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Huie EZ, Yang X, Rioult-Pedotti MS, Naik M, Huang YWA, Silverman JL, Marshall J. Peptidomimetic inhibitors targeting TrkB/PSD-95 signaling improves cognition and seizure outcomes in an Angelman Syndrome mouse model. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.07.597833. [PMID: 38895218 PMCID: PMC11185757 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.07.597833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Angelman syndrome (AS) is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder with profoundly debilitating symptoms with no FDA-approved cure or therapeutic. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and its receptor TrkB, have a well-established role as regulators of synaptic plasticity, dendritic outgrowth, dendritic spine formation and maintenance. Previously, we reported that the association of PSD-95 with TrkB is critical for intact BDNF signaling in the AS mouse model, as illustrated by attenuated PLCγ and PI3K signaling and intact MAPK pathway signaling. These data suggest that drugs tailored to enhance the TrkB-PSD-95 interaction may provide a novel approach for the treatment of AS and a variety of NDDs. To evaluate this critical interaction, we synthesized a class of high-affinity PSD-95 ligands that bind specifically to the PDZ3 domain of PSD-95, denoted as Syn3 peptidomimetic ligands. We evaluated Syn3 and its analog D-Syn3 (engineered using dextrorotary (D)-amino acids) in vivo using the Ube3a exon 2 deletion mouse model of AS. Following systemic administration of Syn3 and D-Syn3, we demonstrated improvement in the seizure domain of AS. Learning and memory using the novel object recognition assay also illustrated improved cognition following Syn3 and D-Syn3, along with restored long-term potentiation. Finally, D-Syn3 treated mice showed a partial rescue in motor learning. Neither Syn3 nor D-Syn3 improved gross exploratory locomotion deficits, nor gait impairments that have been well documented in the AS rodent models. These findings highlight the need for further investigation of this compound class as a potential therapeutic for AS and other genetic NDDs.
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Deehan MA, Kothuis JM, Sapp E, Chase K, Ke Y, Seeley C, Iuliano M, Kim E, Kennington L, Miller R, Boudi A, Shing K, Li X, Pfister E, Anaclet C, Brodsky M, Kegel-Gleason K, Aronin N, DiFiglia M. Nacc1 Mutation in Mice Models Rare Neurodevelopmental Disorder with Underlying Synaptic Dysfunction. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1610232024. [PMID: 38388424 PMCID: PMC10993038 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1610-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
A missense mutation in the transcription repressor Nucleus accumbens-associated 1 (NACC1) gene at c.892C>T (p.Arg298Trp) on chromosome 19 causes severe neurodevelopmental delay ( Schoch et al., 2017). To model this disorder, we engineered the first mouse model with the homologous mutation (Nacc1+/R284W ) and examined mice from E17.5 to 8 months. Both genders had delayed weight gain, epileptiform discharges and altered power spectral distribution in cortical electroencephalogram, behavioral seizures, and marked hindlimb clasping; females displayed thigmotaxis in an open field. In the cortex, NACC1 long isoform, which harbors the mutation, increased from 3 to 6 months, whereas the short isoform, which is not present in humans and lacks aaR284 in mice, rose steadily from postnatal day (P) 7. Nuclear NACC1 immunoreactivity increased in cortical pyramidal neurons and parvalbumin containing interneurons but not in nuclei of astrocytes or oligodendroglia. Glial fibrillary acidic protein staining in astrocytic processes was diminished. RNA-seq of P14 mutant mice cortex revealed over 1,000 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Glial transcripts were downregulated and synaptic genes upregulated. Top gene ontology terms from upregulated DEGs relate to postsynapse and ion channel function, while downregulated DEGs enriched for terms relating to metabolic function, mitochondria, and ribosomes. Levels of synaptic proteins were changed, but number and length of synaptic contacts were unaltered at 3 months. Homozygosity worsened some phenotypes including postnatal survival, weight gain delay, and increase in nuclear NACC1. This mouse model simulates a rare form of autism and will be indispensable for assessing pathophysiology and targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Deehan
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
| | - Josine M Kothuis
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
| | - Ellen Sapp
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
| | - Kathryn Chase
- Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01655
| | - Yuting Ke
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | - Connor Seeley
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
| | - Maria Iuliano
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
| | - Emily Kim
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
| | - Lori Kennington
- Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01655
| | - Rachael Miller
- Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01655
| | - Adel Boudi
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
| | - Kai Shing
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
| | - Xueyi Li
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
| | - Edith Pfister
- Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01655
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01655
| | - Christelle Anaclet
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California 95817
| | - Michael Brodsky
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01655
| | - Kimberly Kegel-Gleason
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
| | - Neil Aronin
- Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01655
| | - Marian DiFiglia
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129
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Pileggi S, Colombo EA, Ancona S, Quadri R, Bernardelli C, Colapietro P, Taiana M, Fontana L, Miozzo M, Lesma E, Sirchia SM. Dysfunction in IGF2R Pathway and Associated Perturbations in Autophagy and WNT Processes in Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome Cell Lines. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3586. [PMID: 38612397 PMCID: PMC11011696 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073586] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome (BWS) is an imprinting disorder characterized by overgrowth, stemming from various genetic and epigenetic changes. This study delves into the role of IGF2 upregulation in BWS, focusing on insulin-like growth factor pathways, which are poorly known in this syndrome. We examined the IGF2R, the primary receptor of IGF2, WNT, and autophagy/lysosomal pathways in BWS patient-derived lymphoblastoid cell lines, showing different genetic and epigenetic defects. The findings reveal a decreased expression and mislocalization of IGF2R protein, suggesting receptor dysfunction. Additionally, our results point to a dysregulation in the AKT/GSK-3/mTOR pathway, along with imbalances in autophagy and the WNT pathway. In conclusion, BWS cells, regardless of the genetic/epigenetic profiles, are characterized by alteration of the IGF2R pathway that is associated with the perturbation of the autophagy and lysosome processes. These alterations seem to be a key point of the molecular pathogenesis of BWS and potentially contribute to BWS's characteristic overgrowth and cancer susceptibility. Our study also uncovers alterations in the WNT pathway across all BWS cell lines, consistent with its role in growth regulation and cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Pileggi
- Medical Genetics, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (S.P.)
