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Chen S, Huan X, Xu C, Luo S, Zhao C, Zhong H, Zheng X, Qiao K, Dong Y, Wang Y, Liu C, Huang H, Chen Y, Zou Z. Eomesodermin expression in CD4 +T-cells associated with disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14503. [PMID: 37850654 PMCID: PMC11017423 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14503] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To clarify the role of Eomesodermin (EOMES) to serve as a disease-relevant biomarker and the intracellular molecules underlying the immunophenotype shifting of CD4+T subsets in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS The derivation and validation cohorts included a total of 148 ALS patients and 101 healthy controls (HCs). Clinical data and peripheral blood were collected. T-cell subsets and the EOMES expression were quantified using multicolor flow cytometry. Serum neurofilament light chain (NFL) was measured. In 1-year longitudinal follow-ups, the ALSFRS-R scores and primary endpoint events were further recorded in the ALS patients of the validation cohort. RESULTS In the derivation cohort, the CD4+EOMES+T-cell subsets were significantly increased (p < 0.001). EOMES+ subset was positively correlated with increased serum NFL levels in patients with onset longer than 12 months. In the validation cohort, the elevated CD4+EOMES+T-cell proportions and their association with NFL levels were also identified. The longitudinal study revealed that ALS patients with higher EOMES expression were associated with higher progression rates (p = .010) and worse prognosis (p = .003). CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that increased CD4+EOMES+T-cell subsets in ALS were associated with disease progression and poor prognosis. Identifying these associations may contribute to a better understanding of the immunopathological mechanism of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Chen
- Department of NeurologyFujian Medical University Union HospitalFuzhouChina
- Institute of Clinical NeurologyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Xiao Huan
- Huashan Rare Disease Center and Department of NeurologyHuashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, National Center for Neurological Disorders, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Chun‐Zuan Xu
- Department of NeurologyFujian Medical University Union HospitalFuzhouChina
- Institute of Clinical NeurologyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Su‐Shan Luo
- Huashan Rare Disease Center and Department of NeurologyHuashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, National Center for Neurological Disorders, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Chong‐Bo Zhao
- Huashan Rare Disease Center and Department of NeurologyHuashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, National Center for Neurological Disorders, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Hua‐Hua Zhong
- Huashan Rare Disease Center and Department of NeurologyHuashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, National Center for Neurological Disorders, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xue‐Ying Zheng
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health SafetyFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Kai Qiao
- Huashan Rare Disease Center and Department of NeurologyHuashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, National Center for Neurological Disorders, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yi Dong
- Huashan Rare Disease Center and Department of NeurologyHuashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, National Center for Neurological Disorders, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of PharmacyFudan University Huashan HospitalShanghaiChina
| | - Chang‐Yun Liu
- Department of NeurologyFujian Medical University Union HospitalFuzhouChina
- Institute of Clinical NeurologyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Hua‐Pin Huang
- Department of NeurologyFujian Medical University Union HospitalFuzhouChina
- Institute of Clinical NeurologyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Yan Chen
- Huashan Rare Disease Center and Department of NeurologyHuashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, National Center for Neurological Disorders, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zhang‐Yu Zou
- Department of NeurologyFujian Medical University Union HospitalFuzhouChina
- Institute of Clinical NeurologyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
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Nango H, Tsuruta K, Miyagishi H, Aono Y, Saigusa T, Kosuge Y. Update on the pathological roles of prostaglandin E 2 in neurodegeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Transl Neurodegener 2023; 12:32. [PMID: 37337289 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-023-00366-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by selective degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons. The pathogenesis of ALS remains largely unknown; however, inflammation of the spinal cord is a focus of ALS research and an important pathogenic process in ALS. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a major lipid mediator generated by the arachidonic-acid cascade and is abundant at inflammatory sites. PGE2 levels are increased in the postmortem spinal cords of ALS patients and in ALS model mice. Beneficial therapeutic effects have been obtained in ALS model mice using cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors to inhibit the biosynthesis of PGE2, but the usefulness of this inhibitor has not yet been proven in clinical trials. In this review, we present current evidence on the involvement of PGE2 in the progression of ALS and discuss the potential of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES) and the prostaglandin receptor E-prostanoid (EP) 2 as therapeutic targets for ALS. Signaling pathways involving prostaglandin receptors mediate toxic effects in the central nervous system. In some situations, however, the receptors mediate neuroprotective effects. Our recent studies demonstrated that levels of mPGES-1, which catalyzes the final step of PGE2 biosynthesis, are increased at the early-symptomatic stage in the spinal cords of transgenic ALS model mice carrying the G93A variant of superoxide dismutase-1. In addition, in an experimental motor-neuron model used in studies of ALS, PGE2 induces the production of reactive oxygen species and subsequent caspase-3-dependent cytotoxicity through activation of the EP2 receptor. Moreover, this PGE2-induced EP2 up-regulation in motor neurons plays a role in the death of motor neurons in ALS model mice. Further understanding of the pathophysiological role of PGE2 in neurodegeneration may provide new insights to guide the development of novel therapies for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Nango
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nihon University, 7-7-1 Narashinodai, Funabashi-Shi, Chiba, 274-8555, Japan
| | - Komugi Tsuruta
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nihon University, 7-7-1 Narashinodai, Funabashi-Shi, Chiba, 274-8555, Japan
| | - Hiroko Miyagishi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nihon University, 7-7-1 Narashinodai, Funabashi-Shi, Chiba, 274-8555, Japan
| | - Yuri Aono
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Dentistry at Matsudo, Nihon University, 2-870-1 Sakaechonishi, Matsudo-Shi, Chiba, 271-8587, Japan
| | - Tadashi Saigusa
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Dentistry at Matsudo, Nihon University, 2-870-1 Sakaechonishi, Matsudo-Shi, Chiba, 271-8587, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Kosuge
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nihon University, 7-7-1 Narashinodai, Funabashi-Shi, Chiba, 274-8555, Japan.
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3
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Berriat F, Lobsiger CS, Boillée S. The contribution of the peripheral immune system to neurodegeneration. Nat Neurosci 2023:10.1038/s41593-023-01323-6. [PMID: 37231108 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-023-01323-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Microglial cells are the major immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS), and directly react to neurodegeneration, but other immune cell types are also able to react to pathology and can modify the course of neurodegenerative processes. These mainly include monocytes/macrophages and lymphocytes. While these peripheral immune cells were initially considered to act only after infiltrating the CNS, recent evidence suggests that some of them can also act directly from the periphery. We will review the existing and emerging evidence for a role of peripheral immune cells in neurodegenerative diseases, both with and without CNS infiltration. Our focus will be on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, but we will also compare to Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease to highlight similarities or differences. Peripheral immune cells are easily accessible, and therefore may be an attractive therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, understanding how these peripheral immune cells communicate with the CNS deserves deeper investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Félix Berriat
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, Inserm, CNRS, APHP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Christian S Lobsiger
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, Inserm, CNRS, APHP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Séverine Boillée
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, Inserm, CNRS, APHP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.
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4
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Su Y, Chen Z, Du H, Liu R, Wang W, Li H, Ning B. Silencing miR-21 induces polarization of astrocytes to the A2 phenotype and improves the formation of synapses by targeting glypican 6 via the signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 pathway after acute ischemic spinal cord injury. FASEB J 2019; 33:10859-10871. [PMID: 31266356 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201900743r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Ischemic spinal cord injury (ISCI) results in the motor sensory dysfunction of the limbs below the injury site. In response to the injury, astrocytes develop into neuroprotective astrocytes [(neurotrophic reactive astrocytes (A2s)] to mitigate the damage. MicroRNA (miR)-21 can promote the development of neuroinflammation in previous studies. Our aim was to investigate the effect of miR-21 on its polarization. We used the abdominal aortic occlusion model in vivo. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the distribution of A2s in the spinal cord. We used an oxygen glucose deprivation method to model astrocytes ischemia in vitro and tested proliferation, migration, and excitability of A2s using an 5-ethynyl -2'-deoxyuridine kit, wound scratch assay, and calcium-ion probe. After adjustment, we detected the model and target genes of A2s using PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence, and chromatin immunoprecipitation. We demonstrated in vivo that naive astrocytes were transformed into A2s by ischemia. And in vitro miR-21, which can regulate the signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 pathway, can transform neurotoxic reactive astrocyte into A2. Moreover, we also verified the mechanism of A2s promoting synaptic formation and nerve growth. miR-21 is a switch to regulate the polarization of reactive astrocyte, and it promoted synapsis formation and nerites growth after acute ISCI.-Su, Y., Chen, Z., Du, H., Liu, R., Wang, W., Li, H., Ning, B. Silencing miR-21 induces polarization of astrocytes to the A2 phenotype and improves the formation of synapses by targeting glypican 6 via the signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 pathway after acute ischemic spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlin Su
- Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong First Medical University, Taian, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongxia Du
- Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ronghan Liu
- Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wenzhao Wang
- Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hongfei Li
- Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Bin Ning
- Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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5
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PQQ ameliorates D-galactose induced cognitive impairments by reducing glutamate neurotoxicity via the GSK-3β/Akt signaling pathway in mouse. Sci Rep 2018; 8:8894. [PMID: 29891841 PMCID: PMC5995849 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26962-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is known to be associated with various age-related diseases. D-galactose (D-gal) has been considered a senescent model which induces oxidative stress response resulting in memory dysfunction. Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a redox cofactor which is found in various foods. In our previous study, we found that PQQ may be converted into a derivative by binding with amino acid, which is beneficial to several pathological processes. In this study, we found a beneficial glutamate mixture which may diminish neurotoxicity by oxidative stress in D-gal induced mouse. Our results showed that PQQ may influence the generation of proinflammatory mediators, including cytokines and prostaglandins during aging process. D-gal-induced mouse showed increased MDA and ROS levels, and decreased T-AOC activities in the hippocampus, these changes were reversed by PQQ supplementation. Furthermore, PQQ statistically enhanced Superoxide Dismutase SOD2 mRNA expression. PQQ could ameliorate the memory deficits and neurotoxicity induced by D-gal via binding with excess glutamate, which provide a link between glutamate-mediated neurotoxicity, inflammation and oxidative stress. In addition, PQQ reduced the up-regulated expression of p-Akt by D-gal and maintained the activity of GSK-3β, resulting in a down-regulation of p-Tau level in hippocampus. PQQ modulated memory ability partly via Akt/GSK-3β pathway.
