1
|
Chaisson MJP, Sulovari A, Valdmanis PN, Miller DE, Eichler EE. Advances in the discovery and analyses of human tandem repeats. Emerg Top Life Sci 2023; 7:361-381. [PMID: 37905568 PMCID: PMC10806765 DOI: 10.1042/etls20230074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Long-read sequencing platforms provide unparalleled access to the structure and composition of all classes of tandemly repeated DNA from STRs to satellite arrays. This review summarizes our current understanding of their organization within the human genome, their importance with respect to disease, as well as the advances and challenges in understanding their genetic diversity and functional effects. Novel computational methods are being developed to visualize and associate these complex patterns of human variation with disease, expression, and epigenetic differences. We predict accurate characterization of this repeat-rich form of human variation will become increasingly relevant to both basic and clinical human genetics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark J P Chaisson
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, U.S.A
- The Genomic and Epigenomic Regulation Program, USC Norris Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, U.S.A
| | - Arvis Sulovari
- Computational Biology, Cajal Neuroscience Inc, Seattle, WA 98102, U.S.A
| | - Paul N Valdmanis
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, U.S.A
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, U.S.A
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, U.S.A
| | - Danny E Miller
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, U.S.A
- Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, U.S.A
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, U.S.A
| | - Evan E Eichler
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, U.S.A
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Paucar M, Laffita-Mesa J, Niemelä V, Malmgren H, Nennesmo I, Lagerstedt-Robinson K, Nordenskjöld M, Svenningsson P. Genetic screening for Huntington disease phenocopies in Sweden: A tertiary center case series focused on short tandem repeat (STR) disorders. J Neurol Sci 2023; 451:120707. [PMID: 37379724 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.120707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To perform a screening for Huntington disease (HD) phenocopies in a Swedish cohort. METHODS Seventy-three DNA samples negative for HD were assessed at a tertiary center in Stockholm. The screening included analyses for C9orf72-frontotemporal dementia/amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (C9orf72-FTD/ALS), octapeptide repeat insertions (OPRIs) in PRNP associated with inherited prion diseases (IPD), Huntington's disease-like 2 (HDL2), spinocerebellar ataxia-2 (SCA2), spinocerebellar ataxia 3 (SCA3) and spinocerebellar ataxia-17 (SCA17). Targeted genetic analysis was carried out in two cases based on the salient phenotypic features. RESULTS The screening identified two patients with SCA17, one patient with IPD associated with 5-OPRI but none with nucleotide expansions in C9orf72 or for HDL2, SCA2 or SCA3. Furthermore, SGCE-myoclonic-dystonia 11 (SGCE-M-D) and benign hereditary chorea (BHC) was diagnosed in two sporadic cases. WES identified VUS in STUB1 in two patients with predominant cerebellar ataxia. CONCLUSIONS Our results are in keeping with previous screenings and suggest that other genes yet to be discovered are involved in the etiology of HD phenocopies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Paucar
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - José Laffita-Mesa
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Valter Niemelä
- Institute for Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Helena Malmgren
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Inger Nennesmo
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Kristina Lagerstedt-Robinson
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Magnus Nordenskjöld
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Per Svenningsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cincotta MC, Walker RH. Diagnostic Uncertainties: Chorea. Semin Neurol 2023; 43:65-80. [PMID: 36882120 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1763506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Chorea is a hyperkinetic movement disorder with a multitude of potential etiologies, both acquired and inherited. Although the differential diagnosis for new-onset chorea is extensive, there are often clues in the history, exam, and basic testing that can help to narrow the options. Evaluation for treatable or reversible causes should take priority, as rapid diagnosis can lead to more favorable outcomes. While Huntington's disease is most common genetic cause of chorea, multiple phenocopies also exist and should be considered if Huntington gene testing is negative. The decision of what additional genetic testing to pursue should be based on both clinical and epidemiological factors. The following review provides an overview of the many possible etiologies as well as a practical approach for a patient presenting with new-onset chorea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Molly C Cincotta
- Department of Neurology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ruth H Walker
- Department of Neurology, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
|
5
|
Boivin M, Charlet-Berguerand N. Trinucleotide CGG Repeat Diseases: An Expanding Field of Polyglycine Proteins? Front Genet 2022; 13:843014. [PMID: 35295941 PMCID: PMC8918734 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.843014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Microsatellites are repeated DNA sequences of 3–6 nucleotides highly variable in length and sequence and that have important roles in genomes regulation and evolution. However, expansion of a subset of these microsatellites over a threshold size is responsible of more than 50 human genetic diseases. Interestingly, some of these disorders are caused by expansions of similar sequences, sizes and localizations and present striking similarities in clinical manifestations and histopathological features, which suggest a common mechanism of disease. Notably, five identical CGG repeat expansions, but located in different genes, are the causes of fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (NIID), oculopharyngodistal myopathy type 1 to 3 (OPDM1-3) and oculopharyngeal myopathy with leukoencephalopathy (OPML), which are neuromuscular and neurodegenerative syndromes with overlapping symptoms and similar histopathological features, notably the presence of characteristic eosinophilic ubiquitin-positive intranuclear inclusions. In this review we summarize recent finding in neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease and FXTAS, where the causing CGG expansions were found to be embedded within small upstream ORFs (uORFs), resulting in their translation into novel proteins containing a stretch of polyglycine (polyG). Importantly, expression of these polyG proteins is toxic in animal models and is sufficient to reproduce the formation of ubiquitin-positive intranuclear inclusions. These data suggest the existence of a novel class of human genetic pathology, the polyG diseases, and question whether a similar mechanism may exist in other diseases, notably in OPDM and OPML.
