1
|
Bebo BF, Banwell BL, Whitacre CC, Coetzee T, Dalgas U, De Jager PL, Proebstel AK, Yong VW, Benveniste EN, Thompson AJ. The refined Pathways to Cures Research Roadmap for multiple sclerosis cures. Mult Scler 2024; 30:1242-1251. [PMID: 39212108 DOI: 10.1177/13524585241266483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis is a chronic immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system affecting nearly 3 million people worldwide. Although much progress has been made in the understanding and treatment of MS, cures remain elusive. OBJECTIVES To accelerate the development of cures for MS by updating the Pathways to Cures Research Roadmap based on a contemporary understanding of disease. The refined Roadmap will help to promote research in scientific areas with great potential to reveal insights leading to cures and inspire greater coordination of global resources. METHODS Refinements to the Roadmap were achieved during a Global Summit that included close to 200 academic and industry scientists, health care providers, policy makers, funders, and people with MS from 15 countries. RESULTS The refined Roadmap describes three pathways that target opportunities for generating scientific insights leading to cures. Recommendations for accelerating research progress include, lowering barriers for global data sharing, enhancing collaboration and coordination among research supporters, committing to sustained funding, considering implications for implementation, engaging PwMS and committing to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the global MS movement. CONCLUSION The refined roadmap provides a strategic framework for tackling the complexities of MS and advancing prevention strategies, effective treatments, and cures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruce F Bebo
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brenda L Banwell
- Division of Child Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Ulrik Dalgas
- Exercise Biology, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Phillip L De Jager
- Center for Translational and Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anne-Katrin Proebstel
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience, Departments of Neurology, Biomedicine, and Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - V Wee Yong
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Etty N Benveniste
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Alan J Thompson
- Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Misicka E, Huang Y, Loomis S, Sadhu N, Fisher E, Gafson A, Runz H, Tsai E, Jia X, Herman A, Bronson PG, Bhangale T, Briggs FB. Adaptive and Innate Immunity Are Key Drivers of Age at Onset of Multiple Sclerosis. Neurol Genet 2024; 10:e200159. [PMID: 38817245 PMCID: PMC11139017 DOI: 10.1212/nxg.0000000000200159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Multiple sclerosis (MS) age at onset (AAO) is a clinical predictor of long-term disease outcomes, independent of disease duration. Little is known about the genetic and biological mechanisms underlying age of first symptoms. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to investigate associations between individual genetic variation and the MS AAO phenotype. Methods The study population was comprised participants with MS in 6 clinical trials: ADVANCE (N = 655; relapsing-remitting [RR] MS), ASCEND (N = 555; secondary-progressive [SP] MS), DECIDE (N = 1,017; RRMS), OPERA1 (N = 581; RRMS), OPERA2 (N = 577; RRMS), and ORATORIO (N = 529; primary-progressive [PP] MS). Altogether, 3,905 persons with MS of European ancestry were analyzed. GWAS were conducted for MS AAO in each trial using linear additive models controlling for sex and 10 principal components. Resultant summary statistics across the 6 trials were then meta-analyzed, for a total of 8.3 × 10-6 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across all trials after quality control and filtering for heterogeneity. Gene-based tests of associations, pathway enrichment analyses, and Mendelian randomization analyses for select exposures were also performed. Results Four lead SNPs within 2 loci were identified (p < 5 × 10-8), including a) 3 SNPs in the major histocompatibility complex and their effects were independent of HLA-DRB1*15:01 and b) a LOC105375167 variant on chromosome 7. At the gene level, the top association was HLA-C (p = 1.2 × 10-7), which plays an important role in antiviral immunity. Functional annotation revealed the enrichment of pathways related to T-cell receptor signaling, autoimmunity, and the complement cascade. Mendelian randomization analyses suggested a link between both earlier age at puberty and shorter telomere length and earlier AAO, while there was no evidence for a role for either body mass index or vitamin D levels. Discussion Two genetic loci associated with MS AAO were identified, and functional annotation demonstrated an enrichment of genes involved in adaptive and complement immunity. There was also evidence supporting a link with age at puberty and telomere length. The findings suggest that AAO in MS is multifactorial, and the factors driving onset of symptoms overlap with those influencing MS risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elina Misicka
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Yunfeng Huang
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Stephanie Loomis
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Nilanjana Sadhu
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Elizabeth Fisher
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Arie Gafson
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Heiko Runz
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Ellen Tsai
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Xiaoming Jia
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Ann Herman
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Paola G Bronson
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Tushar Bhangale
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| | - Farren B Briggs
- From the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (E.M.), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Biogen (Y.H., S.L., N.S., E.F., A.G., H.R., E.T., P.G.B.), Cambridge, MA; Human Genetics and Bioinformatics (X.J., A.H., T.B.), Genentech, San Francisco, CA; and Department of Public Health Sciences (F.B.B.), University of Miami, FL
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Boullerne AI, Goudey B, Paganini J, Erlichster M, Gaitonde S, Feinstein DL. Validation of tag SNPs for multiple sclerosis HLA risk alleles across the 1000 genomes panel. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:110790. [PMID: 38575482 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Currently, the genetic variants strongly associated with risk for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are located in the Major Histocompatibility Complex. This includes DRB1*15:01 and DRB1*15:03 alleles at the HLA-DRB1 locus, the latter restricted to African populations; the DQB1*06:02 allele at the HLA-DQB1 locus which is in high linkage disequilibrium (LD) with DRB1*15:01; and protective allele A*02:01 at the HLA-A locus. HLA allele identification is facilitated by co-inherited ('tag') single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs); however, SNP validation is not typically done outside of the discovery population. We examined 19 SNPs reported to be in high LD with these alleles in 2,502 healthy subjects included in the 1000 Genomes panel having typed HLA data. Examination of 3 indices (LD R2 values, sensitivity and specificity, minor allele frequency) revealed few SNPs with high tagging performance. All SNPs examined that tag DRB1*15:01 were in perfect LD in the British population; three showed high tagging performance in 4 of the 5 European, and 2 of the 4 American populations. For DQB1*06:02, with no previously validated tag SNPs, we show that rs3135388 has high tagging performance in one South Asian, one American, and one European population. We identify for the first time that rs2844821 has high tagging performance for A*02:01 in 5 of 7 African populations including African Americans, and 4 of the 5 European populations. These results provide a basis for selecting SNPs with high tagging performance to assess HLA alleles across diverse populations, for MS risk as well as for other diseases and conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne I Boullerne
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Benjamin Goudey
- The Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Michael Erlichster
- MX3 Diagnostics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Neural Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sujata Gaitonde
- Department of Pathology, University Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Douglas L Feinstein
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA; Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hawiger D. Emerging T cell immunoregulatory mechanisms in multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1350240. [PMID: 38435400 PMCID: PMC10904586 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1350240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases with considerable socioeconomic impacts but without definitive treatments. AD and MS have multifactorial pathogenesis resulting in complex cognitive and neurologic symptoms and growing evidence also indicates key functions of specific immune cells. Whereas relevant processes dependent on T cells have been elucidated in both AD and MS, mechanisms that can control such immune responses still remain elusive. Here, a brief overview of select recent findings clarifying immunomodulatory mechanisms specifically induced by tolerogenic dendritic cells to limit the activation and functions of neurodegenerative T cells is presented. These insights could become a foundation for new cutting-edge research as well as therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hawiger
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Huang L, Zuo Y, Yang H, He X, Zhang L. Identification of key genes as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for comorbidity of myasthenia gravis and COVID-19. Front Neurol 2024; 14:1334131. [PMID: 38384322 PMCID: PMC10879883 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1334131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has a significant impact on the health and quality of life of MG patients and may even trigger the onset of MG in some cases. With the worldwide development of the COVID-19 vaccination, several new-onset MG cases and exacerbations following the COVID-19 vaccines have been acknowledged. The potential link between myasthenia gravis (MG) and COVID-19 has prompted the need for further investigation into the underlying molecular mechanism. Methods and results The differential expression analysis identified six differentially expressed genes (DEGs) shared by myasthenia gravis (MG) and COVID-19, namely SAMD9, PLEK, GZMB, JUNB, NR4A1, and NR1D1. The relationship between the six common genes and immune cells was investigated in the COVID-19 dataset. The predictive value of the shared genes was assessed and a nomogram was constructed using machine learning algorithms. The regulatory miRNAs, transcription factors and small molecular drugs were predicted, and the molecular docking was carried out by AutoDock. Discussion We have identified six common DEGs of MG and COVID-19 and explored their immunological effects and regulatory mechanisms. The result may provide new insights for further mechanism research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liyan Huang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Zuo
- Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing Bo’ai Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiaofang He
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ahmed A, Rawshan AEM, Tishe ZH, Shawkat S, Popy MN, Shohag MH, Hossain M, Mostaid MS. Association of CD58 rs12044852 and rs2300747 polymorphisms with the risk of multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 82:105411. [PMID: 38176285 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.105411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Multiple sclerosis is a serious neurodegenerative disorder that causes disability in young adults. Genetic predisposition of multiple sclerosis is well documented and several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the CD58 were found to be associated with this disease. This systematic review and meta-analysis were done with the aim of finding the association between CD58 gene SNPs (rs12044852 and rs2300747) and the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS). METHOD A comprehensive search was done in PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and MSGene.org to find the relevant data. Our search yielded 13 relevant publications which were included for meta-analysis consisting of 5194 cases and 5766 controls. All the statistical analysis was conducted using meta and metafor packages in R studio. The odds ratio (OR) along with 95 % confidence intervals and p values were determined using the fixed effects and random effects model. The I2 test was done to measure heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis was performed along with analysis for publication bias. RESULTS We found significant association for both rs12044852 (allelic, dominant, over-dominant, heterozygous, and homozygous models) and rs2300747 (allelic, dominant, over-dominant, heterozygous models) with multiple sclerosis. Both the SNPs provided a protective effect for multiple sclerosis. Subgroup analysis indicated that rs12044852 polymorphism provided a protective effect in both Asians and Caucasians. However, for rs2300747, the Asian population showed no statistically significant association with the risk of MS. CONCLUSION Polymorphism of rs12044852 and rs2300747 of the CD58 gene provided a protective effect for multiple sclerosis. The protective effect is more prominent in Caucasian populations compared to Asians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashfaq Ahmed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, North South University, Plot 15, Block B, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
| | | | - Zasia Hossain Tishe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, North South University, Plot 15, Block B, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
| | - Sanjana Shawkat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, North South University, Plot 15, Block B, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
| | - Meherun Nessa Popy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, North South University, Plot 15, Block B, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
| | - Md Hasanuzzaman Shohag
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, North South University, Plot 15, Block B, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
| | - Murad Hossain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, North South University, Plot 15, Block B, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
| | - Md Shaki Mostaid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, North South University, Plot 15, Block B, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hitomi Y, Ueno K, Aiba Y, Nishida N, Kawai Y, Kawashima M, Khor SS, Takada S, Iwabuchi C, Nagasaki M, Tokunaga K, Nakamura M. rs10924104 in the expression enhancer motif of CD58 confers susceptibility to human autoimmune diseases. Hum Genet 2024; 143:19-33. [PMID: 37994973 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-023-02617-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
CD58 plays roles in cell adhesion and co-stimulation with antigen presentation from major histocompatibility complex class II on antigen-presenting cells to T-cell antigen receptors on naïve T cells. CD58 reportedly contributes to the development of various human autoimmune diseases. Recently, genome-wide association studies (GWASs) identified CD58 as a susceptibility locus for autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), multiple sclerosis (MS), and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). However, the primary functional variant and molecular mechanisms of susceptibility to autoimmune diseases in the CD58 locus were not clarified. Here, rs10924104, located in the ZNF35-binding motif within the gene expression regulatory motif, was identified as the primary functional variant for SLE, MS, and PBC among genetic variants showing stronger linkage disequilibrium (LD) with GWAS-lead variants in the CD58 locus. Expression-quantitative trait locus (e-QTL) data for each distinct blood cell type and in vitro functional analysis using the CRISPR/Cas9 system corroborated the functional role of rs10924104 in the upregulation of CD58 transcription by the disease-risk allele. Additionally, the strength of disease susceptibility observed in the CD58 locus could be accounted for by the strength of LD between rs10924104 and each GWAS-lead variant. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated for the first time the existence of a shared autoimmune disease-related primary functional variant (i.e., rs10924104) that regulates the expression of CD58. Clarifying the molecular mechanism of disease susceptibility derived from such a shared genetic background is important for understanding human autoimmune diseases and human immunology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Hitomi
- Department of Human Genetics, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8655, Japan.
