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Kurz R, Huemer J, Muchitsch E, Feucht M. Cognitive behavioral therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder: A prospective observational study. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2018; 22:803-806. [PMID: 29887491 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2018.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate prospectively the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS Drug-naïve children who met the DSM-V criteria for a diagnosis of ASD were recruited from a day care center, specialized in long-term treatment of children and adolescents with ASD. Symptom assessment was performed using the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) before (base-line) and after 12 months (follow-up) of CBT. RESULTS Nine boys with a mean age of 6 (±2.0) years were included. Compared to baseline, significant improvements of symptoms of irritability (p = 0.012), hyperactivity (p = 0.008) and lethargy (p = 0.008) were observed at follow-up. CONCLUSION Results indicate that CBT is an effective therapy for children with ASD. Larger studies are needed to give more details about which symptoms respond best in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Kurz
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Paediatrics, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Julia Huemer
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Elvira Muchitsch
- Zentrum für Autistische Störungen (ZASPE), Hahngasse 24-26, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Martha Feucht
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Paediatrics, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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Arony DA, Gazda S, Kitara DL. Could nodding syndrome in Northern Uganda be a form of autism spectrum disorder? an observational study design. Pan Afr Med J 2018; 30:115. [PMID: 30364427 PMCID: PMC6195236 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2018.30.115.13634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Nodding syndrome (NS) is associated with high anion gap, biotinidase and acetyl carnitine deficiency, vitamin B6 and D deficiency and internal displacement. The objective of this study was to conduct a metabolic analysis on NS children and review literature on its similarities with ASD. Methods We conducted biochemical analysis on blood and urine of NS children at Hope for HumaNs (HfH) centre in 2014 and reviewed literature on its similarities with ASD. Ethical approval was obtained from an IRB. Data analysis was conducted using STATA version 12 and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results We found biotinidase deficiency in NS with a mean 1.98 95% CI(1.61, 2.34; p < 0.001); Acetyl carnitine deficiency 16.92 95% CI(16.10,17.75; p<0.001); Low BMI-for-age 16.92 95% CI(16.10,17.75; p = 0.42); Age 14.08 95% CI(0.78,4.660; p = 0.007); IDP duration 4.82 95% CI(4.48, 5.21; p = 0.92); Age at NS onset 8.02 95% CI(7.03, 9.01; p = 0.001); NS associated with multiple nodding episodes (χ2)=22.15, p=0.005; NS siblings with NS (χ2) = 9.68, p = 0.004; NS were in IDPs (χ2) = 22.15, p = 0.005. Conclusion These findings are indicative that NS is associated with biotinidase and acetyl carnitine deficiency, IDPs, and environmental exposures. There are no new cases of NS reported by Ugandan MOH and WHO since 2012 when the IDP camps were disbanded and communities resettled in their own communities and feed on their own grown foods. Perhaps NS may be akin to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This finding will help support all efforts towards the treatment and rehabilitation of NS children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Anywar Arony
- Gulu University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Suzanne Gazda
- Founding President for Hope for HumaNs (HfH), Neurologist at the St Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - David Lagoro Kitara
- Gulu University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Gulu, Uganda.,Gulu University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Gulu, Uganda
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Mu D, Xu Y, Zhao T, Watanabe K, Xiao Z, Ye H. Cntn6 deficiency impairs allocentric navigation in mice. Brain Behav 2018; 8:e00969. [PMID: 30106251 PMCID: PMC5991572 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION CNTN6 is an immunoglobulin domain-containing cell adhesion molecule that belongs to the contactin family. It is involved in the development of the nervous system. We aim to determine the effect of Cntn6 deficiency on the allocentric navigation in mice. METHODS We recorded the travel distance and escape time of wild-type and Cntn6 mutant male and female mice in the Morris water maze task according to the protocol. RESULTS There was hardly any Cntn6 expression in the hippocampus of postnatal day 0 (P0) mice, while obvious Cntn6 expression was present in the hippocampal CA1 region of the P7 mice. During the acquisition period of Morris water maze task (Day 1 to 4), Cntn6-/- male mice failed to shorten the escape time to reach platform on the third day, while the travel distance to platform was not significantly different. There was no significant difference in both escape time and travel distance to the platform among all female subjects. In the probe trial test (Day 5), spatial memory of the female mutant mice was mildly affected, while Cntn6-/- male mice were normal. In the spatial relearning test (Day 7 to 10), Cntn6-/- male mice showed no difference in escape time to the platform compared to the wild-type male mice, while Cntn6 deficient female mice required shorter escape time to travel to the platform on day 7, day 8, and day 10. CONCLUSIONS Cntn6 is expressed in the developing hippocampus in mice. Cntn6 deficiency affects spatial learning and memory, indicating that Cntn6 plays a role in the development of hippocampus and affects allocentric navigation of the animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Mu
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental BiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesBeijing Institute for Brain DisordersCenter of SchizophreniaCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yiliang Xu
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental BiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesBeijing Institute for Brain DisordersCenter of SchizophreniaCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Tian Zhao
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental BiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesBeijing Institute for Brain DisordersCenter of SchizophreniaCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Kazutada Watanabe
- Department of BioengineeringNagaoka University of TechnologyNagaokaNiigataJapan
| | - Zhi‐Cheng Xiao
- The Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative MedicineInstitute of Molecular and Clinical MedicineKunming Medical UniversityKunmingChina
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental BiologyMonash UniversityClaytonMELAustralia
| | - Haihong Ye
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental BiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesBeijing Institute for Brain DisordersCenter of SchizophreniaCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
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54
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James Onaolapo O, Yetunde Onaolapo A. Nutrition in autism spectrum disorders: A review of evidences for an emerging central role in aetiology, expression, and management. AIMS MEDICAL SCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.3934/medsci.2018.2.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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Ka M, Kim WY. ANKRD11 associated with intellectual disability and autism regulates dendrite differentiation via the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway. Neurobiol Dis 2017; 111:138-152. [PMID: 29274743 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2017.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Haploinsufficiency of ANKRD11 due to deletion or truncation mutations causes KBG syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterized by intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and craniofacial abnormalities. However, little is known about the neurobiological role of ANKRD11 during brain development. Here we show that ANKRD11 regulates pyramidal neuron migration and dendritic differentiation in the developing mouse cerebral cortex. Using an in utero manipulation approach, we found that Ankrd11 knockdown delayed radial migration of cortical neurons. ANKRD11-deficient neurons displayed markedly reduced dendrite growth and branching as well as abnormal dendritic spine morphology. Ankrd11 knockdown suppressed acetylation of epigenetic molecules such as p53 and Histone H3. Furthermore, the mRNA levels of Trkb, Bdnf, and neurite growth-related genes were downregulated in ANKRD11-deficient cortical neurons. The Trkb promoter region was largely devoid of acetylated Histone H3 and p53, and was instead occupied with MeCP2 and DNMT1. Overexpression of TrkB rescued abnormal dendrite growth in these cells. Our findings demonstrate a novel role for ANKRD11 in neuron differentiation during brain development and suggest an epigenetic modification as a potential key molecular feature underlying KBG syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhan Ka
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States
| | - Woo-Yang Kim
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States.