Collapse
|
6
|
Depienne C, Mandel JL. 30 years of repeat expansion disorders: What have we learned and what are the remaining challenges? Am J Hum Genet 2021; 108:764-785. [PMID: 33811808 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2021.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tandem repeats represent one of the most abundant class of variations in human genomes, which are polymorphic by nature and become highly unstable in a length-dependent manner. The expansion of repeat length across generations is a well-established process that results in human disorders mainly affecting the central nervous system. At least 50 disorders associated with expansion loci have been described to date, with half recognized only in the last ten years, as prior methodological difficulties limited their identification. These limitations still apply to the current widely used molecular diagnostic methods (exome or gene panels) and thus result in missed diagnosis detrimental to affected individuals and their families, especially for disorders that are very rare and/or clinically not recognizable. Most of these disorders have been identified through family-driven approaches and many others likely remain to be identified. The recent development of long-read technologies provides a unique opportunity to systematically investigate the contribution of tandem repeats and repeat expansions to the genetic architecture of human disorders. In this review, we summarize the current and most recent knowledge about the genetics of repeat expansion disorders and the diversity of their pathophysiological mechanisms and outline the perspectives of developing personalized treatments in the future.
Collapse
|
7
|
Monckton DG. The Contribution of Somatic Expansion of the CAG Repeat to Symptomatic Development in Huntington's Disease: A Historical Perspective. J Huntingtons Dis 2021; 10:7-33. [PMID: 33579863 PMCID: PMC7990401 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-200429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The discovery in the early 1990s of the expansion of unstable simple sequence repeats as the causative mutation for a number of inherited human disorders, including Huntington’s disease (HD), opened up a new era of human genetics and provided explanations for some old problems. In particular, an inverse association between the number of repeats inherited and age at onset, and unprecedented levels of germline instability, biased toward further expansion, provided an explanation for the wide symptomatic variability and anticipation observed in HD and many of these disorders. The repeats were also revealed to be somatically unstable in a process that is expansion-biased, age-dependent and tissue-specific, features that are now increasingly recognised as contributory to the age-dependence, progressive nature and tissue specificity of the symptoms of HD, and at least some related disorders. With much of the data deriving from affected individuals, and model systems, somatic expansions have been revealed to arise in a cell division-independent manner in critical target tissues via a mechanism involving key components of the DNA mismatch repair pathway. These insights have opened new approaches to thinking about how the disease could be treated by suppressing somatic expansion and revealed novel protein targets for intervention. Exciting times lie ahead in turning these insights into novel therapies for HD and related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darren G Monckton
- Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fazio P, Paucar M, Svenningsson P, Varrone A. Novel Imaging Biomarkers for Huntington's Disease and Other Hereditary Choreas. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2018; 18:85. [PMID: 30291526 PMCID: PMC6182636 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-018-0890-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW Imaging biomarkers for neurodegenerative disorders are primarily developed with the goal to aid diagnosis, to monitor disease progression, and to assess the efficacy of disease-modifying therapies in support to clinical outcomes that may either show limited sensitivity or need extended time for their evaluation. This article will review the most recent concepts and findings in the field of neuroimaging applied to Huntington's disease and Huntington-like syndromes. Emphasis will be given to the discussion of potential pharmacodynamic biomarkers for clinical trials in Huntington's disease (HD) and of neuroimaging tools that can be used as diagnostic biomarkers in HD-like syndromes. RECENT FINDINGS Several magnetic resonance (MR) and positron emission tomography (PET) molecular imaging tools have been identified as potential pharmacodynamic biomarkers and others are in the pipeline after preclinical validation. MRI and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose PET can be considered useful supportive diagnostic tools for the differentiation of other HD-like syndromes. New trials in HD have the primary goal to lower mutant huntingtin (mHTT) protein levels in the brain in order to reduce or alter the progression of the disease. MR and PET molecular imaging markers have been developed as tools to monitor disease progression and to evaluate treatment outcomes of disease-modifying trials in HD. These markers could be used alone or in combination for detecting structural and pharmacodynamic changes potentially associated with the lowering of mHTT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrik Fazio
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm County Council, R5:02 Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Martin Paucar
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Svenningsson
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andrea Varrone