| | - Kazuko Ueno
- Genome Medical Science Project, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Aiba
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization (NHO) Nagasaki Medical Center, Omura, Japan
| | - Nao Nishida
- Department of Genomic Function and Diversity, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yosuke Kawai
- Genome Medical Science Project, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minae Kawashima
- Database Center for Life Science, Research Organization of Information and Systems, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Seik-Soon Khor
- Genome Medical Science Project, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sanami Takada
- Department of Human Genetics, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8655, Japan
| | - Chisato Iwabuchi
- Department of Human Genetics, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8655, Japan
| | - Masao Nagasaki
- Division of Biomedical Information Analysis, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Katsushi Tokunaga
- Genome Medical Science Project, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minoru Nakamura
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization (NHO) Nagasaki Medical Center, Omura, Japan
- Department of Hepatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Omura, Japan
- Headquarters of PBC Research in NHO Study Group for Liver Disease in Japan (NHOSLJ), Clinical Research Center, NHO Nagasaki Medical Center, Omura, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mohammed EM. Circular RNA in Multiple Sclerosis: Pathogenicity and Potential Biomarker Development: A Systematic Review. Epigenet Insights 2023; 16:25168657231213195. [PMID: 38033465 PMCID: PMC10687999 DOI: 10.1177/25168657231213195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex autoimmune disorder of the CNS that affects millions of people worldwide. The causes of the disease remain unknown despite extensive efforts to understand it. CircRNAs are a unique class of endogenous non-coding RNA that are abundant, stable, conserved, and specifically expressed molecules, making them a promising biomarker of diseases. This review investigates the role of circRNA in MS pathogenicity and their potential as a biomarker through a comprehensive literature search conducted in 8 scientific databases. The studies found that there are differentially expressed circRNAs in MS patients compared to healthy controls (HC), and this difference is even more pronounced in different MS subtypes. Enrichment of circRNAs in linkage disequilibrium (LD) blocks that harbor MS-associated SNPs suggests that these SNPs manipulate the levels of circRNAs in the surrounding area, contributing to disease pathogenicity. While circRNA shows promise as an indicator or biomarker for MS disease pathology, further research is needed to fully explore its potential and impact on human biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eiman M Mohammed
- Kuwait Cancer Control Centre, Medical Laboratory Department, Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Shuwaikh, Kuwait
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
He Y, Zhu D, Greenman K, Ruiz C, Shang J, Lu Q, Kojetin DJ, Drakas R, Cameron MD, Lizarzaburu M, Solt LA, Kamenecka TM. Structure-Activity Relationship and Biological Investigation of a REV-ERBα-Selective Agonist SR-29065 ( 34) for Autoimmune Disorders. J Med Chem 2023; 66:14815-14823. [PMID: 37888788 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases affect 50 million Americans, predominantly women, and are thought to be one of the top 10 leading causes of death among women in age groups up to 65 years. A central role for TH17 cells has been highlighted by genome-wide association studies (GWAS) linking genes preferentially expressed in TH17 cells to several human autoimmune diseases. We and others have reported that the nuclear receptors REV-ERBα and β are cell-intrinsic repressors of TH17 cell development and pathogenicity and might therefore be therapeutic targets for intervention. Herein, we describe detailed SAR studies of a novel REV-ERBα-selective scaffold. Metabolic stability of the ligands was optimized allowing for in vivo interrogation of the receptor in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis (EAE) with a ligand (34). Reduction in frequency and number of T-cells in the CNS as well as key REV-ERB target genes is a measure of target engagement in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjun He
- The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Di Zhu
- The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Kevin Greenman
- ChemPartner Corporation, 280 Utah Avenue, Suite 100, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Claudia Ruiz
- The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Jinsai Shang
- The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Qun Lu
- The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Douglas J Kojetin
- The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Robert Drakas
- ShangPharma Innovation, 280 Utah Avenue, Suite 100, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Michael D Cameron
- The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Mike Lizarzaburu
- ChemPartner Corporation, 280 Utah Avenue, Suite 100, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Laura A Solt
- The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Theodore M Kamenecka
- The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rustemoglu H, Arslan E, Atasever S, Cevik B, Taspinar F, Turhan AB, Rustemoglu A. Could NCOA5 a novel candidate gene for multiple sclerosis susceptibility? Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:9335-9341. [PMID: 37817021 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08830-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory immune-mediated demyelinating disease that causes a challenging and disabling condition. Environmental and genetic factors play a role in appearing the state of the disease. Recent studies have shown that nuclear cofactor genes may play a role in the pathogenesis of MS. NCOA5 is a nuclear receptor coactivator independent of AF2 that modulates ERa-mediated transcription. This gene is involved in the pathogenesis of diseases such as psoriasis, Behcet's disease, and cancer. METHODS AND RESULTS We investigated the relationship between the rs2903908 polymorphism of the NCOA5 gene and MS among 157 unrelated MS patients and 160 healthy controls by RT-PCR. The frequencies of the CC, CT, and TT genotypes were 19.87%, 37.82%, and 42.31%, respectively, for the MS group and 5.63%, 43.75%, and 50.62%, respectively, for the control group. The CC genotype and the C allele were found to be significantly higher in the patient group (the p values were 0.0002 and 0.003, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The fact that the CC genotype was found to be significantly higher in the patient group compared to the control group (p = 0.0002) and that it had a statistically significantly higher OR value (OR, 95% CI = 4.16, 1.91-9.05) suggests that the C allele may recessively predispose to MS for this polymorphism. These results suggest for the first time that the NCOA5 gene may have an effect on the occurrence of MS through different molecular pathways, which are discussed in the manuscript.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Husniye Rustemoglu
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Erdem Arslan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Pharmacology, Aksaray University, Aksaray, Turkey
| | - Sema Atasever
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Betul Cevik
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Filiz Taspinar
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Aksaray University, Aksaray, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Bülent Turhan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Aksaray University, Bahcesaray Mah. 170. Cad. No:19, Aksaray, 68100, Turkey
| | - Aydin Rustemoglu
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Aksaray University, Bahcesaray Mah. 170. Cad. No:19, Aksaray, 68100, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Shooshtari P, Feng S, Nelakuditi V, Asakereh R, Hosseini Naghavi N, Foong J, Brudno M, Cotsapas C. Developing OCHROdb, a comprehensive quality checked database of open chromatin regions from sequencing data. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8106. [PMID: 37202401 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-26791-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
International consortia, including ENCODE, Roadmap Epigenomics, Genomics of Gene Regulation and Blueprint Epigenome have made large-scale datasets of open chromatin regions publicly available. While these datasets are extremely useful for studying mechanisms of gene regulation in disease and cell development, they only identify open chromatin regions in individual samples. A uniform comparison of accessibility of the same regulatory sites across multiple samples is necessary to correlate open chromatin accessibility and expression of target genes across matched cell types. Additionally, although replicate samples are available for majority of cell types, a comprehensive replication-based quality checking of individual regulatory sites is still lacking. We have integrated 828 DNase-I hypersensitive sequencing samples, which we have uniformly processed and then clustered their regulatory regions across all samples. We checked the quality of open-chromatin regions using our replication test. This has resulted in a comprehensive, quality-checked database of Open CHROmatin (OCHROdb) regions for 194 unique human cell types and cell lines which can serve as a reference for gene regulatory studies involving open chromatin. We have made this resource publicly available: users can download the whole database, or query it for their genomic regions of interest and visualize the results in an interactive genome browser.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Shooshtari
- Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada.
- Department of Computer Science, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Sciences Center, London, ON, N6C 2R5, Canada.
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A3, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, A5-144, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, ON, N6C 2V5, Canada.
| | - Samantha Feng
- Microsoft Canada, Toronto, ON, M5K 1E7, Canada
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2I 3G1, Canada
| | - Viswateja Nelakuditi
- Center for Computational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Reza Asakereh
- Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Sciences Center, London, ON, N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Nader Hosseini Naghavi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Sciences Center, London, ON, N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Justin Foong
- University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Michael Brudno
- University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5G 1L7, Canada.
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5T 3A1, Canada.
| | - Chris Cotsapas
- Department of Neurology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
- Medical and Population Genetics and Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lorefice L, Pitzalis M, Murgia F, Fenu G, Atzori L, Cocco E. Omics approaches to understanding the efficacy and safety of disease-modifying treatments in multiple sclerosis. Front Genet 2023; 14:1076421. [PMID: 36793897 PMCID: PMC9922720 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1076421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
From the perspective of precision medicine, the challenge for the future is to improve the accuracy of diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of therapeutic responses through the identification of biomarkers. In this framework, the omics sciences (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) and their combined use represent innovative approaches for the exploration of the complexity and heterogeneity of multiple sclerosis (MS). This review examines the evidence currently available on the application of omics sciences to MS, analyses the methods, their limitations, the samples used, and their characteristics, with a particular focus on biomarkers associated with the disease state, exposure to disease-modifying treatments (DMTs), and drug efficacies and safety profiles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Lorefice
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Binaghi Hospital, ASL Cagliari, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Lorena Lorefice,
| | - Maristella Pitzalis
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Murgia
- Dpt of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Fenu
- Department of Neurosciences, ARNAS Brotzu, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luigi Atzori
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Binaghi Hospital, ASL Cagliari, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Eleonora Cocco
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Binaghi Hospital, ASL Cagliari, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Timasheva YR, Nasibullin TR, Tuktarova IA, Erdman VV, Galiullin TR, Lyutov OV, Bakhtiiarova KZ. [Multiple sclerosis in the Republic of Bashkortostan: population-specific genetic predictors and the results of a 20-year clinical follow-up study]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2023; 123:34-42. [PMID: 37560832 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202312307234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Identification of a complex of genetic predictors of multiple sclerosis (MS) based on previously obtained results in genome-wide association studies of disease markers (GWAS markers) in a population of MS patients and healthy individuals of the Republic of Bashkortostan (Russian Federation) using polygenic detection. MATERIAL AND METHODS The total study group consisted of 2048 people (641 patients with MS and 1407 healthy individuals) who permanently resided in the Republic of Bashkortostan and belonged to the Bashkir (n=325), Russian (n=772) or Tatar (n=951) nationalities. The analysis of association between MS and polymorphisms previously associated with the disease according to GWAS data was performed. Of the 641 MS patients, 247 were the subject of a 20-year prospective clinical follow-up. RESULTS The C6orf10 rs3129934*T allele was most significantly associated with MS in Russians (OR=2.00, P=5.85·10-5) and Tatars (OR=2.38, P=8.61·10-7). An increased MS risk in Russians was also associated with the EOMES rs11129295*T (OR=1.56, P=0.007) and IL7R rs1494558*I (OR=1.61, P=0.003) alleles. Meta-analysis confirmed the association of the C6orf10 rs3129934*T, EOMES rs11129295*T and IL7R rs1494558*I alleles with MS in the total group, as well as revealed associations of the INAVA rs7522462*G, IL7R rs10624573*I, CD6 rs17824933*G, GPC5 rs9523762*A and GPR65 rs2119704*C alleles with the disease. Using polygenic analysis, we identified a complex predictor C6orf10 rs3129934*C + INAVA rs7522462*G + CD6 rs17824933*C with a pronounced protective effect against MS in the total group (OR=0.34, PFDR=2.65·10-7). CONCLUSION We reproduced the association of eight polymorphisms (C6orf10 rs3129934, INAVA rs7522462, IL7R rs10624573, EOMES rs11129295, GPR65 rs2119704, GPC5 rs9523762, CD6 rs17824933 and CD58 rs2300747) with MS, previously identified in GWAS in European populations. Whole exome or genome sequencing may help to reveal the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of MS in populations of the Russian Federation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y R Timasheva
- Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics of Ufa Federal Research Centre, Ufa, Russia
- Bashkir State Medical University, Ufa, Russia
| | - T R Nasibullin
- Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics of Ufa Federal Research Centre, Ufa, Russia
| | - I A Tuktarova
- Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics of Ufa Federal Research Centre, Ufa, Russia
| | - V V Erdman
- Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics of Ufa Federal Research Centre, Ufa, Russia
| | | | - O V Lyutov
- Bashkir State Medical University, Ufa, Russia
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Regulation of CD4 T Cell Responses by the Transcription Factor Eomesodermin. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12111549. [PMID: 36358898 PMCID: PMC9687629 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Central to the impacts of CD4 T cells, both positive in settings of infectious disease and cancer and negative in the settings of autoimmunity and allergy, is their ability to differentiate into distinct effector subsets with specialized functions. The programming required to support such responses is largely dictated by lineage-specifying transcription factors, often called ‘master regulators’. However, it is increasingly clear that many aspects of CD4 T cell immunobiology that can determine the outcomes of disease states involve a broader transcriptional network. Eomesodermin (Eomes) is emerging as an important member of this class of transcription factors. While best studied in CD8 T cells and NK cells, an increasing body of work has focused on impacts of Eomes expression in CD4 T cell responses in an array of different settings. Here, we focus on the varied impacts reported in these studies that, together, indicate the potential of targeting Eomes expression in CD4 T cells as a strategy to improve a variety of clinical outcomes.