| | - Elisa A. Colombo
- Medical Genetics, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (S.P.)
| | - Silvia Ancona
- Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy (E.L.)
| | - Roberto Quadri
- Department of Biosciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Clara Bernardelli
- Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy (E.L.)
| | - Patrizia Colapietro
- Medical Genetics, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Taiana
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Fontana
- Medical Genetics, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (S.P.)
- Unit of Medical Genetics, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Miozzo
- Medical Genetics, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (S.P.)
- Unit of Medical Genetics, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Lesma
- Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy (E.L.)
| | - Silvia M. Sirchia
- Medical Genetics, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy; (S.P.)
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Fitzgerald PJ. Neural hyperexcitability in Angelman syndrome: Genetic factors and pharmacologic treatment approaches. Epilepsy Res 2024; 200:107286. [PMID: 38217951 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2024.107286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Angelman syndrome (AS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that is typically caused by deletion or a loss-of-function mutation of the maternal copy of the ubiquitin ligase E3A (UBE3A) gene. The disorder is characterized by severe intellectual disability, deficits in speech, motor abnormalities, altered electroencephalography (EEG) activity, spontaneous epileptic seizures, sleep disturbances, and a happy demeanor with frequent laughter. Regarding electrophysiologic abnormalities in particular, enhanced delta oscillatory power and an elevated excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) ratio have been documented in AS, with E/I ratio especially studied in rodent models. These electrophysiologic characteristics appear to relate with the greatly elevated rates of epilepsy in individuals with AS, and associated hypersynchronous neural activity. Here we briefly review findings on EEG, E/I ratio, and epileptic seizures in AS, including data from rodent models of the disorder. We summarize pharmacologic approaches that have been used to treat behavioral aspects of AS, including neuropsychiatric phenomena and sleep disturbances, as well as seizures in the context of the disorder. Antidepressants such as SSRIs and atypical antipsychotics are among the medications that have been used behaviorally, whereas anticonvulsant drugs such as valproic acid and lamotrigine have frequently been used to control seizures in AS. We end by suggesting novel uses for some existing pharmacologic agents in AS, including noradrenergic transmission reducing drugs (alpha2 agonists, beta blockers, alpha1 antagonists) and cholinesterase inhibitors, where these various classes of drugs may have the ability to ameliorate both behavioral disturbances and seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Fitzgerald
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
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Pizzarelli R, Pimpinella D, Jacobs C, Tartacca A, Kullolli U, Monyer H, Alberini CM, Griguoli M. Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2) rescues social deficits in NLG3 -/y mouse model of ASDs. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 17:1332179. [PMID: 38298376 PMCID: PMC10827848 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1332179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) comprise developmental disabilities characterized by impairments of social interaction and repetitive behavior, often associated with cognitive deficits. There is no current treatment that can ameliorate most of the ASDs symptomatology; thus, identifying novel therapies is urgently needed. Here, we used the Neuroligin 3 knockout mouse (NLG3-/y), a model that recapitulates the social deficits reported in ASDs patients, to test the effects of systemic administration of IGF-2, a polypeptide that crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts as a cognitive enhancer. We show that systemic IGF-2 treatment reverses the typical defects in social interaction and social novelty discrimination reflective of ASDs-like phenotypes. This effect was not accompanied by any change in spontaneous glutamatergic synaptic transmission in CA2 hippocampal region, a mechanism found to be crucial for social novelty discrimination. However, in both NLG3+/y and NLG3-/y mice IGF-2 increased cell excitability. Although further investigation is needed to clarify the cellular and molecular mechanisms underpinning IGF-2 effect on social behavior, our findings highlight IGF-2 as a potential pharmacological tool for the treatment of social dysfunctions associated with ASDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Hannah Monyer
- European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Rome, Italy
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology at the Medical Faculty of Heidelberg University and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Marilena Griguoli
- European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Rome, Italy
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology of the National Council of Research (IBPM-CNR), Rome, Italy