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56
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Kole K, Scheenen W, Tiesinga P, Celikel T. Cellular diversity of the somatosensory cortical map plasticity. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 84:100-115. [PMID: 29183683 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Sensory maps are representations of the sensory epithelia in the brain. Despite the intuitive explanatory power behind sensory maps as being neuronal precursors to sensory perception, and sensory cortical plasticity as a neural correlate of perceptual learning, molecular mechanisms that regulate map plasticity are not well understood. Here we perform a meta-analysis of transcriptional and translational changes during altered whisker use to nominate the major molecular correlates of experience-dependent map plasticity in the barrel cortex. We argue that brain plasticity is a systems level response, involving all cell classes, from neuron and glia to non-neuronal cells including endothelia. Using molecular pathway analysis, we further propose a gene regulatory network that could couple activity dependent changes in neurons to adaptive changes in neurovasculature, and finally we show that transcriptional regulations observed in major brain disorders target genes that are modulated by altered sensory experience. Thus, understanding the molecular mechanisms of experience-dependent plasticity of sensory maps might help to unravel the cellular events that shape brain plasticity in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koen Kole
- Department of Neurophysiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Neuroinformatics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Wim Scheenen
- Department of Neurophysiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Tiesinga
- Department of Neuroinformatics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Tansu Celikel
- Department of Neurophysiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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57
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Gilbert J, Man HY. Fundamental Elements in Autism: From Neurogenesis and Neurite Growth to Synaptic Plasticity. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:359. [PMID: 29209173 PMCID: PMC5701944 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of neurodevelopmental disorders with a high prevalence and impact on society. ASDs are characterized by deficits in both social behavior and cognitive function. There is a strong genetic basis underlying ASDs that is highly heterogeneous; however, multiple studies have highlighted the involvement of key processes, including neurogenesis, neurite growth, synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. In this review article, we focus on the major genes and signaling pathways implicated in ASD and discuss the cellular, molecular and functional studies that have shed light on common dysregulated pathways using in vitro, in vivo and human evidence. HighlightsAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a prevalence of 1 in 68 children in the United States. ASDs are highly heterogeneous in their genetic basis. ASDs share common features at the cellular and molecular levels in the brain. Most ASD genes are implicated in neurogenesis, structural maturation, synaptogenesis and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Gilbert
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Heng-Ye Man
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
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58
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Wang J, Gong J, Li L, Chen Y, Liu L, Gu H, Luo X, Hou F, Zhang J, Song R. Neurexin gene family variants as risk factors for autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2017; 11:37-43. [DOI: 10.1002/aur.1881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health; Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Jianhua Gong
- Maternity and Children Health Care Hospital of Luohu District; Shenzhen 518019 China
| | - Li Li
- Maternity and Children Health Care Hospital of Luohu District; Shenzhen 518019 China
| | - Yanlin Chen
- Maternity and Children Health Care Hospital of Luohu District; Shenzhen 518019 China
| | - Lingfei Liu
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health; Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Wuhan 430030 China
| | - HuaiTing Gu
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health; Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Xiu Luo
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health; Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Fang Hou
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health; Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Wuhan 430030 China
| | - Jiajia Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health; University of South Carolina; Columbia SC 29208
| | - Ranran Song
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health; Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Wuhan 430030 China
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59
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Dipasquale V, Cutrupi MC, Colavita L, Manti S, Cuppari C, Salpietro C. Neuroinflammation in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Role of High Mobility Group Box 1 Protein. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR MEDICINE 2017; 6:148-155. [PMID: 29682486 PMCID: PMC5898638 DOI: 10.22088/acadpub.bums.6.3.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) likely involves genetic and environmental factors, impacting the complex neurodevelopmental and behavioral abnormalities of the disorder. Scientific research studies emerging within the past two decades suggest that immune dysfunction and inflammation have pathogenic influences through different mechanisms, all leading to both a chronic state of low grade inflammation, and alterations in the central nervous system and immune response, respectively. The high mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB1) is an inflammatory marker which has been shown to play a role in inducing and influencing neuroinflammation. Current evidences suggest a possible role in the multiple pathogenic mechanisms of ASD. The aim of this manuscript is to review the major hypothesis for ASD pathogenesis, with specific regards to the immunological ones, and to provide a comprehensive review of the current data about the association between HMGB1 and ASD. A systematic search has been carried out through Medline via Pubmed to identify all original articles published in English, on the basis of the following keywords: “HMGB1”, “autism”, “autism spectrum disorder”, “neuroinflammation”, and “child”.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Dipasquale
- Department of Adult and Childhood Human Pathology, Unit of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Concetta Cutrupi
- Department of Adult and Childhood Human Pathology, Unit of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Laura Colavita
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Umberto I of Siracusa, Siracusa, Italy
| | - Sara Manti
- Department of Adult and Childhood Human Pathology, Unit of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Caterina Cuppari
- Department of Adult and Childhood Human Pathology, Unit of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Carmelo Salpietro
- Department of Adult and Childhood Human Pathology, Unit of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Cardoso C, Afonso C, Bandarra NM. Dietary DHA, bioaccessibility, and neurobehavioral development in children. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2017; 58:2617-2631. [PMID: 28665691 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2017.1338245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a key nutritional n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid and needs to be supplied by the human diet. High levels of DHA intake appear to reduce the risk of depression, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders. On the basis of these connections between DHA and neurological health, this paper reviews what is currently known about DHA and children neurodevelopment as well as the benefits of DHA intake to prevention of autism and behavior disorders through a selective and representative revision of different papers ranging from pure observational studies to randomized controlled trials (RCTs). This review also highlights the issue of DHA bioaccessibility and its implications to the performance of studies. As main conclusions, it can be mentioned that high DHA intake may prevent autism disorder. However, more studies are required to strengthen the connection between autism and dietary DHA. Regarding behavioral disorders, the evidence is also contradictory, thereby raising the need of further studies. From all screened studies on autism, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and other disorders, it can be concluded that study samples should be larger for greater statistical significance and RCTs should be more carefully designed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cardoso
- a Department of Sea and Marine Resources , Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA, IP) , Rua Alfredo Magalhães Ramalho, Lisbon , Portugal.,b CIIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research , University of Porto , Rua dos Bragas 289, Porto , Portugal
| | - Cláudia Afonso
- a Department of Sea and Marine Resources , Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA, IP) , Rua Alfredo Magalhães Ramalho, Lisbon , Portugal.,b CIIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research , University of Porto , Rua dos Bragas 289, Porto , Portugal
| | - Narcisa M Bandarra
- a Department of Sea and Marine Resources , Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA, IP) , Rua Alfredo Magalhães Ramalho, Lisbon , Portugal.,b CIIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research , University of Porto , Rua dos Bragas 289, Porto , Portugal
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61
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In vivo and in vitro sex differences in the dendritic morphology of developing murine hippocampal and cortical neurons. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8486. [PMID: 28814778 PMCID: PMC5559594 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-08459-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered dendritic morphology is common in neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), many of which show sex biases in prevalence, onset and/or severity. However, whether dendritic morphology varies as a function of sex in juvenile mice or primary neuronal cell cultures is largely unknown even though both are widely used models for studying NDDs. To address this gap, we quantified dendritic morphology in CA1 pyramidal hippocampal and adjacent somatosensory pyramidal cortical neurons from male and female postnatal day (P)28 C57BL/6J mice. As determined by Sholl analysis of Golgi-stained brain sections, dendritic arbors of male hippocampal neurons are more complex than females. Conversely, dendritic morphology of female cortical neurons is more complex than males. In primary neuron-glia co-cultures from P0 mouse hippocampi, male neurons have more complex dendritic arbors than female neurons. Sex differences are less pronounced in cortical cultures. In vitro sex differences in dendritic morphology are driven in part by estrogen-dependent mechanisms, as evidenced by decreased dendritic complexity in male hippocampal neurons cultured in phenol red-free media or in the presence of an estrogen receptor antagonist. Evidence that sex influences dendritic morphogenesis in two models of neurodevelopment in a region-specific manner has significant mechanistic implications regarding sex biases in NDDs.
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Bauman MD, Schumann CM. Advances in nonhuman primate models of autism: Integrating neuroscience and behavior. Exp Neurol 2017; 299:252-265. [PMID: 28774750 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2017.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Given the prevalence and societal impact of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), there is an urgent need to develop innovative preventative strategies and treatments to reduce the alarming number of cases and improve core symptoms for afflicted individuals. Translational efforts between clinical and preclinical research are needed to (i) identify and evaluate putative causes of ASD, (ii) determine the underlying neurobiological mechanisms, (iii) develop and test novel therapeutic approaches and (iv) ultimately translate basic research into safe and effective clinical practices. However, modeling a uniquely human brain disorder, such as ASD, will require sophisticated animal models that capitalize on unique advantages of diverse species including drosophila, zebra fish, mice, rats, and ultimately, species more closely related to humans, such as the nonhuman primate. Here we discuss the unique contributions of the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) model to ongoing efforts to understand the neurobiology of the disorder, focusing on the convergence of brain and behavior outcome measures that parallel features of human ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Bauman
- The UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, USA; California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, USA.