Collapse
|
15
|
Sorosina M, Barizzone N, Clarelli F, Anand S, Lupoli S, Salvi E, Mangano E, Bordoni R, Roostaei T, Mascia E, Zuccalà M, Vecchio D, Cavalla P, Santoro S, Ferrè L, Zollo A, Barlassina C, Cusi D, Martinelli V, Comi G, Leone M, Filippi M, Patsopoulos NA, De Jager PL, De Bellis G, Esposito F, D'Alfonso S, Martinelli Boneschi F. A multi-step genomic approach prioritized TBKBP1 gene as relevant for multiple sclerosis susceptibility. J Neurol 2022; 269:4510-4522. [PMID: 35545683 PMCID: PMC9294010 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11109-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over 200 genetic loci have been associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) explaining ~ 50% of its heritability, suggesting that additional mechanisms may account for the "missing heritability" phenomenon. OBJECTIVE To analyze a large cohort of Italian individuals to identify markers associated with MS with potential functional impact in the disease. METHODS We studied 2571 MS and 3234 healthy controls (HC) of continental Italian origin. Discovery phase included a genome wide association study (1727 MS, 2258 HC), with SNPs selected according to their association in the Italian cohort only or in a meta-analysis of signals with a cohort of European ancestry (4088 MS, 7144 HC). Top associated loci were then tested in two Italian cohorts through array-based genotyping (903 MS, 884 HC) and pool-based target sequencing (588 MS, 408 HC). Finally, functional prioritization through conditional eQTL and mQTL has been performed. RESULTS Top associated signals overlap with already known MS loci on chromosomes 3 and 17. Three SNPs (rs4267364, rs8070463, rs67919208), all involved in the regulation of TBKBP1, were prioritized to be functionally relevant. CONCLUSIONS No evidence of novel signal of association with MS specific for the Italian continental population has been found; nevertheless, two MS loci seems to play a relevant role, raising the interest to further investigations for TBKBP1 gene.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Sorosina
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Nadia Barizzone
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Eastern Piedmont, Avogadro University, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Clarelli
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Santosh Anand
- Department of Informatics, Systems and Communications (DISCo), University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Lupoli
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20139, Milan, Italy
| | - Erika Salvi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20139, Milan, Italy
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico "Carlo Besta", 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Mangano
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Biomedical Technologies, Segrate, 20090, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Bordoni
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Biomedical Technologies, Segrate, 20090, Milan, Italy
| | - Tina Roostaei
- Center for Translational and Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology and the Taub Institute for Research On Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Elisabetta Mascia
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Miriam Zuccalà
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Eastern Piedmont, Avogadro University, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Domizia Vecchio
- MS Centre, SCDU Neurology, AOU Maggiore Della Carità, Department of Translational Medicine, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Eastern Piedmont Avogadro, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Paola Cavalla
- MS Center, Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, City of Health and Science University Hospital of Torino, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Santoro
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Ferrè
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Alen Zollo
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, University of Milan, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Cusi
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Biomedical Technologies, Segrate, 20090, Milan, Italy
- Bio4Dreams, Business Nursery for Life Sciences, Piazzale Principessa Clotilde 4/A, 20121, Milan, Italy
| | - Vittorio Martinelli
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Comi
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Maurizio Leone
- SC Neurologia, Dipartimento Di Scienze Mediche, IRCCS Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Neurophysiology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Nikolaos A Patsopoulos
- Systems Biology and Computer Science Program, Ann Romney Center for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Philip L De Jager
- Center for Translational and Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology and the Taub Institute for Research On Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Gianluca De Bellis
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Biomedical Technologies, Segrate, 20090, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Esposito
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandra D'Alfonso
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), University of Eastern Piedmont, Avogadro University, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Filippo Martinelli Boneschi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, University of Milan, 20122, Milan, Italy.
- Neurology Unit and MS Centre, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Nova A, Baldrighi GN, Fazia T, Graziano F, Saddi V, Piras M, Beecham A, McCauley JL, Bernardinelli L. Heritability Estimation of Multiple Sclerosis Related Plasma Protein Levels in Sardinian Families with Immunochip Genotyping Data. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12071101. [PMID: 35888189 PMCID: PMC9317284 DOI: 10.3390/life12071101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This work aimed at estimating narrow-sense heritability, defined as the proportion of the phenotypic variance explained by the sum of additive genetic effects, via Haseman–Elston regression for a subset of 56 plasma protein levels related to Multiple Sclerosis (MS). These were measured in 212 related individuals (with 69 MS cases and 143 healthy controls) obtained from 20 Sardinian families with MS history. Using pedigree information, we found seven statistically significant heritable plasma protein levels (after multiple testing correction), i.e., Gc (h2 = 0.77; 95%CI: 0.36, 1.00), Plat (h2 = 0.70; 95%CI: 0.27, 0.95), Anxa1 (h2 = 0.68; 95%CI: 0.27, 1.00), Sod1 (h2 = 0.58; 95%CI: 0.18, 0.96), Irf8 (h2 = 0.56; 95%CI: 0.19, 0.99), Ptger4 (h2 = 0.45; 95%CI: 0.10, 0.96), and Fadd (h2 = 0.41; 95%CI: 0.06, 0.84). A subsequent analysis was performed on these statistically significant heritable plasma protein levels employing Immunochip genotyping data obtained in 155 healthy controls (92 related and 63 unrelated); we found a meaningful proportion of heritable plasma protein levels’ variability explained by a small set of SNPs. Overall, the results obtained, for these seven MS-related proteins, emphasized a high additive genetic variance component explaining plasma levels’ variability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Nova
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (G.N.B.); (T.F.); (L.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Giulia Nicole Baldrighi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (G.N.B.); (T.F.); (L.B.)
| | - Teresa Fazia
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (G.N.B.); (T.F.); (L.B.)
| | - Francesca Graziano
- Centre of Biostatistics for Clinical Epidemiology, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy;
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Valeria Saddi
- Divisione di Neurologia, Presidio Ospedaliero S. Francesco, ASL Numero 3 Nuoro, 08100 Nuoro, Italy; (V.S.); (M.P.)
| | - Marialuisa Piras
- Divisione di Neurologia, Presidio Ospedaliero S. Francesco, ASL Numero 3 Nuoro, 08100 Nuoro, Italy; (V.S.); (M.P.)
| | - Ashley Beecham
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33146, USA; (A.B.); (J.L.M.)
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Jacob L. McCauley
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33146, USA; (A.B.); (J.L.M.)
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Luisa Bernardinelli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (G.N.B.); (T.F.); (L.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Large-scale genomic analyses reveal insights into pleiotropy across circulatory system diseases and nervous system disorders. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3428. [PMID: 35701404 PMCID: PMC9198016 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30678-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical and epidemiological studies have shown that circulatory system diseases and nervous system disorders often co-occur in patients. However, genetic susceptibility factors shared between these disease categories remain largely unknown. Here, we characterized pleiotropy across 107 circulatory system and 40 nervous system traits using an ensemble of methods in the eMERGE Network and UK Biobank. Using a formal test of pleiotropy, five genomic loci demonstrated statistically significant evidence of pleiotropy. We observed region-specific patterns of direction of genetic effects for the two disease categories, suggesting potential antagonistic and synergistic pleiotropy. Our findings provide insights into the relationship between circulatory system diseases and nervous system disorders which can provide context for future prevention and treatment strategies.
Collapse
|
18
|
Lomelí H. ZMIZ proteins: partners in transcriptional regulation and risk factors for human disease. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:973-983. [PMID: 35670836 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-022-02216-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Coregulator proteins interact with signal-dependent transcription factors to modify their transcriptional activity. ZMIZ1 and ZMIZ2 (zinc finger MIZ-type containing 1 and 2) are coregulators with nonredundant functions that share unique structural characteristics. Among other interacting domains, they possess a MIZ (Msx-interacting zinc finger) that relates them to members of the protein inhibitor of activated STAT (PIAS) family and provides them the capacity to function as SUMO E3 ligases. The ZMIZ proteins stimulate the activity of various signaling pathways, including the androgen receptor (AR), P53, SMAD3/4, WNT/β-catenin, and NOTCH1 pathways, and interact with the BAF chromatin remodeling complex. Due to their molecular versatility, ZMIZ proteins have pleiotropic effects and thus are important for embryonic development and for human diseases. Both have been widely associated with cancer, and ZMIZ1 has been very frequently identified as a risk allele for several autoimmune conditions and other disorders. Moreover, mutations in the coding region of the ZMIZ1 gene are responsible for a severe syndromic neurodevelopmental disability. Because the actions of coregulators are highly gene-specific, a better knowledge of the associations that exist between the function of the ZMIZ coregulators and human pathologies is expected to potentiate the use of ZMIZ1 and ZMIZ2 as new drug targets for diseases such as hormone-dependent cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hilda Lomelí
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sparasci D, Gobbi C, Castelnovo A, Riccitelli GC, Disanto G, Zecca C, Manconi M. Fatigue, sleepiness and depression in multiple sclerosis: defining the overlaps for a better phenotyping. J Neurol 2022; 269:4961-4971. [PMID: 35507053 PMCID: PMC9363283 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11143-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES To define the boundaries and the overlaps between fatigue, sleepiness and depression in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) by using different tools for each dimension, including instrumental sleep analysis. METHODS In this cross-sectional, observational study, 71 MS patients (males/females: 20/51; mean age: 48.9 ± 10.5 years) filled in clinical questionnaires and performed polysomnography followed by maintenance of wakefulness test (MWT). Frequency and reciprocal overlap of sleepiness, fatigue and depression in MS were expressed by Eulero-Venn diagrams; standard multiple regression was used to assess the ability of symptoms to predict each other. RESULTS There was a high percentage of fatigued (70%), somnolent (45%) and depressed (27%) patients. Fatigue had the strongest overlap and correlated with both depression (beta: 0.52, p < 0.001) and sleepiness (beta: 0.74, p < 0.001). Somnolence and depression were nearly always accompanied by fatigue and were well differentiated from each other by MWT. Four MS subgroups were identified that had: (1) fatigue only; (2) fatigue and sleepiness (3) fatigue and depression; (4) fatigue, sleepiness and depression. DISCUSSION The subjective and objective tools are not able to clearly distinguish fatigue from sleepiness and depression, while only a test of vigilance can be helpful in separating somnolence and depression from each other.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Davide Sparasci
- Sleep Medicine Unit, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ospedale Civico, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Claudio Gobbi
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, EOC, Lugano, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Anna Castelnovo
- Sleep Medicine Unit, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ospedale Civico, Lugano, Switzerland.,University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Gianna Carla Riccitelli
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, EOC, Lugano, Switzerland.,Neuropsychology and Behavioural Neurology Research Unit, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ospedale Civico, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Giulio Disanto
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, EOC, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Zecca
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, EOC, Lugano, Switzerland. .,Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland.
