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Streck EL, Bussular FP, Wessler LB, Duarte MB, Rezende VL, Rodrigues MS, Torres CA, Lemos IS, Candiotto G, Gava FF, de Oliveira J, Valvassori SS. Administration of branched-chain amino acids alters epigenetic regulatory enzymes in an animal model of Maple Syrup Urine Disease. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:247-254. [PMID: 33098071 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-020-00631-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD) is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder that affects the activity of the branched-chainα-keto acid dehydrogenase complex (BCDK). This deficiency on BCDK complex results in the accumulation of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) leucine, isoleucine, valine, and their corresponding α-keto acids. Epigenetic changes can negatively affect the metabolism of BCAA. These changes are catalyzed by the epigenetic regulatory enzymes, e.g., DNA methyltransferase (DNMT), histone deacetylases (HDAC), and histone acetyltransferases (HAT). However, the impacts of BCAA administration on the activity of epigenetic regulatory enzymes in the brain of MSUD patients are still unknown. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the impact of BCAA administration on the activity of DNMT, HDAC, and HAT in the brain structures of infant rats, an animal model of MSUD. For that, we administered a BCAA pool to infant rats for 21 days. We demonstrated that BCAA administration significantly increased the DNMT and HDAC activities in the hippocampus and striatum, but not in the cerebral cortex of MSUD infant rats. A positive correlation was observed between HDAC and DNMT activities in the hippocampus and striatum of animals exposed to BCAA injections. Our results showed that the BCAA administration could modulate epigenetic regulatory enzymes, mainly DNMT and HDAC, in the brains of infant rats. Therefore, we suggest that the increase in the activity of DNMT and HDAC in the hippocampus and striatum could partially explain the neurological impairments presented in animal models of MSUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio L Streck
- Laboratório de Doenças Neurometabólicas, Laboratório de Neurologia Experimental, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, SC, Criciúma, 88806-000, Brazil.
| | - Felipe P Bussular
- Laboratório de Doenças Neurometabólicas, Laboratório de Neurologia Experimental, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, SC, Criciúma, 88806-000, Brazil
| | - Leticia B Wessler
- Laboratório de Doenças Neurometabólicas, Laboratório de Neurologia Experimental, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, SC, Criciúma, 88806-000, Brazil
| | - Mariane B Duarte
- Laboratório de Doenças Neurometabólicas, Laboratório de Neurologia Experimental, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, SC, Criciúma, 88806-000, Brazil
| | - Victoria L Rezende
- Laboratório de Doenças Neurometabólicas, Laboratório de Neurologia Experimental, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, SC, Criciúma, 88806-000, Brazil
| | - Matheus S Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Psiquiatria Translacional, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, 88806-000, Brazil
| | - Carolina A Torres
- Laboratório de Doenças Neurometabólicas, Laboratório de Neurologia Experimental, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, SC, Criciúma, 88806-000, Brazil
| | - Isabela S Lemos
- Laboratório de Doenças Neurometabólicas, Laboratório de Neurologia Experimental, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, SC, Criciúma, 88806-000, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Candiotto
- Laboratório de Doenças Neurometabólicas, Laboratório de Neurologia Experimental, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, SC, Criciúma, 88806-000, Brazil
| | - Fernanda F Gava
- Laboratório de Psiquiatria Translacional, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, 88806-000, Brazil
| | - Jade de Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, 90035-000, Brazil
| | - Samira S Valvassori
- Laboratório de Psiquiatria Translacional, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, 88806-000, Brazil
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Sales AJ, Maciel IS, Suavinha ACDR, Joca SRL. Modulation of DNA Methylation and Gene Expression in Rodent Cortical Neuroplasticity Pathways Exerts Rapid Antidepressant-Like Effects. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:777-794. [PMID: 33025509 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02145-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stress increases DNA methylation, primarily a suppressive epigenetic mechanism catalyzed by DNA methyltransferases (DNMT), and decreases the expression of genes involved in neuronal plasticity and mood regulation. Despite chronic antidepressant treatment decreases stress-induced DNA methylation, it is not known whether inhibition of DNMT would convey rapid antidepressant-like effects. AIM This work tested such a hypothesis and evaluated whether a behavioral effect induced by DNMT inhibitors (DNMTi) corresponds with changes in DNA methylation and transcript levels in genes consistently associated with the neurobiology of depression and synaptic plasticity (BDNF, TrkB, 5-HT1A, NMDA, and AMPA). METHODS Male Wistar rats received intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of two pharmacologically different DNMTi (5-AzaD 0.2 and 0.6 mg/kg or RG108 0.6 mg/kg) or vehicle (1 ml/kg), 1 h or 7 days before the learned helplessness test (LH). DNA methylation in target genes and the correspondent transcript levels were measured in the hippocampus (HPC) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) using meDIP-qPCR. In parallel separate groups, the antidepressant-like effect of 5-AzaD and RG108 was investigated in the forced swimming test (FST). The involvement of cortical BDNF-TrkB-mTOR pathways was assessed by intra-ventral medial PFC (vmPFC) injections of rapamycin (mTOR inhibitor), K252a (TrkB receptor antagonist), or vehicle (0.2 μl/side). RESULTS We found that both 5-AzaD and RG108 acutely and 7 days before the test decreased escape failures in the LH. LH stress increased DNA methylation and decreased transcript levels of BDNF IV and TrkB in the PFC, effects that were not significantly attenuated by RG108 treatment. The systemic administration of 5-AzaD (0.2 mg/kg) and RG108 (0.2 mg/kg) induced an antidepressant-like effect in FST, which was, however, attenuated by TrkB and mTOR inhibition into the vmPFC. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that acute inhibition of stress-induced DNA methylation promotes rapid and sustained antidepressant effects associated with increased BDNF-TrkB-mTOR signaling in the PFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Sales
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
- FMRP-USP, Av Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil.
| | - Izaque S Maciel
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Angélica C D R Suavinha
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Sâmia R L Joca
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
- FCFRP-USP, Av Café, sn, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14040-903, Brazil.
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Li Y, Rong J, Zhong H, Liang M, Zhu C, Chang F, Zhou R. Prenatal Stress Leads to the Altered Maturation of Corticostriatal Synaptic Plasticity and Related Behavioral Impairments Through Epigenetic Modifications of Dopamine D2 Receptor in Mice. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:317-328. [PMID: 32935231 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02127-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal stress (PRS) had a long-term adverse effect on motor behaviors. Corticostriatal synaptic plasticity, a cellular basis for motor controlling, has been proven to participate in the pathogenesis of many behavior disorders. Based on the reports about the involvement of epigenetic DNA alterations in PRS-induced long-term effects, this research investigated the influence of PRS on the development and maturation of corticostriatal synaptic plasticity and related behaviors and explored the underlying epigenetic mechanism. Subjects were male offspring of dams that were exposed to stress three times per day from the 10th day of pregnancy until delivery. The development and maturation of plasticity at corticostriatal synapses, dopamine signaling, behavioral habituation, and DNA methylation were examined and analyzed. Control mice expressed long-term potentiation (LTP) at corticostriatal synapses during postnatal days (PD) 12-14 and produced long-term depression (LTD) during PD 20-60. However, PRS mice exhibited sustained LTP during PD 12-60. The treatment with dopamine 2 receptor (D2R) agonist quinpirole recovered striatal LTD and improved the impaired behavioral habituation in PD 45 adult PRS mice. Additionally, adult PRS mice showed reduced D2R, excess DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), increased binding of DNMT1 to D2R promoter, and hypermethylation at D2R promoter in the striatum. The DNMT1 inhibitor 5-aza-deoxycytidine restored striatal synaptic plasticity and improved behavioral habituation in adult PRS mice via D2R-mediated dopamine signaling. DNMT1-associated D2R hypermethylation is responsible for altering the maturation of plasticity at corticostriatal synapses and impairing the behavioral habituation in PRS mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingchun Li
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Avenue 101, Jiangning District, Nanjing City, 211166, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jing Rong
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Avenue 101, Jiangning District, Nanjing City, 211166, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Haiquan Zhong
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Avenue 101, Jiangning District, Nanjing City, 211166, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Min Liang
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Avenue 101, Jiangning District, Nanjing City, 211166, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chunting Zhu
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Avenue 101, Jiangning District, Nanjing City, 211166, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Fei Chang
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Avenue 101, Jiangning District, Nanjing City, 211166, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Rong Zhou
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Avenue 101, Jiangning District, Nanjing City, 211166, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Meireles ALF, Segabinazi E, Spindler C, Gasperini NF, Souza Dos Santos A, Pochmann D, Elsner VR, Marcuzzo S. Maternal resistance exercise promotes changes in neuroplastic and epigenetic marks of offspring's hippocampus during adult life. Physiol Behav 2020; 230:113306. [PMID: 33359430 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2020.113306] [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: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Studies indicate that gestational exercise practice positively impacts the offspring's cognition. Nevertheless, the influence of maternal resistance exercise, different periods of exercise practice, and the inter- and transgenerational effects involved in these responses are not known. This study sought to report the influence of the maternal practice of resistance exercise on offspring's cognitive function, exploring behavior, and neuroplastic and epigenetic marks in the hippocampus. Female Wistar rats were divided into four groups: sedentary (SS), exercised during pregnancy (SE), exercised before pregnancy (ES), and exercised before and during pregnancy (EE). Exercised rats were submitted to a resistance exercise protocol (vertical ladder climbing). Between postnatal days (P)81 and P85, male offspring were submitted to the Morris water maze test. At P85, the following analyses were performed in offspring's hippocampus: expression of IGF-1 and BrdU+ cells, global DNA methylation, H3/H4 acetylation, and HDAC2 amount. Only the offspring of SE mothers presented subtly better performance on learning and memory tasks, associated with lower HDAC2 amount. Offspring from ES mothers presented an overexpression of hippocampal neuroplastic marks (BrdU+ and IGF-1), as well as a decrease of DNA methylation and an increase in H4 acetylation. Offspring from EE mothers (continuously exercised) did not present modifications in plasticity or epigenetic parameters. This is the first study to observe the influence of maternal resistance exercise on offspring's brains. The findings provide evidence that offspring's hippocampus plasticity is influenced by exercise performed in isolated periods (pre- or gestationally) more than that performed continually.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Luís Ferreira Meireles
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Laboratório de Histofisiologia Comparada, Departamento de Ciências Morfológicas, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Ethiane Segabinazi
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Laboratório de Histofisiologia Comparada, Departamento de Ciências Morfológicas, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Christiano Spindler
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Laboratório de Histofisiologia Comparada, Departamento de Ciências Morfológicas, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Natália Felix Gasperini
- Laboratório de Histofisiologia Comparada, Departamento de Ciências Morfológicas, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Adriana Souza Dos Santos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Laboratório de Histofisiologia Comparada, Departamento de Ciências Morfológicas, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Daniela Pochmann
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências e Reabilitação, Centro Universitário Metodista-IPA, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Viviane Rostirola Elsner