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6
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Peters S, Zitzelsperger E, Kuespert S, Iberl S, Heydn R, Johannesen S, Petri S, Aigner L, Thal DR, Hermann A, Weishaupt JH, Bruun TH, Bogdahn U. The TGF-β System As a Potential Pathogenic Player in Disease Modulation of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Neurol 2017; 8:669. [PMID: 29326641 PMCID: PMC5736544 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2017.00669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) represents a fatal orphan disease with high unmet medical need, and a life time risk of approx. 1/400 persons per population. Based on increasing knowledge on pathophysiology including genetic and molecular changes, epigenetics, and immune dysfunction, inflammatory as well as fibrotic processes may contribute to the heterogeneity and dynamics of ALS. Animal and human studies indicate dysregulations of the TGF-β system as a common feature of neurodegenerative disorders in general and ALS in particular. The TGF-β system is involved in different essential developmental and physiological processes and regulates immunity and fibrosis, both affecting neurogenesis and neurodegeneration. Therefore, it has emerged as a potential therapeutic target for ALS: a persistent altered TGF-β system might promote disease progression by inducing an imbalance of neurogenesis and neurodegeneration. The current study assessed the activation state of the TGF-β system within the periphery/in life disease stage (serum samples) and a late stage of disease (central nervous system tissue samples), and a potential influence upon neuronal stem cell (NSC) activity, immune activation, and fibrosis. An upregulated TGF-β system was suggested with significantly increased TGF-β1 protein serum levels, enhanced TGF-β2 mRNA and protein levels, and a strong trend toward an increased TGF-β1 protein expression within the spinal cord (SC). Stem cell activity appeared diminished, reflected by reduced mRNA expression of NSC markers Musashi-1 and Nestin within SC—paralleled by enhanced protein contents of Musashi-1. Doublecortin mRNA and protein expression was reduced, suggesting an arrested neurogenesis at late stage ALS. Chemokine/cytokine analyses suggest a shift from a neuroprotective toward a more neurotoxic immune response: anti-inflammatory chemokines/cytokines were unchanged or reduced, expression of proinflammatory chemokines/cytokines were enhanced in ALS sera and SC postmortem tissue. Finally, we observed upregulated mRNA and protein expression for fibronectin in motor cortex of ALS patients which might suggest increased fibrotic changes. These data suggest that there is an upregulated TGF-β system in specific tissues in ALS that might lead to a “neurotoxic” immune response, promoting disease progression and neurodegeneration. The TGF-β system therefore may represent a promising target in treatment of ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Peters
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Eva Zitzelsperger
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sabrina Kuespert
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Iberl
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Rosmarie Heydn
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Siw Johannesen
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Petri
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital MHH, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ludwig Aigner
- Institute of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Dietmar R Thal
- Department for Neuroscience, Laboratory for Neuropathology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Andreas Hermann
- Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden and German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Research Site Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Tim-Henrik Bruun
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Bogdahn
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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7
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Molteni M, Rossetti C. Neurodegenerative diseases: The immunological perspective. J Neuroimmunol 2017; 313:109-115. [PMID: 29153601 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence supports the notion that the neurodegenerative process occurring in Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) does not only imply the neuronal compartment but also involves a strong interaction with the immunological cells of the Central Nervous System (CNS), primarily microglia. Starting from the observation that the neurodegenerative disorders are frequent in elderly individuals, who have an immunological background that possibly favors this process, it is evident that a dysregulation of innate immune response triggered by misfolded and aggregated proteins, or by endogenous molecules released by injured neurons, directly contributes to disease pathogenesis and progression. There are important differences in the immunological processes occurring in AD, PD, ALS involving microglial function. Furthermore, although the contribution of adaptive immune cells in AD seems to be modest, in PD and especially in ALS models, T cells can influence microglial phenotype, inducing neuroprotection. A better understanding of the immunological mechanisms involved in the different phases of the neurodegenerative processes observed in AD, PD, ALS could effectively contribute to the development of new preventive and therapeutic strategies for such diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Molteni
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli studi dell'Insubria, Via Dunant, 3, 21100 Varese, Italy.
| | - Carlo Rossetti
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli studi dell'Insubria, Via Dunant, 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
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8
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Wilkins HM, Weidling IW, Ji Y, Swerdlow RH. Mitochondria-Derived Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns in Neurodegeneration. Front Immunol 2017; 8:508. [PMID: 28491064 PMCID: PMC5405073 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is increasingly implicated in neurodegenerative disease pathology. As no acquired pathogen appears to drive this inflammation, the question of what does remains. Recent advances indicate damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) molecules, which are released by injured and dying cells, can cause specific inflammatory cascades. Inflammation, therefore, can be endogenously induced. Mitochondrial components induce inflammatory responses in several pathological conditions. Due to evidence such as this, a number of mitochondrial components, including mitochondrial DNA, have been labeled as DAMP molecules. In this review, we consider the contributions of mitochondrial-derived DAMPs to inflammation observed in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather M Wilkins
- Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.,University of Kansas Alzheimer's Disease Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Ian W Weidling
- University of Kansas Alzheimer's Disease Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.,Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Yan Ji
- Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.,University of Kansas Alzheimer's Disease Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Russell H Swerdlow
- Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.,University of Kansas Alzheimer's Disease Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.,Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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9
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Beers DR, Zhao W, Wang J, Zhang X, Wen S, Neal D, Thonhoff JR, Alsuliman AS, Shpall EJ, Rezvani K, Appel SH. ALS patients' regulatory T lymphocytes are dysfunctional, and correlate with disease progression rate and severity. JCI Insight 2017; 2:e89530. [PMID: 28289705 PMCID: PMC5333967 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.89530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a pathological hallmark of ALS in both transgenic rodent models and patients, and is characterized by proinflammatory T lymphocytes and activated macrophages/microglia. In ALS mouse models, decreased regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs) exacerbate the neuroinflammatory process, leading to accelerated motoneuron death and shortened survival; passive transfer of Tregs suppresses the neuroinflammation and prolongs survival. Treg numbers and FOXP3 expression are also decreased in rapidly progressing ALS patients. A key question is whether the marked neuroinflammation in ALS can be attributed to the impaired suppressive function of ALS Tregs in addition to their decreased numbers. To address this question, T lymphocyte proliferation assays were performed. Compared with control Tregs, ALS Tregs were less effective in suppressing responder T lymphocyte proliferation. Although both slowly and rapidly progressing ALS patients had dysfunctional Tregs, the greater the clinically assessed disease burden or the more rapidly progressing the patient, the greater the Treg dysfunction. Epigenetically, the percentage methylation of the Treg-specific demethylated region was greater in ALS Tregs. After in vitro expansion, ALS Tregs regained suppressive abilities to the levels of control Tregs, suggesting that autologous passive transfer of expanded Tregs might offer a novel cellular therapy to slow disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R. Beers
- Peggy and Gary Edwards ALS Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Weihua Zhao
- Peggy and Gary Edwards ALS Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jinghong Wang
- Peggy and Gary Edwards ALS Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Xiujun Zhang
- Peggy and Gary Edwards ALS Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shixiang Wen
- Peggy and Gary Edwards ALS Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Dan Neal
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jason R. Thonhoff
- Peggy and Gary Edwards ALS Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Abdullah S. Alsuliman
- Department of Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Elizabeth J. Shpall
- Department of Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Katy Rezvani
- Department of Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Stanley H. Appel
- Peggy and Gary Edwards ALS Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
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10
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Selection and Prioritization of Candidate Drug Targets for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Through a Meta-Analysis Approach. J Mol Neurosci 2017; 61:563-580. [PMID: 28236105 PMCID: PMC5359376 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-017-0898-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and incurable neurodegenerative disease. Although several compounds have shown promising results in preclinical studies, their translation into clinical trials has failed. This clinical failure is likely due to the inadequacy of the animal models that do not sufficiently reflect the human disease. Therefore, it is important to optimize drug target selection by identifying those that overlap in human and mouse pathology. We have recently characterized the transcriptional profiles of motor cortex samples from sporadic ALS (SALS) patients and differentiated these into two subgroups based on differentially expressed genes, which encode 70 potential therapeutic targets. To prioritize drug target selection, we investigated their degree of conservation in superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) G93A transgenic mice, the most widely used ALS animal model. Interspecies comparison of our human expression data with those of eight different SOD1G93A datasets present in public repositories revealed the presence of commonly deregulated targets and related biological processes. Moreover, deregulated expression of the majority of our candidate targets occurred at the onset of the disease, offering the possibility to use them for an early and more effective diagnosis and therapy. In addition to highlighting the existence of common key drivers in human and mouse pathology, our study represents the basis for a rational preclinical drug development.