| | - Mauro Manconi
- Sleep Medicine Unit, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ospedale Civico, Lugano, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Piacente F, Bottero M, Benzi A, Vigo T, Uccelli A, Bruzzone S, Ferrara G. Neuroprotective Potential of Dendritic Cells and Sirtuins in Multiple Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084352. [PMID: 35457169 PMCID: PMC9025744 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid cells, including parenchymal microglia, perivascular and meningeal macrophages, and dendritic cells (DCs), are present in the central nervous system (CNS) and establish an intricate relationship with other cells, playing a crucial role both in health and in neurological diseases. In this context, DCs are critical to orchestrating the immune response linking the innate and adaptive immune systems. Under steady-state conditions, DCs patrol the CNS, sampling their local environment and acting as sentinels. During neuroinflammation, the resulting activation of DCs is a critical step that drives the inflammatory response or the resolution of inflammation with the participation of different cell types of the immune system (macrophages, mast cells, T and B lymphocytes), resident cells of the CNS and soluble factors. Although the importance of DCs is clearly recognized, their exact function in CNS disease is still debated. In this review, we will discuss modern concepts of DC biology in steady-state and during autoimmune neuroinflammation. Here, we will also address some key aspects involving DCs in CNS patrolling, highlighting the neuroprotective nature of DCs and emphasizing their therapeutic potential for the treatment of neurological conditions. Recently, inhibition of the NAD+-dependent deac(et)ylase sirtuin 6 was demonstrated to delay the onset of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, by dampening DC trafficking towards inflamed LNs. Thus, a special focus will be dedicated to sirtuins’ role in DCs functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Piacente
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (F.P.); (A.B.)
| | - Marta Bottero
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.B.); (T.V.); (A.U.); (G.F.)
| | - Andrea Benzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (F.P.); (A.B.)
| | - Tiziana Vigo
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.B.); (T.V.); (A.U.); (G.F.)
| | - Antonio Uccelli
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.B.); (T.V.); (A.U.); (G.F.)
| | - Santina Bruzzone
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (F.P.); (A.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-(0)10-353-8150
| | - Giovanni Ferrara
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.B.); (T.V.); (A.U.); (G.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Vandebergh M, Degryse N, Dubois B, Goris A. Environmental risk factors in multiple sclerosis: bridging Mendelian randomization and observational studies. J Neurol 2022; 269:4565-4574. [PMID: 35366084 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11072-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disease with both genetic variants and environmental factors involved in disease susceptibility. The main environmental risk factors associated with MS in observational studies include obesity, vitamin D deficiency, Epstein-Barr virus infection and smoking. As modifying these environmental and lifestyle factors may enable prevention, it is important to pinpoint causal links between these factors and MS. Leveraging genetics through the Mendelian randomization (MR) paradigm is an elegant way to inform prevention strategies in MS. In this review, we summarize MR studies regarding the impact of environmental factors on MS susceptibility, thereby paying attention to quality criteria which will aid readers in interpreting any MR studies. We draw parallels and differences with observational studies and randomized controlled trials and look forward to the challenges that such work presents going forward.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marijne Vandebergh
- Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 bus 1022, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Degryse
- Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 bus 1022, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bénédicte Dubois
- Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 bus 1022, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - An Goris
- Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 bus 1022, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Sun J, Lyu R, Deng L, Li Q, Zhao Y, Zhang Y. SMetABF: A rapid algorithm for Bayesian GWAS meta-analysis with a large number of studies included. PLoS Comput Biol 2022; 18:e1009948. [PMID: 35286307 PMCID: PMC8947622 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Bayesian methods are widely used in the GWAS meta-analysis. But the considerable consumption in both computing time and memory space poses great challenges for large-scale meta-analyses. In this research, we propose an algorithm named SMetABF to rapidly obtain the optimal ABF in the GWAS meta-analysis, where shotgun stochastic search (SSS) is introduced to improve the Bayesian GWAS meta-analysis framework, MetABF. Simulation studies confirm that SMetABF performs well in both speed and accuracy, compared to exhaustive methods and MCMC. SMetABF is applied to real GWAS datasets to find several essential loci related to Parkinson's disease (PD) and the results support the underlying relationship between PD and other autoimmune disorders. Developed as an R package and a web tool, SMetABF will become a useful tool to integrate different studies and identify more variants associated with complex traits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianle Sun
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruiqi Lyu
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Luojia Deng
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qianwen Li
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Department of Biostatistics, Nanjing Medical University School of Public Health, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- * E-mail: (YAZ); (YUZ)
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (YAZ); (YUZ)
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Timasheva Y, Nasibullin TR, Tuktarova IA, Erdman VV, Galiullin TR, Zaplakhova OV, Bakhtiiarova KZ. Multilocus evaluation of genetic predictors of multiple sclerosis. Gene 2022; 809:146008. [PMID: 34656742 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.146008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genome-wide association studies identified numerous susceptibility loci for multiple sclerosis in populations of European ancestry, but the associations are not always reproducible in other populations due to admixture and different linkage disequilibrium patterns obscuring true association signals. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to identify genetic predictors of multiple sclerosis in three ethnically homogenous populations from the Volga-Ural region of Russian Federation. METHODS In the largest to date study of multiple sclerosis in Russian population, involving 2048 participants from the Republic of Bashkortostan, Russian Federation (641 patients with multiple sclerosis and 1407 unaffected individuals), we performed replication analysis of previously identified genome-wide signals for multiple sclerosis. Associations were tested using logistic regression analysis under additive genetic model adjusted for sex. Meta-analysis of the study results in three populations was performed under fixed effects and random effects models. RESULTS We demonstrate the association with multiple sclerosis of the five variants (INAVA rs7522462, EOMES rs11129295, C6orf10 rs3129934, CD86 rs9282641, and GPR65 rs2119704). The strongest association (OR = 2.16, CI:1.85-2.74, P = 2.53x10-13) was detected for rs3129934 polymorphism in the major histocompatibility region. Multilocus analysis has revealed 322 and 27 allelic patterns associated with multiple sclerosis in women and men, respectively. In women, the highest risk of MS was conferred by C6orf10 rs3129934*T/T + STAT3 rs744166*T combination (OR = 11.87), in men - by C6orf10 rs3129934*T + EOMES rs11129295*C + RPS6KB1 rs180515*C combination (OR = 3.25). CONCLUSION We confirm five associations with multiple sclerosis previously reported in genome-wide scans in Europeans in three ethnic groups from the Volga-Ural region of Russia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanina Timasheva
- Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics of Ufa Federal Research Centre of Russian Academy of Sciences, 71 October Avenue, 450054 Ufa, Russia; Section of Genomics of Common Disease, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Burlington Danes Building, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom; Bashkir State Medical University, 3 Lenin Street, 450008 Ufa, Russia.
| | - Timur R Nasibullin
- Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics of Ufa Federal Research Centre of Russian Academy of Sciences, 71 October Avenue, 450054 Ufa, Russia
| | - Ilsiyar A Tuktarova
- Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics of Ufa Federal Research Centre of Russian Academy of Sciences, 71 October Avenue, 450054 Ufa, Russia
| | - Vera V Erdman
- Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics of Ufa Federal Research Centre of Russian Academy of Sciences, 71 October Avenue, 450054 Ufa, Russia
| | - Timur R Galiullin
- G.G. Kuvatov Republic Clinical Hospital, 132 Dostoevsky Street, 450005 Ufa, Russia
| | - Oksana V Zaplakhova
- Bashkir State Medical University, 3 Lenin Street, 450008 Ufa, Russia; G.G. Kuvatov Republic Clinical Hospital, 132 Dostoevsky Street, 450005 Ufa, Russia
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Genetics and functional genomics of multiple sclerosis. Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:63-79. [PMID: 35022889 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-021-00907-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory neurodegenerative disease with genetic predisposition. Over the last decade, genome-wide association studies with increasing sample size led to the discovery of robustly associated genetic variants at an exponential rate. More than 200 genetic loci have been associated with MS susceptibility and almost half of its heritability can be accounted for. However, many challenges and unknowns remain. Definitive studies of disease progression and endophenotypes are yet to be performed, whereas the majority of the identified MS variants are not yet functionally characterized. Despite these shortcomings, the unraveling of MS genetics has opened up a new chapter on our understanding MS causal mechanisms.
Collapse
|
25
|
Barnes CLK, Hayward C, Porteous DJ, Campbell H, Joshi PK, Wilson JF. Contribution of common risk variants to multiple sclerosis in Orkney and Shetland. Eur J Hum Genet 2021; 29:1701-1709. [PMID: 34088990 PMCID: PMC8560837 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-021-00914-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Orkney and Shetland, the population isolates that make up the Northern Isles of Scotland, are of particular interest to multiple sclerosis (MS) research. While MS prevalence is high in Scotland, Orkney has the highest global prevalence, higher than more northerly Shetland. Many hypotheses for the excess of MS cases in Orkney have been investigated, including vitamin D deficiency and homozygosity: neither was found to cause the high prevalence of MS. It is possible that this excess prevalence may be explained through unique genetics. We used polygenic risk scores (PRS) to look at the contribution of common risk variants to MS. Analyses were conducted using ORCADES (97/2118 cases/controls), VIKING (15/2000 cases/controls) and Generation Scotland (30/8708 cases/controls) data sets. However, no evidence of a difference in MS-associated common variant frequencies was found between the three control populations, aside from HLA-DRB1*15:01 tag SNP rs9271069. This SNP had a significantly higher risk allele frequency in Orkney (0.23, p value = 8 × 10-13) and Shetland (0.21, p value = 2.3 × 10-6) than mainland Scotland (0.17). This difference in frequency is estimated to account for 6 (95% CI 3, 8) out of 150 observed excess cases per 100,000 individuals in Shetland and 9 (95% CI 8, 11) of the observed 257 excess cases per 100,000 individuals in Orkney, compared with mainland Scotland. Common variants therefore appear to account for little of the excess burden of MS in the Northern Isles of Scotland.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catriona L K Barnes
- Centre for Global Health Research, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Caroline Hayward
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - David J Porteous
- Centre for Genomic & Experimental Medicine, Institute of Genetics & Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Harry Campbell
- Centre for Global Health Research, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Peter K Joshi
- Centre for Global Health Research, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - James F Wilson
- Centre for Global Health Research, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland.