| | - C M Schumann
- The UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, USA
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63
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Yousef Yengej FA, van Royen-Kerkhof A, Derksen RH, Fritsch-Stork RD. The development of offspring from mothers with systemic lupus erythematosus. A systematic review. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:701-711. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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64
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Dai Y, Zhao Y, Tomi M, Shin BC, Thamotharan S, Mazarati A, Sankar R, Wang EA, Cepeda C, Levine MS, Zhang J, Frew A, Alger JR, Clark PM, Sondhi M, Kositamongkol S, Leibovitch L, Devaskar SU. Sex-Specific Life Course Changes in the Neuro-Metabolic Phenotype of Glut3 Null Heterozygous Mice: Ketogenic Diet Ameliorates Electroencephalographic Seizures and Improves Sociability. Endocrinology 2017; 158:936-949. [PMID: 28324109 PMCID: PMC5460805 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
We tested the hypothesis that exposure of glut3+/- mice to a ketogenic diet ameliorates autism-like features, which include aberrant behavior and electrographic seizures. We first investigated the life course sex-specific changes in basal plasma-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-brain metabolic profile, brain glucose transport/uptake, glucose and monocarboxylate transporter proteins, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the presence or absence of systemic insulin administration. Glut3+/- male but not female mice (5 months of age) displayed reduced CSF glucose/lactate concentrations with no change in brain Glut1, Mct2, glucose uptake or ATP. Exogenous insulin-induced hypoglycemia increased brain glucose uptake in glut3+/- males alone. Higher plasma-CSF ketones (β-hydroxybutyrate) and lower brain Glut3 in females vs males proved protective in the former while enhancing vulnerability in the latter. As a consequence, increased synaptic proteins (neuroligin4 and SAPAP1) with spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic activity subsequently reduced hippocampal glucose content and increased brain amyloid β1-40 deposition in an age-dependent manner in glut3+/- males but not females (4 to 24 months of age). We then explored the protective effect of a ketogenic diet on ultrasonic vocalization, sociability, spatial learning and memory, and electroencephalogram seizures in male mice (7 days to 6 to 8 months of age) alone. A ketogenic diet partially restored sociability without affecting perturbed vocalization, spatial learning and memory, and reduced seizure events. We conclude that (1) sex-specific and age-dependent perturbations underlie the phenotype of glut3+/- mice, and (2) a ketogenic diet ameliorates seizures caused by increased cortical excitation and improves sociability, but fails to rescue vocalization and cognitive deficits in glut3+/- male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Dai
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology, Neonatal Research Center at the UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute
| | - Yuanzi Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology, Neonatal Research Center at the UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute
| | - Masatoshi Tomi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology, Neonatal Research Center at the UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute
| | - Bo-Chul Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology, Neonatal Research Center at the UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute
| | - Shanthie Thamotharan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology, Neonatal Research Center at the UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute
| | | | - Raman Sankar
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology
- Department of Neurology
| | - Elizabeth A. Wang
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center and Brain Research Institute
| | - Carlos Cepeda
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center and Brain Research Institute
| | - Michael S. Levine
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center and Brain Research Institute
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Neurology
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center and Brain Research Institute
| | - Andrew Frew
- Department of Neurology
- Ahmanson-Lovelace Brain Mapping Center
| | - Jeffry R. Alger
- Department of Neurology
- Ahmanson-Lovelace Brain Mapping Center
| | - Peter M. Clark
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology and Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Monica Sondhi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology, Neonatal Research Center at the UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute
| | - Sudatip Kositamongkol
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology, Neonatal Research Center at the UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute
| | - Leah Leibovitch
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology, Neonatal Research Center at the UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute
| | - Sherin U. Devaskar
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology & Developmental Biology, Neonatal Research Center at the UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute
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Fortunato JJ, da Rosa N, Martins Laurentino AO, Goulart M, Michalak C, Borges LP, da Cruz Cittadin Soares E, Reis PA, de Castro Faria Neto HC, Petronilho F. Effects of ω-3 fatty acids on stereotypical behavior and social interactions in Wistar rats prenatally exposed to lipopolysaccarides. Nutrition 2017; 35:119-127. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2016.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Mulligan KA, Cheyette BNR. Neurodevelopmental Perspectives on Wnt Signaling in Psychiatry. MOLECULAR NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2017; 2:219-246. [PMID: 28277568 DOI: 10.1159/000453266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mounting evidence indicates that Wnt signaling is relevant to pathophysiology of diverse mental illnesses including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. In the 35 years since Wnt ligands were first described, animal studies have richly explored how downstream Wnt signaling pathways affect an array of neurodevelopmental processes and how their disruption can lead to both neurological and behavioral phenotypes. Recently, human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) models have begun to contribute to this literature while pushing it in increasingly translational directions. Simultaneously, large-scale human genomic studies are providing evidence that sequence variation in Wnt signal pathway genes contributes to pathogenesis in several psychiatric disorders. This article reviews neurodevelopmental and postneurodevelopmental functions of Wnt signaling, highlighting mechanisms, whereby its disruption might contribute to psychiatric illness, and then reviews the most reliable recent genetic evidence supporting that mutations in Wnt pathway genes contribute to psychiatric illness. We are proponents of the notion that studies in animal and hiPSC models informed by the human genetic data combined with the deep knowledge base and tool kits generated over the last several decades of basic neurodevelopmental research will yield near-term tangible advances in neuropsychiatry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A Mulligan
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin N R Cheyette
- Department of Psychiatry, Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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A current view on contactin-4, -5, and -6: Implications in neurodevelopmental disorders. Mol Cell Neurosci 2017; 81:72-83. [PMID: 28064060 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Contactins (Cntns) are a six-member subgroup of the immunoglobulin cell adhesion molecule superfamily (IgCAMs) with pronounced brain expression and function. Recent genetic studies of neuropsychiatric disorders have pinpointed contactin-4 (CNTN4), contactin-5 (CNTN5) and contactin-6 (CNTN6) as candidate genes in neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), but also in intellectual disability, schizophrenia (SCZ), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder (BD), alcohol use disorder (AUD) and anorexia nervosa (AN). This suggests that they have important functions during neurodevelopment. This suggestion is supported by data showing that neurite outgrowth, cell survival and neural circuit formation can be affected by disruption of these genes. Here, we review the current genetic data about their involvement in neuropsychiatric disorders and explore studies on how null mutations affect mouse behavior. Finally, we highlight to role of protein-protein interactions in the potential mechanism of action of Cntn4, -5 and -6 and emphasize that complexes with other membrane proteins may play a role in neuronal developmental functions.
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Pardo CA, Farmer CA, Thurm A, Shebl FM, Ilieva J, Kalra S, Swedo S. Serum and cerebrospinal fluid immune mediators in children with autistic disorder: a longitudinal study. Mol Autism 2017; 8:1. [PMID: 28070266 PMCID: PMC5217649 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-016-0115-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The causes of autism likely involve genetic and environmental factors that influence neurobiological changes and the neurological and behavioral features of the disorder. Immune factors and inflammation are hypothesized pathogenic influences, but have not been examined longitudinally. METHODS In a cohort of 104 participants with autism, we performed an assessment of immune mediators such as cytokines, chemokines, or growth factors in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (n = 67) to determine potential influences of such mediators in autism. RESULTS As compared with 54 typically developing controls, we found no evidence of differences in the blood profile of immune mediators supportive of active systemic inflammation mechanisms in participants with autism. Some modulators of immune function (e.g., EGF and soluble CD40 ligand) were increased in the autism group; however, no evidence of group differences in traditional markers of active inflammation (e.g., IL-6, TNFα, IL-1β) were observed in the serum. Further, within-subject stability (measured by estimated intraclass correlations) of most analytes was low, indicating that a single measurement is not a reliable prospective indicator of concentration for most analytes. Additionally, in participants with autism, there was little correspondence between the blood and CSF profiles of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors, suggesting that peripheral markers may not optimally reflect the immune status of the central nervous system. Although the relatively high fraction of intrathecal production of selected chemokines involved in monocyte/microglia function may suggest a possible relationship with the homeostatic role of microglia, control data are needed for further interpretation of its relevance in autism. CONCLUSIONS These longitudinal observations fail to provide support for the hypothesized role of disturbances in the expression of circulating cytokines and chemokines as an indicator of systemic inflammation in autism. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00298246.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A Pardo
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 627 Pathology Bld., 6000 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Cristan A Farmer
- Pediatrics and Developmental Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Audrey Thurm
- Pediatrics and Developmental Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Fatma M Shebl
- Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT USA
| | - Jorjetta Ilieva
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 627 Pathology Bld., 6000 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Simran Kalra
- Pediatrics and Developmental Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Susan Swedo
- Pediatrics and Developmental Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD USA
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Nadim WD, Simion V, Bénédetti H, Pichon C, Baril P, Morisset-Lopez S. MicroRNAs in Neurocognitive Dysfunctions: New Molecular Targets for Pharmacological Treatments? Curr Neuropharmacol 2017; 15:260-275. [PMID: 27396304 PMCID: PMC5412695 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x14666160709001441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodegenerative and cognitive disorders are multifactorial diseases (i.e., involving neurodevelopmental, genetic, age or environmental factors) characterized by an abnormal development that affects neuronal function and integrity. Recently, an increasing number of studies revealed that the dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) may be involved in the etiology of cognitive disorders as Alzheimer, Parkinson, and Huntington's diseases, Schizophrenia and Autism spectrum disorders. METHODS From an extensive search in bibliographic databases of peer-reviewed research literature, we identified relevant published studies related to specific key words such as memory, cognition, neurodegenerative disorders, neurogenesis and miRNA. We then analysed, evaluated and summerized scientific evidences derived from these studies. RESULTS We first briefly summarize the basic molecular events involved in memory, a process inherent to cognitive disease, and then describe the role of miRNAs in neurodevelopment, synaptic plasticity and memory. Secondly, we provide an overview of the impact of miRNA dysregulation in the pathogenesis of different neurocognitive disorders, and lastly discuss the feasibility of miRNA-based therapeutics in the treatment of these disorders. CONCLUSION This review highlights the molecular basis of neurodegenerative and cognitive disorders by focusing on the impact of miRNAs dysregulation in these pathological phenotypes. Altogether, the published reports suggest that miRNAs-based therapy could be a viable therapeutic alternative to current treatment options in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wissem Deraredj Nadim
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Université d’Orléans France, 45071 Orléans Cedex, France
| | - Viorel Simion
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Université d’Orléans France, 45071 Orléans Cedex, France
| | - Hélène Bénédetti
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Université d’Orléans France, 45071 Orléans Cedex, France
| | - Chantal Pichon
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Université d’Orléans France, 45071 Orléans Cedex, France
| | - Patrick Baril
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Université d’Orléans France, 45071 Orléans Cedex, France
| | - Séverine Morisset-Lopez
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Université d’Orléans France, 45071 Orléans Cedex, France
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Wang Y, Zhong H, Wang C, Gao D, Zhou Y, Zuo Z. Maternal exposure to the water soluble fraction of crude oil, lead and their mixture induces autism-like behavioral deficits in zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2016; 134P1:23-30. [PMID: 27573365 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2016.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a serious debilitating mental illness with complex symptoms and multi-factorial pathogenesis. Although the pathogenesis of ASD remains unclear, etiology is thought to involve complex, multigenic interactions and possible environmental contributions. In the present study, we used zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model to investigate whether maternal exposure to the water soluble fraction of crude oil (WSF, 5μg/L), lead (Pb, 20μg/L) and their mixture (5 μg/L WSF+20 μg/L Pb) could induce autism-like behavior in larvae. Our results showed that isolated and combined WSF/Pb exposure altered the behavioral pattern of fish swimming. WSF significantly increased anxiety and locomotor activity, decreased repetitive behavior in the open field test, and reduced the level of serotonin. However, co-exposure to WSF/Pb decreased behavioral activity and shoaling behavior, and increased cycle swimming and edge preference. Significant changes in the expression level of the multiple genes potentially critical for regulating environmental factor induced autism-like behavior were found. A gene network regulating ASD disturbed by WSF/Pb exposure was established using computational analysis. The information from the network could provide a clue for further mechanistic studies explaining molecular events regulating WSF/Pb mediated ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanchuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Hongxiu Zhong
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center of Xiamen, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen 361003, China
| | - Chonggang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Dongxu Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Yulin Zhou
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center of Xiamen, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Xiamen, Xiamen 361003, China.
| | - Zhenghong Zuo
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China.