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências e Reabilitação, Centro Universitário Metodista-IPA, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Simone Marcuzzo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Laboratório de Histofisiologia Comparada, Departamento de Ciências Morfológicas, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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55
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Wei J, Cheng J, Waddell NJ, Wang ZJ, Pang X, Cao Q, Liu A, Chitaman JM, Abreu K, Jasrotia RS, Duffney LJ, Zhang J, Dietz DM, Feng J, Yan Z. DNA Methyltransferase 3A Is Involved in the Sustained Effects of Chronic Stress on Synaptic Functions and Behaviors. Cereb Cortex 2020; 31:1998-2012. [PMID: 33230530 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhaa337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic mechanisms regulate aberrant gene transcription in stress-associated mental disorders. However, it remains to be elucidated about the role of DNA methylation and its catalyzing enzymes, DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), in this process. Here, we found that male rats exposed to chronic (2-week) unpredictable stress exhibited a substantial reduction of Dnmt3a after stress cessation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), a key target region of stress. Treatment of unstressed control rats with DNMT inhibitors recapitulated the effect of chronic unpredictable stress on decreased AMPAR expression and function in PFC. In contrast, overexpression of Dnmt3a in PFC of stressed animals prevented the loss of glutamatergic responses. Moreover, the stress-induced behavioral abnormalities, including the impaired recognition memory, heightened aggression, and hyperlocomotion, were partially attenuated by Dnmt3a expression in PFC of stressed animals. Finally, we found that there were genome-wide DNA methylation changes and transcriptome alterations in PFC of stressed rats, both of which were enriched at several neural pathways, including glutamatergic synapse and microtubule-associated protein kinase signaling. These results have therefore recognized the potential role of DNA epigenetic modification in stress-induced disturbance of synaptic functions and cognitive and emotional processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wei
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Jia Cheng
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Nicholas J Waddell
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Zi-Jun Wang
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Xiaodong Pang
- Department of Statistics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Qing Cao
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Aiyi Liu
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Javed M Chitaman
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA.,Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Kristen Abreu
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Rahul Singh Jasrotia
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Lara J Duffney
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Jinfeng Zhang
- Department of Statistics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - David M Dietz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Jian Feng
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA.,Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Zhen Yan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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Conboy K, Henshall DC, Brennan GP. Epigenetic principles underlying epileptogenesis and epilepsy syndromes. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 148:105179. [PMID: 33181318 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.105179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a network disorder driven by fundamental changes in the function of the cells which compose these networks. Driving this aberrant cellular function are large scale changes in gene expression and gene expression regulation. Recent studies have revealed rapid and persistent changes in epigenetic control of gene expression as a critical regulator of the epileptic transcriptome. Epigenetic-mediated gene output regulates many aspects of cellular physiology including neuronal structure, neurotransmitter assembly and abundance, protein abundance of ion channels and other critical neuronal processes. Thus, understanding the contribution of epigenetic-mediated gene regulation could illuminate novel regulatory mechanisms which may form the basis of novel therapeutic approaches to treat epilepsy. In this review we discuss the effects of epileptogenic brain insults on epigenetic regulation of gene expression, recent efforts to target epigenetic processes to block epileptogenesis and the prospects of an epigenetic-based therapy for epilepsy, and finally we discuss technological advancements which have facilitated the interrogation of the epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Conboy
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland; FutureNeuro, the SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David C Henshall
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland; FutureNeuro, the SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Gary P Brennan
- FutureNeuro, the SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland; School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Turrina S, Gibelli F, De Leo D. Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment from the forensic medicine perspective: A review of the updated literature. J Forensic Leg Med 2020; 76:102070. [PMID: 33099125 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2020.102070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Chemotherapy treatments in some neoplastic patients can cause unwanted side-effects that can be accompanied by a physical weakening due to changes in executive functioning, processing speed and reaction times with a consequent inability to carry out daily life activities (ADL) or a working disability due to the loss of working memory and the inability to organize fundamental skills, influencing the quality of everyday life. Although chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment (CICI), also known as post-chemotherapy cognitive impairment (PCCI), chemo-brain or chemo-fog, has been described in the literature since the late 1980s, the neurobiological factors behind this pathology to date are not yet fully understood. According to the finding of most studies conducted on patients affected by different forms of neoplastic diseases, there are strong enough evidence of a prominent role of some drug such as doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, cytarabine, methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin in causing chemo-fog related neurological impairment. The physical incapacity that affects the patients seems, therefore, to be related to the cytotoxic effects that the chemotherapy drugs exert on the central nervous system, causing a short or long-term neurological decline. Cognitive dysfunctions could influence individual self-determination by configuring a state of transient or habitual mental infirmity capable of altering the preservation of the person's voluntary faculties, with potential consequences on the legal validity of any deeds signed by the person. The growing interest in this pathological condition by the forensic medicine community is due precisely to the non-negligible medico-legal implications that derive from it affecting aspects of private law. In this article, a review of the literature on chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment and related issues that may arise in forensic medicine and private law was conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Turrina
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health - Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Verona, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, Verona, Italy.
| | - Filippo Gibelli
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health - Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Verona, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, Verona, Italy
| | - Domenico De Leo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health - Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Verona, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, Verona, Italy
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Creighton SD, Stefanelli G, Reda A, Zovkic IB. Epigenetic Mechanisms of Learning and Memory: Implications for Aging. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6918. [PMID: 32967185 PMCID: PMC7554829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuronal epigenome is highly sensitive to external events and its function is vital for producing stable behavioral outcomes, such as the formation of long-lasting memories. The importance of epigenetic regulation in memory is now well established and growing evidence points to altered epigenome function in the aging brain as a contributing factor to age-related memory decline. In this review, we first summarize the typical role of epigenetic factors in memory processing in a healthy young brain, then discuss the aspects of this system that are altered with aging. There is general agreement that many epigenetic marks are modified with aging, but there are still substantial inconsistencies in the precise nature of these changes and their link with memory decline. Here, we discuss the potential source of age-related changes in the epigenome and their implications for therapeutic intervention in age-related cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha D. Creighton
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada; (S.D.C.); (G.S.)
| | - Gilda Stefanelli
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada; (S.D.C.); (G.S.)
| | - Anas Reda
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S, Canada;
| | - Iva B. Zovkic
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada; (S.D.C.); (G.S.)
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S, Canada;
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59
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Linde J, Zimmer-Bensch G. DNA Methylation-Dependent Dysregulation of GABAergic Interneuron Functionality in Neuropsychiatric Diseases. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:586133. [PMID: 33041771 PMCID: PMC7525021 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.586133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric diseases, such as mood disorders, schizophrenia, and autism, represent multifactorial disorders, differing in causes, disease onset, severity, and symptoms. A common feature of numerous neuropsychiatric conditions are defects in the cortical inhibitory GABAergic system. The balance of excitation and inhibition is fundamental for proper and efficient information processing in the cerebral cortex. Thus, altered inhibition is suggested to account for pathological symptoms like cognitive impairments and dysfunctional multisensory integration. While it became apparent that most of these diseases have a clear genetic component, environmental influences emerged as an impact of disease manifestation, onset, and severity. Epigenetic mechanisms of transcriptional control, such as DNA methylation, are known to be responsive to external stimuli, and are suspected to be implicated in the functional impairments of GABAergic interneurons, and hence, the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric diseases. Here, we provide an overview about the multifaceted functional implications of DNA methylation and DNA methyltransferases in cortical interneuron development and function in health and disease. Apart from the regulation of gamma-aminobutyric acid-related genes and genes relevant for interneuron development, we discuss the role of DNA methylation-dependent regulation of synaptic transmission by the modulation of endocytosis-related genes as potential pathophysiological mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric conditions. Deciphering the hierarchy and mechanisms of changes in epigenetic signatures is crucial to develop effective strategies for treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenice Linde
- Division of Functional Epigenetics in the Animal Model, Institute for Biology II, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,Research Training Group 2416 MultiSenses - MultiScales, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Geraldine Zimmer-Bensch
- Division of Functional Epigenetics in the Animal Model, Institute for Biology II, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,Research Training Group 2416 MultiSenses - MultiScales, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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60
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Dahan L, Rampon C, Florian C. Age-related memory decline, dysfunction of the hippocampus and therapeutic opportunities. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 102:109943. [PMID: 32298784 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.109943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
While the aging of the population is a sign of progress for societies, it also carries its load of negative aspects. Among them, cognitive decline and in particular memory loss is a common feature of non-pathological aging. Autobiographical memories, which rely on the hippocampus, are a primary target of age-related cognitive decline. Here, focusing on the neurobiological mechanisms of memory formation and storage, we describe how hippocampal functions are altered across time in non-pathological mammalian brains. Several hallmarks of aging have been well described over the last decades; among them, we consider altered synaptic communication and plasticity, reduction of adult neurogenesis and epigenetic alterations. Building on the neurobiological processes of cognitive aging that have been identified to date, we review some of the strategies based on lifestyle manupulation allowing to address age-related cognitive deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Dahan
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse; CNRS, UPS, Toulouse Cedex 9, France
| | - Claire Rampon
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse; CNRS, UPS, Toulouse Cedex 9, France
| | - Cédrick Florian
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse; CNRS, UPS, Toulouse Cedex 9, France.