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Su G, Zhong Z, Zhou Q, Du L, Ye Z, Li F, Zhuang W, Wang C, Liang L, Ji Y, Cao Q, Wang Q, Chang R, Tan H, Yi S, Li Y, Feng X, Liao W, Zhang W, Shu J, Tan S, Xu J, Pan S, Li H, Shi J, Chen Z, Zhu Y, Ye X, Tan X, Zhang J, Liu Z, Huang F, Yuan G, Pang T, Liu Y, Ding J, Gao Y, Zhang M, Chi W, Liu X, Wang Y, Chen L, Meguro A, Takeuchi M, Mizuki N, Ohno S, Zuo X, Kijlstra A, Yang P. A genome-wide association study in Chinese identifies novel risk loci for Behcet's uveitis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2021; 74:671-681. [PMID: 34652073 DOI: 10.1002/art.41998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore susceptibility loci associated with uveitis in Behcet's disease (BD). METHODS We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) primarily involving 978 BD uveitis cases and 4388 controls and a replication study of 953 BD uveitis cases and 2129 controls in the Chinese population. Luciferase reporter analysis and Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay were performed to explore the functional role of susceptibility genetic variants nearby ZMIZ1. RESULTS Three independent HLA alleles (HLA-B51, HLA-A26 and HLA-C0704) were identified in a genome-wide association with BD uveitis. In the non-HLA region, besides confirming 7 previously reported loci, we identified 22 novel susceptibility variants located in 16 loci. Meta-analysis of the Chinese cohort involving 1931 cases and 6517 controls and a published Japanese cohort of 611 cases and 737 controls showed genome-wide significant associations with ZMIZ1, RPS6KA4, IL10RA, SIPA1-FIBP-FOSL1 and VAMP1. Functional experiments demonstrated that genetic variants of ZMIZ1 were associated with an enhanced transcriptional activity and an increased expression of ZMIZ1. CONCLUSIONS This GWAS study identified a novel set of genetic variants that are associated with susceptibility to uveitis in BD. These findings enriched our understanding of the contribution of genetic factors to the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guannan Su
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhong
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingyun Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Liping Du
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zi Ye
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Fuzhen Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Wenjuan Zhuang
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's Hospital of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
| | - Chaokui Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Liang Liang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Ji
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingfeng Cao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingfeng Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Rui Chang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Handan Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Shenglan Yi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Yujing Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaojie Feng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Weiting Liao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Wanyun Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Jia Shu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Shiyao Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Su Pan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongxi Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhijun Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Xingsheng Ye
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhangluxi Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Fanfan Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Gangxiang Yuan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingting Pang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yizong Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jiadong Ding
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yingnan Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Meifen Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Chi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Ophthalmologic Center of the Second Hospital, Jilin University, Ziqiang Street 218, Changchun, China
| | - Yuqin Wang
- The Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ling Chen
- The Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Akira Meguro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Masaki Takeuchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Nobuhisa Mizuki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Shigeaki Ohno
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Xianbo Zuo
- Department of Pharmacy, Department of Dermatology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.,Institute of Dermatology & Department of Dermatology at No. 1 Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, 230022, China
| | - Aize Kijlstra
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Peizeng Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Liver kinase B1 rs9282860 polymorphism and risk for multiple sclerosis in White and Black Americans. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 55:103185. [PMID: 34371271 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.103185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously reported that the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs9282860 in serine threonine kinase 11 (STK11) gene which codes for liver kinase B1 (LKB1) has higher prevalence in White relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients than controls. However it is not known if this SNP is a risk factor for MS in other populations. METHODS We assessed the prevalence of the STK11 SNP in samples collected from African American (AA) persons with MS (PwMS) and controls at multiple Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Centers and from a network of academic MS centers. Genotyping was carried out using a specific Taqman assay. Comparisons of SNP frequencies were made using Fisher's exact test to determine significance and odds ratios. Group means were compared by appropriate t-tests based on normality and variance using SPSS V27. RESULTS There were no significant differences in average age at first symptom onset, age at diagnosis, disease duration, or disease severity between RRMS patients recruited from VAMCs versus non-VAMCs. The SNP was more prevalent in AA than White PwMS, however only in secondary progressive MS (SPMS) patients was that difference statistically significant. AA SPMS patients had higher STK11 SNP prevalence than controls; and in that cohort the SNP was associated with older age at symptom onset and at diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that the STK11 SNP represents a risk factor for SPMS in AA patients, and can influence both early (onset) and later (conversion to SPMSS) events.
Collapse
|
28
|
Wang Y, Ji M, Zhu M, Fan J, Xie J, Huang Y, Wei X, Jiang X, Xu J, Chen L, Yin R, Wang C, Zhang R, Zhao Y, Dai J, Jin G, Hu Z, Christiani DC, Ma H, Xu L, Shen H. Genome-wide gene-smoking interaction study identified novel susceptibility loci for non-small cell lung cancer in Chinese populations. Carcinogenesis 2021; 42:1154-1161. [PMID: 34297049 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgab064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene-smoking interactions play important roles in the development of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). To identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that modify the association of smoking behavior with NSCLC risk, we conducted a genome-wide gene-smoking interaction study in Chinese populations. The genome-wide interaction analysis between SNPs and smoking status (ever- versus never-smokers) was carried out using genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of NSCLC, which included 13,327 cases and 13,328 controls. Stratified analysis by histological subtypes was also conducted. We used a genome-wide significance threshold of 5×10 -8 for identifying significant gene-smoking interactions and 1×10 -6 for identifying suggestive results. Functional annotation was performed to identify potential functional SNPs and target genes. We identified three novel loci with significant or suggestive gene-smoking interaction. For NSCLC, the interaction between rs2746087 (20q11.23) and smoking status reached genome-wide significance threshold (OR = 0.63, 95%CI: 0.54-0.74, P = 3.31×10 -8), and the interaction between rs11912498 (22q12.1) and smoking status reached suggestive significance threshold (OR = 0.72, 95%CI: 0.63-0.82, P = 8.10×10 -7). Stratified analysis by histological subtypes identified suggestive interactions between rs459724 (5q11.2) and smoking status (OR = 0.61, 95%CI: 0.51-0.73, P = 7.55×10 -8) in the risk of lung squamous cell carcinoma. Functional annotation indicated that both classic and novel biological processes, including nicotine addiction and airway clearance, may modulate the susceptibility to NSCLC. These novel loci provide new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying NSCLC risk. Independent replication in large-scale studies is needed and experimental studies are warranted to functionally validate these associations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhuo Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mengmeng Ji
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meng Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingyi Fan
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junxing Xie
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanqian Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoxia Wei
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangxiang Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rong Yin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruyang Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America.,China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Biostatistics, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Juncheng Dai
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangfu Jin
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - David C Christiani
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America.,Pulmonary and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Hongxia Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongbing Shen
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Research Units of Cohort Study on Cardiovascular Diseases and Cancers, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Bourque J, Hawiger D. Current and Future Immunotherapies for Multiple Sclerosis. MISSOURI MEDICINE 2021; 118:334-339. [PMID: 34373668 PMCID: PMC8343631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite substantial progress in developing new immunotherapies against multiple sclerosis (MS), currently available immunotherapies are only partially effective for this debilitating neurological disease, thus necessitating new therapeutic approaches. Here, we review the immunotherapies already approved for MS as well as relevant clinical trials. Further, we present some experimental approaches that are currently being developed and are focused on modulating the functions of dendritic cells and regulatory T cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Bourque
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, at the Henry and Amelia Nasrallah Center for Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Daniel Hawiger
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, at the Henry and Amelia Nasrallah Center for Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Genomic and functional evaluation of TNFSF14 in multiple sclerosis susceptibility. J Genet Genomics 2021; 48:497-507. [PMID: 34353742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2021.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Among multiple sclerosis (MS) susceptibility genes, the strongest non-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) signal in the Italian population maps to the TNFSF14 gene encoding LIGHT, a glycoprotein involved in dendritic cell (DC) maturation. Through fine-mapping in a large Italian dataset (4,198 patients with MS and 3,903 controls), we show that the TNFSF14 intronic SNP rs1077667 is the primarily MS-associated variant in the region. Expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) analysis indicates that the MS risk allele is significantly associated with reduced TNFSF14 messenger RNA levels in blood cells, which is consistent with the allelic imbalance in RNA-Seq reads (P < 0.0001). The MS risk allele is associated with reduced levels of TNFSF14 gene expression (P < 0.01) in blood cells from 84 Italian patients with MS and 80 healthy controls (HCs). Interestingly, patients with MS are lower expressors of TNFSF14 compared to HC (P < 0.007). Individuals homozygous for the MS risk allele display an increased percentage of LIGHT-positive peripheral blood myeloid DCs (CD11c+, P = 0.035) in 37 HCs, as well as in in vitro monocyte-derived DCs from 22 HCs (P = 0.04). Our findings suggest that the intronic variant rs1077667 alters the expression of TNFSF14 in immune cells, which may play a role in MS pathogenesis.
Collapse
|
31
|
Involvement of cytotoxic Eomes-expressing CD4 + T cells in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2021818118. [PMID: 33836594 PMCID: PMC7980371 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2021818118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS), a putative autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS), commonly presents as relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), characterized by recurrent episodes of peripheral disabling symptoms resulting from inflammatory CNS damage. Many RRMS patients transition to a chronic disease course with progressive neurological dysfunctions (secondary progressive MS, SPMS), with the progression rate varying between patients and over time. SPMS pathogenesis is now linked to immune-cell-mediated processes, although the mechanisms driving SPMS transition and progression remain elusive, and SPMS lacks biomarkers and effective treatments. We report the crucial involvement of cytotoxic CD4+ T cells expressing Eomes (Eomes+ Th cells) in SPMS pathogenesis-a Th cell subset previously identified in a mouse model of late/chronic autoimmune CNS inflammation. Few Eomes+ Th cells circulate in RRMS patient peripheral blood (n = 44), primary progressive MS (PPMS) patients (n = 25), or healthy controls (n = 42), but Eomes+ Th cells were significantly increased in SPMS (n = 105, P < 0.0001). Strikingly, lymphocytes isolated from SPMS autopsy brain samples revealed CD4+ T cells infiltrating CNS that coexpressed Eomes and the cytotoxic molecule granzyme B. In particular, the Eomes+ Th cell levels were increased in SPMS patients in progressive disease phases versus SPMS patients without current disability increases (P < 0.0001). Moreover, Eomes level acted as a biomarker to predict SPMS patients at risk of disease worsening with over 80% accuracy (ROC-AUC = 0.8276). Overall, our results indicate that granzyme B-expressing Eomes+ T helper cells are involved in the pathogenesis of SPMS, with significant implications for SPMS biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Collapse
|
32
|
Tsamis KI, Sakkas H, Giannakis A, Ryu HS, Gartzonika C, Nikas IP. Evaluating Infectious, Neoplastic, Immunological, and Degenerative Diseases of the Central Nervous System with Cerebrospinal Fluid-Based Next-Generation Sequencing. Mol Diagn Ther 2021; 25:207-229. [PMID: 33646562 PMCID: PMC7917176 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-021-00513-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear and paucicellular fluid that circulates within the ventricular system and the subarachnoid space of the central nervous system (CNS), and diverse CNS disorders can impact its composition, volume, and flow. As conventional CSF testing suffers from suboptimal sensitivity, this review aimed to evaluate the role of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in the work-up of infectious, neoplastic, neuroimmunological, and neurodegenerative CNS diseases. Metagenomic NGS showed improved sensitivity—compared to traditional methods—to detect bacterial, viral, parasitic, and fungal infections, while the overall performance was maximized in some studies when all diagnostic modalities were used. In patients with primary CNS cancer, NGS findings in the CSF were largely concordant with the molecular signatures derived from tissue-based molecular analysis; of interest, additional mutations were identified in the CSF in some glioma studies, reflecting intratumoral heterogeneity. In patients with metastasis to the CNS, NGS facilitated diagnosis, prognosis, therapeutic management, and monitoring, exhibiting higher sensitivity than neuroimaging, cytology, and plasma-based molecular analysis. Although evidence is still rudimentary, NGS could enhance the diagnosis and pathogenetic understanding of multiple sclerosis in addition to Alzheimer and Parkinson disease. To conclude, NGS has shown potential to aid the research, facilitate the diagnostic approach, and improve the management outcomes of all the aforementioned CNS diseases. However, to establish its role in clinical practice, the clinical validity and utility of each NGS protocol should be determined. Lastly, as most evidence has been derived from small and retrospective studies, results from randomized control trials could be of significant value.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos I Tsamis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500, Ioannina, Greece. .,School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, 2404, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - Hercules Sakkas
