can flexibly select the assessment method that best suits their objectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Peters
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Inga Marie Freund
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Merel Kindt
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Renée M Visser
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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50
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Polis B, Cuda CM, Putterman C. Animal models of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus: deciphering the complexity and guiding therapeutic development. Autoimmunity 2024; 57:2330387. [PMID: 38555866 DOI: 10.1080/08916934.2024.2330387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) poses formidable challenges due to its multifaceted etiology while impacting multiple tissues and organs and displaying diverse clinical manifestations. Genetic and environmental factors contribute to SLE complexity, with relatively limited approved therapeutic options. Murine models offer insights into SLE pathogenesis but do not always replicate the nuances of human disease. This review critically evaluates spontaneous and induced animal models, emphasizing their validity and relevance to neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE). While these models undoubtedly contribute to understanding disease pathophysiology, discrepancies persist in mimicking some NPSLE intricacies. The lack of literature addressing this issue impedes therapeutic progress. We underscore the urgent need for refining models that truly reflect NPSLE complexities to enhance translational fidelity. We encourage a comprehensive, creative translational approach for targeted SLE interventions, balancing scientific progress with ethical considerations to eventually improve the management of NPSLE patients. A thorough grasp of these issues informs researchers in designing experiments, interpreting results, and exploring alternatives to advance NPSLE research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baruh Polis
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
- Research Institute, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Carla M Cuda
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Chaim Putterman
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
- Research Institute, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
- Division of Rheumatology and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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