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Neuroinflammation in Autism: Plausible Role of Maternal Inflammation, Dietary Omega 3, and Microbiota. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:3597209. [PMID: 27840741 PMCID: PMC5093279 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3597209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Several genetic causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been identified. However, more recent work has highlighted that certain environmental exposures early in life may also account for some cases of autism. Environmental insults during pregnancy, such as infection or malnutrition, seem to dramatically impact brain development. Maternal viral or bacterial infections have been characterized as disruptors of brain shaping, even if their underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Poor nutritional diversity, as well as nutrient deficiency, is strongly associated with neurodevelopmental disorders in children. For instance, imbalanced levels of essential fatty acids, and especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), are observed in patients with ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and schizophrenia). Interestingly, PUFAs, and specifically n-3 PUFAs, are powerful immunomodulators that exert anti-inflammatory properties. These prenatal dietary and immunologic factors not only impact the fetal brain, but also affect the microbiota. Recent work suggests that the microbiota could be the missing link between environmental insults in prenatal life and future neurodevelopmental disorders. As both nutrition and inflammation can massively affect the microbiota, we discuss here how understanding the crosstalk between these three actors could provide a promising framework to better elucidate ASD etiology.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased the need for evidence-based treatments to lessen the impact of symptoms. Presently, no therapies are available to effectively treat individuals with all of the symptoms of this disorder. It has been suggested that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may alleviate the biochemical dysfunction and clinical symptoms of ASD. OBJECTIVES To determine whether treatment with hyperbaric oxygen:1. improves core symptoms of ASD, including social communication problems and stereotypical and repetitive behaviors;2. improves noncore symptoms of ASD, such as challenging behaviors;3. improves comorbid states, such as depression and anxiety; and4. causes adverse effects. SEARCH METHODS On 10 December 2015, we searched CENTRAL, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and 15 other databases, four of which were Chinese language databases. We also searched multiple trial and research registers. SELECTION CRITERIA We selected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs of any dose, duration, and frequency for hyperbaric oxygen therapy compared with no treatment or sham treatment for children and adults with ASD. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures expected by The Cochrane Collaboration, in that three review authors independently selected studies, assessed them for risk of bias, and extracted relevant data. We also assessed the quality of the evidence by using the GRADE approach. MAIN RESULTS We included one trial with a total of 60 children with a diagnosis of ASD who randomly received hyperbaric oxygen therapy or a sham treatment. Using GRADE criteria, we rated the quality of the evidence as low because of the small sample size and wide confidence intervals (CIs). Other problems included selection bias and short duration or follow-up.Overall, study authors reported no improvement in social interaction and communication, behavioral problems, communication and linguistic abilities, or cognitive function. With regard to the safety of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (adverse events), they reported minor-grade ear barotrauma events. Investigators found significant differences between groups in total number of side effect events (Peto odds ratio (OR) 3.87, 95% CI 1.53 to 9.82) and in the number of children who experienced side effects (Peto OR 4.40, 95% CI 1.33 to 14.48). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS To date, there is no evidence that hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves core symptoms and associated symptoms of ASD. It is important to note that adverse effects (minor-grade ear barotrauma events) can occur. Given the absence of evidence of effectiveness and the limited biological plausibility and possible adverse effects, the need for future RCTs of hyperbaric oxygen therapy must be carefully considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Xiong
- West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of PediatricsNo. 17, Section Three, Ren Min Nan Lu AvenueChengduSichuanChina610041
- Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Hongju Chen
- West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of PediatricsNo. 17, Section Three, Ren Min Nan Lu AvenueChengduSichuanChina610041
- Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Rong Luo
- West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of PediatricsNo. 17, Section Three, Ren Min Nan Lu AvenueChengduSichuanChina610041
- Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Dezhi Mu
- West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of PediatricsNo. 17, Section Three, Ren Min Nan Lu AvenueChengduSichuanChina610041
- Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
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73
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Zheng HF, Wang WQ, Li XM, Rauw G, Baker GB. Body fluid levels of neuroactive amino acids in autism spectrum disorders: a review of the literature. Amino Acids 2016; 49:57-65. [PMID: 27686223 PMCID: PMC5241332 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-016-2332-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
A review of studies on the body fluid levels of neuroactive amino acids, including glutamate, glutamine, taurine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glycine, tryptophan, d-serine, and others, in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is given. The results reported in the literature are generally inconclusive and contradictory, but there has been considerable variation among the previous studies in terms of factors such as age, gender, number of subjects, intelligence quotient, and psychoactive medication being taken. Future studies should include simultaneous analyses of a large number of amino acids [including d-serine and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)] and standardization of the factors mentioned above. It may also be appropriate to use saliva sampling to detect amino acids in ASD patients in the future—this is noninvasive testing that can be done easily more frequently than other sampling, thus providing more dynamic monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Fei Zheng
- Mental Health Research Laboratory, Xiamen Xianyue Hospital, Xiamen, Fujian, China.,Neurochemical Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Wen-Qiang Wang
- Mental Health Research Laboratory, Xiamen Xianyue Hospital, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Xin-Min Li
- Neurochemical Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Gail Rauw
- Neurochemical Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Glen B Baker
- Neurochemical Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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Salehi M, Kamali E, Karahmadi M, Mousavi SM. RORA and Autism in The Isfahan Population: Is There An Epigenetic Relationship. CELL JOURNAL 2016; 18:540-546. [PMID: 28042538 PMCID: PMC5086332 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2016.4720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulty in verbal
and non-verbal communication, impaired social interaction, and restricted and repetitive
behavior. It has been recently introduced as a multigenic disorder with significant epigenetic effects on its pathology. Recently, epigenetic silencing of retinoic acid receptor-
related orphan receptor alpha (RORα) gene (which has an essential role in neural tissue
development) was shown to have occurred in autistic children due to methylation of its
promoter region. This may thus explain a significant part of the molecular pathogenesis
of autism. Therefore, we aimed to confirm this finding by implementing a case-control
(experimental) study in the population of Isfahan.
Materials and Methods The methylation status of a 136 bp sequence of a GpG island
(encompassing 13 CpG sites) in the RORA promoter region (positions -200 to -64) as an
experimental study was examined in the lymphocyte cells of 30 autistic children after sodium bisulfite treatment using the melting curve analysis-methylation (MCA-Meth) assay
compared with normal children. Also, quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain
reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis was used to estimate the level of mRNA transcripts and to
evaluate MCA-Meth analysis results.
Results This study revealed no methylation in the examined promoter regions in both
autistic and normal children, with the melting curve of all studied samples being comparable to that of the non-methylated control. The results of MCA-Meth analysis were also
consistent with qRT-PCR results. We therefore observed no significant difference in the
levels of RORα transcripts in the blood lymphocytes between autistic and healthy children.