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Alexandros Giannakis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Han Suk Ryu
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Korea
| | - Constantina Gartzonika
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ilias P Nikas
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, 2404, Nicosia, Cyprus
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ferrè L, Filippi M, Esposito F. Involvement of Genetic Factors in Multiple Sclerosis. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:612953. [PMID: 33335478 PMCID: PMC7735985 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.612953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ferrè
- Neurology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neurology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Neurophysiology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Esposito
- Neurology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Yu AW, Pecsok M, Longbrake EE, Wesley SF. Neuroinflammation Associated With Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Inhibitor Exposure. Neurol Clin Pract 2020; 11:e488-e496. [PMID: 34484946 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000001014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective To identify the frequency and clinical spectrum of neuroinflammation associated with exposure to tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors (TNFi). Methods We performed a single-system retrospective cohort study. Adults in the Yale New Haven Health System with documented use of any US Food and Drug Administration-approved TNFi between 2007 and 2017 were identified via automated review of the electronic medical record. Those who also had brain MRIs were identified and categorized as either TNFi exposed or unexposed. Individuals with MRI findings concerning for neuroinflammation were identified, and detailed chart reviews were performed. Results A total of 4,391 patients received TNFi, and 547 also had brain MRI. After exclusion criteria were applied, 375 MRIs occurred after TNFi exposure, and 132 MRIs occurred before TNFi. MRIs were normal for 20.8% of exposed patients. The most common abnormal finding was nonspecific, punctate T2 hyperintensities. Seventeen cases (4.5%) among the exposed cohort had findings consistent with neuroinflammation, of which 58.8% required TNFi discontinuation and additional immunotherapy, whereas an additional 23.5% discontinued TNFi alone. After 3 years, 70.6% had stable MRI findings, whereas 11.8% demonstrated progression. The 10-year period prevalence of neuroinflammation in all subjects exposed to TNFi was 0.4%. Conclusions Neuroinflammatory phenomena following TNFi are a common concern for those treating patients with autoimmune disease. This is a large-scale study identifying the epidemiology surrounding this phenomenon. TNFi-associated inflammation was a rare outcome in our cohort. Most treated patients had either normal or nonspecific MRI findings. Further risk stratification parameters need to be identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy W Yu
- Yale University-Yale New Haven Hospital, CT
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Arneth B. Contributions of T cells in multiple sclerosis: what do we currently know? J Neurol 2020; 268:4587-4593. [PMID: 33083867 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-10275-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex autoimmune disorder characterized by neurologic dysfunction. The symptoms worsen as the disease progresses to the relapsing stage. AIM This study aimed to examine the role of T cells in MS pathogenesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS The review was performed based on articles obtained from PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL. Search terms and phrases, such as "multiple sclerosis," "MS," "T cells," "development," "Dysregulated T cells," and "Effector T cells", were used to identify articles that could help explore the research topic. RESULTS The pathogenesis of MS is linked to the regulatory, inflammatory, suppressive, and effector roles of T cells. However, the actual roles of specific T cell subsets in MS development are not well understood. DISCUSSION The study revealed a significant link between MS and T cell activity. Targeting T cells is a potential strategy for the development of new therapies to manage MS. CONCLUSION MS is a complex demyelinating condition that affects several million people around the world. Research has revealed that various classes of T cells, including effector T cells and regulatory T cells, influence the development and progression of MS. Further investigations are required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms through which specific T cell populations influence MS pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Borros Arneth
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Hospital of the Universities of Giessen and Marburg UKGM, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Feulgenstr 12, 35440, Giessen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Beecham AH, Amezcua L, Chinea A, Manrique CP, Rubi C, Isobe N, Lund BT, Santaniello A, Beecham GW, Burchard EG, Comabella M, Patsopoulos N, Fitzgerald K, Calabresi PA, De Jager P, Conti DV, Delgado SR, Oksenberg JR, McCauley JL. The genetic diversity of multiple sclerosis risk among Hispanic and African American populations living in the United States. Mult Scler 2020; 26:1329-1339. [PMID: 31368393 PMCID: PMC6994382 DOI: 10.1177/1352458519863764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substantial progress has been made toward unraveling the genetic architecture of multiple sclerosis (MS) within populations of European ancestry, but few genetic studies have focused on Hispanic and African American populations within the United States. OBJECTIVE We sought to test the relevance of common European MS risk variants outside of the major histocompatibility complex (n = 200) within these populations. METHODS Genotype data were available on 2652 Hispanics (1298 with MS, 1354 controls) and 2435 African Americans (1298 with MS, 1137 controls). We conducted single variant, pathway, and cumulative genetic risk score analyses. RESULTS We found less replication than statistical power suggested, particularly among African Americans. This could be due to limited correlation between the tested and causal variants within the sample or alternatively could indicate allelic and locus heterogeneity. Differences were observed between pathways enriched among the replicating versus all 200 variants. Although these differences should be examined in larger samples, a potential role exists for gene-environment or gene-gene interactions which alter phenotype differentially across racial and ethnic groups. Cumulative genetic risk scores were associated with MS within each study sample but showed limited diagnostic capability. CONCLUSION These findings provide a framework for fine-mapping efforts in multi-ethnic populations of MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A H Beecham
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA/The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - L Amezcua
- Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - A Chinea
- San Juan MS Center, Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, USA; Universidad Central del Caribe, Bayamon, Puerto Rico, USA
| | - C P Manrique
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - C Rubi
- San Juan MS Center, Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, USA; Universidad Central del Caribe, Bayamon, Puerto Rico, USA
| | - N Isobe
- Department of Neurological Therapeutics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - B T Lund
- Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - A Santaniello
- Department of Neurology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - G W Beecham
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA/The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - E G Burchard
- Departments of Medicine and Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - M Comabella
- Servei de Neurologia-Neuroimmunologia, Centre d'Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - N Patsopoulos
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K Fitzgerald
- Department of Neurology and The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - P A Calabresi
- Department of Neurology and The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - P De Jager
- Center for Translational and Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - D V Conti
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - S R Delgado
- Multiple Sclerosis Division, Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - J R Oksenberg
- Department of Neurology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - J L McCauley
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA/The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hawke S, Zinger A, Juillard PG, Holdaway K, Byrne SN, Grau GE. Selective modulation of trans-endothelial migration of lymphocyte subsets in multiple sclerosis patients under fingolimod treatment. J Neuroimmunol 2020; 349:577392. [PMID: 33007647 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2020.577392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder where auto-aggressive T cells target the central nervous system (CNS), causing demyelination. The trans-endothelial migration of leucocytes across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is one of the earliest CNS events in MS pathogenesis. We examined the effect of the disease state and treatment with fingolimod on the transmigration of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in an in vitro BBB model. Patients' leucocyte numbers, subsets and phenotypes were assessed by flow cytometry. As expected, fingolimod treatment induced a significant reduction in T cell and B cell numbers compared to untreated MS patients and healthy controls. Interestingly fingolimod led to a marked reduction of CD4+ and a significant increase in CD8+ cell numbers. In migrated cells, only CD3+ cell numbers were reduced in fingolimod-treated, compared to untreated patients; it had no effect on B cell or monocyte transmigration. T cells were then differentiated into naïve, effector and memory subsets based on their expression of CCR7. This showed that MS patients had increased numbers of effector memory CD4+ cells re-expressing CD45RA (TEMRA) and a decrease in central memory (CM) CD8+ cells. The former was corrected by fingolimod, while the latter was not. CM CD4+ and CD8+ cells migrated across BBB more efficiently in fingolimod-treated patients. We found that while fingolimod reduced the proportions of naïve CD19+ B cells, it significantly increased the proportions of these cells which migrated. When B cells were further stratified based on CD24, CD27 and CD38 expression, the only effect of fingolimod was an enhancement of CD24hiCD27+ B cell migration, compared to untreated MS patients. The migratory capacities of CD8hi Natural Killer (NK), CD8dim NK and NK-T cells were also reduced by fingolimod. While the disease-modifying effects of fingolimod are currently explained by its effect on reducing circulating auto-aggressive lymphocytes, our data suggests that fingolimod may also have a direct though differential effect on the trans-endothelial migration of circulating lymphocyte populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon Hawke
- Vascular Immunology Unit, Discipline of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia; Central West Neurology and Neurosurgery, Orange, NSW, Australia.
| | - Anna Zinger
- Vascular Immunology Unit, Discipline of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Pierre-Georges Juillard
- Vascular Immunology Unit, Discipline of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | | | - Scott N Byrne
- The University of Sydney, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Georges E Grau
- Vascular Immunology Unit, Discipline of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Zhang J, Chen MJ, Zhao GX, Li HF, Wu L, Xu YF, Liao Y, Yuan Z, Wu ZY. Common genetic variants in PRRC2A are associated with both neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and multiple sclerosis in Han Chinese population. J Neurol 2020; 268:506-515. [PMID: 32862241 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-10184-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The proline-rich coiled-coil 2A (PRRC2A) gene has been reported to underlie risk of various autoimmune diseases. However, no data reveal the risk susceptibility of PRRC2A to neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and multiple sclerosis (MS) so far. OBJECTIVES To explore the association between PRRC2A variants and NMOSD and MS susceptibility in Han Chinese population. METHODS Totally, 207 NMOSD (98 AQP4+ and 109 AQP4-) patients, 141 MS and 196 healthy controls (HC) were enrolled. Candidate tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (tag-SNPs) were selected from the 1000G database based on the Chinese data. SNP genotyping was performed using MassArray and Sanger sequencing. RESULTS PRRC2A variants rs2736171, rs2736157, rs2844470 alter susceptibility to AQP4+ NMOSD, while rs2242659 to MS. Genotype AT of rs2844470 and AG of rs2242659 increased risk susceptibility for AQP4+ NMOSD and MS, respectively. AQP4+ NMOSD exhibited a higher frequency of genotype AG of rs2736157 compared with AQP4- NMOSD. Haplotype TCAAGGTAG was conferred risk susceptibility to AQP4+ NMOSD and haplotype TTAGAGTAG had a protective effect on both AQP4+ and AQP4- NMOSD. Further, we identified various gene expression levels in disease-related regions that are significantly modulated by three cis-eQTL SNPs rs2736157, rs2736171 and rs2242659 (p < 1.05 × 10-4). CONCLUSIONS PRRC2A variants are first reported to be associated with NMOSD and MS. The identified PRRC2A variants may shed light on the pathogenesis of NMOSD and MS and potentially lead to an individualized therapeutic approach for both distinct disease entities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Mei-Jiao Chen
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Gui-Xian Zhao
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hong-Fu Li
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Lei Wu
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yong-Feng Xu
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yajin Liao
- The Brain Science Center, Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Zengqiang Yuan
- The Brain Science Center, Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Zhi-Ying Wu