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11
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de Haan P, Klein HC, 't Hart BA. Autoimmune Aspects of Neurodegenerative and Psychiatric Diseases: A Template for Innovative Therapy. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:46. [PMID: 28421005 PMCID: PMC5378775 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases (NPDs) are today's most important group of diseases, surpassing both atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and cancer in morbidity incidence. Although NPDs have a dramatic impact on our society because of their high incidence, mortality, and severe debilitating character, remarkably few effective interventions have become available. The current treatments, if available, comprise the lifelong intake of general immunosuppressants to delay disease progression or neurotransmitter antagonists/agonists to dampen undesired behaviors. The long-term usage of such medication, however, coincides with often severe adverse side effects. There is, therefore, an urgent need for safe and effective treatments for these diseases. Here, we discuss that many NPDs coincide with subtle chronic or flaring brain inflammation sometimes escalating with infiltrations of lymphocytes in the inflamed brain parts causing mild to severe or even lethal brain damage. Thus, NPDs show all features of autoimmune diseases. In this review, we postulate that NPDs resemble autoimmune-driven inflammatory diseases in many aspects and may belong to the same disease spectrum. Just like in autoimmune diseases, NPD symptoms basically are manifestations of a chronic self-sustaining inflammatory process with detrimental consequences for the patient. Specific inhibition of the destructive immune responses in the brain, leaving the patient's immune system intact, would be the ultimate solution to cure patients from the disease. To reach this goal, the primary targets, e.g., the primary self-antigens (pSAgs) of the patient's chronic (auto)immune response, need to be identified. For a few major NPDs, immunological studies led to the identification of the pSAgs involved in the autoimmune damage of specific brain parts. However, further research is needed to complete the list of pSAgs for all NPDs. Such immunological studies will not only provide crucial insights into NPD pathogenesis but also ultimately enable the development of a new generation of safe and effective immunotherapies for NPDs. Interventions that will dramatically improve the life expectancy and quality of life of individual patients and, moreover, will significantly reduce the health-care costs of the society in general.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hans C Klein
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Imaging Centre, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Bert A 't Hart
- Department of Immunobiology, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, Netherlands
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12
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Marini C, Cistaro A, Campi C, Calvo A, Caponnetto C, Nobili FM, Fania P, Beltrametti MC, Moglia C, Novi G, Buschiazzo A, Perasso A, Canosa A, Scialò C, Pomposelli E, Massone AM, Bagnara MC, Cammarosano S, Bruzzi P, Morbelli S, Sambuceti G, Mancardi G, Piana M, Chiò A. A PET/CT approach to spinal cord metabolism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2016; 43:2061-71. [PMID: 27421971 PMCID: PMC5007279 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-016-3440-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Purpose In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, functional alterations within the brain have been intensively assessed, while progression of lower motor neuron damage has scarcely been defined. The aim of the present study was to develop a computational method to systematically evaluate spinal cord metabolism as a tool to monitor disease mechanisms. Methods A new computational three-dimensional method to extract the spinal cord from 18F-FDG PET/CT images was evaluated in 30 patients with spinal onset amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and 30 controls. The algorithm identified the skeleton on the CT images by using an extension of the Hough transform and then extracted the spinal canal and the spinal cord. In these regions, 18F-FDG standardized uptake values were measured to estimate the metabolic activity of the spinal canal and cord. Measurements were performed in the cervical and dorsal spine and normalized to the corresponding value in the liver. Results Uptake of 18F-FDG in the spinal cord was significantly higher in patients than in controls (p < 0.05). By contrast, no significant differences were observed in spinal cord and spinal canal volumes between the two groups. 18F-FDG uptake was completely independent of age, gender, degree of functional impairment, disease duration and riluzole treatment. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a higher mortality rate in patients with standardized uptake values above the fifth decile at the 3-year follow-up evaluation (log-rank test, p < 0.01). The independence of this value was confirmed by multivariate Cox analysis. Conclusion Our computational three-dimensional method enabled the evaluation of spinal cord metabolism and volume and might represent a potential new window onto the pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Marini
- CNR Institute of Bioimages and Molecular Physiology, Milan, Section of Genoa, Italy. .,Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS San Martino IST, and Depth of Health Science, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy. .,CNR Institute of Bioimages and Molecular Physiology, Section of Genoa, C/o Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, 16132, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Angelina Cistaro
- Positron Emission Tomography Centre IRMET, Affidea, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Calvo
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,AUO Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | - Claudia Caponnetto
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Martino IST, Genoa, Italy.,DINOGMI University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Flavio Mariano Nobili
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Martino IST, Genoa, Italy.,DINOGMI University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Piercarlo Fania
- Positron Emission Tomography Centre IRMET, Affidea, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Moglia
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,AUO Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | - Giovanni Novi
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Martino IST, Genoa, Italy.,DINOGMI University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ambra Buschiazzo
- Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS San Martino IST, and Depth of Health Science, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Canosa
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,AUO Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | - Carlo Scialò
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Martino IST, Genoa, Italy.,DINOGMI University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Elena Pomposelli
- Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS San Martino IST, and Depth of Health Science, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | - Stefania Cammarosano
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,AUO Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Bruzzi
- Statistics and Epidemiology Unit, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvia Morbelli
- Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS San Martino IST, and Depth of Health Science, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gianmario Sambuceti
- Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS San Martino IST, and Depth of Health Science, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Mancardi
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Martino IST, Genoa, Italy.,DINOGMI University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michele Piana
- SPIN Institute, CNR, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Mathematics (DIMA), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Adriano Chiò
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,AUO Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
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13
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Transcriptional analysis reveals distinct subtypes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: implications for personalized therapy. Future Med Chem 2016; 7:1335-59. [PMID: 26144267 DOI: 10.4155/fmc.15.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable disease, caused by the loss of the upper and lower motor neurons. The lack of therapeutic progress is mainly due to the insufficient understanding of complexity and heterogeneity underlying the pathogenic mechanisms of ALS. Recently, we analyzed whole-genome expression profiles of motor cortex of sporadic ALS patients, classifying them into two subgroups characterized by differentially expressed genes and pathways. Some of the deregulated genes encode proteins, which are primary targets of drugs currently in preclinical or clinical studies for several clinical conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss in-depth the potential role of these candidate targets in ALS pathogenesis, highlighting their possible relevance for personalized ALS treatments.
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14
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Abstract
ABSTRACT:In recognition of the 100th anniversary of Charcot’s death we have reviewed possible pathogenic mechanisms in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Advances in the last 5 years in molecular biology and genetics have identified mutations in the cytosolic dismutase (SODI) gene in some patients with familial ALS raising the possibility that oxidative stress may be involved in the pathogenesis. An excitotoxic pathogenesis has been implicated based on elevated plasma and CSF levels of amino acids and altered contents of amino acids in the nervous system of ALS patients and changes in the number of excitatory amino acid receptors. ALS sera containing antibodies to L-type calcium channels and the development of immune mediated lower and upper and lower motor neuron models have revitalized research efforts focusing on an immune basis for ALS. Other pathogenic mechanisms which have been the subject of recent research include elemental toxicity, apoptosis and programmed cell death and possibly a deficiency or abnormality in growth factors. Pathogenic processes for ALS must account for an increasing incidence of ALS, male preponderance, and the selective vulnerability of the corticomotoneuronal system.
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15
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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease: Phylogenetic Disorders of the Human Neocortex Sharing Many Characteristics. Can J Neurol Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1017/s0317167100041482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT:Features common to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are reviewed. Shared epidemiological aspects include an increasing frequency which is proportional for each disease. We draw attention to geographic non-uniform distribution which, for ALS and PD, correlates positively with latitude. Clinical and pathological overlap occurs in the same patients, and in members of the same family. A high early morning plasma cysteine/sulphate ratio possibly related to the development of proteinacious inclusions, as well as ubiquinated neuronal inclusions, characterize ALS, PD and AD. HLA-DR (the human group II major histocompatibility class) staining is marked in ALS, PD and AD and may represent autoimmunity-incited by-products of neuronal degeneration. Based upon demonstrated glutaminergic connections between the neocortex and anterior horn cells, the entorhinal cortex and the basal ganglia we hypothesize that ALS, AD and PD are phylogenetic disturbances of the neocortical cell. The postsynaptic neuron may degenerate secondarily to anterograde effects of deranged glutamate metabolism. Future therapeutic strategies should be directed to agents that decrease transmission induced by excitatory amino-acids.