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm County Council, R5:02 Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kaplan SV, Limbocker RA, Levant B, Johnson MA. Regional differences in dopamine release in the R6/2 mouse caudate putamen. ELECTROANAL 2018; 30:1066-1072. [PMID: 29955208 PMCID: PMC6016844 DOI: 10.1002/elan.201700827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by degeneration of the striatum. Here, fast-scan cyclic voltammetry at carbon-fiber microelectrodes was used to uncover regional differences in dopamine (DA) release in the caudate putamen of R6/2 and wild-type control mice. We found a decreasing ventral-to-dorsal gradient in DA release, evoked by a single electrical stimulus pulse, in aged R6/2 mice. Moreover, under more intense stimulation conditions (120 pulses), DA release was significantly attenuated in the dorsal, but not in the ventral caudate. Autoradiography measurements using [3H]WIN 35,428 revealed that the overall density of DA transporter (DAT) protein molecules was significantly less in R6/2 mice compared to WT control mice; however, quadrants of the caudate putamen were not differentially altered in the R6/2 mice. These data collectively suggest that DA release in the dorsal caudate region is more vulnerable with age progression compared to the ventral region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sam V. Kaplan
- Department of Chemistry and R. N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045 USA
| | - Ryan A. Limbocker
- Department of Chemistry and R. N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045 USA
| | - Beth Levant
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160 USA
| | - Michael A. Johnson
- Department of Chemistry and R. N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045 USA
- Neuroscience Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045 USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
|
11
|
Toyoshima Y, Takahashi H. Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 17 (SCA17). ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1049:219-231. [PMID: 29427105 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-71779-1_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
In 1999, a polyglutamine expansion was identified in the transcription factor TATA-binding protein (TBP) in a patient with ataxia with negative family history. Subsequently, CAG/CAA repeat expansions in the TBP gene were identified in families with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA), establishing this repeat expansion as the underlying mutation in SCA type 17 (SCA17). There are several characteristic differences between SCA17 and other polyglutamine diseases. First, SCA17 shows a complex and variable clinical phenotype, in some cases overlapping that of Huntington's disease. Second, compared to the other SCA subtypes caused by expanded trinucleotide repeats, anticipation in SCA17 kindreds is rare because of the characteristic structure of the TBP gene. And thirdly, SCA17 patients often have diagnostic problems that may arise from non-penetrance. Because the gap between normal and abnormal repeat numbers is very narrow, it is difficult to determine a cutoff value for pathologic CAG repeat number in SCA17. Herein, we review the clinical, genetic and pathologic features of SCA17.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasuko Toyoshima
- Department of Pathology, Brain Research Institute, University of Niigata, 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, Japan.
| | - Hitoshi Takahashi
- Department of Pathology, Brain Research Institute, University of Niigata, 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Trinucleotide repeat disorders comprise a variable group of inherited neurodegenerative diseases, with a large range in prevalence figures. There is a broad range in clinical presentations, but many of these diseases lead to some form of ataxia or other movement disorders, which are frequently combined with cognitive or psychiatric disturbances. This group can be divided into CAG- versus non-CAG-repeat diseases. Apart from spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 and 12 (SCA6 and SCA12), these CAG-repeat diseases, as well as Huntington disease-like 2 (HDL2) and SCA8, can be neuropathologically identified using 1C2 polyglutamine antibodies. In fragile X-associated tremor and ataxia, SCA6 and SCA12 ubiquitin/p62-positive and 1C2-negative inclusion bodies can be observed. In the other diseases proteinaceous inclusions are not found. For definite diagnosis genetic analysis is necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W F A Den Dunnen
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ross CA, Kronenbuerger M, Duan W, Margolis RL. Mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration in Huntington disease: applications to novel disease-modifying therapies. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2017; 144:15-28. [PMID: 28947113 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-801893-4.00002-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The CAG repeat expansion mutation that causes Huntington Disease (HD) was discovered more than 20 years ago, yet no treatment has yet been developed to stop the relentless course of the disease. Nonetheless, substantial progress has been made in understanding HD pathogenesis. We review insights that have been gleaned from HD genetics, metabolism, and pathology; HD mouse and cell models; the structure, function and post-translational modification of normal and mutant huntingtin (htt) protein; gene expression profiles in HD cells and tissue; the neurotoxicy of mutant htt RNA; and the expression of an antisense transcript from the HD locus. We conclude that rationale therapeutics for HD is within sight, though many questions remain to be answered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Ross
- Division of Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Departments of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.