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Giussani P, Prinetti A, Tringali C. The role of Sphingolipids in myelination and myelin stability and their involvement in childhood and adult demyelinating disorders. J Neurochem 2020; 156:403-414. [PMID: 33448358 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) represents the most common demyelinating disease affecting the central nervous system (CNS) in adults as well as in children. Furthermore, in children, in addition to acquired diseases such as MS, genetically inherited diseases significantly contribute to the incidence of demyelinating disorders. Some genetic defects lead to sphingolipid alterations that are able to elicit neurological symptoms. Sphingolipids are essential for brain development, and their aberrant functionality may thus contribute to demyelinating diseases such as MS. In particular, sphingolipidoses caused by deficits of sphingolipid-metabolizing enzymes, are often associated with demyelination. Sphingolipids are not only structural molecules but also bioactive molecules involved in the regulation of cellular events such as development of the nervous system, myelination and maintenance of myelin stability. Changes in the sphingolipid metabolism deeply affect plasma membrane organization. Thus, changes in myelin sphingolipid composition might crucially contribute to the phenotype of diseases characterized by demyelinalization. Here, we review key features of several sphingolipids such as ceramide/dihydroceramide, sphingosine/dihydrosphingosine, glucosylceramide and, galactosylceramide which act in myelin formation during rat brain development and in human brain demyelination during the pathogenesis of MS, suggesting that this knowledge could be useful in identifying targets for possible therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Giussani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università di Milano, LITA Segrate, Segrate, Italy
| | - Alessandro Prinetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università di Milano, LITA Segrate, Segrate, Italy
| | - Cristina Tringali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università di Milano, LITA Segrate, Segrate, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Brandão WN, De Oliveira MG, Andreoni RT, Nakaya H, Farias AS, Peron JPS. Neuroinflammation at single cell level: What is new? J Leukoc Biol 2020; 108:1129-1137. [PMID: 32779279 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.3mr0620-035r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic and demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), most prevalent in women, and with an important social and economic cost worldwide. It is triggered by self-reacting lymphocytes that infiltrate the CNS and initiate neuroinflammation. Further, axonal loss and neuronal death takes place, leading to neurodegeneration and brain atrophy. The murine model for studying MS, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), consists in immunizing mice with myelin-derived epitopes. APCs activate encephalitogenic T CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes that migrate mainly to the spinal cord resulting in neuroinflammation. Most of the knowledge on the pathophysiology and treatment of MS was obtained from EAE experiments, as Th17 cells, anti-alpha4 blocking Abs and the role of microbiota. Conversely, recent technology breakthroughs, such as CyTOF and single-cell RNA-seq, promise to revolutionize our understanding on the mechanisms involved both in MS and EAE. In fact, the importance of specific cellular populations and key molecules in MS/EAE is a constant matter of debate. It is well accepted that both Th1 and Th17 T CD4 lymphocytes play a relevant role in disease initiation after re-activation in situ. What is still under constant investigation, however, is the plasticity of the lymphocyte population, and the individual contribution of both resident and inflammatory cells for the progression or recovery of the disease. Thus, in this review, new findings obtained after single-cell analysis of blood and central nervous system infiltrating cells from MS/EAE and how they have contributed to a better knowledge on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neuroinflammation are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W N Brandão
- Neuroimmune Interactions Laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Immunology, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M G De Oliveira
- Neuroimmune Interactions Laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Immunology, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - R T Andreoni
- Neuroimmune Interactions Laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Immunology, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - H Nakaya
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A S Farias
- Autoimmune Research Laboratory, Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Immunology - Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.,Experimental Medicine Research Cluster (EMRC), Division of Immune-Mediated Diseases
| | - J P S Peron
- Neuroimmune Interactions Laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Immunology, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Scientific Platform Pasteur, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Immunopathology and Allergy Post Graduate Program, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Mifflin L, Ofengeim D, Yuan J. Receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) as a therapeutic target. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2020; 19:553-571. [PMID: 32669658 PMCID: PMC7362612 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-020-0071-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) is a key mediator of cell death and inflammation. The unique hydrophobic pocket in the allosteric regulatory domain of RIPK1 has enabled the development of highly selective small-molecule inhibitors of its kinase activity, which have demonstrated safety in preclinical models and clinical trials. Potential applications of these RIPK1 inhibitors for the treatment of monogenic and polygenic autoimmune, inflammatory, neurodegenerative, ischaemic and acute conditions, such as sepsis, are emerging. This article reviews RIPK1 biology and disease-associated mutations in RIPK1 signalling pathways, highlighting clinical trials of RIPK1 inhibitors and potential strategies to mitigate development challenges. Receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) — a key mediator of cell death and inflammation — is activated in human diseases. Here, Yuan and colleagues discuss current understanding of RIPK1 biology and its association with diseases including inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, neurodegenerative diseases and sepsis. The clinical development of small-molecule RIPK1 inhibitors and associated challenges are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Mifflin
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dimitry Ofengeim
- Rare and Neurologic Disease Research, Sanofi, Framingham, MA, USA
| | - Junying Yuan
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Gresle MM, Jordan MA, Stankovich J, Spelman T, Johnson LJ, Laverick L, Hamlett A, Smith LD, Jokubaitis VG, Baker J, Haartsen J, Taylor B, Charlesworth J, Bahlo M, Speed TP, Brown MA, Field J, Baxter AG, Butzkueven H. Multiple sclerosis risk variants regulate gene expression in innate and adaptive immune cells. Life Sci Alliance 2020; 3:3/7/e202000650. [PMID: 32518073 PMCID: PMC7283543 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202000650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
At least 200 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) risk. A key function that could mediate SNP-encoded MS risk is their regulatory effects on gene expression. We performed microarrays using RNA extracted from purified immune cell types from 73 untreated MS cases and 97 healthy controls and then performed Cis expression quantitative trait loci mapping studies using additive linear models. We describe MS risk expression quantitative trait loci associations for 129 distinct genes. By extending these models to include an interaction term between genotype and phenotype, we identify MS risk SNPs with opposing effects on gene expression in cases compared with controls, namely, rs2256814 MYT1 in CD4 cells (q = 0.05) and rs12087340 RF00136 in monocyte cells (q = 0.04). The rs703842 SNP was also associated with a differential effect size on the expression of the METTL21B gene in CD8 cells of MS cases relative to controls (q = 0.03). Our study provides a detailed map of MS risk loci that function by regulating gene expression in cell types relevant to MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M Gresle
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,Melbourne Brain Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Margaret A Jordan
- Molecular & Cell Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Jim Stankovich
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tim Spelman
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Laura J Johnson
- Florey Institutes of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Australia
| | - Louise Laverick
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Alison Hamlett
- Florey Institutes of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Australia
| | - Letitia D Smith
- Molecular & Cell Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Vilija G Jokubaitis
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Josephine Baker
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Unit, Melbourne Health, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Jodi Haartsen
- Eastern Clinical Research Unit, Eastern Health, Box Hill, Australia
| | - Bruce Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Jac Charlesworth
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Melanie Bahlo
- Population Health and Immunity Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Terence P Speed
- Bioinformatics Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Australia
| | - Matthew A Brown
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Australia.,Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, London, England
| | - Judith Field
- Florey Institutes of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Australia
| | - Alan G Baxter
- Molecular & Cell Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Helmut Butzkueven
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Ghavimi R, Alsahebfosoul F, Salehi R, Kazemi M, Etemadifar M, Zavaran Hosseini A. High-resolution melting curve analysis of polymorphisms within CD58, CD226, HLA-G genes and association with multiple sclerosis susceptibility in a subset of Iranian population: a case-control study. Acta Neurol Belg 2020; 120:645-652. [PMID: 30128676 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-018-0992-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system with unknown etiology, which typically is manifested in early to middle adulthood. Recently, genome-wide association studies have identified susceptibility of immune-related genes to be involved in MS predisposition. The goal of the current study was to investigate the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) with the immunologically related genes responsible for the disease, composed of CD58 (rs2300747 A>G), CD226 (rs763361 C>T), and HLA-G (rs1611715 A>C), with MS susceptibility. In this case-control study, a total of 200 patients suffering from relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and 200 healthy individuals were recruited. DNA was extracted from blood and then all subjects were genotyped for the polymorphism within mentioned genes by high-resolution melting (HRM) real-time PCR method. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software (version 20; SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA). Our finding showed that there are significant differences in genotype and allele frequencies between two groups regarding rs763361 (P = 0.035, OR 0.64, CI 95% for C allele) and rs1611715 (P = 0.038, OR 1.57, CI 95% for AA genotype) polymorphisms within CD226 and HLA-G genes, respectively. Concerning rs2300747 polymorphism on CD58 gene, no significant differences were found between cases and controls. In general, results from the current study indicate that CD226 and HLA-G, but not CD58 genetic polymorphisms are associated with increased risk of MS in Isfahan population similar to European populations. However, to elucidate how these SNPs contribute to MS pathogenesis, functional studies are needed.
Collapse
|
44
|
Fazia T, Nova A, Gentilini D, Beecham A, Piras M, Saddi V, Ticca A, Bitti P, McCauley JL, Berzuini C, Bernardinelli L. Investigating the Causal Effect of Brain Expression of CCL2, NFKB1, MAPK14, TNFRSF1A, CXCL10 Genes on Multiple Sclerosis: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Approach. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:397. [PMID: 32432099 PMCID: PMC7216783 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) exhibits considerable heterogeneity in phenotypic expression, course, prognosis and response to therapy. This suggests this disease involves multiple, as yet poorly understood, causal mechanisms. In this work we assessed the possible causal link between gene expression level of five selected genes related to the pro-inflammatory NF-κB signaling pathway (i.e., CCL2, NFKB1, MAPK14, TNFRSF1A, CXCL10) in ten different brain tissues (i.e., cerebellum, frontal cortex, hippocampus, medulla, occipital cortex, putamen, substantia nigra, thalamus, temporal cortex and intralobular white matter) and MS. We adopted a two-stage Mendelian Randomization (MR) approach for the estimation of the causal effects of interest, based on summary-level data from 20 multiplex Sardinian families and data provided by the United Kingdom Brain Expression Consortium (UKBEC). Through Radial-MR and Cochrane's Q statistics we identified and removed genetic variants which are most likely to be invalid instruments. To estimate the total causal effect, univariable MR was carried out separately for each gene and brain region. We used Inverse-Variance Weighted estimator (IVW) as main analysis and MR-Egger Regression estimator (MR-ER) and Weighted Median Estimator (WME) as sensitivity analysis. As these genes belong to the same pathway and thus they can be closely related, we also estimated their direct causal effects by applying IVW and MR-ER within a multivariable MR (MVMR) approach using set of genetic instruments specific and common (composite) to each multiple exposures represented by the expression of the candidate genes. Univariate MR analysis showed a significant positive total causal effect for CCL2 and NFKB1 respectively in medulla and cerebellum. MVMR showed a direct positive causal effect for NFKB1 and TNFRSF1A, and a direct negative causal effect for CCL2 in cerebellum; while in medulla we observed a direct positive causal effect for CCL2. Since in general we observed a different magnitude for the gene specific causal effect we hypothesize that in cerebellum and medulla the effect of each gene expression is direct but also mediated by the others. These results confirm the importance of the involvement of NF-κB signaling pathway in brain tissue for the development of the disease and improve our understanding in the pathogenesis of MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Fazia
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Nova
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Davide Gentilini
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Bioinformatics and Statistical Genomics Unit, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Ashley Beecham
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Marialuisa Piras
- Divisione di Neurologia, Presidio Ospedaliero S. Francesco, ASL Numero 3 Nuoro, Nuoro, Italy
| | - Valeria Saddi
- Divisione di Neurologia, Presidio Ospedaliero S. Francesco, ASL Numero 3 Nuoro, Nuoro, Italy
| | - Anna Ticca
- Divisione di Neurologia, Presidio Ospedaliero S. Francesco, ASL Numero 3 Nuoro, Nuoro, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Bitti
- Centro di Tipizzazione Tissutale, S.I.T., Presidio Ospedaliero S. Francesco, ASL Numero 3 Nuoro, Nuoro, Italy
| | - Jacob L. McCauley
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Carlo Berzuini
- Centre for Biostatistics, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Luisa Bernardinelli