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16
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Complex Inflammation mRNA-Related Response in ALS Is Region Dependent. Neural Plast 2015; 2015:573784. [PMID: 26301107 PMCID: PMC4537753 DOI: 10.1155/2015/573784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Revised: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory changes are analyzed in the anterior spinal cord and frontal cortex area 8 in typical spinal-predominant ALS cases. Increased numbers of astrocytes and activated microglia are found in the anterior horn of the spinal cord and pyramidal tracts. Significant increased expression of TLR7, CTSS, and CTSC mRNA and a trend to increased expression of IL10RA, TGFB1, and TGFB2 are found in the anterior lumbar spinal cord in ALS cases compared to control cases, whereas C1QTNF7 and TNFRSF1A mRNA expression levels are significantly decreased. IL6 is significantly upregulated and IL1B shows a nonsignificant increased expression in frontal cortex area 8 in ALS cases. IL-6 immunoreactivity is found in scattered monocyte-derived macrophages/microglia and TNF-α in a few cells of unknown origin in ALS cases. Increased expression and abnormal distribution of IL-1β occurred in motor neurons of the lumbar spinal cord in ALS. Strong IL-10 immunoreactivity colocalizes with TDP-43-positive inclusions in motor neurons in ALS cases. The present observations show a complex participation of cytokines and mediators of the inflammatory response in ALS consistent with increased proinflammatory cytokines and sequestration of anti-inflammatory IL-10 in affected neurons.
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17
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Sheean RK, Weston RH, Perera ND, D'Amico A, Nutt SL, Turner BJ. Effect of thymic stimulation of CD4+ T cell expansion on disease onset and progression in mutant SOD1 mice. J Neuroinflammation 2015; 12:40. [PMID: 25889790 PMCID: PMC4359394 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-015-0254-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The peripheral immune system is implicated in modulating microglial activation, neurodegeneration and disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Specifically, there is reduced thymic function and regulatory T cell (Treg) number in ALS patients and mutant superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) mice, while passive transfer of Tregs ameliorates disease in mutant SOD1 mice. Here, we assessed the effects of augmenting endogenous CD4+ T cell number by stimulating the thymus using surgical castration on the phenotype of transgenic SOD1(G93A) mice. METHOD Male SOD1(G93A) mice were castrated or sham operated, and weight loss, disease onset and progression were examined. Thymus atrophy and blood CD4+, CD8+ and CD4+ FoxP3+ T cell numbers were determined by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS). Motor neuron counts, glial cell activation and androgen receptor (AR) expression in the spinal cord were investigated using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Differences between castrated and sham mice were analysed using an unpaired t test or one-way ANOVA. RESULTS Castration significantly increased thymus weight and total CD4+ T cell numbers in SOD1(G93A) mice, although Tregs levels were not affected. Despite this, disease onset and progression were similar in castrated and sham SOD1(G93A) mice. Castration did not affect motor neuron loss or astrocytic activation in spinal cords of SOD1(G93A) mice; however, microglial activation was reduced, specifically M1 microglia. We also show that AR is principally expressed in spinal motor neurons and progressively downregulated in spinal cords of SOD1(G93A) mice from disease onset which is further enhanced by castration. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that increasing thymic function and CD4+ T cell number by castration confers no clinical benefit in mutant SOD1 mice, which may reflect an inability to stimulate neuroprotective Tregs. Nonetheless, castration decreases M1 microglial activation in the spinal cord without any clinical improvement and motor neuron rescue, in contrast to other approaches to suppress microglia in mutant SOD1 mice. Lastly, diminished AR expression in spinal motor neurons, which links to another motor neuron disorder, spinal bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA), may contribute to ALS pathogenesis and suggests a common disease pathway in ALS and SBMA mediated by disruption of AR signalling in motor neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca K Sheean
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
| | - Richard H Weston
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
| | - Nirma D Perera
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia. .,Centre for Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
| | - Angela D'Amico
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, University of Melbourne, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
| | - Stephen L Nutt
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, University of Melbourne, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
| | - Bradley J Turner
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia. .,Centre for Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
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18
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Caioli S, Pieri M, Antonini A, Guglielmotti A, Severini C, Zona C. Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 upregulates GABA-induced current: Evidence of modified GABAA subunit composition in cortical neurons from the G93A mouse model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neuropharmacology 2013; 73:247-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2013.05.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2013] [Revised: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Abstract
Brain tumor immunotherapy is often interpreted in terms of immune privilege and the blood-brain barrier (BBB), but a broader view is warranted. The delicate regulatory balance of the immune system is relevant at any site, as are the heterogeneity and plasticity of tumor growth. Criteria for tumor antigens, and often the antigens themselves, cut across tumor types. Here, this broader view, complemented by current understanding of privilege and the BBB, provides the context for review. Future success is likely to exploit simplified methods, used in combination; and similarities - more than differences - between the brain and other sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lois A Lampson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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20
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Henkel JS, Beers DR, Wen S, Rivera AL, Toennis KM, Appel JE, Zhao W, Moore DH, Powell SZ, Appel SH. Regulatory T-lymphocytes mediate amyotrophic lateral sclerosis progression and survival. EMBO Mol Med 2012; 5:64-79. [PMID: 23143995 PMCID: PMC3569654 DOI: 10.1002/emmm.201201544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2012] [Revised: 08/22/2012] [Accepted: 09/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mice, regulatory T-lymphocytes (Tregs) are neuroprotective, slowing disease progression. To address whether Tregs and FoxP3, a transcription factor required for Treg function, similarly influence progression rates of ALS patients, T-lymphocytes from patients were assessed by flow cytometry. Both numbers of Tregs and their FoxP3 protein expressions were reduced in rapidly progressing ALS patients and inversely correlated with progression rates. The mRNA levels of FoxP3, TGF-β, IL4 and Gata3, a Th2 transcription factor, were reduced in rapidly progressing patients and inversely correlated with progression rates. Both FoxP3 and Gata3 were accurate indicators of progression rates. No differences in IL10, Tbx21, a Th1 transcription factor or IFN-γ expression were found between slow and rapidly progressing patients. A 3.5-year prospective study with a second larger cohort revealed that early reduced FoxP3 levels were indicative of progression rates at collection and predictive of future rapid progression and attenuated survival. Collectively, these data suggest that Tregs and Th2 lymphocytes influence disease progression rates. Importantly, early reduced FoxP3 levels could be used to identify rapidly progressing patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny S Henkel
- Department of Neurology, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA.
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21
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Miyagishi H, Kosuge Y, Ishige K, Ito Y. Expression of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 in the spinal cord in a transgenic mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Pharmacol Sci 2012; 118:225-36. [PMID: 22302024 DOI: 10.1254/jphs.11221fp] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) is a key molecule involved in the neuroinflammatory processes that characterize amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Although PGE(2) synthesis is regulated by PGE(2) synthases (PGESs), the pathological role of PGESs in ALS still remains unknown. Experiments were performed to elucidate the expression of PGESs and the localization of microsomal PGES-1 (mPGES-1) in neurons and glial cells in the spinal cord of ALS model (G93A) mice. Neurological symptom was observed in G93A mice from 14 weeks by the tail suspension test, and rotarod performances were decreased at 16 weeks and older. Western blotting revealed that the level of mPGES-1 was increased in G93A mice at 15 weeks and older. In contrast, the levels of cytosolic PGES and mPGES-2 did not change at any age. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that age-dependent expression of mPGES-1 was found in motor neurons in G93A mice at 11 and 15 weeks. Immunoreactivity of mPGES-1 was also co-localized in Iba1-positive microglia in G93A mice at 15 weeks. These results suggest that mPGES-1 in motor neurons may play a role in the pathogenesis of ALS and that mPGES-1 may work sequentially in motor neurons and activated microglia to produce ALS symptoms in G93A mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Miyagishi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nihon University, Japan
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22
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Bendotti C, Marino M, Cheroni C, Fontana E, Crippa V, Poletti A, De Biasi S. Dysfunction of constitutive and inducible ubiquitin-proteasome system in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: implication for protein aggregation and immune response. Prog Neurobiol 2011; 97:101-26. [PMID: 22033150 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2011.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Revised: 09/29/2011] [Accepted: 10/11/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is the major intracellular proteolytic mechanism controlling the degradation of misfolded/abnormal proteins. A common hallmark in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and in other neurodegenerative disorders is the accumulation of misfolded/abnormal proteins into the damaged neurons, leading to the formation of cellular inclusions that are mostly ubiquitin-positive. Although proteolysis is a complex mechanism requiring the participation of different pathways, the abundant accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins strongly suggests an important contribution of UPS to these neuropathological features. The use of cellular and animal models of ALS, particularly those expressing mutant SOD1, the gene mutation most represented in familiar ALS, has provided significant evidence for a role of UPS in protein inclusions formation and motor neuron death. This review will specifically discuss this piece of evidence and provide suggestions of potential strategies for therapeutic intervention. We will also discuss the finding that, unlike the constitutive proteasome subunits, the inducible subunits are overexpressed early during disease progression in SOD1 mice models of ALS. These subunits form the immunoproteasome and generate peptides for the major histocompatibility complex class I molecules, suggesting a role of this system in the immune responses associated with the pathological features of ALS. Since recent discoveries indicate that innate and adaptive immunity may influence the disease process, in this review we will also provide evidence of a possible connection between immune-inflammatory reactions and UPS function, in the attempt to better understand the etiopathology of ALS and to identify appropriate targets for novel treatment strategies of this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Bendotti
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Via La Masa, 19, 20156 Milano, Italy.