| | - Martin Kronenbuerger
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Wenzhen Duan
- Division of Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Translational Neurobiology Laboratory, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Russell L Margolis
- Division of Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Translational Neurobiology Laboratory, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Laboratory of Genetic Neurobiology and Johns Hopkins Schizophrenia Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gore E, Appleby BS, Cohen ML, DeBrosse SD, Leverenz JB, Miller BL, Siedlak SL, Zhu X, Lerner AJ. Clinical and imaging characteristics of late onset mitochondrial membrane protein-associated neurodegeneration (MPAN). Neurocase 2016; 22:476-483. [PMID: 27801611 PMCID: PMC5568540 DOI: 10.1080/13554794.2016.1247458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Young onset dementias present significant diagnostic challenges. We present the case of a 35-year-old Kuwaiti man with social withdrawal, drowsiness, irritability, anxiety, aphasia, memory loss, hypereflexia, and Parkinsonism. Brain MRI showed bilateral symmetric gradient echo hypointensities in the globi pallidi and substantiae nigrae. Left cortical hypometabolism was seen on brain fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography. A cortical brain biopsy revealed a high Lewy body burden. Genetic testing revealed a homozygous p.T11M mutation in the C19orf12 gene consistent with mitochondrial membrane protein-associated neurodegeneration. This is the oldest onset age of MPAN reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Gore
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Beachwood, OH, USA
| | - Brian S. Appleby
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, 3619 Park East Drive, Beachwood, OH, USA
| | - Mark L. Cohen
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Suzanne D. DeBrosse
- Departments of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Pediatrics, and Neurology, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - James B. Leverenz
- Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Bruce L. Miller
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sandra L. Siedlak
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Xiongwei Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Alan J. Lerner
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Beachwood, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Marras C, Lang A, van de Warrenburg BP, Sue CM, Tabrizi SJ, Bertram L, Mercimek-Mahmutoglu S, Ebrahimi-Fakhari D, Warner TT, Durr A, Assmann B, Lohmann K, Kostic V, Klein C. Nomenclature of genetic movement disorders: Recommendations of the international Parkinson and movement disorder society task force. Mov Disord 2016; 31:436-57. [PMID: 27079681 DOI: 10.1002/mds.26527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Revised: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 11/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The system of assigning locus symbols to specify chromosomal regions that are associated with a familial disorder has a number of problems when used as a reference list of genetically determined disorders,including (I) erroneously assigned loci, (II) duplicated loci, (III) missing symbols or loci, (IV) unconfirmed loci and genes, (V) a combination of causative genes and risk factor genes in the same list, and (VI) discordance between phenotype and list assignment. In this article, we report on the recommendations of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society Task Force for Nomenclature of Genetic Movement Disorders and present a system for naming genetically determined movement disorders that addresses these problems. We demonstrate how the system would be applied to currently known genetically determined parkinsonism, dystonia, dominantly inherited ataxia, spastic paraparesis, chorea, paroxysmal movement disorders, neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation, and primary familial brain calcifications. This system provides a resource for clinicians and researchers that, unlike the previous system, can be considered an accurate and criterion-based list of confirmed genetically determined movement disorders at the time it was last updated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Connie Marras
- Toronto Western Hospital Morton, Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Centre, and the Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson's Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Anthony Lang
- Toronto Western Hospital Morton, Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Centre, and the Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson's Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Bart P van de Warrenburg
- Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Carolyn M Sue
- Department of Neurology, Royal North Shore Hospital and Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, St. Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah J Tabrizi
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lars Bertram
- Lübeck Interdisciplinary Platform for Genome Analytics (LIGA), Institutes of Neurogenetics and Integrative and Experimental Genomics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Saadet Mercimek-Mahmutoglu
- Division of Clinical and Metabolic Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Darius Ebrahimi-Fakhari
- Division of Pediatric Neurology and Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Neurology & F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thomas T Warner
- Reta Lila Weston Institute of Neurological Studies, Department of Molecular Neurosciences, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Alexandra Durr
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC, Inserm and Hôpital de la Salpêtrière, Département de Génétique et Cytogénétique, Paris, France
| | - Birgit Assmann
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics I, Heidelberg University Hospital, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg
| | - Katja Lohmann
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Vladimir Kostic
- Institute of Neurology, School of Medicine University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Christine Klein
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Michalova E, Vojtesek B, Hrstka R. Impaired pre-mRNA processing and altered architecture of 3' untranslated regions contribute to the development of human disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:15681-94. [PMID: 23896598 PMCID: PMC3759880 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140815681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Revised: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological fate of each mRNA and consequently, the protein to be synthesised, is highly dependent on the nature of the 3' untranslated region. Despite its non-coding character, the 3' UTR may affect the final mRNA stability, the localisation, the export from the nucleus and the translation efficiency. The conserved regulatory sequences within 3' UTRs and the specific elements binding to them enable gene expression control at the posttranscriptional level and all these processes reflect the actual state of the cell including proliferation, differentiation, cellular stress or tumourigenesis. Through this article, we briefly outline how the alterations in the establishment and final architecture of 3' UTRs may contribute to the development of various disorders in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Michalova
- Regional Centre for Applied Molecular Oncology, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Zluty kopec 7, Brno 656 53, Czech Republic; E-Mails: (E.M.); (B.V.)