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61
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Baghel MS, Singh B, Patro N, Khanna VK, Patro IK, Thakur MK. Poly (I:C) Exposure in Early Life Alters Methylation of DNA and Acetylation of Histone at Synaptic Plasticity Gene Promoter in Developing Rat Brain Leading to Memory Impairment. Ann Neurosci 2020; 26:35-41. [PMID: 32843831 PMCID: PMC7418573 DOI: 10.1177/0972753120919704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Exposure to adverse environmental conditions such as toxic chemicals, viral infections, and even stress during pregnancy or early life may disrupt the development of normal brain and its functioning leading to incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders at later stages of life. Recently, we reported that poly (I:C) exposure altered synaptic plasticity protein level and impaired memory through activation of microglia cells. Purpose: As epigenetic modifications are involved in memory formation, we have studied methylation of DNA and acetylation of histone at promoters of synaptic plasticity genes in the brain of rats exposed to poly (I:C) during early life. Methods: One dose of poly (I:C) (5 mg/kg bw) was intraperitoneally injected to rat pups on postnatal seventh day. A set of pups exposed to vehicle was included as control. In order to assess methylation of DNA and acetylation of histone at synaptic plasticity gene promoter, we performed qPCR after methylated DNA immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation. Results: Poly (I:C) exposure reduced the level of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) at synaptic plasticity gene (bdnf, arc, and egr1) promoters in the frontal cortex (FC) and hippocampus of 3-week rats, although increased it later in both regions of 12-week rats as compared to respective controls. On contrary, poly (I:C) exposure enhanced acetylation of histone H3K9 (H3K9Ac) at promoters of these genes in both regions of 3-week rats but decreased in 12-week rats. Conclusion: Poly (I:C) exposure altered 5mC and H3K9Ac at synaptic plasticity gene promoters resulting in memory impairment of rats at later life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brijendra Singh
- School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
| | - Nisha Patro
- School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
| | | | - Ishan Kumar Patro
- School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
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Ni C, Qian M, Geng J, Qu Y, Tian Y, Yang N, Li S, Zheng H. DNA Methylation Manipulation of Memory Genes Is Involved in Sevoflurane Induced Cognitive Impairments in Aged Rats. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:211. [PMID: 33013350 PMCID: PMC7461785 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.00211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is an essential epigenetic mechanism involving in gene transcription modulation. An age-related increase in promoter methylation has been observed for neuronal activity and memory genes, and participates in neurological disorders. However, the position and precise mechanism of DNA methylation for memory gene modulation in anesthesia related cognitive impairment remained to be determined. Here, we studied the effects of sevoflurane anesthesia on the transcription of memory genes in the aged rat hippocampus. Then, we investigated changes in DNA methylation of involved genes and verified whether dysregulated DNA methylation would contribute to anesthesia induced cognitive impairment. The results indicated that sevoflurane anesthesia down-regulated the mRNA and protein levels of three memory genes, Arc, Bdnf, and Reln, which were accompanied with promoter hypermethylation and increased Dnmt1, Dnmt3a, and Mecp2 expression, and finally impaired hippocampus dependent memory. Furthermore, inhibition of DNA hypermethylation by 5-Aza rescued sevoflurane induced memory gene expression decrease and cognitive impairment. These findings provide an epigenetic understanding for the pathophysiology of cognitive impairment induced by general anesthesia in aged brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Ni
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Min Qian
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiao Geng
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yinyin Qu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Tian
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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63
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Keverne J, Binder EB. A Review of epigenetics in psychiatry: focus on environmental risk factors. MED GENET-BERLIN 2020. [DOI: 10.1515/medgen-2020-2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications play a key role in development and cell type specificity. These modifications seem to be particularly critical for brain development, where mutations in epigenetic enzymes have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders as well as with the function of post-mitotic neurons. Epigenetic modifications can be influenced by genetic and environmental factors, both known major risk factors for psychiatric disorders. Epigenetic modifications may thus be an important mediator of the effects of genetic and environmental risk factors on cell function.
This review summarizes the different types of epigenetic regulation and then focuses on the mechanisms transducing environmental signals, especially adverse life events that are major risk factors for psychiatric disorders, into lasting epigenetic changes. This is followed by examples of how the environment can induce epigenetic changes that relate to the risk of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisabeth B. Binder
- Dept. of Translational Research in Psychiatry , Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry , Kraepelinstr. 2-10 , Munich , Germany
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64
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Epigenomic Remodeling in Huntington's Disease-Master or Servant? EPIGENOMES 2020; 4:epigenomes4030015. [PMID: 34968288 PMCID: PMC8594700 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes4030015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In light of our aging population, neurodegenerative disorders are becoming a tremendous challenge, that modern societies have to face. They represent incurable, progressive conditions with diverse and complex pathological features, followed by catastrophic occurrences of massive neuronal loss at the later stages of the diseases. Some of these disorders, like Huntington’s disease (HD), rely on defined genetic factors. HD, as an incurable, fatal hereditary neurodegenerative disorder characterized by its mid-life onset, is caused by the expansion of CAG trinucleotide repeats coding for glutamine (Q) in exon 1 of the huntingtin gene. Apart from the genetic defect, environmental factors are thought to influence the risk, onset and progression of HD. As epigenetic mechanisms are known to readily respond to environmental stimuli, they are proposed to play a key role in HD pathogenesis. Indeed, dynamic epigenomic remodeling is observed in HD patients and in brains of HD animal models. Epigenetic signatures, such as DNA methylation, histone variants and modifications, are known to influence gene expression and to orchestrate various aspects of neuronal physiology. Hence, deciphering their implication in HD pathogenesis might open up new paths for novel therapeutic concepts, which are discussed in this review.
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Cruz-Carrillo G, Montalvo-Martínez L, Cárdenas-Tueme M, Bernal-Vega S, Maldonado-Ruiz R, Reséndez-Pérez D, Rodríguez-Ríos D, Lund G, Garza-Ocañas L, Camacho-Morales A. Fetal Programming by Methyl Donors Modulates Central Inflammation and Prevents Food Addiction-Like Behavior in Rats. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:452. [PMID: 32581665 PMCID: PMC7283929 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal programming by hypercaloric intake leads to food addiction-like behavior and brain pro-inflammatory gene expression in offspring. The role of methylome modulation during programming on central immune activation and addiction-like behavior has not been characterized. We employed a nutritional programming model exposing female Wistar rats to chow diet, cafeteria (CAF), or CAF-methyl donor’s diet from pre-pregnancy to weaning. Addiction-like behavior in offspring was characterized by the operant training response using Skinner boxes. Food intake in offspring was determined after fasting–refeeding schedule and subcutaneous injection of ghrelin. Genome-wide DNA methylation in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell was performed by fluorescence polarization, and brain immune activation was evaluated using real-time PCR for pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-1α, and IL-6). Molecular effects of methyl modulators [S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) or 5-azatidine (5-AZA)] on pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and phagocytosis were identified in the cultures of immortalized SIM-A9 microglia cells following palmitic acid (100 μM) or LPS (100 nM) stimulation for 6 or 24 h. Our results show that fetal programming by CAF exposure increases the number of offspring subjects and reinforcers under the operant training response schedule, which correlates with an increase in the NAc shell global methylation. Notably, methyl donor’s diet selectively decreases lever-pressing responses for reinforcers and unexpectedly decreases the NAc shell global methylation. Also, programmed offspring by CAF diet shows a selective IL-6 gene expression in the NAc shell, which is reverted to control values by methyl diet exposure. In vitro analysis identified that LPS and palmitic acid activate IL-1β, TNF-1α, and IL-6 gene expression, which is repressed by the methyl donor SAM. Finally, methylation actively represses phagocytosis activity of SIM-A9 microglia cells induced by LPS and palmitic acid stimulation. Our in vivo and in vitro data suggest that fetal programming by methyl donors actively decreases addiction-like behavior to palatable food in the offspring, which correlates with a decrease in NAc shell methylome, expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes, and activity of phagocytic microglia. These results support the role of fetal programming in brain methylome on immune activation and food addiction-like behavior in the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Cruz-Carrillo
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico.,Neurometabolism Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico
| | - Larisa Montalvo-Martínez
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico.,Neurometabolism Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico
| | - Marcela Cárdenas-Tueme
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Biological Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico
| | - Sofia Bernal-Vega
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Biological Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico
| | - Roger Maldonado-Ruiz
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico.,Neurometabolism Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico
| | - Diana Reséndez-Pérez
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Biological Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico
| | | | - Gertrud Lund
- Department of Genetic Engineering, CINVESTAV Irapuato Unit, Irapuato, Mexico
| | - Lourdes Garza-Ocañas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico
| | - Alberto Camacho-Morales
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico.,Neurometabolism Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico
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Poon CH, Tse LSR, Lim LW. DNA methylation in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease: from gene to cognition. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2020; 1475:15-33. [PMID: 32491215 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a debilitating disorder that manifests with amyloid beta plaque deposition, neurofibrillary tangles, neuronal loss, and severe cognitive impairment. Although much effort has been made to decipher the pathogenesis of this disease, the mechanisms causing these detrimental outcomes remain obscure. Over the past few decades, neuroepigenetics has emerged as an important field that, among other things, explores how reversible modifications can change gene expression to control behavior and cognitive abilities. Among epigenetic modifications, DNA methylation requires further elucidation for the conflicting observations from AD research and its pivotal role in learning and memory. In this review, we focus on the essential components of DNA methylation, the effects of aberrant methylation on gene expressions in the amyloidogenic pathway and neurochemical processes, as well as memory epigenetics in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Him Poon
- Neuromodulation Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Long Sum Rachel Tse
- Neuromodulation Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Lee Wei Lim
- Neuromodulation Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
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Wagner MA, Erickson KI, Bender CM, Conley YP. The Influence of Physical Activity and Epigenomics On Cognitive Function and Brain Health in Breast Cancer. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:123. [PMID: 32457596 PMCID: PMC7225270 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.00123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The risk of breast cancer increases with age, with the majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer being postmenopausal. It has been estimated that 25-75% of women with breast cancer experience changes in cognitive function (CF) related to disease and treatment, which compromises psychological well-being, decision making, ability to perform daily activities, and adherence to cancer therapy. Unfortunately, the mechanisms that underlie neurocognitive changes in women with breast cancer remain poorly understood, which in turn limits the development of effective treatments and prevention strategies. Exercise has great potential as a non-pharmaceutical intervention to mitigate the decline in CF in women with breast cancer. Evidence suggests that DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism for gene regulation, impacts CF and brain health (BH), that exercise influences DNA methylation, and that exercise impacts CF and BH. Although investigating DNA methylation has the potential to uncover the biologic foundations for understanding neurocognitive changes within the context of breast cancer and its treatment as well as the ability to understand how exercise mitigates these changes, there is a dearth of research on this topic. The purpose of this review article is to compile the research in these areas and to recommend potential areas of opportunity for investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica A. Wagner