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23
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Henkel JS, Beers DR, Zhao W, Appel SH. Microglia in ALS: the good, the bad, and the resting. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2010; 4:389-98. [PMID: 19731042 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-009-9171-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2009] [Accepted: 08/11/2009] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation, including microglial activation and T cell infiltration, is a neuropathological hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a rapidly progressing neurodegenerative disease. The identification of mutations in the gene for Cu2+/Zn2+ superoxide dismutase (SOD1) from patients with an inherited form of ALS enabled the creation of transgenic mice overexpressing mutant forms of SOD1 (mSOD1) which develop a motoneuron disease that resembles the disease seen in ALS patients. These transgenic mice display similar inflammatory reactions at sites of motoneuron injury as detected in ALS patients, enabling the observation that this inflammation is not simply a late consequence of motoneuron degeneration, but actively contributes to the balance between neuroprotection and neurotoxicity. The microglial and T cell activation states influence the rate of disease progression. Initially, microglia and T cells can slow disease progression, while they may later contribute to the acceleration of disease. Accumulation of intracellular and extracellular misfolded mSOD1 may be key events regulating the transformation from neuroprotective alternatively activated M2 microglia to cytotoxic classically activated M1 microglia. Intracellular and extracellular mSOD1 utilizing different pathways may enhance the production and release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and augment the inflammatory cytokine cascade from microglia. These ROS and cytokines may increase the susceptibility of motoneurons to glutamate toxicity and inhibit the function and expression of astrocytic glutamate transporters resulting in further neurotoxicity. Thus, the cumulative evidence suggests that inflammation plays a central role in ALS and manipulating these microglial effector functions may potentially modify the outcome of this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny S Henkel
- Department of Neurology, Methodist Neurological Institute, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, The Methodist Hospital, 6560 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Motor neuron-immune interactions: the vicious circle of ALS. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2010; 117:981-1000. [PMID: 20552235 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-010-0429-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2010] [Accepted: 05/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Because microglial cells, the resident macrophages of the CNS, react to any lesion of the nervous system, they have for long been regarded as potential players in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the most common motor neuron disease in the adult. In recent years, this microglial reaction to motor neuron injury, in particular, and the innate immune response, in general, has been implicated in the progression of the disease, in mouse models of ALS. The mechanisms by which microglial cells influence motor neuron death in ALS are still largely unknown. Microglial activation increases over the course of the disease and is associated with an alteration in the production of toxic factors and also neurotrophic factors. Adding to the microglial/macrophage response to motor neuron degeneration, the adaptive immune system can likewise influence the disease process. Exploring these motor neuron-immune interactions could lead to a better understanding in the physiopathology of ALS to find new pathways to slow down motor neuron degeneration.
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25
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McLean J, Liu HN, Miletic D, Weng YC, Rogaeva E, Zinman L, Kriz J, Robertson J. Distinct biochemical signatures characterize peripherin isoform expression in both traumatic neuronal injury and motor neuron disease. J Neurochem 2010; 114:1177-92. [PMID: 20533992 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2010.06846.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Peripherin is a type III intermediate filament protein that is up-regulated during neuronal injury and is a major component of pathological inclusions found within degenerating motor neurons of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The relationship between these inclusions and their protein constituents remains largely unknown. We have previously shown that peripherin expression is characterized by tissue-specific, intra-isoform associations that contribute to filament structure; changes to the normal isoform expression pattern is associated with malformed filaments and intracellular inclusions. Here, we profile peripherin isoform expression and ratio changes in traumatic neuronal injury, transgenic mouse models of motor neuron disease, and ALS. Extensive western blot analyses of Triton X-100 soluble and insoluble fractions of neuronal tissue from these conditions revealed significant changes in peripherin isoform content which could be differentiated by electrophoretic banding patterns to produce distinct peripherin biochemical signatures. Significantly, we found that the pattern of peripherin expression in ALS most closely approximates that of peripherin over-expressing mice, but differs with regard to inter-individual variations in isoform-specific expression. Overall, these results provide important insights into complex post-transcriptional processes that may underlie a continuum between peripherin-mediated neuronal repair and its role in the pathogenesis of motor neuron disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse McLean
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, The University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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26
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Mantovani S, Garbelli S, Pasini A, Alimonti D, Perotti C, Melazzini M, Bendotti C, Mora G. Immune system alterations in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients suggest an ongoing neuroinflammatory process. J Neuroimmunol 2009; 210:73-9. [PMID: 19307024 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2009.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2008] [Revised: 02/04/2009] [Accepted: 02/17/2009] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In this work we show that patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis exhibit immunological alterations in their blood, with respect to healthy controls, such as: i) increased levels of CD4+ cells and decreased levels of CD8+ T lymphocytes, the latter due to the reduced expression of the anti-apoptotic molecule Bcl-2; ii) significantly reduced CD4+CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells and monocytes (CD14+) levels in patients at a less severe stage of disease, suggesting their early recruitment towards the CNS area of primary neurodegeneration; iii) reduced expression of HLA-DR and CCR2 expression, as markers of activation, in monocytes. Since resident microglia partially derives from circulating activated monocytes and Treg cells are known to interact with the local microglia, this study strengthens the hypothesis of an involvement of the adaptive immune system associated with a neuroinflammatory process in the pathobiology of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Mantovani
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, IRCCS Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, Pavia, Italy
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28
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Choi K, Zhuang H, Crain B, Doré S. Expression and localization of prostaglandin transporter in Alzheimer disease brains and age-matched controls. J Neuroimmunol 2008; 195:81-7. [PMID: 18353443 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2008.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2007] [Revised: 01/28/2008] [Accepted: 01/30/2008] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation, a major contributor to neurodegenerative diseases, involves the contribution of activated microglia, reactive astrocytes, and infiltrating inflammatory cells. Stress and various acute or chronic brain injuries stimulate the generation of free radicals and glutamate, triggering inflammatory pathways that lead to increases in chemokines, cytokines, and prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are lipid mediators of inflammation that are produced from arachidonic acid by cyclooxygenase enzymes. They are generally believed to be in all tissues and organs. Their transport through the lipid bilayers of the cell membranes/organelles is facilitated by the prostaglandin transporter (PGT). In this study, middle frontal gyrus brain tissue from patients diagnosed with Alzheimer disease (AD) and that of age-matched control brains were examined to determine the protein expression pattern of PGT and its possible role in modulating neuroinflammation associated with AD. Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent studies showed that PGT protein was expressed in all the brain tissues examined and was localized in neurons, microglia, and astrocytes. Interestingly, Western blot analysis revealed that the PGT level was significantly less in AD than in age-matched control brain homogenates. Further work is warranted to address the possibility and implications that prostaglandins might not be cleared at a proper rate in AD brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koyi Choi
- Anesthesiology/Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
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29
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Koh SH, Kim Y, Kim HY, Cho GW, Kim KS, Kim SH. Recombinant human erythropoietin suppresses symptom onset and progression of G93A-SOD1 mouse model of ALS by preventing motor neuron death and inflammation. Eur J Neurosci 2007; 25:1923-30. [PMID: 17439481 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2007.05471.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Multifactorial pathogenic mechanisms, including inflammation, attenuated survival signals and enhanced death signals, are involved in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Erythropoietin (EPO) has recently been highlighted as a cytokine with various potent neuroprotective effects, including reduction of inflammation, enhancement of survival signals and prevention of neuronal cell death. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of recombinant human EPO (rhEPO) on ALS model mice. We treated 96 ALS model mice with vehicle only, or 1, 2.5 or 5 imu of rhEPO/g of mouse once every other week after they were 60 days old. The treatment significantly prolonged symptom onset and life span, preserved more motor neurons, enhanced survival signals, and attenuated inflammatory signals in a dose-dependent manner. These data suggest that treatment with rhEPO represents a potential therapeutic strategy for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Ho Koh
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
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30
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Mackenzie R, Kiernan M, McKenzie D, Youl BD. Hyperimmune goat serum for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Clin Neurosci 2006; 13:1033-6. [PMID: 16996272 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2006.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2005] [Revised: 03/05/2006] [Accepted: 03/22/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The authors report a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who showed a lessening of deterioration in respiratory muscle strength during treatment with hyperimmune goat serum (HGS) (Aimspro). Respiratory function tests (RFTs) were measured by established protocols, and all measurements were expressed as a percentage of normal predicted values. The rate of decline was calculated by linear regression analysis. Respiratory muscle strength decline was less during 13 months of treatment with HGS (mean 1.3% per month, range 0.8-1.7%) compared to the preceding 13 months (mean 2.3% per month, range 1.2-3.1%), while a greater decline would be expected with disease progression. Comparison with similarly affected patients in the literature suggest that a decline of 4-5% per month of predicted values may be expected during the treatment phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Mackenzie
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, High St, Randwick NSW 2031, Australia.