Conclusion The methylation of the RORA promoter region may not be considered as a
common epigenetic risk factor for autism in all populations. Hence, the molecular pathogenesis of autism remains unclear in the population investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansoor Salehi
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Elahe Kamali
- Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mojgan Karahmadi
- Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Seyyed Mohammad Mousavi
- Genetic and Identification Lab, Legal Medicine Center, Isfahan, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
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Mychasiuk R, Rho JM. Genetic modifications associated with ketogenic diet treatment in the BTBR T+Tf/J mouse model of autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2016; 10:456-471. [PMID: 27529337 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Revised: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a prevalent and heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by hallmark behavioral features. The spectrum of disorders that fall within the ASD umbrella encompass a distinct but overlapping symptom complex that likely results from an array of molecular and genetic aberrations rather than a single genetic mutation. The ketogenic diet (KD) is a high-fat low-carbohydrate anti-seizure and neuroprotective diet that has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of ASD-like behaviors in animal and human studies. METHODS We investigated changes in mRNA and gene expression in the BTBR mouse model of ASD that may contribute to the behavioral phenotype. In addition, we sought to examine changes in gene expression following KD treatment in BTBR mice. RESULTS Despite significant behavioral abnormalities, expression changes in BTBR mice did not differ substantially from controls; only 33 genes were differentially expressed in the temporal cortex, and 48 in the hippocampus. Examination of these differentially expressed genes suggested deficits in the stress response and in neuronal signaling/communication. After treatment with the KD, both brain regions demonstrated improvements in ASD deficits associated with myelin formation and white matter development. CONCLUSIONS Although our study supports many of the previously known impairments associated with ASD, such as excessive myelin formation and impaired GABAergic transmission, the RNAseq data and pathway analysis utilized here identified new therapeutic targets for analysis, such as Vitamin D pathways and cAMP signaling. Autism Res 2017, 10: 456-471. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richelle Mychasiuk
- Departments of Psychology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jong M Rho
- Departments of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Physiology & Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Zatkova M, Bakos J, Hodosy J, Ostatnikova D. Synapse alterations in autism: Review of animal model findings. Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub 2016; 160:201-10. [DOI: 10.5507/bp.2015.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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Jurnak F. The Pivotal Role of Aldehyde Toxicity in Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Therapeutic Potential of Micronutrient Supplementation. Nutr Metab Insights 2016; 8:57-77. [PMID: 27330305 PMCID: PMC4910734 DOI: 10.4137/nmi.s29531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Revised: 03/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by social and communication impairments as well as by restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. Genomic studies have not revealed dominant genetic errors common to all forms of ASD. So ASD is assumed to be a complex disorder due to mutations in hundreds of common variants. Other theories argue that spontaneous DNA mutations and/or environmental factors contribute to as much as 50% of ASD. In reviewing potential genetic linkages between autism and alcoholism, it became apparent that all theories of ASD are consistent with aldehyde toxicity, in which endogenous and exogenous aldehydes accumulate as a consequence of mutations in key enzymes. Aldehyde toxicity is characterized by cell-localized, micronutrient deficiencies in sulfur-containing antioxidants, thiamine (B1), pyridoxine (B6), folate, Zn2+, possibly Mg2+, and retinoic acid, causing oxidative stress and a cascade of metabolic disturbances. Aldehydes also react with selective cytosolic and membrane proteins in the cell of origin; then some types migrate to damage neighboring cells. Reactive aldehydes also form adducts with DNA, selectively mutating bases and inducing strand breakage. This article reviews the relevant genomic, biochemical, and nutritional literature, which supports the central hypothesis that most ASD symptoms are consistent with symptoms of aldehyde toxicity. The hypothesis represents a paradigm shift in thinking and has profound implications for clinical detection, treatment, and even prevention of ASD. Insight is offered as to which neurologically afflicted children might successfully be treated with micronutrients and which children are unlikely to be helped. The aldehyde toxicity hypothesis likely applies to other neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Jurnak
- Emerita Professor, Department of Physiology & Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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78
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Kim KC, Gonzales EL, Lázaro MT, Choi CS, Bahn GH, Yoo HJ, Shin CY. Clinical and Neurobiological Relevance of Current Animal Models of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2016; 24:207-43. [PMID: 27133257 PMCID: PMC4859786 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2016.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social and communication impairments, as well as repetitive and restrictive behaviors. The phenotypic heterogeneity of ASD has made it overwhelmingly difficult to determine the exact etiology and pathophysiology underlying the core symptoms, which are often accompanied by comorbidities such as hyperactivity, seizures, and sensorimotor abnormalities. To our benefit, the advent of animal models has allowed us to assess and test diverse risk factors of ASD, both genetic and environmental, and measure their contribution to the manifestation of autistic symptoms. At a broader scale, rodent models have helped consolidate molecular pathways and unify the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying each one of the various etiologies. This approach will potentially enable the stratification of ASD into clinical, molecular, and neurophenotypic subgroups, further proving their translational utility. It is henceforth paramount to establish a common ground of mechanistic theories from complementing results in preclinical research. In this review, we cluster the ASD animal models into lesion and genetic models and further classify them based on the corresponding environmental, epigenetic and genetic factors. Finally, we summarize the symptoms and neuropathological highlights for each model and make critical comparisons that elucidate their clinical and neurobiological relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Chan Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.,Center for Neuroscience Research, SMART Institute of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Edson Luck Gonzales
- Center for Neuroscience Research, SMART Institute of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.,School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - María T Lázaro
- Program in Neurogenetics, Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Chang Soon Choi
- Center for Neuroscience Research, SMART Institute of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.,School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Geon Ho Bahn
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jeong Yoo
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bungdang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Young Shin
- Center for Neuroscience Research, SMART Institute of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.,School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
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79
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Impairments in dendrite morphogenesis as etiology for neurodevelopmental disorders and implications for therapeutic treatments. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 68:946-978. [PMID: 27143622 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Dendrite morphology is pivotal for neural circuitry functioning. While the causative relationship between small-scale dendrite morphological abnormalities (shape, density of dendritic spines) and neurodevelopmental disorders is well established, such relationship remains elusive for larger-scale dendrite morphological impairments (size, shape, branching pattern of dendritic trees). Here, we summarize published data on dendrite morphological irregularities in human patients and animal models for neurodevelopmental disorders, with focus on autism and schizophrenia. We next discuss high-risk genes for these disorders and their role in dendrite morphogenesis. We finally overview recent developments in therapeutic attempts and we discuss how they relate to dendrite morphology. We find that both autism and schizophrenia are accompanied by dendritic arbor morphological irregularities, and that majority of their high-risk genes regulate dendrite morphogenesis. Thus, we present a compelling argument that, along with smaller-scale morphological impairments in dendrites (spines and synapse), irregularities in larger-scale dendrite morphology (arbor shape, size) may be an important part of neurodevelopmental disorders' etiology. We suggest that this should not be ignored when developing future therapeutic treatments.
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80
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Ford TC, Crewther DP. A Comprehensive Review of the (1)H-MRS Metabolite Spectrum in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Mol Neurosci 2016; 9:14. [PMID: 27013964 PMCID: PMC4783404 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2016.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroimaging studies of neuropsychiatric behavior biomarkers across spectrum disorders are typically based on diagnosis, thus failing to account for the heterogeneity of multi-dimensional spectrum disorders such as autism (ASD). Control group trait phenotypes are also seldom reported. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) measures the abundance of neurochemicals such as neurotransmitters and metabolites and hence can probe disorder phenotypes at clinical and sub-clinical levels. This detailed review summarizes and critiques the current 1H-MRS research in ASD. The literature reports reduced N-acetylaspartate (NAA), glutamate and glutamine (Glx), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), creatine and choline, and increased glutamate for children with ASD. Adult studies are few and results are inconclusive. Overall, the literature has several limitations arising from differences in 1H-MRS methodology and sample demographics. We argue that more consistent methods and greater emphasis on phenotype studies will advance understanding of underlying cortical metabolite disturbance in ASD, and the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of ASD and other multi-dimensional psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talitha C Ford
- Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University of Technology Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David P Crewther
- Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University of Technology Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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81
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Activation of maternal toll-like receptor-2 causes social deficits and memory impairment in female offspring. Neuroreport 2016; 27:224-9. [PMID: 26765791 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000000517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
To study the relevance of the activation of toll-like receptor-2 and abnormal behavioral properties, we introduced prenatal zymosan, a toll-like receptor-2 ligand, to investigate the effect of maternal immunity on offspring behavior. Only female offspring showed impaired social and cognitive function, suggesting that zymosan may influence females' behavior.
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82
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Dietary glycemic index modulates the behavioral and biochemical abnormalities associated with autism spectrum disorder. Mol Psychiatry 2016; 21:426-36. [PMID: 26055422 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2015.64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2015] [Revised: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder of unknown etiology, but very likely resulting from both genetic and environmental factors. There is good evidence for immune system dysregulation in individuals with ASD. However, the contribution of insults such as dietary factors that can also activate the immune system have not been explored in the context of ASD. In this paper, we show that the dietary glycemic index has a significant impact on the ASD phenotype. By using BTBR mice, an inbred strain that displays behavioral traits that reflect the diagnostic symptoms of human ASD, we found that the diet modulates plasma metabolites, neuroinflammation and brain markers of neurogenesis in a manner that is highly reflective of ASD in humans. Overall, the manuscript supports the idea that ASD results from gene-environment interactions and that in the presence of a genetic predisposition to ASD, diet can make a large difference in the expression of the condition.
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83
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Filice F, Vörckel KJ, Sungur AÖ, Wöhr M, Schwaller B. Reduction in parvalbumin expression not loss of the parvalbumin-expressing GABA interneuron subpopulation in genetic parvalbumin and shank mouse models of autism. Mol Brain 2016; 9:10. [PMID: 26819149 PMCID: PMC4729132 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-016-0192-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A reduction of the number of parvalbumin (PV)-immunoreactive (PV(+)) GABAergic interneurons or a decrease in PV immunoreactivity was reported in several mouse models of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This includes Shank mutant mice, with SHANK being one of the most important gene families mutated in human ASD. Similar findings were obtained in heterozygous (PV+/-) mice for the Pvalb gene, which display a robust ASD-like phenotype. Here, we addressed the question whether the observed reduction in PV immunoreactivity was the result of a decrease in PV expression levels and/or loss of the PV-expressing GABA interneuron subpopulation hereafter called "Pvalb neurons". The two alternatives have important implications as they likely result in opposing effects on the excitation/inhibition balance, with decreased PV expression resulting in enhanced inhibition, but loss of the Pvalb neuron subpopulation in reduced inhibition. METHODS Stereology was used to determine the number of Pvalb neurons in ASD-associated brain regions including the medial prefrontal cortex, somatosensory cortex and striatum of PV-/-, PV+/-, Shank1-/- and Shank3B-/- mice. As a second marker for the identification of Pvalb neurons, we used Vicia Villosa Agglutinin (VVA), a lectin recognizing the specific extracellular matrix enwrapping Pvalb neurons. PV protein and Pvalb mRNA levels were determined quantitatively by Western blot analyses and qRT-PCR, respectively. RESULTS Our analyses of total cell numbers in different brain regions indicated that the observed "reduction of PV(+) neurons" was in all cases, i.e., in PV+/-, Shank1-/- and Shank3B-/- mice, due to a reduction in Pvalb mRNA and PV protein, without any indication of neuronal cell decrease/loss of Pvalb neurons evidenced by the unaltered numbers of VVA(+) neurons. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the PV system might represent a convergent downstream endpoint for some forms of ASD, with the excitation/inhibition balance shifted towards enhanced inhibition due to the down-regulation of PV being a promising target for future pharmacological interventions. Testing whether approaches aimed at restoring normal PV protein expression levels and/or Pvalb neuron function might reverse ASD-relevant phenotypes in mice appears therefore warranted and may pave the way for novel therapeutic treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Filice
- Anatomy, Department of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700, Fribourg, Switzerland.
| | - Karl Jakob Vörckel
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Philipps-University of Marburg, Gutenbergstraβe 18, D-35032, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Ayse Özge Sungur
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Philipps-University of Marburg, Gutenbergstraβe 18, D-35032, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Markus Wöhr
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Philipps-University of Marburg, Gutenbergstraβe 18, D-35032, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Beat Schwaller
- Anatomy, Department of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700, Fribourg, Switzerland.