| | - Borivoj Vojtesek
- Regional Centre for Applied Molecular Oncology, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Zluty kopec 7, Brno 656 53, Czech Republic; E-Mails: (E.M.); (B.V.)
| | - Roman Hrstka
- Regional Centre for Applied Molecular Oncology, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Zluty kopec 7, Brno 656 53, Czech Republic; E-Mails: (E.M.); (B.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhang L, Wang S, Lin J. Clinical and molecular research of neuroacanthocytosis. Neural Regen Res 2013; 8:833-42. [PMID: 25206731 PMCID: PMC4146083 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2013.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2012] [Accepted: 12/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroacanthocytosis is an autosomal recessive or dominant inherited disease characterized by widespread, non-specific nervous system symptoms, or spiculated "acanthocytic" red blood cells. The clinical manifestations typically involve chorea and dystonia, or a range of other movement disorders. Psychiatric and cognitive symptoms may also be present. The two core neuroacanthocytosis syndromes, in which acanthocytosis is atypical, are autosomal recessive chorea-acanthocytosis and X-linked McLeod syndrome. Acanthocytes are found in a smaller proportion of patients with Huntington's disease-like 2 and pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration. Because the clinical manifestations are diverse and complicated, in this review we present features of inheritance, age of onset, neuroimaging and laboratory findings, as well as the spectrum of central and peripheral neurological abnormalities and extraneuronal involvement to help distinguish the four specific syndromes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116033, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Suping Wang
- Department of Neurology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116033, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jianwen Lin
- Department of Neurology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116033, Liaoning Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Johnson R, Noble W, Tartaglia GG, Buckley NJ. Neurodegeneration as an RNA disorder. Prog Neurobiol 2012; 99:293-315. [PMID: 23063563 PMCID: PMC7116994 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2012.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Revised: 09/14/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases constitute one of the single most important public health challenges of the coming decades, and yet we presently have only a limited understanding of the underlying genetic, cellular and molecular causes. As a result, no effective disease-modifying therapies are currently available, and no method exists to allow detection at early disease stages, and as a result diagnoses are only made decades after disease pathogenesis, by which time the majority of physical damage has already occurred. Since the sequencing of the human genome, we have come to appreciate that the transcriptional output of the human genome is extremely rich in non-protein coding RNAs (ncRNAs). This heterogeneous class of transcripts is widely expressed in the nervous system, and is likely to play many crucial roles in the development and functioning of this organ. Most exciting, evidence has recently been presented that ncRNAs play central, but hitherto unappreciated roles in neurodegenerative processes. Here, we review the diverse available evidence demonstrating involvement of ncRNAs in neurodegenerative diseases, and discuss their possible implications in the development of therapies and biomarkers for these conditions.
Collapse
Key Words
- neurodegeneration
- neurodegenerative disease
- non-coding rna
- alzheimer's disease
- parkinson's disease
- huntington's disease
- trinucleotide repeat disorder
- bace1
- rest
- long non-coding rna
- microrna
- har1
- sox2ot
- mir-9
- mir-132
- mir-124
- ndds, neurodegenerative disorders
- ad, alzheimer's disease
- hd, huntington's disease
- pd, parkinson's disease
- als, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- app, amyloid precursor protein
- cftr, cystic fibrosis
- csf, cerebrospinal fluid
- sod1, superoxide dismutase 1
- tardbp, tar dna binding protein
- psen-1, presenilin 1
- psen-2, presenilin 1
- mapt, microtubule-associated protein tau
- snca, α-synuclein
- ups, ubiquitin-proteasome system
- aββ, -amyloid
- er, endoplasmic reticulum
- ber, base excision repair
- parp-1, poly-adp ribose polymerase-1
- lncrnas, long non-coding rnas
- mirnas, microrna
- ncrna, non-coding rnas
- ngs, next generation sequencing
- pcr, polymerase chain reaction
- sars, severe acute respiratory disorder
- sca, spinal cerebellar ataxia
- dm, myotonic dystrophy
- hdl2, huntington's disease-like 2
- tnds, trinucleotide repeat disorders
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rory Johnson
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) and UPF, Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003 Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
| | - Wendy Noble
- Kings College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Gian Gaetano Tartaglia
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) and UPF, Dr. Aiguader, 88, 08003 Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Huntington's disease. Neurogenetics 2012. [DOI: 10.1017/cbo9781139087711.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
20
|
Chang YM, Chen CKM, Hou MH. Conformational changes in DNA upon ligand binding monitored by circular dichroism. Int J Mol Sci 2012; 13:3394-3413. [PMID: 22489158 PMCID: PMC3317384 DOI: 10.3390/ijms13033394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2012] [Revised: 02/22/2012] [Accepted: 02/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy is an optical technique that measures the difference in the absorption of left and right circularly polarized light. This technique has been widely employed in the studies of nucleic acids structures and the use of it to monitor conformational polymorphism of DNA has grown tremendously in the past few decades. DNA may undergo conformational changes to B-form, A-form, Z-form, quadruplexes, triplexes and other structures as a result of the binding process to different compounds. Here we review the recent CD spectroscopic studies of the induction of DNA conformational changes by different ligands, which includes metal derivative complex of aureolic family drugs, actinomycin D, neomycin, cisplatin, and polyamine. It is clear that CD spectroscopy is extremely sensitive and relatively inexpensive, as compared with other techniques. These studies show that CD spectroscopy is a powerful technique to monitor DNA conformational changes resulting from drug binding and also shows its potential to be a drug-screening platform in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ming Chang
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan; E-Mails: (Y.-M.C.); (C.K.-M.C.)