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31
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Moisse K, Strong MJ. Innate immunity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2006; 1762:1083-93. [PMID: 16624536 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2006.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2005] [Revised: 02/17/2006] [Accepted: 03/05/2006] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative condition in which motor neurons are selectively targeted. Although the underlying cause remains unclear, evidence suggests a role for innate immunity in disease pathogenesis. Neuroinflammation in areas of motor neuron loss is evident in presymptomatic mouse models of ALS and in human patients. Efforts aimed at attenuating the inflammatory response in ALS animal models have delayed symptom onset and extended survival. Seemingly conversely, attempts to sensitize cells of the innate immune system and modulate their phenotype have also shown efficacy. Effectors of innate immunity in the CNS appear to have ambivalent potential to promote either repair or injury. Because ALS is a syndromic disease in which glutamate excitotoxicity, altered cytoskeletal protein metabolism, oxidative injury, mitochondrial dysfunction and neuroinflammation all contribute to motor neuron degeneration, targeting inflammation via modulation of microglial function therefore holds significant potential as one aspect of therapeutic intervention and could provide insight into the exclusive vulnerability of motor neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Moisse
- Cell Biology Research Group, Robarts Research Institute, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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32
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Abstract
T -cells are present in the spinal cord from patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and could attack neurons or activate microglia through secretion of cytokines. We report that interferon (IFN)-gamma, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-5 and IL-10 could not be detected in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from 15 ALS patients and 23 out of 25 controls with a multiplexed cytometric bead assay. In vivo activated T-cell clones were established from CSF (n = 26) and blood (n = 21) of one ALS patient. The proliferative capacity of CSF T-cell clones was lower than that of T-cell clones from blood (p = 0.0007). All CD4+ CSF T-cell clones produced IFN-gamma, compatible with a predominant T helper (h) 1 phenotype, but several T-cell clones also produced Th2 cytokines. These data suggest that in vivo activated intrathecal T-cells can be induced to secrete cytokines which may play a role in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trygve Holmøy
- Institute of Immunology, Rikshospitalet University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
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33
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McLean JR, Sanelli TR, Leystra-Lantz C, He BP, Strong MJ. Temporal profiles of neuronal degeneration, glial proliferation, and cell death in hNFL(+/+) and NFL(-/-) mice. Glia 2006; 52:59-69. [PMID: 15920739 DOI: 10.1002/glia.20218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurofilament (NF) aggregate formation within motor neurons is a pathological hallmark of both the sporadic and familial forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The relationship between aggregate formation and both microglial and astrocytic proliferation, as well as additional neuropathological features of ALS, is unknown. To examine this, we have used transgenic mice that develop NF aggregates, through either a lack of the low-molecular-weight NF subunit [NFL (-/-)] or the overexpression of human NFL [hNFL (+/+)]. Transgenic and wild-type C57bl/6 mice were examined from 1 month to 18 months of age, and the temporal pattern of motor neuron degeneration, microglial and astrocytic proliferation, and heat shock protein-70 (HSP-70) expression characterized. We observed three overlapping phases in both transgenic mice, including transient aggregate formation, reactive microgliosis, and progressive motor neuron loss. However, only NFL (-/-) mice demonstrated significant astrogliosis and HSP-70 upregulation in both motor neurons and astrocytes. These in vivo models suggest that the development of NF aggregates in motor neurons leads to motor neuron death, but that the interaction between the degenerating motor neurons and the adjacent non-neuronal cells may differ significantly depending on the etiology of the NF aggregate itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse R McLean
- Department of Pathology, Schulich School of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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34
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Byram SC, Serpe CJ, DeBoy CA, Sanders VM, Jones KJ. Motoneurons and CD4+ effector T cell subsets: Neuroprotection and repair. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cnr.2006.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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35
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Henkel JS, Beers DR, Siklós L, Appel SH. The chemokine MCP-1 and the dendritic and myeloid cells it attracts are increased in the mSOD1 mouse model of ALS. Mol Cell Neurosci 2006; 31:427-37. [PMID: 16337133 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2005.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2004] [Revised: 10/07/2005] [Accepted: 10/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We recently demonstrated increased dendritic cells (potent antigen-presenting cells) and MCP-1 (monocyte, T-cell, and dendritic cell attracting chemokine) levels in ALS spinal cord tissue. Additionally, we presented data suggesting that dendritic cells might be contributing to the pathogenesis. To determine whether MCP-1 and dendritic cells are present in the mSOD1 mouse and how early in the disease process they are involved, we examined mSOD1 and control spinal cord tissue at different ages using real-time RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Dendritic cells were present and transcripts elevated in mSOD1 spinal cord beginning at 110 days. MCP-1 mRNA and immunoreactivity were upregulated in mSOD1 neuronal and glial cells as early as 15 days, prior to any evidence of microglial activation. CD68+ cells were present at 39 days of age. Although it is not clear if these responses are protective or injurious, the early increased MCP-1 expression and CD68+ cell presence indicate early preexisting injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny S Henkel
- Department of Neurology, Methodist Research Institute, 6560 Fannin St., Suite # 902, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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36
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Strong MJ. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: contemporary concepts in etiopathogenesis and pharmacotherapy. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2006; 13:1593-614. [PMID: 15566317 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.13.12.1593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Among the neurodegenerative diseases associated with ageing, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remains the most devastating. The disease inexorably progresses, the vast majority of pharmacotherapies have failed to modify the disease course, death ensues on average within 5 years of symptom onset and increasing numbers of individuals are afflicted with the disease. However, significant advances in our understanding of the natural history of ALS and of the fundamental nature of the biological defect underlying motor neuron degeneration have been gained, providing hope for the development of novel pharmacotherapies for ALS. Among these is the recognition that ALS is a biologically heterogeneous disorder in which genetics, environment and ageing all interrelate. The observation of clinical heterogeneity, with initial clinical manifestations serving as predictors of survivorship, is of considerable importance in designing therapeutic trials. The presence of frontotemporal dysfunction in a subset of patients has led to increased interest in the relationship between ALS and the degenerative tauopathies. Ultimately, the degenerating motor neurons do not die alone. The contribution of both microglia and astrocytes to the degenerative process are increasingly recognised. Understanding how these processes interrelate has become critical to understanding the pharmacotherapy of ALS and in the design of clinical trials. This review will highlight recent epidemiological and neurochemical advances in our understanding of ALS, and place them into the context of understanding the development of novel treatment avenues for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Strong
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, University of Western Ontario, The Robarts Research Institute, London, Canada.
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Kilic E, Kilic U, Soliz J, Bassetti CL, Gassmann M, Hermann DM. Brain-derived erythropoietin protects from focal cerebral ischemia by dual activation of ERK-1/-2 and Akt pathways. FASEB J 2005; 19:2026-8. [PMID: 16207820 DOI: 10.1096/fj.05-3941fje] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Apart from its hematopoietic function, erythropoietin (Epo) exerts neuroprotective functions in brain hypoxia and ischemia. To examine the mechanisms mediating Epo's neuroprotective activity in vivo, we made use of our transgenic mouse line tg21 that constitutively expresses human Epo in brain without inducing excessive erythrocytosis. We show that human Epo is expressed in tg21 brains and that cortical and striatal neurons carry the Epo receptor. After middle cerebral artery occlusion, human Epo potently protected brains of tg21 mice against ischemic injury, both when severe (90 min) and mild (30 min) ischemia was imposed. Histochemical studies revealed that Epo induced an activation of JAK-2, ERK-1/-2, and Akt pathways in the ischemic brain. This activation was associated with elevated Bcl-XL and decreased NO synthase-1 and -2 levels in neurons. Intracerebroventricular injections of selective inhibitors of ERK-1/-2 (PD98059) or Akt (wortmannin) pathways revealed that both ERK-1/-2 and Akt were required for Epo's neuroprotective function, antagonization of either pathway completely abolishing tissue protection. On the other hand, ERK-1/-2 and Akt blockade did not reverse the neuronal NO synthase-1/-2 inhibition, indicating that Epo down-regulates these NO synthases in an ERK-1/-2 and Akt independent manner. On the basis of our data, the dual activation of ERK-1/-2 and Akt is crucial for Epo's neuroprotective activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ertugrul Kilic
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), Zurich, Switzerland.
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38
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Ravits J. Sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a hypothesis of persistent (non-lytic) enteroviral infection. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 6:77-87. [PMID: 16036430 DOI: 10.1080/14660820510027026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Because of recently reported reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction evidence of enterovirus in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS) and because of newly available anti-enteroviral drugs binding enteroviral capsids, it is reasonable to re-formulate an enteroviral hypothesis of SALS using recent advances in molecular virology. Viral persistence is non-lytic and non-cytopathic infection that evades host's immune surveillance. Enteroviruses are known to cause persistent as well as lytic infection both in vitro and in vivo. Both virion as well as host factors modulate between persistent and lytic infection. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is a process of active non-necrotic cell death. It has complex interplay with viruses and may be either promoted or opposed by them. Apoptosis is a major factor in motor neuron death in SALS. Viral tropism is the process by which viruses select and propagate to target cells. It is controlled by capsid conformation and surface receptors on host cells. Enteroviruses have a region on their capsids known as the canyon which docks on such receptors. Docking induces conformational changes of the capsid and genome release. Poliovirus, tropic for motor neurons, docks on the poliovirus receptor, about which much is known. The virus penetrates the motor system focally after crossing either the blood-muscle or the blood-brain barriers. It propagates bidirectionally along axons and synapses to contiguous motor neurons, upper as well as lower, which sequester infection and create avenues for spread over long distances. If chronic and persistent rather than acute and lytic, such viruses trafficking in a finite system of non-dividing cells and inducing apoptosis would cause cell death that summates linearly rather than exponentially. Taken together, these explain signature clinical features of SALS - focal onset weakness, contiguous or regional spread of weakness, confinement to upper and lower motor neurons, and linear rates of progression. The hypothesis predicts the following testable investigations: 1) viral detection may be possible by applying amplification technology to optimally acquired nervous tissue processed by laser microdissection; 2) genetic susceptibility factors such as cell surface receptor polymorphisms may combine with sporadic exposure and chance penetration of the motor system in SALS; 3) a transgenic animal model might be created by inserting such genetic factors into an animal host and inoculating intramuscularly rather than intracerebrally biochemical fractions of SALS motor neurons at vulnerable periods in the developmental life cycle of the transgenic host; and 4) continual long-term administration of anti-enteroviral agents called capsid-binding compounds which stabilize capsids and prevent genome release might be efficacious.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Ravits
- Neurology Section, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Neurogenomics Laboratory, Benaroya Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98111, USA.