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Gauthier C, El Cheikh K, Basile I, Daurat M, Morère E, Garcia M, Maynadier M, Morère A, Gary-Bobo M. Cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor: From roles and functions to targeted therapies. J Control Release 2024; 365:759-772. [PMID: 38086445 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-M6PR) is a ubiquitous transmembrane receptor whose main intracellular role is to direct enzymes carrying mannose 6-phosphate moieties to lysosomal compartments. Recently, the small membrane-bound portion of this receptor has appeared to be implicated in numerous pathophysiological processes. This review presents an overview of the main ligand partners and the roles of CI-M6PR in lysosomal storage diseases, neurology, immunology and cancer fields. Moreover, this membrane receptor has already been noted for its strong potential in therapeutic applications thanks to its cellular internalization activity and its ability to address pathogenic factors to lysosomes for degradation. A number of therapeutic delivery approaches using CI-M6PR, in particular with enzymes, antibodies or nanoparticles, are currently being proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corentin Gauthier
- NanoMedSyn, Montpellier, France; IBMM, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | | | - Elodie Morère
- NanoMedSyn, Montpellier, France; IBMM, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Alain Morère
- IBMM, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
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Roy B, Amemasor E, Hussain S, Castro K. UBE3A: The Role in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and a Potential Candidate for Biomarker Studies and Designing Therapeutic Strategies. Diseases 2023; 12:7. [PMID: 38248358 PMCID: PMC10814747 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Published reports from the CDC's Autism and Development Disabilities Monitoring Networks have shown that an average of 1 in every 44 (2.3%) 8-year-old children were estimated to have ASD in 2018. Many of the ASDs exhibiting varying degrees of autism-like phenotypes have chromosomal anomalies in the Chr15q11-q13 region. Numerous potential candidate genes linked with ASD reside in this chromosomal segment. However, several clinical, in vivo, and in vitro studies selected one gene more frequently than others randomly and unbiasedly. This gene codes for UBE3A or Ubiquitin protein ligase E3A [also known as E6AP ubiquitin-protein ligase (E6AP)], an enzyme involved in the cellular degradation of proteins. This gene has been listed as one of the several genes with a high potential of causing ASD in the Autism Database. The gain of function mutations, triplication, or duplication in the UBE3A gene is also associated with ASDs like Angelman Syndrome (AS) and Dup15q Syndrome. The genetic imprinting of UBE3A in the brain and a preference for neuronal maternal-specific expression are the key features of various ASDs. Since the UBE3A gene is involved in two main important diseases associated with autism-like symptoms, there has been widespread research going on in understanding the link between this gene and autism. Additionally, since no universal methodology or mechanism exists for identifying UBE3A-mediated ASD, it continues to be challenging for neurobiologists, neuroscientists, and clinicians to design therapies or diagnostic tools. In this review, we focus on the structure and functional aspects of the UBE3A protein, discuss the primary relevance of the 15q11-q13 region in the cause of ASDs, and highlight the link between UBE3A and ASD. We try to broaden the knowledge of our readers by elaborating on the possible mechanisms underlying UBE3A-mediated ASDs, emphasizing the usage of UBE3A as a prospective biomarker in the preclinical diagnosis of ASDs and discuss the positive outcomes, advanced developments, and the hurdles in the field of therapeutic strategies against UBE3A-mediated ASDs. This review is novel as it lays a very detailed and comprehensive platform for one of the most important genes associated with diseases showing autistic-like symptoms. Additionally, this review also attempts to lay optimistic feedback on the possible steps for the diagnosis, prevention, and therapy of these UBE3A-mediated ASDs in the upcoming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bidisha Roy
- Life Science Centre, Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University-Newark, Newark, NJ 07102, USA; (E.A.); (S.H.); (K.C.)
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8
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Alberini CM. IGF2 in memory, neurodevelopmental disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Trends Neurosci 2023; 46:488-502. [PMID: 37031050 PMCID: PMC10192130 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) emerged as a critical mechanism of synaptic plasticity and learning and memory. Deficits in IGF2 in the brain, serum, or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are associated with brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Increasing IGF2 levels enhances memory in healthy animals and reverses numerous symptoms in laboratory models of aging, neurodevelopmental disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. These effects occur via the IGF2 receptor (IGF2R) - a receptor that is highly expressed in neurons and regulates protein trafficking, synthesis, and degradation. Here, I summarize the current knowledge regarding IGF2 expression and functions in the brain, particularly in memory, and propose a novel conceptual model for IGF2/IGF2R mechanisms of action in brain health and diseases.