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Kirk I. Erickson
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Discipline of Exercise Science, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth Campus, Murdoch, WA, Australia
| | | | - Yvette P. Conley
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Zhong H, Rong J, Zhu C, Liang M, Li Y, Zhou R. Epigenetic Modifications of GABAergic Interneurons Contribute to Deficits in Adult Hippocampus Neurogenesis and Depression-Like Behavior in Prenatally Stressed Mice. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 23:274-285. [PMID: 32211762 PMCID: PMC7177164 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyaa020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal stress (PRS) is considered a risk factor for depressive disorder. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is believed to play a role in the regulation of affective behaviors. GABAergic interneuron is a key modulator in adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Growing evidence indicates that PRS has adverse effects on adult hippocampal neurogenesis and DNA epigenetic modifications of the GABAergic system. The aim of this study was to investigate whether epigenetic GABAergic dysfunction participates in the negative impact of PRS on adult hippocampal neurogenesis and related emotional behaviors. METHODS Behavioral tests were used to explore PRS-induced depression-like behaviors of adult female mice. Immunohistochemistry staining, real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and chromatin immunoprecipitation were employed to detect adult neurogenesis and epigenetic changes of the GABAergic system in the hippocampus of PRS mice. RESULTS PRS mice developed a depression phenotype accompanied by the inhibited maturation of hippocampal newborn neurons. Compared with control mice, PRS mice showed decreased expression of glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 at the mRNA and protein levels. GABAA receptor agonist phenobarbital could rectify the decrease of 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine/neuronal nuclei double-positive (BrdU+/NeuN+) cells in PRS mice. PRS mice also showed increased expression of DNA methyltransferase 1 and increased binding of DNA methyltransferase 1 to glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 promoter region. The treatment with DNA methyltransferase 1 inhibitor 5-aza-deoxycytidine restored the decrease of BrdU+/NeuN+ cells and depression-like behaviors in PRS mice via improving GABAergic system. CONCLUSIONS The present results indicate that epigenetic changes of the GABAergic system are responsible for adult hippocampus neurogenesis and depression-like behaviors in PRS mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiquan Zhong
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Rong
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunting Zhu
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Min Liang
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yingchun Li
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rong Zhou
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China,Correspondence: Rong Zhou, PhD, Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Longmian Avenue 101, Jiangning District, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province, China 211166 ()
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69
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Pensold D, Reichard J, Van Loo KMJ, Ciganok N, Hahn A, Bayer C, Liebmann L, Groß J, Tittelmeier J, Lingner T, Salinas-Riester G, Symmank J, Halfmann C, González-Bermúdez L, Urbach A, Gehrmann J, Costa I, Pieler T, Hübner CA, Vatter H, Kampa B, Becker AJ, Zimmer-Bensch G. DNA Methylation-Mediated Modulation of Endocytosis as Potential Mechanism for Synaptic Function Regulation in Murine Inhibitory Cortical Interneurons. Cereb Cortex 2020; 30:3921-3937. [PMID: 32147726 PMCID: PMC7264686 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhaa009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The balance of excitation and inhibition is essential for cortical information processing, relying on the tight orchestration of the underlying subcellular processes. Dynamic transcriptional control by DNA methylation, catalyzed by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), and DNA demethylation, achieved by ten–eleven translocation (TET)-dependent mechanisms, is proposed to regulate synaptic function in the adult brain with implications for learning and memory. However, focus so far is laid on excitatory neurons. Given the crucial role of inhibitory cortical interneurons in cortical information processing and in disease, deciphering the cellular and molecular mechanisms of GABAergic transmission is fundamental. The emerging relevance of DNMT and TET-mediated functions for synaptic regulation irrevocably raises the question for the targeted subcellular processes and mechanisms. In this study, we analyzed the role dynamic DNA methylation has in regulating cortical interneuron function. We found that DNMT1 and TET1/TET3 contrarily modulate clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Moreover, we provide evidence that DNMT1 influences synaptic vesicle replenishment and GABAergic transmission, presumably through the DNA methylation-dependent transcriptional control over endocytosis-related genes. The relevance of our findings is supported by human brain sample analysis, pointing to a potential implication of DNA methylation-dependent endocytosis regulation in the pathophysiology of temporal lobe epilepsy, a disease characterized by disturbed synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Pensold
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany.,Division of Functional Epigenetics, Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Julia Reichard
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany.,Division of Functional Epigenetics, Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany.,Research Training Group 2416 Multi Senses-Multi Scales, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Karen M J Van Loo
- Department of Neuropathology, Section for Translational Epilepsy Research, University of Bonn Medical Center, 53105 Bonn, Germany
| | - Natalja Ciganok
- Division of Systems Neurophysiology, Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Anne Hahn
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Cathrin Bayer
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany.,Division of Functional Epigenetics, Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Lutz Liebmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Jonas Groß
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Lingner
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, Transcriptome and Genome Analysis Laboratory (TAL), University of Goettingen, 37077 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Gabriela Salinas-Riester
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, Transcriptome and Genome Analysis Laboratory (TAL), University of Goettingen, 37077 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Judit Symmank
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Claas Halfmann
- Division of Systems Neurophysiology, Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Anja Urbach
- Clinic for Neurology, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Julia Gehrmann
- Institute for Computational Genomics, University Hospital Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Ivan Costa
- Institute for Computational Genomics, University Hospital Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Tomas Pieler
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, Centre for Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), University of Goettingen, 37077 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Christian A Hübner
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Hartmut Vatter
- Clinic for Neurosurgery, University of Bonn Medical Center, 53105 Bonn, Germany
| | - Björn Kampa
- Division of Systems Neurophysiology, Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany.,JARA BRAIN, Institute for Neuroscience and Medicine, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425, Germany
| | - Albert J Becker
- Department of Neuropathology, Section for Translational Epilepsy Research, University of Bonn Medical Center, 53105 Bonn, Germany
| | - Geraldine Zimmer-Bensch
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany.,Division of Functional Epigenetics, Institute of Zoology (Biology 2), RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany.,Research Training Group 2416 Multi Senses-Multi Scales, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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Harris CJ, Davis BA, Zweig JA, Nevonen KA, Quinn JF, Carbone L, Gray NE. Age-Associated DNA Methylation Patterns Are Shared Between the Hippocampus and Peripheral Blood Cells. Front Genet 2020; 11:111. [PMID: 32211019 PMCID: PMC7067920 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As the population ages, interest in identifying biomarkers of healthy aging and developing antiaging interventions has increased. DNA methylation has emerged as a potentially powerful molecular marker of aging. Methylation changes at specific sites in the human genome that have been identified in peripheral blood have been used as robust estimators of chronological age. Similar age-related DNA methylation signatures are also seen in various tissue types in rodents. However, whether these peripheral alterations in methylation status reflect changes that also occur in the central nervous system remains unknown. This study begins to address this issue by identifying age-related methylation patterns in the hippocampus and blood of young and old mice. Reduced-representation bisulfite sequencing (RBSS) was used to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in the blood and hippocampus of 2- and 20-month-old C57/Bl6 mice. Of the thousands of DMRs identified genome-wide only five were both found in gene promoters and significantly changed in the same direction with age in both tissues. We analyzed the hippocampal expression of these five hypermethylated genes and found that three were expressed at significantly lower levels in aged mice [suppressor of fused homolog (Sufu), nitric oxide synthase 1 (Nos1) and tripartite motif containing 2 (Trim2)]. We also identified several transcription factor binding motifs common to both hippocampus and blood that were enriched in the DMRs. Overall, our findings suggest that some age-related methylation changes that occur in the brain are also evident in the blood and could have significant translational relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Harris
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Brett A Davis
- Department of Medicine, KCVI, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jonathan A Zweig
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Kimberly A Nevonen
- Department of Medicine, KCVI, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Joseph F Quinn
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States.,Parkinson's Disease Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Portland Veteran's Affairs Medical Center, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Lucia Carbone
- Department of Medicine, KCVI, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States.,Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States.,Department of Medical Informatics and Clinical Epidemiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States.,Division of Genetics, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Nora E Gray
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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71
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Zhu L, Chen L, Xu P, Lu D, Dai S, Zhong L, Han Y, Zhang M, Xiao B, Chang L, Wu Q. Genetic and molecular basis of epilepsy-related cognitive dysfunction. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 104:106848. [PMID: 32028124 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.106848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common neurological disease characterized by recurrent seizures. About 70 million people were affected by epilepsy or epileptic seizures. Epilepsy is a complicated complex or symptomatic syndromes induced by structural, functional, and genetic causes. Meanwhile, several comorbidities are accompanied by epileptic seizures. Cognitive dysfunction is a long-standing complication associated with epileptic seizures, which severely impairs quality of life. Although the definitive pathogenic mechanisms underlying epilepsy-related cognitive dysfunction remain unclear, accumulating evidence indicates that multiple risk factors are probably involved in the development and progression of cognitive dysfunction in patients with epilepsy. These factors include the underlying etiology, recurrent seizures or status epilepticus, structural damage that induced secondary epilepsy, genetic variants, and molecular alterations. In this review, we summarize several theories that may explain the genetic and molecular basis of epilepsy-related cognitive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Puying Xu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Di Lu
- Biomedicine Engineering Research Center, Kunming Medical University, 1168 Chun Rong West Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, PR China
| | - Shujuan Dai
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Lianmei Zhong
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Yanbing Han
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Mengqi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiang Ya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, PR China
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiang Ya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, PR China
| | - Lvhua Chang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China.
| | - Qian Wu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China.