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39
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Yatsiv I, Grigoriadis N, Simeonidou C, Stahel PF, Schmidt OI, Alexandrovitch AG, Tsenter J, Shohami E. Erythropoietin is neuroprotective, improves functional recovery, and reduces neuronal apoptosis and inflammation in a rodent model of experimental closed head injury. FASEB J 2005; 19:1701-3. [PMID: 16099948 DOI: 10.1096/fj.05-3907fje] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in young people in industrialized countries. Although various anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic modalities have shown neuroprotective effects in experimental models of TBI, to date, no specific pharmacological agent aimed at blocking the progression of secondary brain damage has been approved for clinical use. Erythropoietin (Epo) belongs to the cytokine superfamily and has traditionally been viewed as a hematopoiesis-regulating hormone. The newly discovered neuroprotective properties of Epo lead us to investigate its effect in TBI in a mouse model of closed head injury. Recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEpo) was injected at 1 and 24 h after TBI, and the effect on recovery of motor and cognitive functions, tissue inflammation, axonal degeneration, and apoptosis was evaluated up to 14 days. Motor deficits were lower, cognitive function was restored faster, and less apoptotic neurons and caspase-3 expression were found in rhEpo-treated as compared with vehicle-treated animals (P<0.05). Axons at the trauma area in rhEpo-treated mice were relatively well preserved compared with controls (shown by their density; P<0.01). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a reduced activation of glial cells by staining for GFAP and complement receptor type 3 (CD11b/CD18) in the injured hemisphere of Epo- vs. vehicle-treated animals. We propose that further studies on Epo in TBI should be conducted in order to consider it as a novel therapy for TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Yatsiv
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy,Hebrew University Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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40
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Kirby J, Halligan E, Baptista MJ, Allen S, Heath PR, Holden H, Barber SC, Loynes CA, Wood-Allum CA, Lunec J, Shaw PJ. Mutant SOD1 alters the motor neuronal transcriptome: implications for familial ALS. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 128:1686-706. [PMID: 15872021 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awh503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS) is caused, in 20% of cases, by mutations in the Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase gene (SOD1). Although motor neuron injury occurs through a toxic gain of function, the precise mechanism(s) remains unclear. Using an established NSC34 cellular model for SOD1-associated FALS, we investigated the effects of mutant SOD1 specifically in cells modelling the vulnerable cell population, the motor neurons, without contamination from non-neuronal cells present in CNS. Using gene expression profiling, 268 transcripts were differentially expressed in the presence of mutant human G93A SOD1. Of these, 197 were decreased, demonstrating that the presence of mutant SOD1 leads to a marked degree of transcriptional repression. Amongst these were a group of antioxidant response element (ARE) genes encoding phase II detoxifying enzymes and antioxidant response proteins (so-called 'programmed cell life' genes), the expression of which is regulated by the transcription factor NRF2. We provide evidence that dysregulation of Nrf2 and the ARE, coupled with reduced pentose phosphate pathway activity and decreased generation of NADPH, represent significant and hitherto unrecognized components of the toxic gain of function of mutant SOD1. Other genes of interest significantly altered in the presence of mutant SOD1 include several previously implicated in neurodegeneration, as well as genes involved in protein degradation, the immune response, cell death/survival and the heat shock response. Preliminary studies on isolated motor neurons from SOD1-associated motor neuron disease cases suggest key genes are also differently expressed in the human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Kirby
- Academic Neurology Unit, University of Sheffield, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Sheffield, UK
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41
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Ford L, Rowe D. Interleukin-12 and interferon-gamma are not detectable in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 5:118-20. [PMID: 15204013 DOI: 10.1080/14660820410019125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The cause of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS) is unknown. We investigated the immune-mediated inflammatory hypothesis of SALS by assaying interleukin-12 (IL-12), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with SALS. These cytokines were measured in the CSF from patients with SALS (n=11), patients with immune-mediated inflammatory central nervous system or nerve root disorders (n=12), and patients with other neurological diseases (n=15) by high sensitivity sandwich enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). All samples were below the assay detection limits of 0.5 pg/ml for IL-12 and 8 pg/ml for IFN-gamma. There was no difference between the groups in the mean concentration of IL-6. There is no evidence in cerebrospinal fluid for induction of a T(H)1 immune response in SALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Ford
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, Australia
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42
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Consilvio C, Vincent AM, Feldman EL. Neuroinflammation, COX-2, and ALS—a dual role? Exp Neurol 2004; 187:1-10. [PMID: 15081582 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2003.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2003] [Revised: 12/10/2003] [Accepted: 12/30/2003] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Although the root cause of many neurodegenerative diseases is unknown, neuroinflammation may play a key role in these types of disease, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In the context of neurodegeneration, it is unclear if the disease is propagated through inflammation, or whether in contrast, evidence of inflammation reflects an attempt to protect against further cellular injury. Inflammatory pathways involving the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and subsequent generation of prostaglandins are potential target sites for treatments to halt the progression of ALS. In the CNS, COX enzymes are localized to neurons, astrocytes, and microglia and can be induced under various conditions. In addition, there appears to be a dual role for the prostaglandin products of COX enzymes in the nervous system. Some prostaglandins promote the survival of neurons, while others promote apoptosis. In this review, the pathways of COX activity and prostaglandin production form the center of the debate regarding the dual nature of neuroinflammation. We will also discuss how this duality may affect future treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS.
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Bohatschek M, Kloss CUA, Hristova M, Pfeffer K, Raivich G. Microglial major histocompatibility complex glycoprotein-1 in the axotomized facial motor nucleus: regulation and role of tumor necrosis factor receptors 1 and 2. J Comp Neurol 2004; 470:382-99. [PMID: 14961564 DOI: 10.1002/cne.20017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Presentation of antigen is key to the development of the immune response, mediated by association of antigen with major histocompatibility complex glycoproteins abbreviated as MHC1 and MHC2. In the current study, we examined the regulation of MHC1 in the brain after facial axotomy. The normal facial motor nucleus showed no immunoreactivity for MHC1 (MHC1-IR). Transection of the facial nerve led to a strong and selective up-regulation of MHC1-IR on the microglia in the affected nucleus, beginning at day 2 and reaching a maximum 14 days after axotomy, coinciding with a peak influx of the T lymphocytes that express CD8, the lymphocyte coreceptor for MHC1. Specificity of the MHC1 staining was confirmed in beta2-microglobulin-deficient mice, which lack normal cell surface MHC1-IR. MHC1-IR was particularly strong on phagocytic microglia, induced by delayed neuronal cell death, and correlated with the induction of mRNA for tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1beta, and interferon-gamma and the influx of T lymphocytes. Mice with severe combined immunodeficiency (scid), lacking T and B cells, showed an increase in the number of MHC1-positive nodules but no significant effect on overall MHC1-IR. Transgenic deletion of the IL1 receptor type I, or the interferon-gamma receptor type 1 subunit, did not affect the microglial MHC1-IR. However, a combined deletion of TNF receptors 1 and 2 (TNFR1&2-KO) led to a decrease in microglial MHC1-IR and to a striking absence of the phagocytic microglial nodules. Deletion of TNFR2 (p75) did not have an effect; deletion of TNFR1 (p55) reduced the diffuse microglial staining for MHC1-IR but did not abolish the MHC1(+) microglial nodules. In summary, neural injury leads to the induction of MHC1-IR on the activated, phagocytic microglia. This induction of MHC1 precedes the interaction with the immune system, at least in the facial motor nucleus model. Finally, the impaired induction of these molecules, up to now, only in the TNFR-deficient mice underscores the central role of TNF in the immune activation of the injured nervous system.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigens, CD/genetics
- Antigens, CD/physiology
- Axotomy
- Facial Nerve/chemistry
- Facial Nerve/physiology
- Glycoproteins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Glycoproteins/biosynthesis
- Histocompatibility Antigens Class I/biosynthesis
- Histocompatibility Antigens Class I/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, SCID
- Microglia/chemistry
- Microglia/physiology
- Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor/deficiency
- Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor/genetics
- Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor/physiology
- Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor, Type I
- Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor, Type II
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bohatschek
- Department of Neuromorphology, Max-Planck Institute for Neurobiology, D-82152 Martinsried, Germany
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44