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9
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Fitzgerald GS, Chuchta TG, McNay EC. Insulin‐like growth factor‐2 is a promising candidate for the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease. CNS Neurosci Ther 2023; 29:1449-1469. [PMID: 36971212 PMCID: PMC10173726 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. Current AD treatments slow the rate of cognitive decline, but do not restore lost function. One reason for the low efficacy of current treatments is that they fail to target neurotrophic processes, which are thought to be essential for functional recovery. Bolstering neurotrophic processes may also be a viable strategy for preventative treatment, since structural losses are thought to underlie cognitive decline in AD. The challenge of identifying presymptomatic patients who might benefit from preventative treatment means that any such treatment must meet a high standard of safety and tolerability. The neurotrophic peptide insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF2) is a promising candidate for both treating and preventing AD-induced cognitive decline. Brain IGF2 expression declines in AD patients. In rodent models of AD, exogenous IGF2 modulates multiple aspects of AD pathology, resulting in (1) improved cognitive function; (2) stimulation of neurogenesis and synaptogenesis; and, (3) neuroprotection against cholinergic dysfunction and beta amyloid-induced neurotoxicity. Preclinical evidence suggests that IGF2 is likely to be safe and tolerable at therapeutic doses. In the preventative treatment context, the intranasal route of administration is likely to be the preferred method for achieving the therapeutic effect without risking adverse side effects. For patients already experiencing AD dementia, routes of administration that deliver IGF2 directly access the CNS may be necessary. Finally, we discuss several strategies for improving the translational validity of animal models used to study the therapeutic potential of IGF2.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - E C McNay
- University at Albany, Albany, New York, USA
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10
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Wang L, Wang B, Wu C, Wang J, Sun M. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Neurodevelopmental Risk Factors, Biological Mechanism, and Precision Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031819. [PMID: 36768153 PMCID: PMC9915249 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous, behaviorally defined neurodevelopmental disorder. Over the past two decades, the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders has progressively increased, however, no clear diagnostic markers and specifically targeted medications for autism have emerged. As a result, neurobehavioral abnormalities, neurobiological alterations in ASD, and the development of novel ASD pharmacological therapy necessitate multidisciplinary collaboration. In this review, we discuss the development of multiple animal models of ASD to contribute to the disease mechanisms of ASD, as well as new studies from multiple disciplines to assess the behavioral pathology of ASD. In addition, we summarize and highlight the mechanistic advances regarding gene transcription, RNA and non-coding RNA translation, abnormal synaptic signaling pathways, epigenetic post-translational modifications, brain-gut axis, immune inflammation and neural loop abnormalities in autism to provide a theoretical basis for the next step of precision therapy. Furthermore, we review existing autism therapy tactics and limits and present challenges and opportunities for translating multidisciplinary knowledge of ASD into clinical practice.
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Piccinini A, Bailo P, Barbara G, Miozzo M, Tabano S, Colapietro P, Farè C, Sirchia SM, Battaglioli E, Bertuccio P, Manenti G, Micci L, La Vecchia C, Kustermann A, Gaudi S. Violence against Women and Stress-Related Disorders: Seeking for Associated Epigenetic Signatures, a Pilot Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11020173. [PMID: 36673541 PMCID: PMC9858929 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11020173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Violence against women is a relevant health and social problem with negative consequences on women's health. The interaction between genome and environmental factors, such as violence, represents one of the major challenges in molecular medicine. The Epigenetics for WomEn (EpiWE) project is a multidisciplinary pilot study that intends to investigate the epigenetic signatures associated with intimate partner and sexual violence-induced stress-related disorders. MATERIALS AND METHODS In 2020, 62 women exposed to violence (13 women suffering from sexual violence and 49 from Intimate Partner Violence, IPV) and 50 women with no history of violence were recruited at the Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence. All women aged 18-65 were monitored for their physical and psychological conditions. Blood samples were collected, and DNAs were extracted and underwent the epigenetic analysis of 10 stress-related genes. RESULTS PTSD prevalence in victims was assessed at 8.1%. Quantitative methylation evaluation of the ten selected trauma/stress-related genes revealed the differential iper-methylation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, dopamine receptor D2 and insulin-like growth factor 2 genes. These genes are among those related to brain plasticity, learning, and memory pathways. CONCLUSIONS The association of early detection of posttraumatic distress and epigenetic marker identification could represent a new avenue for addressing women survivors toward resilience. This innovative approach in gender-based violence studies could identify new molecular pathways associated with the long-term effects of violence and implement innovative protocols of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Piccinini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20100 Milan, Italy
- Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence( SVSeD), Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-(0)2-5031-5706
| | - Paolo Bailo
- Section of Legal Medicine, School of Law, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Giussy Barbara
- Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence( SVSeD), Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano di Milano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Miozzo
- Medical Genetics, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Tabano
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20100 Milan, Italy
- Medical Genetics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizia Colapietro
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Farè
- Medical Genetics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Maria Sirchia
- Medical Genetics, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Battaglioli
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Bertuccio
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Manenti