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72
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Cisternas CD, Cortes LR, Golynker I, Castillo-Ruiz A, Forger NG. Neonatal Inhibition of DNA Methylation Disrupts Testosterone-Dependent Masculinization of Neurochemical Phenotype. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5631853. [PMID: 31742329 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqz022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Many neural sex differences are differences in the number of neurons of a particular phenotype. For example, male rodents have more calbindin-expressing neurons in the medial preoptic area (mPOA) and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), and females have more neurons expressing estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and kisspeptin in the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMH) and the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV), respectively. These sex differences depend on neonatal exposure to testosterone, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are unknown. DNA methylation is important for cell phenotype differentiation throughout the developing organism. We hypothesized that testosterone causes sex differences in neurochemical phenotype via changes in DNA methylation, and tested this by inhibiting DNA methylation neonatally in male and female mice, and in females given a masculinizing dose of testosterone. Neonatal testosterone treatment masculinized calbindin, ERα and kisspeptin cell number of females at weaning. Inhibiting DNA methylation with zebularine increased calbindin cell number only in control females, thus eliminating sex differences in calbindin in the mPOA and BNST. Zebularine also reduced the sex difference in ERα cell number in the VMH, in this case by increasing ERα neuron number in males and testosterone-treated females. In contrast, the neonatal inhibition of DNA methylation had no effect on kisspeptin cell number. We conclude that testosterone normally increases the number of calbindin cells and reduces ERα cells in males through orchestrated changes in DNA methylation, contributing to, or causing, the sex differences in both cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura R Cortes
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Ilona Golynker
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Nancy G Forger
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
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73
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Nikitin V, Solntseva S, Kozyrev S, Nikitin P. Long-term memory consolidation or reconsolidation impairment induces amnesia with key characteristics that are similar to key learning characteristics. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 108:542-558. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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74
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Poon CH, Chan YS, Fung ML, Lim LW. Memory and neuromodulation: A perspective of DNA methylation. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 111:57-68. [PMID: 31846654 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuromodulation techniques have shown promising efficacy on memory function and understanding the epigenetic mechanisms contributing to these processes would shed light on the molecular outcomes essential for cognition. In this review, we highlight some epigenetic mechanisms underlying neuromodulation and regulatory effects of neuronal activity-induced DNA methylation on genes that are highly involved in memory formation. Next, we examine the evidence to support DNA methyltransferase 3a, methyl-CpG binding protein 2, and DNA demethylase as possible memory modulation targets. Finally, we report the recent developments in the field of neuromodulation and explore the potential of these techniques for future neuroepigenetic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Him Poon
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ying-Shing Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Man Lung Fung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lee Wei Lim
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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75
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Górny M, Wnuk A, Kamińska A, Kamińska K, Chwatko G, Bilska-Wilkosz A, Iciek M, Kajta M, Rogóż Z, Lorenc-Koci E. Glutathione Deficiency and Alterations in the Sulfur Amino Acid Homeostasis during Early Postnatal Development as Potential Triggering Factors for Schizophrenia-Like Behavior in Adult Rats. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24234253. [PMID: 31766654 PMCID: PMC6930621 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24234253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Impaired glutathione (GSH) synthesis and dopaminergic transmission are important factors in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Our research aimed to assess the effects of l-buthionine-(S,R)-sulfoximine (BSO), a GSH synthesis inhibitor, and GBR 12909, a dopamine reuptake inhibitor, administered alone or in combination, to Sprague–Dawley rats during early postnatal development (p5–p16), on the levels of GSH, sulfur amino acids, global DNA methylation, and schizophrenia-like behavior. GSH, methionine (Met), homocysteine (Hcy), and cysteine (Cys) contents were determined in the liver, kidney, and in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HIP) of 16-day-old rats. DNA methylation in the PFC and HIP and schizophrenia-like behavior were assessed in adulthood (p90–p93). BSO caused the tissue-dependent decreases in GSH content and alterations in Met, Hcy, and Cys levels in the peripheral tissues and in the PFC and HIP. The changes in these parameters were accompanied by alterations in the global DNA methylation in the studied brain structures. Parallel to changes in the global DNA methylation, deficits in the social behaviors and cognitive functions were observed in adulthood. Only BSO + GBR 12909-treated rats exhibited behavioral alterations resembling positive symptoms in schizophrenia patients. Our results suggest the usefulness of this neurodevelopmental model for research on the pathomechanism of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Górny
- The Chair of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 7 Kopernika Street, 31–034 Kraków, Poland; (M.G.); (A.B.-W.); (M.I.)
| | - Agnieszka Wnuk
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31–343 Kraków, Poland; (A.W.); (K.K.); (M.K.); (Z.R.)
| | - Adrianna Kamińska
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, University of Łódź, 163 Pomorska Street, 90-236 Łódź, Poland; (A.K.); (G.C.)
| | - Kinga Kamińska
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31–343 Kraków, Poland; (A.W.); (K.K.); (M.K.); (Z.R.)
| | - Grażyna Chwatko
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, University of Łódź, 163 Pomorska Street, 90-236 Łódź, Poland; (A.K.); (G.C.)
| | - Anna Bilska-Wilkosz
- The Chair of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 7 Kopernika Street, 31–034 Kraków, Poland; (M.G.); (A.B.-W.); (M.I.)
| | - Małgorzata Iciek
- The Chair of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 7 Kopernika Street, 31–034 Kraków, Poland; (M.G.); (A.B.-W.); (M.I.)
| | - Małgorzata Kajta
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31–343 Kraków, Poland; (A.W.); (K.K.); (M.K.); (Z.R.)
| | - Zofia Rogóż
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31–343 Kraków, Poland; (A.W.); (K.K.); (M.K.); (Z.R.)
| | - Elżbieta Lorenc-Koci
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31–343 Kraków, Poland; (A.W.); (K.K.); (M.K.); (Z.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-126-623-272
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76
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Moretti R, Peinkhofer C. B Vitamins and Fatty Acids: What Do They Share with Small Vessel Disease-Related Dementia? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E5797. [PMID: 31752183 PMCID: PMC6888477 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Many studies have been written on vitamin supplementation, fatty acid, and dementia, but results are still under debate, and no definite conclusion has yet been drawn. Nevertheless, a significant amount of lab evidence confirms that vitamins of the B group are tightly related to gene control for endothelium protection, act as antioxidants, play a co-enzymatic role in the most critical biochemical reactions inside the brain, and cooperate with many other elements, such as choline, for the synthesis of polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine, through S-adenosyl-methionine (SAM) methyl donation. B-vitamins have anti-inflammatory properties and act in protective roles against neurodegenerative mechanisms, for example, through modulation of the glutamate currents and a reduction of the calcium currents. In addition, they also have extraordinary antioxidant properties. However, laboratory data are far from clinical practice. Many studies have tried to apply these results in everyday clinical activity, but results have been discouraging and far from a possible resolution of the associated mysteries, like those represented by Alzheimer's disease (AD) or small vessel disease dementia. Above all, two significant problems emerge from the research: No consensus exists on general diagnostic criteria-MCI or AD? Which diagnostic criteria should be applied for small vessel disease-related dementia? In addition, no general schema exists for determining a possible correct time of implementation to have effective results. Here we present an up-to-date review of the literature on such topics, shedding some light on the possible interaction of vitamins and phosphatidylcholine, and their role in brain metabolism and catabolism. Further studies should take into account all of these questions, with well-designed and world-homogeneous trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Moretti
- Neurology Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy;
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77
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Yap EL, Greenberg ME. Activity-Regulated Transcription: Bridging the Gap between Neural Activity and Behavior. Neuron 2019; 100:330-348. [PMID: 30359600 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 322] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Gene transcription is the process by which the genetic codes of organisms are read and interpreted as a set of instructions for cells to divide, differentiate, migrate, and mature. As cells function in their respective niches, transcription further allows mature cells to interact dynamically with their external environment while reliably retaining fundamental information about past experiences. In this Review, we provide an overview of the field of activity-dependent transcription in the vertebrate brain and highlight contemporary work that ranges from studies of activity-dependent chromatin modifications to plasticity mechanisms underlying adaptive behaviors. We identify key gaps in knowledge and propose integrated approaches toward a deeper understanding of how activity-dependent transcription promotes the refinement and plasticity of neural circuits for cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ee-Lynn Yap
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael E Greenberg
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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78
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Meng S, Zhou H, Feng Z, Xu Z, Tang Y, Wu M. Epigenetics in Neurodevelopment: Emerging Role of Circular RNA. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:327. [PMID: 31379511 PMCID: PMC6658887 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Canonical epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modification and chromatin remodeling, play a role in numerous life processes, particularly neurodevelopment. Epigenetics explains the development of cells in an organism with the same DNA sequence into different cell types with various functions. However, previous studies on epigenetics have only focused on the chromatin level. Recently, epigenetic modifications of RNA, which mainly include 6-methyladenosine (m6A), pseudouridine, 5-methylcytidine (m5C), inosine (I), 2′-O-ribosemethylation, and 1-methyladenosine (m1A), have gained increasing attention. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), which are a type of non-coding RNA without a 5′ cap or 3′ poly (A) tail, are abundantly found in the brain and might respond to and regulate synaptic function. Also, circRNAs have various functions, such as microRNA sponge, regulation of gene transcription and interaction with RNA binding protein. In addition, circRNAs are methylated by N6-methyladenosine (m6A). In this review, we discuss the crucial roles of epigenetic modifications of circRNAs, such as m6A, in the genesis and development of neurons and in synaptic function and plasticity. Thus, this type of changes in circRNAs might be a therapeutic target in central nervous system (CNS) disorders and could aid the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujuan Meng
- Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Ministry of Health, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hecheng Zhou
- Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Ministry of Health, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ziyang Feng
- Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Ministry of Health, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zihao Xu
- Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Ministry of Health, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ying Tang
- Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Ministry of Health, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Minghua Wu
- Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Ministry of Health, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
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79
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Epigenetic and autophagic changes after nerve agent exposure in the rat piriform cortex and hippocampus. Toxicology 2019; 423:54-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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80
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Shou Y, Huang Y, Zhu X, Liu C, Hu Y, Wang H. A review of the possible associations between ambient PM2.5 exposures and the development of Alzheimer's disease. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 174:344-352. [PMID: 30849654 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.02.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
PM2.5 particles in air pollution have been widely considered associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Recent studies have shown that PM2.5 can also cause central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Activation of microglia in the central nervous system can lead to inflammatory and neurological damage. PM2.5 will reduce the methylation level of DNA and affect epigenetics. PM2.5 enters the human body through a variety of pathways to have pathological effects on CNS. For example, PM2.5 can destroy the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), so peripheral systemic inflammation easily crosses BBB and reaches CNS. The olfactory nerve is another way for PM2.5 particles to enter the brain. Surprisingly, PM2.5 can also enter the gastrointestinal tract, causing imbalances in the intestinal microecology to affect central nervous system diseases. The current work collected and discuss the mechanisms of PM2.5-induced CNS damage and PM2.5-induced neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yikai Shou
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Str. 16#, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Yilu Huang
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Str. 16#, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Xiaozheng Zhu
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Str. 16#, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Cuiqing Liu
- College of Basic Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, China
| | - Yu Hu
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Str. 16#, Hangzhou 310018, China.
| | - Huanhuan Wang
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Str. 16#, Hangzhou 310018, China.