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Gokuladhas S, Schierding W, Cameron-Smith D, Wake M, Scotter EL, O’Sullivan J. Shared Regulatory Pathways Reveal Novel Genetic Correlations Between Grip Strength and Neuromuscular Disorders. Front Genet 2020; 11:393. [PMID: 32391060 PMCID: PMC7194178 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscle weakness is a common consequence of both aging (sarcopenia) and neuromuscular disorders (NMD). Whilst genome-wide association (GWA) studies have identified genetic variants associated with grip strength (GS; measure of muscle strength/weakness) and NMDs, including multiple sclerosis (MS), myasthenia gravis (MG) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), it is not known whether there are common mechanisms between these phenotypes. To examine this, we have integrated GS and NMD associated genetic variants (single nucleotide polymorphisms; SNPs) in a multimorbid analysis that leverages high-throughput chromatin interaction (Hi-C) data and expression quantitative trait loci data to identify target genes (i.e., SNP-mediated gene regulation). Biological pathways enriched by these genes were then identified using next-generation pathway enrichment analysis. Lastly, druggable genes were identified using drug gene interaction (DGI) database. We identified gene regulatory mechanisms associated with GS, MG, MS, and ALS. The SNPs associated with GS regulate a subset of genes that are also regulated by the SNPs of MS, MG, and ALS. Yet, we did not find any genes commonly regulated by all four phenotype associated SNPs. By contrast, we identified significant enrichment in three pathways (mTOR signaling, axon guidance, and alcoholism) that are commonly affected by the gene regulatory mechanisms associated with all four phenotypes. 13% of the genes we identified were known drug targets, and GS shares at least one druggable gene and pathway with each of the NMD phenotypes. We have identified significant biological overlaps between GS and NMD, demonstrating the potential for spatial genetic analysis to identify common mechanisms between potential multimorbid phenotypes. Collectively, our results form the foundation for a shift from a gene to a pathway-based approach to the rationale design of therapeutic interventions and treatments for NMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David Cameron-Smith
- Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Melissa Wake
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Emma L. Scotter
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Justin O’Sullivan
- Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Factor DC, Barbeau AM, Allan KC, Hu LR, Madhavan M, Hoang AT, Hazel KEA, Hall PA, Nisraiyya S, Najm FJ, Miller TE, Nevin ZS, Karl RT, Lima BR, Song Y, Sibert AG, Dhillon GK, Volsko C, Bartels CF, Adams DJ, Dutta R, Gallagher MD, Phu W, Kozlenkov A, Dracheva S, Scacheri PC, Tesar PJ, Corradin O. Cell Type-Specific Intralocus Interactions Reveal Oligodendrocyte Mechanisms in MS. Cell 2020; 181:382-395.e21. [PMID: 32246942 PMCID: PMC7426147 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2020.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by attack on oligodendrocytes within the central nervous system (CNS). Despite widespread use of immunomodulatory therapies, patients may still face progressive disability because of failure of myelin regeneration and loss of neurons, suggesting additional cellular pathologies. Here, we describe a general approach for identifying specific cell types in which a disease allele exerts a pathogenic effect. Applying this approach to MS risk loci, we pinpoint likely pathogenic cell types for 70%. In addition to T cell loci, we unexpectedly identified myeloid- and CNS-specific risk loci, including two sites that dysregulate transcriptional pause release in oligodendrocytes. Functional studies demonstrated inhibition of transcriptional elongation is a dominant pathway blocking oligodendrocyte maturation. Furthermore, pause release factors are frequently dysregulated in MS brain tissue. These data implicate cell-intrinsic aberrations outside of the immune system and suggest new avenues for therapeutic development. VIDEO ABSTRACT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Factor
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Anna M Barbeau
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Kevin C Allan
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Lucille R Hu
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Mayur Madhavan
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - An T Hoang
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Kathryn E A Hazel
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Parker A Hall
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Sagar Nisraiyya
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Fadi J Najm
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Tyler E Miller
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Zachary S Nevin
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Robert T Karl
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Bruna R Lima
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Yanwei Song
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | | | - Gursimran K Dhillon
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Christina Volsko
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Cynthia F Bartels
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Drew J Adams
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Ranjan Dutta
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | | | - William Phu
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Alexey Kozlenkov
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10468, USA; Friedman Brain Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Stella Dracheva
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10468, USA; Friedman Brain Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Peter C Scacheri
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Paul J Tesar
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Olivia Corradin
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Paramonova N, Trapina I, Dokane K, Kalnina J, Sjakste T, Sjakste N. An Intergenic rs9275596 Polymorphism on Chr. 6p21 Is Associated with Multiple Sclerosis in Latvians. MEDICINA-LITHUANIA 2020; 56:medicina56040154. [PMID: 32244438 PMCID: PMC7230508 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56040154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, leading to demyelination of neurons and potentially debilitating physical and mental symptoms. The disease is more prevalent in women than in men. The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region has been identified as a major genetic determinant for autoimmune diseases, and its role in some neurological disorders including MS was evaluated. An intergenic single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs9275596, located between the HLA-DQB1 and HLA-DQA2 genes, is in significant association with various autoimmune diseases according to genome-wide association studies (GWASs). A cumulative effect of this SNP with other polymorphisms from this region was revealed. The aim of the study was to verify the data on rs9275596 association in multiple sclerosis in a case/control study of the Latvian population and to evaluate eventual functional significance of allele substitutions. Materials and Methods: rs9275596 (chr6:32713854; GRCh38.p12) was genotyped in 273 MS patients and 208 controls on main and sex-specific associations. Eventual functional significance of allele substitutions was evaluated in silico using publicly available tools. Results: The rs9275596 rare alleles were identified as a disease susceptibility factor in association with the MS main group and in affected females (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). Risk factor genotypes with rare alleles included were associated with the MS common cohort (p < 0.002) and female cohort (odds ratio, OR = 2.24) and were identified as disease susceptible in males (OR = 2.41). It was shown that structural changes of rs9275596 affect the secondary structure of DNA. Functional significance of allele substitutions was evaluated on the eventual sequence affinity to transcription factors (TFs) and splicing signals similarity. A possible impact of the particular polymorphisms on the transcription and splicing efficiency is discussed. Conclusions: Our results suggest susceptibility of rs9275596 to multiple sclerosis in Latvians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Paramonova
- Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Biology of the University of Latvia, LV-1004 Riga, Latvia; (N.P.); (K.D.); (J.K.); (T.S.); (N.S.)
| | - Ilva Trapina
- Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Biology of the University of Latvia, LV-1004 Riga, Latvia; (N.P.); (K.D.); (J.K.); (T.S.); (N.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +371-29354786
| | - Kristine Dokane
- Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Biology of the University of Latvia, LV-1004 Riga, Latvia; (N.P.); (K.D.); (J.K.); (T.S.); (N.S.)
| | - Jolanta Kalnina
- Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Biology of the University of Latvia, LV-1004 Riga, Latvia; (N.P.); (K.D.); (J.K.); (T.S.); (N.S.)
| | - Tatjana Sjakste
- Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Biology of the University of Latvia, LV-1004 Riga, Latvia; (N.P.); (K.D.); (J.K.); (T.S.); (N.S.)
| | - Nikolajs Sjakste
- Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Biology of the University of Latvia, LV-1004 Riga, Latvia; (N.P.); (K.D.); (J.K.); (T.S.); (N.S.)
- Department of Medical Biochemistry of the University of Latvia, LV-1004 Riga, Latvia
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Pistono C, Monti MC, Marchesi N, Boiocchi C, Campagnoli LIM, Morlotti D, Cuccia M, Govoni S, Montomoli C, Mallucci G, Bergamaschi R, Pascale A. Unraveling a new player in multiple sclerosis pathogenesis: The RNA-binding protein HuR. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2020; 41:102048. [PMID: 32200342 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2020.102048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND ELAV-like proteins are a small family of RNA-binding proteins that are fundamental players in post-transcriptional mechanisms and are involved in the pathogenesis of neurologic and psychiatric disorders. HuR, the ubiquitously expressed member of the family, is also implicated in sustaining inflammation and inflammatory diseases, supporting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Inflammation plays a central role in Multiple Sclerosis (MS), which represents the most common cause of permanent physical disability in young adults. MS is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the Central Nervous System, with a complex aetiology involving genetic, environmental and epigenetic factors. No data are available on the potential entanglement of HuR in MS pathogenesis in patients. In the present work, we aimed at exploring HuR protein levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from MS patients, compared to healthy controls. To further elucidate the possible involvement of HuR in MS, we also investigated the relationship between this specific RNA-binding protein and HSP70-2 protein, also considering the HSP70-2 rs1061581 polymorphism, given that HSP70-2 mRNA has been reported as a HuR target and this specific polymorphism to be associated with MS risk. METHODS Alleles and genotypes for HSP70-2 rs1061581 polymorphism were assessed, by using a Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism, followed by digestion with restriction enzyme, in MS patients and healthy controls. PBMCs from a subgroup of patients and controls were used to evaluate HuR and HSP70-2 protein content by Western blot. RESULTS PBMCs from 52 MS patients had a lower HuR and higher HSP70-2 protein content compared to 43 healthy controls. An increase of 100 units of HuR significantly decreased the risk of developing MS by 9.8% (OR: 0.902, 95% CI: 0.83-0.98), controlling for HSP70-2 protein expression, HSP70-2 rs1061581 genotype, age and sex. Moreover, holding HuR levels, an increase of 100 units of HSP70-2 protein significantly increased the MS risk by 18.1% (OR: 1.181, 95% CI: 1.03-1.36) and the genetic susceptibility of developing MS for HSP70-2 rs1061581 GG carriers is confirmed. Of interest, MS patients with a moderate to severe form of MS (MSSS ≥ 3) showed a trend towards a reduction of HuR protein levels compared to patients with mild disease severity (MSSS < 3). CONCLUSIONS HuR protein levels are reduced in MS patients compared to healthy subjects, and the protein amount may continue to decline with disease progression, suggesting a putative role of this RNA-binding protein. Moreover, our results suggest that MS pathology may have disrupted the link between HuR and its target transcript HSP70-2. It will be important to further explore the exact role of HuR in MS, considering the complex interplay with other RNA-binding factors and target mRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Pistono
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Biology & Biotechnology "L. Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Monti
- Department of Public Health Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Marchesi
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Boiocchi
- Inter-Department Multiple Sclerosis Research Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Danila Morlotti
- Department of Public Health Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mariaclara Cuccia
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Biology & Biotechnology "L. Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano Govoni
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Montomoli
- Department of Public Health Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Mallucci
- Inter-Department Multiple Sclerosis Research Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberto Bergamaschi
- Inter-Department Multiple Sclerosis Research Centre, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessia Pascale
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) exhibits a well-documented increased incidence in individuals with respective family history, that is, is a heritable disease. In the last decade, genome-wide association studies have enabled the agnostic interrogation of the whole genome at a large scale. To date, over 200 genetic associations have been described at the strict level of genome-wide significance. Our current understanding of MS genetics can explain up to half of the disease's heritability, raising the important question of whether this is enough information to leverage toward improving diagnosis in MS. Parallel advancements in technologies that allow the characterization of the full transcriptome down to the single-cell level have enabled the generation of an unprecedented wealth of information. Transcriptional changes of putative causal cells could be utilized to identify early signs of disease onset. These recent findings in genetics and genomics, coupled with new technologies and deeply phenotyped cohorts, have the potential to improve the diagnosis of MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos A Patsopoulos
- Systems Biology and Computer Science Program, Ann Romney Center for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA/Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA/Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Philip L De Jager
- Broad Institute of Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA/Center for Translational and Computational Neuroimmunology, Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Reworking GWAS Data to Understand the Role of Nongenetic Factors in MS Etiopathogenesis. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11010097. [PMID: 31947683 PMCID: PMC7017269 DOI: 10.3390/genes11010097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have identified more than 200 multiple sclerosis (MS)-associated loci across the human genome over the last decade, suggesting complexity in the disease etiology. This complexity poses at least two challenges: the definition of an etiological model including the impact of nongenetic factors, and the clinical translation of genomic data that may be drivers for new druggable targets. We reviewed studies dealing with single genes of interest, to understand how MS-associated single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variants affect the expression and the function of those genes. We then surveyed studies on the bioinformatic reworking of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data, with aggregate analyses of many GWAS loci, each contributing with a small effect to the overall disease predisposition. These investigations uncovered new information, especially when combined with nongenetic factors having possible roles in the disease etiology. In this context, the interactome approach, defined as “modules of genes whose products are known to physically interact with environmental or human factors with plausible relevance for MS pathogenesis”, will be reported in detail. For a future perspective, a polygenic risk score, defined as a cumulative risk derived from aggregating the contributions of many DNA variants associated with a complex trait, may be integrated with data on environmental factors affecting the disease risk or protection.
Collapse
|