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Laila Micci
- Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence( SVSeD), Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo La Vecchia
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano di Milano, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Kustermann
- Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence( SVSeD), Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Gaudi
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy
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12
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Aria F, Pandey K, Alberini CM. Excessive Protein Accumulation and Impaired Autophagy in the Hippocampus of Angelman Syndrome Modeled in Mice. Biol Psychiatry 2022:S0006-3223(22)01796-6. [PMID: 36764852 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angelman syndrome (AS), a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by abnormalities of the 15q11.2-q13.1 chromosome region, is characterized by impairment of cognitive and motor functions, sleep problems, and seizures. How the genetic defects of AS produce these neurological symptoms is unclear. Mice modeling AS (AS mice) accumulate activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (ARC/ARG3.1), a neuronal immediate early gene (IEG) critical for synaptic plasticity. This accumulation suggests an altered protein metabolism. METHODS Focusing on the dorsal hippocampus (dHC), a brain region critical for memory formation and cognitive functions, we assessed levels and tissue distribution of IEGs, de novo protein synthesis, and markers of protein synthesis, endosomes, autophagy, and synaptic functions in AS mice at baseline and following learning. We also tested autophagic flux and memory retention following autophagy-promoting treatment. RESULTS AS dHC exhibited accumulation of IEGs ARC, FOS, and EGR1; autophagy proteins MLP3B, SQSTM1, and LAMP1; and reduction of the endosomal protein RAB5A. AS dHC also had increased levels of de novo protein synthesis, impaired autophagic flux with accumulation of autophagosome, and altered synaptic protein levels. Contextual fear conditioning significantly increased levels of IEGs and autophagy proteins, de novo protein synthesis, and autophagic flux in the dHC of normal mice, but not in AS mice. Enhancing autophagy in the dHC alleviated AS-related memory and autophagic flux impairments. CONCLUSIONS A major biological deficit of AS brain is a defective protein metabolism, particularly that dynamically regulated by learning, resulting in stalled autophagy and accumulation of neuronal proteins. Activating autophagy ameliorates AS cognitive impairments and dHC protein accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Aria
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Kiran Pandey
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, New York
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13
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Chao Y, Qin Y, Zou X, Wang X, Hu C, Xia F, Zou C. Promising therapeutic aspects in human genetic imprinting disorders. Clin Epigenetics 2022; 14:146. [PMID: 36371218 PMCID: PMC9655922 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-022-01369-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic imprinting is an epigenetic phenomenon of monoallelic gene expression pattern depending on parental origin. In humans, congenital imprinting disruptions resulting from genetic or epigenetic mechanisms can cause a group of diseases known as genetic imprinting disorders (IDs). Genetic IDs involve several distinct syndromes sharing homologies in terms of genetic etiologies and phenotypic features. However, the molecular pathogenesis of genetic IDs is complex and remains largely uncharacterized, resulting in a lack of effective therapeutic approaches for patients. In this review, we begin with an overview of the genomic and epigenomic molecular basis of human genetic IDs. Notably, we address ethical aspects as a priority of employing emerging techniques for therapeutic applications in human IDs. With a particular focus, we delineate the current field of emerging therapeutics for genetic IDs. We briefly summarize novel symptomatic drugs and highlight the key milestones of new techniques and therapeutic programs as they stand today which can offer highly promising disease-modifying interventions for genetic IDs accompanied by various challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqi Chao
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
| | - Yifang Qin
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
| | - Xinyi Zou
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XZhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, 310015 Zhejiang China
| | - Xiangzhi Wang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
| | - Chenxi Hu
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
| | - Fangling Xia
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
| | - Chaochun Zou
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
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14
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Campbell A, Morris G, Sanfeliu A, Augusto J, Langa E, Kesavan JC, Nguyen NT, Conroy RM, Worm J, Kielpinski L, Jensen MA, Miller MT, Kremer T, Reschke CR, Henshall DC. AntimiR targeting of microRNA-134 reduces seizures in a mouse model of Angelman syndrome. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 28:514-529. [PMID: 35592499 PMCID: PMC9092865 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Angelman syndrome (AS) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder featuring ataxia, cognitive impairment, and drug-resistant epilepsy. AS is caused by mutations or deletion of the maternal copy of the paternally imprinted UBE3A gene, with current precision therapy approaches focusing on re-expression of UBE3A. Certain phenotypes, however, are difficult to rescue beyond early development. Notably, a cluster of microRNA binding sites was reported in the untranslated Ube3a1 transcript, including for miR-134, suggesting that AS may be associated with microRNA dysregulation. Here, we report levels of miR-134 and key targets are normal in the hippocampus of mice carrying a maternal deletion of Ube3a (Ube3a m-/p+ ). Nevertheless, intracerebroventricular injection of an antimiR oligonucleotide inhibitor of miR-134 (Ant-134) reduced audiogenic seizure severity over multiple trials in 21- and 42-day-old AS mice. Interestingly, Ant-134 also improved distance traveled and center crossings of AS mice in the open-field test. Finally, we show that silencing miR-134 can upregulate targets of miR-134 in neurons differentiated from Angelman patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells. These findings indicate that silencing miR-134 and possibly other microRNAs could be useful to treat clinically relevant phenotypes with a later developmental window in AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoife Campbell
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland.,FutureNeuro, The SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland
| | - Gareth Morris