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81
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Flitton M, Rielly N, Warman R, Warden D, Smith AD, Macdonald IA, Knight HM. Interaction of nutrition and genetics via DNMT3L-mediated DNA methylation determines cognitive decline. Neurobiol Aging 2019; 78:64-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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82
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Griñán-Ferré C, Corpas R, Puigoriol-Illamola D, Palomera-Ávalos V, Sanfeliu C, Pallàs M. Understanding Epigenetics in the Neurodegeneration of Alzheimer's Disease: SAMP8 Mouse Model. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 62:943-963. [PMID: 29562529 PMCID: PMC5870033 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics is emerging as the missing link among genetic inheritance, environmental influences, and body and brain health status. In the brain, specific changes in nucleic acids or their associated proteins in neurons and glial cells might imprint differential patterns of gene activation that will favor either cognitive enhancement or cognitive loss for more than one generation. Furthermore, derangement of age-related epigenetic signaling is appearing as a significant risk factor for illnesses of aging, including neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In addition, better knowledge of epigenetic mechanisms might provide hints and clues in the triggering and progression of AD. Intense research in experimental models suggests that molecular interventions for modulating epigenetic mechanisms might have therapeutic applications to promote cognitive maintenance through an advanced age. The SAMP8 mouse is a senescence model with AD traits in which the study of epigenetic alterations may unveil epigenetic therapies against the AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Griñán-Ferré
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry (Pharmacology Section) and Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona and CIBERNED, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rubén Corpas
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques de Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, IDIBAPS and CIBERESP, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Dolors Puigoriol-Illamola
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry (Pharmacology Section) and Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona and CIBERNED, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Verónica Palomera-Ávalos
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry (Pharmacology Section) and Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona and CIBERNED, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Coral Sanfeliu
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques de Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, IDIBAPS and CIBERESP, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Pallàs
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry (Pharmacology Section) and Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona and CIBERNED, Barcelona, Spain
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83
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Harman MF, Martín MG. Epigenetic mechanisms related to cognitive decline during aging. J Neurosci Res 2019; 98:234-246. [PMID: 31045277 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive decline is a hallmark of the aging nervous system, characterized by increasing memory loss and a deterioration of mental capacity, which in turn creates a favorable context for the development of neurodegenerative diseases. One of the most detrimental alterations that occur at the molecular level in the brain during aging is the modification of the epigenetic mechanisms that control gene expression. As a result of these epigenetic-driven changes in the transcriptome most of the functions of the brain including synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory decline with aging. The epigenetic mechanisms altered during aging include DNA methylation, histone modifications, nucleosome remodeling, and microRNA-mediated gene regulation. In this review, we examine the current evidence concerning the changes of epigenetic modifications together with the molecular mechanisms underlying impaired neuronal gene transcription during aging. Herein, we discuss the alterations of DNA methylation pattern that occur in old neurons. We will also describe the most prominent age-related histone posttranslational modifications in the brain since changes in acetylation and methylation of specific lysine residues on H3 and H4 are associated to functional decline in the old. In addition, we discuss the role that changes in the levels of certain miRNAs would play in cognitive decline with aging. Finally, we provide an overview about the mechanisms either extrinsic or intrinsic that would trigger epigenetic changes in the aging brain, and the consequences of these changes, i.e., altered transcriptional profile and reactivation of transposable elements in old brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- María F Harman
- Instituto Ferreyra, INIMEC-CONICET-UNC, Córdoba, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Mauricio G Martín
- Instituto Ferreyra, INIMEC-CONICET-UNC, Córdoba, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales, Cátedra de Química Orgánica, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
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84
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Kuehner JN, Bruggeman EC, Wen Z, Yao B. Epigenetic Regulations in Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Front Genet 2019; 10:268. [PMID: 31019524 PMCID: PMC6458251 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Precise genetic and epigenetic spatiotemporal regulation of gene expression is critical for proper brain development, function and circuitry formation in the mammalian central nervous system. Neuronal differentiation processes are tightly regulated by epigenetic mechanisms including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodelers and non-coding RNAs. Dysregulation of any of these pathways is detrimental to normal neuronal development and functions, which can result in devastating neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression, schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders. In this review, we focus on the current understanding of epigenetic regulations in brain development and functions, as well as their implications in neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janise N Kuehner
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Emily C Bruggeman
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Zhexing Wen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Bing Yao
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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85
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Brandwein NJ, Nguyen PV. A requirement for epigenetic modifications during noradrenergic stabilization of heterosynaptic LTP in the hippocampus. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2019; 161:72-82. [PMID: 30930287 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Beta-adrenergic receptor (b-AR) activation by noradrenaline (NA) enhances memory formation and long-term potentiation (LTP), a form of synaptic plasticity characterized by an activity-dependent increase in synaptic strength. LTP is believed to be a cellular mechanism for contextual learning and memory. In the mammalian hippocampus, LTP can be observed at multiple synaptic pathways after strong stimulation of a single synaptic pathway. This heterosynaptic LTP is believed to involve synaptic tagging of active synapses and capture of plasticity-related proteins that enable heterosynaptic transfer of persistent potentiation. These processes may permit distinct neural pathways to associate information transmitted by separate, but convergent, synaptic inputs. We had previously shown that transcription and epigenetic modifications were necessary for stabilization of homosynaptic LTP. However, it is unclear whether transfer of LTP to a second, heterosynaptic pathway involves b-ARs signalling to the nucleus. Using electrophysiologic recordings in area CA1 of murine hippocampal slices, we show here that pharmacologically inhibiting b-AR activation, transcription, DNA methyltransferase or histone acetyltransferase activation, prevents stabilization of heterosynaptic LTP. Our data suggest that noradrenergic stabilization of heterosynaptic ("tagged") LTP requires not only transcription, but specifically, DNA methylation and histone acetylation. NA promotes stable heterosynaptic plasticity through engagement of nuclear processes that may contribute to prompt consolidation of short-term memories into resilient long-term memories under conditions when the brain's noradrenergic system is recruited.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Brandwein
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta School of Medicine, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - P V Nguyen
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta School of Medicine, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada.
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86
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Abstract
In the past few decades, the field of neuroepigenetics has investigated how the brain encodes information to form long-lasting memories that lead to stable changes in behaviour. Activity-dependent molecular mechanisms, including, but not limited to, histone modification, DNA methylation and nucleosome remodelling, dynamically regulate the gene expression required for memory formation. Recently, the field has begun to examine how a learning experience is integrated at the level of both chromatin structure and synaptic physiology. Here, we provide an overview of key established epigenetic mechanisms that are important for memory formation. We explore how epigenetic mechanisms give rise to stable alterations in neuronal function by modifying synaptic structure and function, and highlight studies that demonstrate how manipulating epigenetic mechanisms may push the boundaries of memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rianne R Campbell
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, Center for Addiction Neuroscience, Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Marcelo A Wood
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, Center for Addiction Neuroscience, Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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87
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Cognition-Enhancing Vagus Nerve Stimulation Alters the Epigenetic Landscape. J Neurosci 2019; 39:3454-3469. [PMID: 30804093 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2407-18.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been shown to enhance learning and memory, yet the mechanisms behind these enhancements are unknown. Here, we present evidence that epigenetic modulation underlies VNS-induced improvements in cognition. We show that VNS enhances novelty preference (NP); alters the hippocampal, cortical, and blood epigenetic transcriptomes; and epigenetically modulates neuronal plasticity and stress-response signaling genes in male Sprague Dawley rats. Brain-behavior analysis revealed structure-specific relationships between NP test performance (NPTP) and epigenetic alterations. In the hippocampus, NPTP correlated with decreased histone deacetylase 11 (HDAC11), a transcriptional repressor enriched in CA1 cells important for memory consolidation. In the cortex, the immediate early gene (IEG) ARC was increased in VNS rats and correlated with transcription of plasticity genes and epigenetic regulators, including HDAC3. For rats engaged in NPTP, ARC correlated with performance. Interestingly, blood ARC transcripts decreased in VNS rats performing NPTP, but increased in VNS-only rats. Because DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) facilitate transcription of IEGs, we investigated phosphorylated H2A.X (γH2A.X), a histone modification known to colocalize with DSBs. In agreement with reduced cortical stress-response transcription factor NF-κB1, chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed reduced γH2A.X in the ARC promoter. Surprisingly, VNS did not significantly reduce transcription of cortical or hippocampal proinflammatory cytokines. However, TNFRSF11B (osteoprotegerin) correlated with NPTP as well as plasticity, stress-response signaling, and epigenetic regulation transcripts in both hippocampus and cortex. Together, our findings provide the first evidence that VNS induces widespread changes in the cognitive epigenetic landscape and specifically affects epigenetic modulators associated with NPTP, stress-response signaling, memory consolidation, and cortical neural remodeling.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Recent studies have implicated vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in enhanced learning and memory. However, whereas epigenetic modifications are known to play an important role in memory, the particular mechanisms involved in VNS-enhanced cognition are unknown. In this study, we examined brain and behavior changes in VNS and sham rats performing a multiday novelty preference (NP) task. We found that VNS activated specific histone modifications and DNA methylation changes at important stress-response signaling and plasticity genes. Both cortical and hippocampal plasticity changes were predictive of NP test performance. Our results reveal important epigenetic alterations associated with VNS cognitive improvements, as well as new potential pharmacological targets for enhancing cortical and hippocampal plasticity.