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84
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Microtubule-Actin Crosslinking Factor 1 Is Required for Dendritic Arborization and Axon Outgrowth in the Developing Brain. Mol Neurobiol 2015; 53:6018-6032. [PMID: 26526844 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9508-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Dendritic arborization and axon outgrowth are critical steps in the establishment of neural connectivity in the developing brain. Changes in the connectivity underlie cognitive dysfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders. However, molecules and associated mechanisms that play important roles in dendritic and axon outgrowth in the brain are only partially understood. Here, we show that microtubule-actin crosslinking factor 1 (MACF1) regulates dendritic arborization and axon outgrowth of developing pyramidal neurons by arranging cytoskeleton components and mediating GSK-3 signaling. MACF1 deletion using conditional mutant mice and in utero gene transfer in the developing brain markedly decreased dendritic branching of cortical and hippocampal pyramidal neurons. MACF1-deficient neurons showed reduced density and aberrant morphology of dendritic spines. Also, loss of MACF1 impaired the elongation of callosal axons in the brain. Actin and microtubule arrangement appeared abnormal in MACF1-deficient neurites. Finally, we found that GSK-3 is associated with MACF1-controlled dendritic differentiation. Our findings demonstrate a novel role for MACF1 in neurite differentiation that is critical to the creation of neuronal connectivity in the developing brain.
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85
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Vega JN, Hohman TJ, Pryweller JR, Dykens EM, Thornton-Wells TA. Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Individuals with Down Syndrome and Williams Syndrome Compared with Typically Developing Controls. Brain Connect 2015; 5:461-75. [PMID: 25712025 PMCID: PMC4601631 DOI: 10.1089/brain.2014.0266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) analysis, which examines temporal correlations of low-frequency (<0.1 Hz) blood oxygen level-dependent signal fluctuations between brain regions, has dramatically improved our understanding of the functional architecture of the typically developing (TD) human brain. This study examined rsFC in Down syndrome (DS) compared with another neurodevelopmental disorder, Williams syndrome (WS), and TD. Ten subjects with DS, 18 subjects with WS, and 40 subjects with TD each participated in a 3-Tesla MRI scan. We tested for group differences (DS vs. TD, DS vs. WS, and WS vs. TD) in between- and within-network rsFC connectivity for seven functional networks. For the DS group, we also examined associations between rsFC and other cognitive and genetic risk factors. In DS compared with TD, we observed higher levels of between-network connectivity in 6 out 21 network pairs but no differences in within-network connectivity. Participants with WS showed lower levels of within-network connectivity and no significant differences in between-network connectivity relative to DS. Finally, our comparison between WS and TD controls revealed lower within-network connectivity in multiple networks and higher between-network connectivity in one network pair relative to TD controls. While preliminary due to modest sample sizes, our findings suggest a global difference in between-network connectivity in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders compared with controls and that such a difference is exacerbated across many brain regions in DS. However, this alteration in DS does not appear to extend to within-network connections, and therefore, the altered between-network connectivity must be interpreted within the framework of an intact intra-network pattern of activity. In contrast, WS shows markedly lower levels of within-network connectivity in the default mode network and somatomotor network relative to controls. These findings warrant further investigation using a task-based procedure that may help disentangle the relationship between brain function and cognitive performance across the spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer N. Vega
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Center for Cognitive Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Center for Cognitive Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Timothy J. Hohman
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jennifer R. Pryweller
- Interdisciplinary Studies in Neuroimaging of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, The Graduate School, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Elisabeth M. Dykens
- Center for Cognitive Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Tricia A. Thornton-Wells
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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86
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A pilot double-blind placebo-controlled trial of pioglitazone as adjunctive treatment to risperidone: Effects on aberrant behavior in children with autism. Psychiatry Res 2015. [PMID: 26208985 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2015.07.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
To assess the safety and efficacy of pioglitazone added to risperidone in the treatment of irritability in autistic disorder (AD), we conducted this study. In a 10-week, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 44 outpatients of both genders aged 4-12 years with a diagnosis of AD and a score of ≥12 on the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Community (ABC-C) irritability subscale were included. Mean change of ABC-C irritability subscale score as primary outcome, change in other ABC-C subscale scores and partial and complete responses were compared between two groups. Twenty patients completed the trial in each group. Level of reduction and effect of time×treatment interaction in the treatment group were significant for irritability (P=0.03), lethargy/social withdrawal (P=0.04) and hyperactivity/non-compliance (P=0.03) but not for stereotypic behavior and inappropriate speech subscales compared with the placebo group. Vomiting and headache were the most frequent reported side-effects. Results of this preliminary study indicate positive effects of pioglitazone compared with placebo in improving the behavioral symptoms of AD.
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87
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Topoisomerases interlink genetic network underlying autism. Int J Dev Neurosci 2015; 47:361-8. [PMID: 26456455 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2015.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA topoisomerases belong to the group of proteins that play an important role in the organizational dynamics of the human genome. Their enzymatic activity solves topological strain rising from DNA supercoiling occurring during transcription. DNA topoisomerases are especially important for transcription of genes involved in neurodevelopment. Disruption of topoisomerase activity in animal models resulted in impaired neurodevelopment and changed brain architecture. Recent research revealed that topoisomerases induced expression of the same group of genes as those associated with autism. Transcriptional inhibition of neuronal genes during critical stages of brain development may be responsible for pathology of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. In this review we aim to outline the role of topoisomerase in neurodevelopment and its possible linkage to neuropathology of autism.
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88
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Makkonen I, Riikonen R, Kuikka JT, Kokki H, Bressler JP, Marshall C, Kaufmann WE. Brain derived neurotrophic factor and serotonin transporter binding as markers of clinical response to fluoxetine therapy in children with autism. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGY 2015; 9:1-8. [PMID: 29056860 DOI: 10.3233/jpn-2010-0446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), has shown favorable effects in some children with autism. There are no previous studies evaluating the connection between clinical outcome and markers of clinical response to fluoxetine treatment. We examined serum brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentrations and serotonin transporter (SERT) binding in the medial frontal cortex and midbrain, measured by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scanning, in a group of 13 autistic children and adolescents (12 males, one female; age 5-16 years), who were treated for six months with fluoxetine at a dose range of 10-40 mg/day. Clinical response was evaluated by the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC). Serum concentrations of BDNF and SERT binding were measured at baseline and two months after termination of fluoxetine treatment. At baseline, before starting fluoxetine treatment, the serum concentration of BDNF had a bimodal distribution in the autism group with either a low concentration (n = 8, mean 1497 pg/mL) or a high concentration (n = 5, mean 14062 pg/mL) with respect to controls (n = 15, mean 9652 pg/mL), and SERT binding was uniformly low in the autistic subjects in medial frontal cortex and midbrain. Fluoxetine treatment led to positive effects in several aspects of communication, socialization and cognitive awareness, with 6 out 13 subjects being particularly good responders. These six also had a significant decrease in BDNF (p = 0.03) and minimal change in SERT binding after therapy. The other 7 subjects showed a trend towards an increase in BDNF and SERT binding. Our results indicate that fluoxetine may improve core autistic symptoms, and that this clinical response is linked to a decrease in serum BDNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismo Makkonen
- Department of Pediatrics, Unit of Child Neurology, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland;
| | - Raili Riikonen
- Department of Pediatrics, Unit of Child Neurology, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland;
| | - Jyrki T Kuikka
- Imaging Center, Kuopio University Hospital, and Niuvanniemi Hospital, Kuopio, Finland;
| | - Hannu Kokki
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland;
| | - Joseph P Bressler
- Center for Genetic Disorders of Cognition & Behavior, Kennedy Krieger Institute and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America;
| | - Cathleen Marshall
- Center for Genetic Disorders of Cognition & Behavior, Kennedy Krieger Institute and the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America;
| | - Walter E Kaufmann
- Center for Genetic Disorders of Cognition & Behavior, Kennedy Krieger Institute and the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America;
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89
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Patel S, Roncaglia P, Lovering RC. Using Gene Ontology to describe the role of the neurexin-neuroligin-SHANK complex in human, mouse and rat and its relevance to autism. BMC Bioinformatics 2015; 16:186. [PMID: 26047810 PMCID: PMC4458007 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-015-0622-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People with an autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) display a variety of characteristic behavioral traits, including impaired social interaction, communication difficulties and repetitive behavior. This complex neurodevelopment disorder is known to be associated with a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Neurexins and neuroligins play a key role in synaptogenesis and neurexin-neuroligin adhesion is one of several processes that have been implicated in autism spectrum disorders. Results In this report we describe the manual annotation of a selection of gene products known to be associated with autism and/or the neurexin-neuroligin-SHANK complex and demonstrate how a focused annotation approach leads to the creation of more descriptive Gene Ontology (GO) terms, as well as an increase in both the number of gene product annotations and their granularity, thus improving the data available in the GO database. Conclusions The manual annotations we describe will impact on the functional analysis of a variety of future autism-relevant datasets. Comprehensive gene annotation is an essential aspect of genomic and proteomic studies, as the quality of gene annotations incorporated into statistical analysis tools affects the effective interpretation of data obtained through genome wide association studies, next generation sequencing, proteomic and transcriptomic datasets. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12859-015-0622-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sejal Patel
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, M5S 1A8, Canada. .,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, M5T 1R8, Canada. .,Centre for Cardiovascular Genetics, Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, Rayne Building, 5 University Street, London, WC1E 6JF, UK.
| | - Paola Roncaglia
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SD, UK. .,The Gene Ontology Consortium, .
| | - Ruth C Lovering
- Centre for Cardiovascular Genetics, Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, Rayne Building, 5 University Street, London, WC1E 6JF, UK.