| | - Cammy K.-M. Chen
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan; E-Mails: (Y.-M.C.); (C.K.-M.C.)
| | - Ming-Hon Hou
- Institute of Genomics and Bioinformatics, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Jung HH, Danek A, Walker RH. Neuroacanthocytosis syndromes. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2011; 6:68. [PMID: 22027213 PMCID: PMC3212896 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1172-6-68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2010] [Accepted: 10/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroacanthocytosis (NA) syndromes are a group of genetically defined diseases characterized by the association of red blood cell acanthocytosis and progressive degeneration of the basal ganglia. NA syndromes are exceptionally rare with an estimated prevalence of less than 1 to 5 per 1'000'000 inhabitants for each disorder. The core NA syndromes include autosomal recessive chorea-acanthocytosis and X-linked McLeod syndrome which have a Huntington´s disease-like phenotype consisting of a choreatic movement disorder, psychiatric manifestations and cognitive decline, and additional multi-system features including myopathy and axonal neuropathy. In addition, cardiomyopathy may occur in McLeod syndrome. Acanthocytes are also found in a proportion of patients with autosomal dominant Huntington's disease-like 2, autosomal recessive pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration and several inherited disorders of lipoprotein metabolism, namely abetalipoproteinemia (Bassen-Kornzweig syndrome) and hypobetalipoproteinemia leading to vitamin E malabsorption. The latter disorders are characterized by a peripheral neuropathy and sensory ataxia due to dorsal column degeneration, but movement disorders and cognitive impairment are not present. NA syndromes are caused by disease-specific genetic mutations. The mechanism by which these mutations cause neurodegeneration is not known. The association of the acanthocytic membrane abnormality with selective degeneration of the basal ganglia, however, suggests a common pathogenetic pathway. Laboratory tests include blood smears to detect acanthocytosis and determination of serum creatine kinase. Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging may demonstrate striatal atrophy. Kell and Kx blood group antigens are reduced or absent in McLeod syndrome. Western blot for chorein demonstrates absence of this protein in red blood cells of chorea-acanthocytosis patients. Specific genetic testing is possible in all NA syndromes. Differential diagnoses include Huntington disease and other causes of progressive hyperkinetic movement disorders. There are no curative therapies for NA syndromes. Regular cardiologic studies and avoidance of transfusion complications are mandatory in McLeod syndrome. The hyperkinetic movement disorder may be treated as in Huntington disease. Other symptoms including psychiatric manifestations should be managed in a symptom-oriented manner. NA syndromes have a relentlessly progressive course usually over two to three decades.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hans H Jung
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chung DW, Rudnicki DD, Yu L, Margolis RL. A natural antisense transcript at the Huntington's disease repeat locus regulates HTT expression. Hum Mol Genet 2011; 20:3467-77. [PMID: 21672921 PMCID: PMC3153309 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddr263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2011] [Accepted: 06/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by a CAG repeat expansion in exon 1 of huntingtin (HTT). Relatively little attention has been directed to the genomic features of the antisense strand at the HD locus, though the presence of a transcript from this strand has been suggested by a survey of the entire transcriptome and the existence of several EST tags. In this study, we identified huntingtin antisense (HTTAS), a natural antisense transcript at the HD repeat locus that contain the repeat tract. HTTAS is 5' capped, poly (A) tailed and contains three exons, alternatively spliced into HTTAS_v1 (exons 1 and 3) and HTTAS_v2 (exons 2 and 3). Exon 1 includes the repeat. HTTAS_v1 has a weak promoter, and is expressed at low levels in multiple tissue types and throughout the brain. Reporter assays indicate that while efficient promoter activity requires a short repeat, repeat expansion reduces promoter efficiency. Consistent with the reporter assays, levels of HTTAS_v1 are reduced in human HD frontal cortex. In cell systems, overexpression of HTTAS_v1 specifically reduces endogenous HTT transcript levels, while siRNA knockdown of HTTAS_v1 increases HTT transcript levels. Minigene constructs of the HD locus confirm the regulatory effect of HTTAS_v1 on HTT, and demonstrate that the effect is dependent on repeat length and is at least partially Dicer dependent. Together, these findings provide strong evidence for the existence of a gene antisense to HTT, with properties that include regulation of HTT expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W. Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Neurobiology, Laboratory of Genetic Neurobiology
| | - Dobrila D. Rudnicki
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Neurobiology, Laboratory of Genetic Neurobiology
| | - Lan Yu
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Neurobiology, Laboratory of Genetic Neurobiology
| | - Russell L. Margolis
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Neurobiology, Laboratory of Genetic Neurobiology