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland.,FutureNeuro, The SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland
| | - Albert Sanfeliu
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland.,FutureNeuro, The SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland
| | - Joana Augusto
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland.,FutureNeuro, The SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland
| | - Elena Langa
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland.,FutureNeuro, The SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland
| | - Jaideep C Kesavan
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland.,FutureNeuro, The SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland
| | - Ngoc T Nguyen
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland.,FutureNeuro, The SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland
| | - Ronan M Conroy
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland
| | - Jesper Worm
- Therapeutic Modalities, Roche Innovation Center Copenhagen A/S, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, DK-2970 Hørsholm, Denmark
| | - Lukasz Kielpinski
- Therapeutic Modalities, Roche Innovation Center Copenhagen A/S, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, DK-2970 Hørsholm, Denmark
| | - Mads Aaboe Jensen
- Therapeutic Modalities, Roche Innovation Center Copenhagen A/S, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, DK-2970 Hørsholm, Denmark
| | - Meghan T Miller
- Neuroscience and Rare Diseases Discovery and Translational Area, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Kremer
- Neuroscience and Rare Diseases Discovery and Translational Area, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cristina R Reschke
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland.,FutureNeuro, The SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland.,School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland
| | - David C Henshall
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland.,FutureNeuro, The SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin D02 YN77, Ireland
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15
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Cosgrove JA, Kelly LK, Kiffmeyer EA, Kloth AD. Sex-dependent influence of postweaning environmental enrichment in Angelman syndrome model mice. Brain Behav 2022; 12:e2468. [PMID: 34985196 PMCID: PMC8865162 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Angelman syndrome (AS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutation or loss of UBE3A and marked by intellectual disability, ataxia, autism-like symptoms, and other atypical behaviors. One route to treatment may lie in the role that environment plays early in postnatal life. Environmental enrichment (EE) is one manipulation that has shown therapeutic potential in preclinical models of many brain disorders, including neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we examined whether postweaning EE can rescue behavioral phenotypes in Ube3a maternal deletion mice (AS mice), and whether any improvements are sex-dependent. METHODS Male and female mice (C57BL/6J Ube3atm1Alb mice and wild-type (WT) littermates; ≥10 mice/group) were randomly assigned to standard housing (SH) or EE at weaning. EE had a larger footprint, a running wheel, and a variety of toys that promoted foraging, burrowing, and climbing. Following 6 weeks of EE, animals were submitted to a battery of tests that reliably elicit behavioral deficits in AS mice, including rotarod, open field, marble burying, and forced swim; weights were also monitored. RESULTS In male AS-EE mice, we found complete restoration of motor coordination, marble burying, and forced swim behavior to the level of WT-SH mice. We also observed a complete normalization of exploratory distance traveled in the open field, but we found no rescue of vertical behavior or center time. AS-EE mice also had weights comparable to WT-SH mice. Intriguingly, in the female AS-EE mice, we found a failure of EE to rescue the same behavioral deficits relative to female WT-SH mice. CONCLUSIONS Environmental enrichment is an effective route to correcting the most penetrant phenotypes in male AS mice but not female AS mice. This finding has important implications for the translatability of early behavioral intervention for AS patients, most importantly the potential dependency of treatment response on sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jameson A. Cosgrove
- Department of BiologyAugustana University2001 S. Summit AvenueSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
| | - Lauren K. Kelly
- Department of BiologyAugustana University2001 S. Summit AvenueSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
| | - Elizabeth A. Kiffmeyer
- Department of BiologyAugustana University2001 S. Summit AvenueSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
| | - Alexander D. Kloth
- Department of BiologyAugustana University2001 S. Summit AvenueSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
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16
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Redell JB, Maynard ME, Hood KN, Moore AN, Zhao J, Dash PK. Insulin-Like Growth Factor-2 (IGF-2) Does Not Improve Memory in the Chronic Stage of Traumatic Brain Injury in Rodents. Neurotrauma Rep 2021; 2:453-460. [PMID: 34901941 PMCID: PMC8655797 DOI: 10.1089/neur.2021.0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistent cognitive impairment(s) can be a significant consequence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and can markedly compromise quality of life. Unfortunately, identifying effective treatments to alleviate memory impairments in the chronic stage of TBI has proven elusive. Several studies have demonstrated that insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2) can enhance memory in both normal animals and in experimental models of disease. In this study, we questioned whether IGF-2, when administered before learning, could enhance memory performance in the chronic stage of TBI. Male C57BL/6 mice (n = 7 per group) were injured using an electronic cortical impact injury device. Four months later, mice were tested for their cognitive performance in the fear memory extinction, novel object recognition (NOR), and Morris water maze tasks. Twenty minutes before each day of training, mice received a subcutaneous injection of either 30 μg/kg of IGF-2 or an equal volume of vehicle. Memory testing was carried out 24 h after training in the absence of the drug. Uninjured sham animals treated with IGF-2 (or vehicle) were trained and tested in the fear memory extinction task as a positive control. Our data show that although IGF-2 (30 μg/kg) improved memory extinction in uninjured mice, it was ineffective at improving fear memory extinction in the chronic stage of TBI. Similarly, IGF-2 administration to chronically injured animals did not improve TBI-related deficits in either NOR or spatial memory. Our results indicate that IGF-2, administered in the chronic stage of injury, is ineffective at enhancing memory performance and therefore may not be a beneficial treatment option for lingering cognitive impairments after a TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- John B Redell