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Wright GL, Hanlon P, Amin K, Steenbergen C, Murphy E, Arcasoy MO. Erythropoietin receptor expression in adult rat cardiomyocytes is associated with an acute cardioprotective effect for recombinant erythropoietin during ischemia-reperfusion injury. FASEB J 2004; 18:1031-3. [PMID: 15059965 DOI: 10.1096/fj.03-1289fje] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Erythropoietin (EPO), the principal hematopoietic cytokine that regulates mammalian erythropoiesis, exhibits diverse cellular effects in non-hematopoietic tissues. The physiologic functions of EPO are mediated by its specific cell-surface receptor EPOR. In this study, we demonstrate EPOR expression in adult rat cardiac myocytes and examine the direct effects of EPO on the heart to investigate whether recombinant EPO may exert an acute cardioprotective effect during ischemia-reperfusion injury. To determine whether EPO is cardioprotective, isolated rat hearts were perfused for 10 min in the Langendorff-mode with Krebs-Henseleit buffer in the absence or presence of brief recombinant EPO treatment while left-ventricular-developed pressure (LVDP) was measured continuously to assess contractile function. The hearts were then subjected to 20 min of normothermic global ischemia followed by 25 min of reperfusion. The post-ischemic recovery of LVDP in the untreated control hearts was 26 +/- 5% of their baseline LVDP, whereas hearts pretreated with EPO exhibited significantly improved post-ischemic recovery to 57 +/- 7%. We used 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to determine whether modulation of intracellular pH and/or high-energy phosphate levels during ischemia contributed to EPO-mediated cardioprotection. These experiments revealed that the rapid cardioprotective effect of EPO during ischemia-reperfusion injury was associated with preservation of ATP levels in the ischemic myocardium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary L Wright
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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45
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Wu AH, Hall WA, Low WC. Identification of HLA a*0201 glioblastoma multiforme cell lines for immunotherapy by PCR-SSP and DNA sequencing. J Neurooncol 2004; 66:1-8. [PMID: 15015764 DOI: 10.1023/b:neon.0000013460.53527.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Most tumor specific antigens characterized to date are restricted by HLA a*0201, which is the major HLA subtype in many ethnic groups. Cancer cells that express tumor antigens in association with the HLA a*0201 subtype have been shown to be responsive to various immunotherapies. We therefore sought to identify glioma cell lines that also express this HLA subtype and determine whether they had the molecular properties needed for tumor-peptide presentation. The HLA a*0201 allele was identified with PCR using sequence-specific primers followed by DNA sequencing. With this method, we screened 15 glioma cell lines to determine if they were of the HLA a*0201 genotype. Glioma cell lines that express the HLA a*0201 subtype were further studied for the expression of MHC class I and beta-2-microglobulin (beta2m) molecules by flow cytometry, and peptide presentation molecules TAP-1, TAP-2, and tapasin by RT-PCR. We identified six out of fifteen cell lines that were of the HLA a*0201 subtype. These cell lines are U87, T98, U373, U138, CRL2365 and UMN-4. All these six cell lines exhibited high levels of MHC class I and beta2m molecules. In addition, these cell lines all expressed molecules required for peptide presentation as shown by the presence of peptide presentation-related molecules TAP-1, TAP-2 and tapasin. The identification of glioma cell lines that express the HLA a*0201 subtype along with the necessary molecules for peptide-presentation will enable their use in developing new immunotherapeutic approaches for treating brain tumors. The method used to identify HLA a*0201 glioma cells is rapid and inexpensive, and suitable for screening tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Hua Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Henkel JS, Engelhardt JI, Siklós L, Simpson EP, Kim SH, Pan T, Goodman JC, Siddique T, Beers DR, Appel SH. Presence of dendritic cells, MCP-1, and activated microglia/macrophages in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis spinal cord tissue. Ann Neurol 2004; 55:221-35. [PMID: 14755726 DOI: 10.1002/ana.10805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 390] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Dendritic cells are potent antigen-presenting cells that initiate and amplify immune responses. To determine whether dendritic cells participate in inflammatory reactions in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), we examined mRNA expression of dendritic cell surface markers in individual sporadic ALS (sALS), familial ALS (fALS), and nonneurological disease control (NNDC) spinal cord tissues using semiquantitative and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Immature (DEC205, CD1a) and activated/mature (CD83, CD40) dendritic cell transcripts were significantly elevated in ALS tissues. The presence of immature and activated/mature dendritic cells (CD1a(+) and CD83(+)) was confirmed immunohistochemically in ALS ventral horn and corticospinal tracts. Monocytic/macrophage/microglial transcripts (CD14, CD18, SR-A, CD68) were increased in ALS spinal cord, and activated CD68(+) cells were demonstrated in close proximity to motor neurons. mRNA expressions of the chemokine MCP-1, which attracts monocytes and myeloid dendritic cells, and of the cytokine macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) were increased in ALS tissues. The MCP-1 protein was expressed in glia in ALS but not in control tissues and was increased in the CSF of ALS patients. Those patients who progressed most rapidly expressed significantly more dendritic transcripts than patients who progressed more slowly. These results support the involvement of immune/inflammatory responses in amplifying motor neuron degeneration in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny S Henkel
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric K Rowinsky
- Institute for Drug Development, Cancer Therapy and Research Center, San Antonio, Texas 78229, USA.
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Weiss MJ. New Insights Into Erythropoietin and Epoetin Alfa: Mechanisms of Action, Target Tissues, and Clinical Applications. Oncologist 2003; 8 Suppl 3:18-29. [PMID: 14671225 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.8-suppl_3-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant human erythropoietin (epoetin alfa) has proven beneficial for the treatment of various anemias. The mechanism of action of endogenous erythropoietin and the therapeutic use of epoetin alfa to stimulate red blood cell production and improve the quality of life in cancer patients are reviewed here. Epoetin alfa may also attenuate the cognitive dysfunction associated with cancer therapy. Interestingly, functional endogenous erythropoietin receptor signaling pathways have been demonstrated in numerous nonerythropoietic tissues. Of particular importance, epoetin alfa confers neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects in cultured neurons and in several animal models for neurologic disease. In one clinical trial, epoetin alfa appeared to limit functional and histologic damage in patients with stroke. Therefore, in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, the beneficial effects of epoetin alfa could be mediated not only through enhanced erythrocyte production but also via direct effects on the nervous system. Further investigation into the nonerythropoietic effects of epoetin alfa could broaden its clinical utility for patients with cancer and also provide new therapies for various neurologic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell J Weiss
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
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Dutta T, Spence A, Lampson LA. Robust ability of IFN-gamma to upregulate class II MHC antigen expression in tumor bearing rat brains. J Neurooncol 2003; 64:31-44. [PMID: 12952284 DOI: 10.1007/bf02700018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
T cells are attractive for delivering therapy to brain tumor, especially disseminated micro-tumor. However, to trigger effector function, tumor antigen must be re-presented to T cells, via major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins, at the tumor site. In normal brain, MHC+ antigen-presenting cells (APC) are rare, but abundant after gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) injection. Here we studied tumor-bearing brains. IFN-gamma (or buffer) was injected stereotactically into brains with established tumors from a panel of immunologically varied glioma cell lines, some expressing b-galactosidase as a micro-tumor marker. Four days later, cryostat sections were stained for tumor and MHC proteins. In phosphate-buffered saline-injected controls, class II MHC+ potential APC (microglia, macrophages) were seen only at (some) tumor sites. In rats that received IFN-gamma, class II+ potential APC were widespread, including all actual and potential micro-tumor sites and all tumor-free areas. In the same slides, neither class I nor class II MHC antigen was detected in neural cells or most tumor cells. This MHC pattern favors indirect re-presentation of tumor antigen, by tumor-adjacent APC. The robust response to IFN-gamma might also be exploited in other ways: activated microglia and macrophages can attack tumor directly, and class II+ APC may help mark micro-tumor sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Dutta
- CNS & Brain Tumor Immunology Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Abstract
Once thought to be a single pathological disease state, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is now recognized to be the limited phenotypic expression of a complex, heterogeneous group of biological processes, resulting in an unrelenting loss of motor neurons. On average, individuals affected with the disease live <5 years. In this article, the complex nature of the pathogenesis of ALS, including features of age dependency, environmental associations, and genetics, is reviewed. Once held to be uncommon, it is now clear that ALS is associated with a frontotemporal dementia and that this process may reflect disturbances in the microtubule-associated tau protein metabolism. The motor neuron ultimately succumbs in a state where significant disruptions in neurofilament metabolism, mitochondrial function, and management of oxidative stress exist. The microenvironment of the neuron becomes a complex milieu in which high levels of glutamate provide a source of chronic excitatory neurotoxicity, and the contributions of activated microglial cells lead to further cascades of motor neuron death, perhaps serving to propagate the disease once established. The final process of motor neuron death encompasses many features of apoptosis, but it is clear that this alone cannot account for all features of motor neuron loss and that aspects of a necrosis-apoptosis continuum are at play. Designing pharmacological strategies to mitigate against this process thus becomes an increasingly complex issue, which is reviewed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Strong
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Robarts Research Institute, Room 7OF 10, University Campus, London Health Sciences Centre, University of Western Ontario, 339 Windermere Road, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5A5.
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