- Department of Neurology, and
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, CMSC 8-121, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Greenstein PE, Vonsattel JPG, Margolis RL, Joseph JT. Huntington's disease like-2 neuropathology. Mov Disord 2007; 22:1416-1423. [PMID: 17516481 DOI: 10.1002/mds.21417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease like-2 (HDL-2) neurodegeneration is a recently described autosomal dominant disorder with features similar to Huntington's disease (HD). Only one case report has described neuropathology from an affected patient. We describe the clinical presentation and illustrate the pathology in two additional molecularly confirmed patients, compare these with the previously published case, and contrast them with HD. We examined two patients with HDL-2. Their charts were reviewed, their brains were examined using standard neuropathology techniques, including immunoperoxidase stains, and their diagnoses were confirmed with a PCR-based assay for repeat length. The first patient presented with obsessive suspiciousness, while the second had depression and decreased visual acuity. Both patients developed increased tone and cogwheel rigidity, but neither developed choreoathetosis. Extensive degeneration affected the caudate nucleus and putamen, especially dorsally and laterally. In addition, the first patient showed lateral temporal, lateral frontal, and orbitofrontal cortical atrophy, while the second patient displayed marked degeneration in the occipital and parietal cortices. Neither patient showed significant changes in the cerebellum or brainstem. Both cases had ubiquitin-immunoreactive neuronal intranuclear inclusions (NII). The patients with of HDL-2 reviewed here were remarkable for significant frontal inhibition with parkinsonism, a lack of choreiform movements, and African ancestry. Pathologically, HDL-2 is similar to HD in its effect on the neostriatum but may differ, at least in some cases, in its degree of focal cortical involvement, including the occipital lobe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Penny E Greenstein
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jean-Paul G Vonsattel
- Department of Pathology, Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Russell L Margolis
- Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jeffrey T Joseph
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
|
25
|
|
26
|
Walker RH, Jankovic J, O'Hearn E, Margolis RL. Phenotypic features of Huntington's disease-like 2. Mov Disord 2003; 18:1527-30. [PMID: 14673892 DOI: 10.1002/mds.10587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease-like 2 is an autosomal dominantly inherited disorder due to an expansion of trinucleotide repeats. It resembles classic Huntington's disease in clinical phenotype, inheritance pattern, and neuropathological features. We highlight the clinical features of this disorder, including chorea, dystonia, parkinsonism, and cognitive deficits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth H Walker
- Department of Neurology, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York 10029, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
The identification of a mutation of the DYT1 gene as a cause of inherited dystonia has led to many insights regarding the genetics of this disorder. In addition, there is a rapidly expanding list of inherited dystonia syndromes, the genes for some of which have been identified or localized. The DYT1 mutation has been found in a variety of ethnic groups, and it may result in a range of phenotypes. To date, studies of torsinA, the protein product of the DYT1 gene, have not revealed its function, although its widespread distribution throughout the central nervous system suggests a universal role. TorsinA has structural homology to heat shock and chaperone proteins. Evidence from studies in cell cultures and Caenorhabditis elegans, and the presence of torsinA in inclusion bodies in several neurodegenerative diseases may be indicative of a function of this nature. Preliminary studies in humans with DYT1 dystonia and in DYT1 transgenic mice suggest disruption of the dopaminergic nigrostriatal system. A functional interference with neuronal signal processing induced by mutation of torsinA is consistent with current hypotheses regarding impairment of the center-surround mechanism in the striatum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth H Walker
- Department of Neurology, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, and Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Walker RH, Good PF, Shashidharan P. TorsinA immunoreactivity in inclusion bodies in trinucleotide repeat diseases. Mov Disord 2003; 18:1041-4. [PMID: 14502672 DOI: 10.1002/mds.10487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A mutation of the DYT1 gene, which codes for torsinA, has been identified as a cause of autosomal dominantly inherited dystonia. The function of torsinA is not yet known, but it is found throughout the central nervous system and has been identified in Lewy bodies in Parkinson's disease. We examined cases of Huntington's disease, spinocerebellar ataxia type III, and Huntington's disease-like 2 using antibodies to torsinA, and found that ubiquitinated, intranuclear neuronal inclusions were torsinA-immunoreactive, possibly indicating a role for torsinA in protein degradation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth H Walker
- Department of Neurology, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