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88
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Chua GNL, Wassarman KL, Sun H, Alp JA, Jarczyk EI, Kuzio NJ, Bennett MJ, Malachowsky BG, Kruse M, Kennedy AJ. Cytosine-Based TET Enzyme Inhibitors. ACS Med Chem Lett 2019; 10:180-185. [PMID: 30783500 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.8b00474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is known as the prima donna epigenetic mark for its critical role in regulating local gene transcription. Changes in the landscape of DNA methylation across the genome occur during cellular transition, such as differentiation and altered neuronal plasticity, and become dysregulated in disease states such as cancer. The TET family of enzymes is known to be responsible for catalyzing the reverse process that is DNA demethylation by recognizing 5-methylcytosine and oxidizing the methyl group via an Fe(II)/alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent mechanism. Here, we describe the design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel cytosine-based TET enzyme inhibitors, a class of small molecule probes previously underdeveloped but broadly desired in the field of epigenetics. We identify a promising cytosine-based lead compound, Bobcat339, that has mid-μM inhibitor activity against TET1 and TET2, but does not inhibit the DNA methyltransferase, DNMT3a. In silico modeling of the TET enzyme active site is used to rationalize the activity of Bobcat339 and other cytosine-based inhibitors. These new molecular tools will be useful to the field of epigenetics and serve as a starting point for new therapeutics that target DNA methylation and gene transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella N. L. Chua
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, 2 Andrews Road, Lewiston, Maine 04240, United States
| | - Kelly L. Wassarman
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, 2 Andrews Road, Lewiston, Maine 04240, United States
| | - Haoyu Sun
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, 2 Andrews Road, Lewiston, Maine 04240, United States
| | - Joseph A. Alp
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, 2 Andrews Road, Lewiston, Maine 04240, United States
| | - Emma I. Jarczyk
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, 2 Andrews Road, Lewiston, Maine 04240, United States
| | - Nathanael J. Kuzio
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, 2 Andrews Road, Lewiston, Maine 04240, United States
| | - Michael J. Bennett
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, 2 Andrews Road, Lewiston, Maine 04240, United States
| | - Beth G. Malachowsky
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, 2 Andrews Road, Lewiston, Maine 04240, United States
| | - Martin Kruse
- Department of Biology and Program in Neuroscience, Bates College, 44 Campus Avenue, Lewiston, Maine 04240, United States
| | - Andrew J. Kennedy
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, 2 Andrews Road, Lewiston, Maine 04240, United States
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89
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90
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Singh K, Jha NK, Thakur A. Spatiotemporal chromatin dynamics - A telltale of circadian epigenetic gene regulation. Life Sci 2019; 221:377-391. [PMID: 30721705 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2018] [Revised: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Over the course of evolution, nature has forced organisms under selection pressure to hardwire an internal time keeping device that defines 24 h of a daily cycle of physiological and behavioral rhythms, known as circadian rhythms. At the cellular level, the cycle is governed by significant fractions of transcriptomes, which are under the control of transcriptional and translational feedback loop of clock genes. Intriguingly, this feedback loop is regulated at multiple stratums such as at the transcriptional and translational levels, which direct a cell towards producing a robust rhythm by sustaining the repeated stoichiometry of protein products. Moreover, with the advent of state of the art paradigms, epigenetic regulation of circadian rhythms has been becoming more evident at present time. Light-induced recurring fluctuations in chromatin acetylation concurrent with the binding of RNA Pol II and integration of miRNAs monitor the chromatin modifiers or clock genes expression to drive temporal rhythmicity. Furthermore, CLOCK protein intrinsic histone acetyl transferase activity, the interaction of CLOCK-BMAL-1 with HAT enzymes, and the involvement of many histone deacetylases also maintain the rhythmic protein profile. Additionally, the critical role of the rhythmic methylation pattern of clock genes in battery of cancer and metabolic disorders also defines its importance. Therefore, in this review, we focused on accumulating all the present data available on epigenetics and circadian rhythms. Interestingly, we also gathered evidence from the available literature pinpointing towards the dynamic nature of chromatin architecture governed by long and short-range regulatory elements DNA contacts arising daily, that was thought to be steady otherwise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunal Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology (NIET), Greater Noida, India.
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology (NIET), Greater Noida, India
| | - Abhimanyu Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, India
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91
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Binder EB. [Environment and epigenetics]. DER NERVENARZT 2019; 90:107-113. [PMID: 30643952 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-018-0657-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Environmental factors are among the strongest risk factors for psychiatric disorders. Differences in exposure to such environments have been associated with lasting biological changes. In recent years epigenetic mechanisms have been brought to the forefront as central in mediating a lasting embedding of environmental risk factors. This article first summarizes the different levels of epigenetic regulation and then focuses on mechanisms transducing environmental signals into lasting epigenetic changes. This is followed by examples of how environmentally induced epigenetic changes relate to risk and resilience to psychiatric disorders and their treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth B Binder
- Abteilung für translationale Forschung für Psychiatrie, Max-Planck-Institut für Psychiatrie, Kraepelinstr. 2-10, 80804, München, Deutschland. .,Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, USA.
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92
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Cunningham CB, Ji L, McKinney EC, Benowitz KM, Schmitz RJ, Moore AJ. Changes of gene expression but not cytosine methylation are associated with male parental care reflecting behavioural state, social context and individual flexibility. J Exp Biol 2019; 222:jeb188649. [PMID: 30446546 PMCID: PMC10681020 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.188649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Behaviour is often a front line response to changing environments. Recent studies show behavioural changes are associated with changes of gene expression; however, these studies have primarily focused on discrete behavioural states. We build on these studies by addressing additional contexts that produce qualitatively similar behavioural changes. We measured levels of gene expression and cytosine methylation, which is hypothesized to regulate the transcriptional architecture of behavioural transitions, within the brain during male parental care of the burying beetle Nicrophorus vespilloides in a factorial design. Male parenting is a suitably plastic behaviour because although male N. vespilloides typically do not provide direct care (i.e. feed offspring) when females are present, levels of feeding by a male equivalent to the female can be induced by removing the female. We examined three different factors: behavioural state (caring versus non-caring), social context (with or without a female mate) and individual flexibility (if a male switched to direct care after his mate was removed). The greatest number of differentially expressed genes were associated with behavioural state, followed by social context and individual flexibility. Cytosine methylation was not associated with changes of gene expression in any of the factors. Our results suggest a hierarchical association between gene expression and the different factors, but that this process is not controlled by cytosine methylation. Our results further suggest that the extent a behaviour is transient plays an underappreciated role in determining its underpinning molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lexiang Ji
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | | | - Kyle M Benowitz
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Robert J Schmitz
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Allen J Moore
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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93
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Abraham WC, Jones OD, Glanzman DL. Is plasticity of synapses the mechanism of long-term memory storage? NPJ SCIENCE OF LEARNING 2019; 4:9. [PMID: 31285847 PMCID: PMC6606636 DOI: 10.1038/s41539-019-0048-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
It has been 70 years since Donald Hebb published his formalized theory of synaptic adaptation during learning. Hebb's seminal work foreshadowed some of the great neuroscientific discoveries of the following decades, including the discovery of long-term potentiation and other lasting forms of synaptic plasticity, and more recently the residence of memories in synaptically connected neuronal assemblies. Our understanding of the processes underlying learning and memory has been dominated by the view that synapses are the principal site of information storage in the brain. This view has received substantial support from research in several model systems, with the vast majority of studies on the topic corroborating a role for synapses in memory storage. Yet, despite the neuroscience community's best efforts, we are still without conclusive proof that memories reside at synapses. Furthermore, an increasing number of non-synaptic mechanisms have emerged that are also capable of acting as memory substrates. In this review, we address the key findings from the synaptic plasticity literature that make these phenomena such attractive memory mechanisms. We then turn our attention to evidence that questions the reliance of memory exclusively on changes at the synapse and attempt to integrate these opposing views.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wickliffe C. Abraham
- Department of Psychology, Brain Health Research Centre, Brain Research New Zealand, University of Otago, Box 56, Dunedin, 9010 New Zealand
| | - Owen D. Jones
- Department of Psychology, Brain Health Research Centre, Brain Research New Zealand, University of Otago, Box 56, Dunedin, 9010 New Zealand
| | - David L. Glanzman
- Departments of Integrative Biology and Physiology, and Neurobiology, and the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
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94
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Zeng P, Shi Y, Wang XM, Lin L, Du YJ, Tang N, Wang Q, Fang YY, Wang JZ, Zhou XW, Lu Y, Tian Q. Emodin Rescued Hyperhomocysteinemia-Induced Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease-Like Features in Rats. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2018; 22:57-70. [PMID: 30407508 PMCID: PMC6313134 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyy090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperhomocysteinemia is an independent risk factor for dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Lowering homocysteine levels with folic acid treatment with or without vitamin B12 has shown few clinical benefits on cognition. METHODS To verify the effect of emodin, a naturally active compound from Rheum officinale, on hyperhomocysteinemia-induced dementia, rats were treated with homocysteine injection (HCY, 400 μg/kg/d, 2 weeks) via vena caudalis. Afterwards, HCY rats with cognitive deficits were administered intragastric emodin at different concentrations for 2 weeks: 0 (HCY-E0), 20 (HCY-E20), 40 (HCY-E40), and 80 mg/kg/d (HCY-E80). RESULTS β-Amyloid overproduction, tau hyperphosphorylation, and losses of neuron and synaptic proteins were detected in the hippocampi of HCY-E0 rats with cognitive deficits. HCY-E40 and HCY-E80 rats had better behavioral performance. Although it did not reduce the plasma homocysteine level, emodin (especially 80 mg/kg/d) reduced the levels of β-amyloid and tau phosphorylation, decreased the levels of β-site amyloid precursor protein-cleaving enzyme 1, and improved the activity of protein phosphatase 2A. In the hippocampi of HCY-E40 and HCY-E80 rats, the neuron numbers, levels of synaptic proteins, and phosphorylation of the cAMP responsive element-binding protein at Ser133 were increased. In addition, depressed microglial activation and reduced levels of 5-lipoxygenase, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor α were also observed. Lastly, hyperhomocysteinemia-induced microangiopathic alterations, oxidative stress, and elevated DNA methyltransferases 1 and 3β were rescued by emodin. CONCLUSIONS Emodin represents a novel potential candidate agent for hyperhomocysteinemia-induced dementia and Alzheimer's disease-like features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zeng
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Shi