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mark E Maynard
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kimberly N Hood
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Anthony N Moore
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Pramod K Dash
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
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17
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Sell GL, Xin W, Cook EK, Zbinden MA, Schaffer TB, O'Meally RN, Cole RN, Margolis SS. Deleting a UBE3A substrate rescues impaired hippocampal physiology and learning in Angelman syndrome mice. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19414. [PMID: 34593829 PMCID: PMC8484563 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97898-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, loss-of-function mutations in the UBE3A gene lead to the neurodevelopmental disorder Angelman syndrome (AS). AS patients have severe impairments in speech, learning and memory, and motor coordination, for which there is currently no treatment. In addition, UBE3A is duplicated in > 1-2% of patients with autism spectrum disorders-a further indication of the significant role it plays in brain development. Altered expression of UBE3A, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, is hypothesized to lead to impaired levels of its target proteins, but identifying the contribution of individual UBE3A targets to UBE3A-dependent deficits remains of critical importance. Ephexin5 is a putative UBE3A substrate that has restricted expression early in development, regulates synapse formation during hippocampal development, and is abnormally elevated in AS mice, modeled by maternally-derived Ube3a gene deletion. Here, we report that Ephexin5 can be directly ubiquitylated by UBE3A. Furthermore, removing Ephexin5 from AS mice specifically rescued hippocampus-dependent behaviors, CA1 physiology, and deficits in dendritic spine number. Our findings identify Ephexin5 as a key driver of hippocampal dysfunction and related behavioral deficits in AS mouse models. These results demonstrate the exciting potential of targeting Ephexin5, and possibly other UBE3A substrates, to improve symptoms of AS and other UBE3A-related developmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle L Sell
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Wood Basic Science Building Room 517, 725 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California-Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
| | - Wendy Xin
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
- Department of Neurology and the Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Emily K Cook
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Wood Basic Science Building Room 517, 725 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Mark A Zbinden
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Wood Basic Science Building Room 517, 725 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Human Metabolome Technologies America, Inc., Boston, MA, 02134, USA
| | - Thomas B Schaffer
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Wood Basic Science Building Room 517, 725 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- NextCure Inc., Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Robert N O'Meally
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Wood Basic Science Building Room 517, 725 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Robert N Cole
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Wood Basic Science Building Room 517, 725 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Seth S Margolis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Wood Basic Science Building Room 517, 725 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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18
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Berg EL, Petkova SP, Born HA, Adhikari A, Anderson AE, Silverman JL. Insulin-like growth factor-2 does not improve behavioral deficits in mouse and rat models of Angelman Syndrome. Mol Autism 2021; 12:59. [PMID: 34526125 PMCID: PMC8444390 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-021-00467-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder for which there is currently no cure or effective therapeutic. Since the genetic cause of AS is known to be dysfunctional expression of the maternal allele of ubiquitin protein ligase E3A (UBE3A), several genetic animal models of AS have been developed. Both the Ube3a maternal deletion mouse and rat models of AS reliably demonstrate behavioral phenotypes of relevance to AS and therefore offer suitable in vivo systems in which to test potential therapeutics. One promising candidate treatment is insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2), which has recently been shown to ameliorate behavioral deficits in the mouse model of AS and improve cognitive abilities across model systems. METHODS We used both the Ube3a maternal deletion mouse and rat models of AS to evaluate the ability of IGF-2 to improve electrophysiological and behavioral outcomes. RESULTS Acute systemic administration of IGF-2 had an effect on electrophysiological activity in the brain and on a metric of motor ability; however the effects were not enduring or extensive. Additional metrics of motor behavior, learning, ambulation, and coordination were unaffected and IGF-2 did not improve social communication, seizure threshold, or cognition. LIMITATIONS The generalizability of these results to humans is difficult to predict and it remains possible that dosing schemes (i.e., chronic or subchronic dosing), routes, and/or post-treatment intervals other than that used herein may show more efficacy. CONCLUSIONS Despite a few observed effects of IGF-2, our results taken together indicate that IGF-2 treatment does not profoundly improve behavioral deficits in mouse or rat models of AS. These findings shed cautionary light on the potential utility of acute systemic IGF-2 administration in the treatment of AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L. Berg
- MIND Institute and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA USA
| | - Stela P. Petkova
- MIND Institute and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA USA
| | - Heather A. Born
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
- Gene Therapy Program, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Anna Adhikari
- MIND Institute and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA USA
| | - Anne E. Anderson
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Jill L. Silverman
- MIND Institute and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA USA
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19