SuttonBrown M, Suchowersky O. Clinical and research advances in Huntington's disease. Can J Neurol Sci 2003; 30 Suppl 1:S45-52. [PMID: 12691476 DOI: 10.1017/s0317167100003231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder characterized by abnormalities of movement and dementia. No curative treatment is available and HD results in gradually increasing disability. Characterization of the genetic abnormality has dramatically increased our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of the disease process, and has resulted in the development of a number of genetic models. These research tools are forming the basis of advanced work into the diagnosis, pathophysiology, and potential treatment of the disease. Clinically, the availability of genetic testing has eased confirmation of diagnosis in symptomatic individuals. Presymptomatic testing allows at-risk individuals to make informed choices but requires supportive care from physicians. Current clinical treatment is focused on symptom control. Advances in research have resulted in the development of potential neuroprotective strategies which are undergoing clinical testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M SuttonBrown
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Mattson MP, Chan SL, Duan W. Modification of brain aging and neurodegenerative disorders by genes, diet, and behavior. Physiol Rev 2002; 82:637-72. [PMID: 12087131 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00004.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple molecular, cellular, structural, and functional changes occur in the brain during aging. Neural cells may respond to these changes adaptively, or they may succumb to neurodegenerative cascades that result in disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Multiple mechanisms are employed to maintain the integrity of nerve cell circuits and to facilitate responses to environmental demands and promote recovery of function after injury. The mechanisms include production of neurotrophic factors and cytokines, expression of various cell survival-promoting proteins (e.g., protein chaperones, antioxidant enzymes, Bcl-2 and inhibitor of apoptosis proteins), preservation of genomic integrity by telomerase and DNA repair proteins, and mobilization of neural stem cells to replace damaged neurons and glia. The aging process challenges such neuroprotective and neurorestorative mechanisms. Genetic and environmental factors superimposed upon the aging process can determine whether brain aging is successful or unsuccessful. Mutations in genes that cause inherited forms of Alzheimer's disease (amyloid precursor protein and presenilins), Parkinson's disease (alpha-synuclein and Parkin), and trinucleotide repeat disorders (huntingtin, androgen receptor, ataxin, and others) overwhelm endogenous neuroprotective mechanisms; other genes, such as those encoding apolipoprotein E(4), have more subtle effects on brain aging. On the other hand, neuroprotective mechanisms can be bolstered by dietary (caloric restriction and folate and antioxidant supplementation) and behavioral (intellectual and physical activities) modifications. At the cellular and molecular levels, successful brain aging can be facilitated by activating a hormesis response in which neurons increase production of neurotrophic factors and stress proteins. Neural stem cells that reside in the adult brain are also responsive to environmental demands and appear capable of replacing lost or dysfunctional neurons and glial cells, perhaps even in the aging brain. The recent application of modern methods of molecular and cellular biology to the problem of brain aging is revealing a remarkable capacity within brain cells for adaptation to aging and resistance to disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Mattson
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging Gerontology Research Center, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Bauer I, Gencik M, Laccone F, Peters H, Weber BHF, Feder EH, Weirich H, Morris-Rosendahl DJ, Rolfs A, Gencikova A, Bauer P, Wenning GK, Epplen JT, Holmes SE, Margolis RL, Ross CA, Riess O. Trinucleotide repeat expansions in the junctophilin-3 gene are not found in Caucasian patients with a Huntington's disease-like phenotype. Ann Neurol 2002; 51:662. [PMID: 12112122 DOI: 10.1002/ana.10184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
32
|
Richfield EK, Vonsattel JP, MacDonald ME, Sun Z, Deng YPP, Reiner A. Selective loss of striatal preprotachykinin neurons in a phenocopy of Huntington's disease. Mov Disord 2002; 17:327-32. [PMID: 11921119 DOI: 10.1002/mds.10032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenocopies of Huntington's disease (HD) are individuals with a family history, clinical symptoms, and occasionally pathological evidence of HD but without an expanded CAG repeat within the HD gene. We report on an HD phenocopy with selective loss of preprotachykinin (PPT) neurons, dysfunction of surviving PPT neurons, preservation of preproenkephalin (PPE) neurons within the striatum, and greater loss of immunohistochemical staining for substance P in terminals of striatal neurons projecting to the substantia nigra, than in those projecting to the internal pallidal segment. This case demonstrates the existence of one type of striatal lesion that may produce a clinical picture similar to HD, and raises the possibility of a rare hereditary disease that mimics HD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric K Richfield
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and Center for Aging and Developmental Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|