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90
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Hutsler JJ, Casanova MF. Review: Cortical construction in autism spectrum disorder: columns, connectivity and the subplate. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2015; 42:115-34. [PMID: 25630827 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The cerebral cortex undergoes protracted maturation during human development and exemplifies how biology and environment are inextricably intertwined in the construction of complex neural circuits. Autism spectrum disorders are characterized by a number of pathological changes arising from this developmental process. These include: (i) alterations to columnar structure that have significant implications for the organization of cortical circuits and connectivity; (ii) alterations to synaptic spines on individual cortical units that may underlie specific types of connectional changes; and (iii) alterations within the cortical subplate, a region that plays a role in proper cortical development and in regulating interregional communication in the mature brain. Although the cerebral cortex is not the only structure affected in the disorder, it is a fundamental contributor to the behaviours that characterize autism. These alterations to cortical circuitry likely underlie the behavioural phenotype in autism and contribute to the unique pattern of deficits and strengths that characterize cognitive functioning. Recent findings within the cortical subplate may indicate that alterations to cortical construction begin prenatally, before activity-dependent connections are established, and are in need of further study. A better understanding of cortical development in autism spectrum disorders will draw bridges between the microanatomical computational circuitry and the atypical behaviours that arise when that circuitry is modified. In addition, it will allow us to better exploit the constructional plasticity within the brain to design more targeted interventions that better manage atypical cortical construction and that can be applied very early in postnatal life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey J Hutsler
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience, University of Nevada, Reno, USA
| | - Manuel F Casanova
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, USA
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91
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Weber T, Vogt MA, Gartside SE, Berger SM, Lujan R, Lau T, Herrmann E, Sprengel R, Bartsch D, Gass P. Adult AMPA GLUA1 receptor subunit loss in 5-HT neurons results in a specific anxiety-phenotype with evidence for dysregulation of 5-HT neuronal activity. Neuropsychopharmacology 2015; 40:1471-84. [PMID: 25547714 PMCID: PMC4397405 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2014.332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Revised: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Both the glutamatergic and serotonergic (5-HT) systems are implicated in the modulation of mood and anxiety. Descending cortical glutamatergic neurons regulate 5-HT neuronal activity in the midbrain raphe nuclei through α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. To analyze the functional role of GLUA1-containing AMPA receptors in serotonergic neurons, we used the Cre-ERT2/loxP-system for the conditional inactivation of the GLUA1-encoding Gria1 gene selectively in 5-HT neurons of adult mice. These Gria1(5-HT-/-) mice exhibited a distinct anxiety phenotype but showed no alterations in locomotion, depression-like behavior, or learning and memory. Increased anxiety-related behavior was associated with significant decreases in tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) expression and activity, and subsequent reductions in tissue levels of 5-HT, its metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), and norepinephrine in the raphe nuclei. However, TPH2 expression and activity as well as monoamine levels were unchanged in the projection areas of 5-HT neurons. Extracellular electrophysiological recordings of 5-HT neurons revealed that, while α1-adrenoceptor-mediated excitation was unchanged, excitatory responses to AMPA were enhanced and the 5-HT1A autoreceptor-mediated inhibitory response to 5-HT was attenuated in Gria1(5-HT-/-) mice. Our data show that a loss of GLUA1 protein in 5-HT neurons enhances AMPA receptor function and leads to multiple local molecular and neurochemical changes in the raphe nuclei that dysregulate 5-HT neuronal activity and induce anxiety-like behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tillmann Weber
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany,Department of Molecular Biology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany,AHG Klinik Wilhelmsheim, 71570 Oppenweiler, Germany. Tel: +49 0 7193 52215, Fax: +49 0 7193 52245, E-mail:
| | - Miriam A Vogt
- Research Group Animal Models in Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sarah E Gartside
- Institute of Neuroscience, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Stefan M Berger
- Department of Molecular Biology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rafael Lujan
- Instituto de Investigación en Discapacidades Neurológicas (IDINE), Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Biosanitario, Albacete, Spain
| | - Thorsten Lau
- Biochemical Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/HeidelbergUniversity, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Elke Herrmann
- Department of Molecular Biology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rolf Sprengel
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dusan Bartsch
- Department of Molecular Biology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Peter Gass
- Research Group Animal Models in Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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92
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Port RG, Anwar AR, Ku M, Carlson GC, Siegel SJ, Roberts TP. Prospective MEG biomarkers in ASD: pre-clinical evidence and clinical promise of electrophysiological signatures. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2015; 88:25-36. [PMID: 25745372 PMCID: PMC4345535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by social impairments and restricted/stereotyped behaviors and currently affect an estimated 1 in 68 children aged 8 years old. While there has been substantial recent focus on ASD in research, both the biological pathology and, perhaps consequently, a fully effective treatment have yet to be realized. What has remained throughout is the hypothesis that ASD has neurobiological underpinnings and the observation that both the phenotypic expression and likely the underlying etiology is highly heterogeneous. Given the neurodevelopmental basis of ASD, a biologically based marker (biomarker) could prove useful not only for diagnostic and prognostic purposes, but also for stratification and response indices for pharmaceutical development. In this review, we examine the current state of the field for MEG-related biomarkers in ASD. We describe several potential biomarkers (middle latency delays [M50/M100], mismatch negativity latency, gamma-band oscillatory activity), and investigate their relation to symptomology, core domains of dysfunction (e.g., language impairment), and putative biological underpinnings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell G. Port
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,Lurie Family Foundations MEG Imaging Center, Department of Radiology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,Neurosciences Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ayesha R. Anwar
- Lurie Family Foundations MEG Imaging Center, Department of Radiology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Matthew Ku
- Lurie Family Foundations MEG Imaging Center, Department of Radiology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Gregory C. Carlson
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,Neurosciences Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Steven J. Siegel
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,Neurosciences Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,Bioengineering Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Timothy P.L. Roberts
- Lurie Family Foundations MEG Imaging Center, Department of Radiology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,Neurosciences Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,To whom all correspondence should be addressed: Timothy P.L. Roberts, Department of Radiology, Lurie Family Foundations MEG Imaging Center, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA. Fax: 215-590-1345;
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93
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van Schalkwyk GI, Klingensmith K, Volkmar FR. Gender identity and autism spectrum disorders. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2015; 88:81-3. [PMID: 25744543 PMCID: PMC4345542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we briefly summarize much of the existing literature on gender-related concerns and autism spectrum disorders (ASD), drawing attention to critical shortcomings in our current understanding and potential clinical implications. Some authors have concluded that gender identity disorder (GID), or gender dysphoria (GD), is more common in individuals with ASD, providing a range of potential explanations. However, existing literature is quantitatively limited, and our capacity to draw conclusions is further complicated by conceptual challenges regarding how gender identity is best understood. Discourses that emphasize gender as a component of identity formation are gaining prominence and seem particularly salient when applied to ASD. Individuals with ASD should enjoy equal rights with regard to treatment for gender dysphoria. Clinicians may be able to assist individuals in understanding this aspect of their identity by broadening the social frame and facilitating an exploration of gender roles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fred R. Volkmar
- Yale Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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94
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Friedman LG, Benson DL, Huntley GW. Cadherin-based transsynaptic networks in establishing and modifying neural connectivity. Curr Top Dev Biol 2015; 112:415-65. [PMID: 25733148 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2014.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
It is tacitly understood that cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are critically important for the development of cells, circuits, and synapses in the brain. What is less clear is what CAMs continue to contribute to brain structure and function after the early period of development. Here, we focus on the cadherin family of CAMs to first briefly recap their multidimensional roles in neural development and then to highlight emerging data showing that with maturity, cadherins become largely dispensible for maintaining neuronal and synaptic structure, instead displaying new and narrower roles at mature synapses where they critically regulate dynamic aspects of synaptic signaling, structural plasticity, and cognitive function. At mature synapses, cadherins are an integral component of multiprotein networks, modifying synaptic signaling, morphology, and plasticity through collaborative interactions with other CAM family members as well as a variety of neurotransmitter receptors, scaffolding proteins, and other effector molecules. Such recognition of the ever-evolving functions of synaptic cadherins may yield insight into the pathophysiology of brain disorders in which cadherins have been implicated and that manifest at different times of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren G Friedman
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Deanna L Benson
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - George W Huntley
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA.