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Wang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Lin
- Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan-Jun Du
- Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Na Tang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qun Wang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying-Yan Fang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jian-Zhi Wang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin-Wen Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Youming Lu
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Correspondence: Dr Youming Lu and Dr Qing Tian, Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, China (, )
| | - Qing Tian
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Correspondence: Dr Youming Lu and Dr Qing Tian, Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, China (, )
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95
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Uli N, Michelen-Gomez E, Ramos EI, Druley TE. Age-specific changes in genome-wide methylation enrich for Foxa2 and estrogen receptor alpha binding sites. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203147. [PMID: 30256791 PMCID: PMC6157835 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of DNA methylation patterns in complex phenotypes remains unclear. To explore this question, we adapted our methods for rare variant analysis to characterize genome-wide murine DNA hybridization array to investigate methylation at CpG islands, shores, and regulatory elements. We have applied this platform to compare age and tissue- specific methylation differences in the brain and spleen of young and aged mice. As expected from prior studies, there are clear global differences in organ-specific, but not age-specific, methylation due mostly to changes at repetitive elements. Surprisingly, out of 200,000 loci there were only 946 differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) between young and old samples (529 hypermethylated, 417 hypomethylated in aged mice) compared to thousands of tissue-specific DMCs. Hypermethylated loci were clustered around the promoter region of Sfi1, exon 2 of Slc11a2, Drg1, Esr1 and Foxa2 transcription factor binding sites. In particular, there were 75 hypermethylated Foxa2 binding sites across a 2.7 Mb region of chromosome 11. Hypomethylated loci were clustered around Mid1, Isoc2b and genome-wide loci with binding sites for Foxa2 and Esr1, which are known to play important roles in development and aging. These data suggest discreet tissue-independent methylation changes associated with aging processes such as cell division (Sfi1, Mid1), energy production (Drg1, Isoc2b) and cell death (Foxa2, Esr1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishanth Uli
- Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Eduardo Michelen-Gomez
- Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Enrique I. Ramos
- Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Todd E. Druley
- Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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96
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RASgrf1, a Potential Methylatic Mediator of Anti-epileptogenesis? Neurochem Res 2018; 43:2000-2007. [PMID: 30242550 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-018-2621-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Epileptogenesis, induced by status epilepticus (SE), is a chronic process, and intervention in this progress may prevent chronic epilepsy. It has been proposed that DNA methylation might be related with epileptogenesis. RASgrf1 has a differentially methylated region at the promoter which can silence gene expression. We have previously observed the down-regulation of RASgrf1 in epilepsy patients and proved that hypermethylation of RASgrf1 reaches maximal level at the latent period in mice after kainate-induced SE (KA mice), with corresponding alteration of RASgrf1 expression. In the present study, N-phthalyl-L-tryptophan (RG108), a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, was applied in KA mice at latent phase and the behavior, electroencephalogram and pathological changes were observed in chronic phase. Methylation and expression of RASgrf1 were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), western blotting, and bisulfite sequencing PCR. The results showed that the incidence of spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS) was significantly lower in the RG108 group than the normal saline (NS) group. Subgroup analysis showed significant hypermethylation and lower expression of RASgrf1 in the RG108-SRS subgroup and the NS-SRS subgroup but not in the RG108-NSRS (no SRS) subgroup and the NS-NSRS subgroup compared with the control group. No significant difference was found between the RG108-SRS and NS-SRS subgroups. Meanwhile, hippocampal neuronal loss was observed in RG108-SRS and NS-SRS subgroups. We thus demonstrated that RG108 could modify the progression of epileptogenesis after KA induced SE and prevent chronic epilepsy. Meanwhile, hypermethylation of RASgrf1 after KA induced SE could be reversed with corresponding changes of RASgrf1 expression. Additionally, we speculated that RASgrf1 might be a potential epigenetic mediator in epileptogenesis and chronic epilepsy.
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Kumar R, Jain V, Kushwah N, Dheer A, Mishra KP, Prasad D, Singh SB. Role of DNA Methylation in Hypobaric Hypoxia-Induced Neurodegeneration and Spatial Memory Impairment. Ann Neurosci 2018; 25:191-200. [PMID: 31000957 DOI: 10.1159/000490368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypobaric hypoxia (HH) is a major stress factor that is associated with physiological, biochemical, molecular and genomic alterations. Brain is the organ that reacts sensitively to oxygen deprivation, which leads to oxidative stress and cognitive function impairment. Our previous studies have reported that downregulation of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) leads to neurodegeneration and memory impairment. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of HH exposure on DNA methylation and its regulation in BDNF expression, neurodegeneration and spatial memory impairment. For this purpose, Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to HH at a simulated altitude of 25,000 feet for 14 days. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used for transcriptional expression of DNA Methyltransferases (DNMTs) including DNMT1, DNMT3a and -DNMT3b, and immunoblotting was used for the translational expression of DNMT1, DNMT3a, DNMT3b, Methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2), pMeCP2 and BDNF in rat hippocampus. Additionally, neuronal morphology alteration and neurodegeneration in CA1 region of hippocampus were investigated though Cresyl violet (CV) staining and Fluoro-Jade C staining respectively. Results obtained suggested that HH exposure increased the expression of DNMT1 DNMT3b at the mRNA as well as protein level, whereas no significant change was observed in the level of DNMT3a. Furthermore, the level of pMeCP2 and BDNF were significantly decreased; however, the expression level of MeCP2 was significantly increased. The CV and Fluoro-Jade C-positive cells were significantly enhanced in the CA1 region of hippocampus in the HH exposed group as compared to unexposed rats. Thus, the present study concluded that HH decreases neuronal activation by the upregulation of DNA methylation and MeCP2 and decreased the expression of pMeCP2, which result in the downregulation of BDNF. The decreased BDNF expression is associated with neuronal loss and spatial memory impairment. This study highlights that DNMT inhibition could be an important therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Kumar
- Neurobiology Division, Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Science (DIAPS), DRDO, New Delhi, India
| | - Vishal Jain
- Neurophysiology Division, Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Science (DIAPS), DRDO, New Delhi, India
| | - Neetu Kushwah
- Neurobiology Division, Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Science (DIAPS), DRDO, New Delhi, India
| | - Aastha Dheer
- Neurobiology Division, Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Science (DIAPS), DRDO, New Delhi, India
| | - Kamla Prasad Mishra
- Directorate General Life Sciences, Defence research Development Organisation (DRDO), Government of India, DRDO Bhawan, Rajaji Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Dipti Prasad
- Neurobiology Division, Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Science (DIAPS), DRDO, New Delhi, India
| | - Shashi Bala Singh
- Directorate General Life Sciences, Defence research Development Organisation (DRDO), Government of India, DRDO Bhawan, Rajaji Marg, New Delhi, India
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98
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Burns SB, Szyszkowicz JK, Luheshi GN, Lutz PE, Turecki G. Plasticity of the epigenome during early-life stress. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2018; 77:115-132. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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99
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Grassi D, Franz H, Vezzali R, Bovio P, Heidrich S, Dehghanian F, Lagunas N, Belzung C, Krieglstein K, Vogel T. Neuronal Activity, TGFβ-Signaling and Unpredictable Chronic Stress Modulate Transcription of Gadd45 Family Members and DNA Methylation in the Hippocampus. Cereb Cortex 2018; 27:4166-4181. [PMID: 28444170 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhx095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal activity is altered in several neurological and psychiatric diseases. Upon depolarization not only neurotransmitters are released but also cytokines and other activators of signaling cascades. Unraveling their complex implication in transcriptional control in receiving cells will contribute to understand specific central nervous system (CNS) pathologies and will be of therapeutically interest. In this study we depolarized mature hippocampal neurons in vitro using KCl and revealed increased release not only of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) but also of transforming growth factor beta (TGFB). Neuronal activity together with BDNF and TGFB controls transcription of DNA modifying enzymes specifically members of the DNA-damage-inducible (Gadd) family, Gadd45a, Gadd45b, and Gadd45g. MeDIP followed by massive parallel sequencing and transcriptome analyses revealed less DNA methylation upon KCl treatment. Psychiatric disorder-related genes, namely Tshz1, Foxn3, Jarid2, Per1, Map3k5, and Arc are transcriptionally activated and demethylated upon neuronal activation. To analyze whether misexpression of Gadd45 family members are associated with psychiatric diseases, we applied unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) as established model for depression to mice. UCMS led to reduced expression of Gadd45 family members. Taken together, our data demonstrate that Gadd45 family members are new putative targets for UCMS treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Grassi
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Science and Health, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Henriette Franz
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Riccardo Vezzali
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Patrick Bovio
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Heidrich
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Fariba Dehghanian
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Natalia Lagunas
- Inserm U 930, Université François Rabelais, 37200 Tours, France
| | | | - Kerstin Krieglstein
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.,BIOSS Centre for Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tanja Vogel
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
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100
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Cui D, Xu X. DNA Methyltransferases, DNA Methylation, and Age-Associated Cognitive Function. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1315. [PMID: 29710796 PMCID: PMC5983821 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ageing, a leading cause of the decline/deficits in human learning, memory, and cognitive abilities, is a major risk factor for age-associated neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetics, an inheritable but reversible biochemical process, plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of age-related neurological disorders. DNA methylation, the best-known epigenetic mark, has attracted most attention in this regard. DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) are key enzymes in mediating the DNA methylation process, by which a methyl group is transferred, faithfully or anew, to genomic DNA sequences. Biologically, DNMTs are important for gene imprinting. Accumulating evidence suggests that DNMTs not only play critical roles, including gene imprinting and transcription regulation, in early development stages of the central nervous system (CNS), but also are indispensable in adult learning, memory, and cognition. Therefore, the impact of DNMTs and DNA methylation on age-associated cognitive functions and neurodegenerative diseases has emerged as a pivotal topic in the field. In this review, the effects of each DNMT on CNS development and healthy and pathological ageing are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Cui
- Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, 50931 Cologne, Germany.
| | - Xiangru Xu
- Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, 50931 Cologne, Germany.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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