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95
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Fan LW, Bhatt A, Tien LT, Zheng B, Simpson KL, Lin RCS, Cai Z, Kumar P, Pang Y. Exposure to serotonin adversely affects oligodendrocyte development and myelination in vitro. J Neurochem 2015; 133:532-43. [PMID: 25382136 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Revised: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 10/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) has been implicated to play critical roles in early neural development. Recent reports have suggested that perinatal exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) resulted in cortical network miswiring, abnormal social behavior, callosal myelin malformation, as well as oligodendrocyte (OL) pathology in rats. To gain further insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying SSRIs-induced OL and myelin abnormalities, we investigated the effect of 5-HT exposure on OL development, cell death, and myelination in cell culture models. First, we showed that 5-HT receptor 1A and 2A subtypes were expressed in OL lineages, using immunocytochemistry, Western blot, as well as intracellular Ca(2+) measurement. We then assessed the effect of serotonin exposure on the lineage development, expression of myelin proteins, cell death, and myelination, in purified OL and neuron-OL myelination cultures. For pure OL cultures, our results showed that 5-HT exposure led to disturbance of OL development, as indicated by aberrant process outgrowth and reduced myelin proteins expression. At higher doses, such exposure triggered a development-dependent cell death, as immature OLs exhibited increasing susceptibility to 5-HT treatment compared to OL progenitor cells (OPC). We showed further that 5-HT-induced immature OL death was mediated at least partially via 5-HT2A receptor, since cell death could be mimicked by 5-HT2A receptor agonist 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane hydrochloride, (±)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine hydrochloride, but atten-uated by pre-treatment with 5-HT2A receptor antagonist ritanserin. Utilizing a neuron-OL myelination co-culture model, our data showed that 5-HT exposure significantly reduced the number of myelinated internodes. In contrast to cell injury observed in pure OL cultures, 5-HT exposure did not lead to OL death or reduced OL density in neuron-OL co-cultures. However, abnormal patterns of contactin-associated protein (Caspr) clustering were observed at the sites of Node of Ranvier, suggesting that 5-HT exposure may affect other axon-derived factors for myelination. In summary, this is the first study to demonstrate that manipulation of serotonin levels affects OL development and myelination, which may contribute to altered neural connectivity noted in SSRIs-treated animals. The current in vitro study demonstrated that exposure to high level of serotonin (5-HT) led to aberrant oligodendrocyte (OL) development, cell injury, and myelination deficit. We propose that elevated extracellular serotonin levels in the fetal brain, such as upon the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) during pregnancy, may adversely affect OL development and/or myelination, thus contributing to altered neural connectivity seen in Autism Spectrum Disorders. OPC = oligodendrocyte progenitor cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lir-Wan Fan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
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96
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Pietropaolo S, Crusio WE, D'amato FR. Treatment Approaches in Rodent Models for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2015; 30:325-340. [PMID: 26857461 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2015_433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have seen an impressive amount of research devoted to the developing of therapies to treat autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This work has been largely based on rodent models, employing a multitude of genetic and environmental manipulations. Unfortunately, the task of identifying suitable treatments for ASD is extremely challenging, due to a variety of problems specific to the research in this field. Here, we first discuss these problems, including (I) the presence of a large variety of rodent models (often without universal consensus on their validity), (II) the difficulties in choosing the most appropriate behavioural markers to assess the efficacy of possible treatments, (III) the limited knowledge we still have of the neurobiological bases of ASD pathology and of its aetiology, and (IV) the complexity of ASD itself, including a highly heterogeneous group of disorders sometimes with markedly different symptoms (therefore unlikely to be treated with the same approaches). Second, we give a critical overview of the most relevant advances in designing treatments for ASD, focusing on the most commonly used animal model, the laboratory mouse. We include pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, underlining their specific advantages, but also their current limitations especially in relation to the problems discussed before. Finally, we highlight the theoretical (e.g. the combination of multiple rather than single treatments) and methodological (e.g. use of single-gene mouse models) approaches that seem more promising to us, suggesting various strategies that can be adopted to simplify the complex field of research on treatments for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Pietropaolo
- INCIA, University of Bordeaux, Bat B2, Allée Geoffroy St. Hilaire, CS 50023, 33615, Pessac Cedex, France. .,INCIA, UMR 5287, CNRS, Bat B2, Allée Geoffroy St. Hilaire, CS 50023, 33615, Pessac Cedex, France.
| | - Wim E Crusio
- INCIA, University of Bordeaux, Bat B2, Allée Geoffroy St. Hilaire, CS 50023, 33615, Pessac Cedex, France.,INCIA, UMR 5287, CNRS, Bat B2, Allée Geoffroy St. Hilaire, CS 50023, 33615, Pessac Cedex, France
| | - Francesca R D'amato
- CNR, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Institute, IRCCS, Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143, Rome, Italy.,Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Laval University, Québec City, Canada
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97
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Kamal MA, Mushtaq G, Greig NH. Current Update on Synopsis of miRNA Dysregulation in Neurological Disorders. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2015; 14:492-501. [PMID: 25714967 PMCID: PMC5878050 DOI: 10.2174/1871527314666150225143637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2014] [Revised: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/04/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) has been implicated in various neurological disorders (NDs) of the central nervous system such as Alzheimer disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, schizophrenia and autism. If dysregulated miRNAs are identified in patients suffering from NDs, this may serve as a biomarker for the earlier diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression. Identifying the role of miRNAs in normal cellular processes and understanding how dysregulated miRNA expression is responsible for their neurological effects is also critical in the development of new therapeutic strategies for NDs. miRNAs hold great promise from a therapeutic point of view especially if it can be proved that a single miRNA has the ability to influence several target genes, making it possible for the researchers to potentially modify a whole disease phenotype by modulating a single miRNA molecule. Hence, better understanding of the mechanisms by which miRNA play a role in the pathogenesis of NDs may provide novel targets to scientists and researchers for innovative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A. Kamal
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P. O. Box 80216, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gohar Mushtaq
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nigel H. Greig
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Biomedical Research Center, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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98
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N-Acetylcysteine as an Adjunctive Therapy to Risperidone for Treatment of Irritability in Autism. Clin Neuropharmacol 2015; 38:11-7. [DOI: 10.1097/wnf.0000000000000063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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99
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Kohane IS. An autism case history to review the systematic analysis of large-scale data to refine the diagnosis and treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2015; 77:59-65. [PMID: 25034947 PMCID: PMC4260993 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2014.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Revised: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Analysis of large-scale systems of biomedical data provides a perspective on neuropsychiatric disease that may be otherwise elusive. Described here is an analysis of three large-scale systems of data from autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and of ASD research as an exemplar of what might be achieved from study of such data. First is the biomedical literature that highlights the fact that there are two very successful but quite separate research communities and findings pertaining to genetics and the molecular biology of ASD. There are those studies positing ASD causes that are related to immunological dysregulation and those related to disorders of synaptic function and neuronal connectivity. Second is the emerging use of electronic health record systems and other large clinical databases that allow the data acquired during the course of care to be used to identify distinct subpopulations, clinical trajectories, and pathophysiological substructures of ASD. These systems reveal subsets of patients with distinct clinical trajectories, some of which are immunologically related and others which follow pathologies conventionally thought of as neurological. The third is genome-wide genomic and transcriptomic analyses which show molecular pathways that overlap neurological and immunological mechanisms. The convergence of these three large-scale data perspectives illustrates the scientific leverage that large-scale data analyses can provide in guiding researchers in an approach to the diagnosis of neuropsychiatric disease that is inclusive and comprehensive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac S Kohane
- Center for Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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100
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Neurotrophin blood-based gene expression and social cognition analysis in patients with autism spectrum disorder. Neurogenetics 2014; 16:123-31. [PMID: 25535174 DOI: 10.1007/s10048-014-0434-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) comprise neurodevelopmental disorders with clinical onset during the first years of life. The identification of peripheral biomarkers could significantly impact diagnosis and an individualized, early treatment. Although the aetiology of ASD remains poorly understood, there is increasing evidence that neurotrophins and their receptors represent a group of candidate genes for ASD pathophysiology and biomarker research. Total messenger RNA (mRNA) from whole blood was obtained from adolescents and adults diagnosed as ASD (n = 21) according to DSM-IV criteria and confirmed by the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) algorithms, as well as healthy controls (n = 10). The mRNA expression of neurotrophins (BDNF, NT3 and NT4) and their receptors (TrkA, TrkB and p75 (NTR) ) was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Moreover, social cognition abilities of ASD patients and controls were determined according to three Theory of Mind (ToM) tests (Reading the Mind in the Eyes, Faux pas, and Happé stories). The NT3 and NT4 mRNA expression in the whole blood was significantly lower in ASD compared to healthy controls, while p75(NTR) was higher (P < 0.005). In addition, lower scores in three of the ToM tests were observed in ASD subjects compared to controls. A significant (P < 0.005) ToM impairment in Happé stories test was demonstrated in ASD. Nevertheless, no correlations were observed between neurotrophins and their receptors expressions and measures of ToM. Given their potential as peripheral blood-based biomarkers, NT3, NT4 and p75 (NTR) mRNA expression patterns may be useful tools for a more personalized diagnostics and therapy in ASD. Further investigations with larger numbers of samples are needed to verify these results.
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