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Bicker F, Nardi L, Maier J, Vasic V, Schmeisser MJ. Criss-crossing autism spectrum disorder and adult neurogenesis. J Neurochem 2021; 159:452-478. [PMID: 34478569 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comprises a group of multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorders primarily characterized by deficits in social interaction and repetitive behavior. Although the onset is typically in early childhood, ASD poses a lifelong challenge for both patients and caretakers. Adult neurogenesis (AN) is the process by which new functional neurons are created from neural stem cells existing in the post-natal brain. The entire event is based on a sequence of cellular processes, such as proliferation, specification of cell fate, maturation, and ultimately, synaptic integration into the existing neural circuits. Hence, AN is implicated in structural and functional brain plasticity throughout life. Accumulating evidence shows that impaired AN may underlie some of the abnormal behavioral phenotypes seen in ASD. In this review, we approach the interconnections between the molecular pathways related to AN and ASD. We also discuss existing therapeutic approaches targeting such pathways both in preclinical and clinical studies. A deeper understanding of how ASD and AN reciprocally affect one another could reveal important converging pathways leading to the emergence of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Bicker
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Leonardo Nardi
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jannik Maier
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Verica Vasic
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael J Schmeisser
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
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20
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Elgersma Y, Sonzogni M. UBE3A reinstatement as a disease-modifying therapy for Angelman syndrome. Dev Med Child Neurol 2021; 63:802-807. [PMID: 33543479 PMCID: PMC8248324 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Half a century ago, Harry Angelman reported three patients with overlapping clinical features, now well known as Angelman syndrome. Angelman syndrome is caused by mutations affecting the maternally inherited UBE3A gene, which encodes an E3-ubiquitin ligase that is critical for typical postnatal brain development. Emerging evidence indicates that UBE3A plays a particularly important role in the nucleus. However, the critical substrates that are controlled by UBE3A remain elusive, which hinders the search for effective treatments. Moreover, given the multitude of signalling mechanisms that are derailed, it is unlikely that targeting a single pathway is going to be very effective. Therefore, expectations are very high for approaches that aim to restore UBE3A protein levels. A particular promising strategy is an antisense oligonucleotide approach, which activates the silenced paternal UBE3A gene. When successful, such treatments potentially offer a disease-modifying therapy for Angelman syndrome and several other neurodevelopmental disorders. What this paper adds Loss of UBE3A affects multiple signalling pathways in the brain. Emerging evidence suggests that UBE3A plays a critical role in the cell nucleus. Trials using antisense oligonucleotides to restore UBE3A levels are continuing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ype Elgersma
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Deptartment of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Monica Sonzogni
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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21
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Markati T, Duis J, Servais L. Therapies in preclinical and clinical development for Angelman syndrome. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 30:709-720. [PMID: 34112038 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2021.1939674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Angelman syndrome is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder, caused by deficiency or abnormal function of the maternal ubiquitin protein-ligase E3A, known as UBE3A, in the central nervous system. There is no disease-modifying treatment available, but the therapeutic pipeline of Angelman syndrome includes at least 15 different approaches at preclinical or clinical development. In the coming years, several clinical trials will be enrolling patients, which prompted this comprehensive review.Areas covered: We summarize and critically review the different therapeutic approaches. Some approaches attempt to restore the missing or nonfunctional UBE3A protein in the neurons via gene replacement or enzyme replacement therapies. Other therapies aim to induce expression of the normal paternal copy of the UBE3A gene by targeting a long non-coding RNA, the UBE3A-ATS, which interferes with its own expression. Another therapeutic category includes compounds that target molecular pathways and effector proteins known to be involved in Angelman syndrome pathophysiology.Expert opinion: We believe that by 2022-2023, more than five disease-modifying treatments will be simultaneously at clinical testing. However, the are several challenges with regards to safety and efficacy, which need to be addressed. Additionally, there is still a significant unmet need for clinical trial readiness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora Markati
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Center, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jessica Duis
- Section of Genetics & Inherited Metabolic Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Laurent Servais
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Center, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Division of Child Neurology, Centre De Références Des Maladies Neuromusculaires, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Liège & University of Liège, Belgium
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Beletskiy A, Chesnokova E, Bal N. Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 As a Possible Neuroprotective Agent and Memory Enhancer-Its Comparative Expression, Processing and Signaling in Mammalian CNS. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041849. [PMID: 33673334 PMCID: PMC7918606 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A number of studies performed on rodents suggest that insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2) or its analogs may possibly be used for treating some conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, autistic spectrum disorders or aging-related cognitive impairment. Still, for translational research a comparative knowledge about the function of IGF-2 and related molecules in model organisms (rats and mice) and humans is necessary. There is a number of important differences in IGF-2 signaling between species. In the present review we emphasize species-specific patterns of IGF-2 expression in rodents, humans and some other mammals, using, among other sources, publicly available transcriptomic data. We provide a detailed description of Igf2 mRNA expression regulation and pre-pro-IGF-2 protein processing in different species. We also summarize the function of IGF-binding proteins. We describe three different receptors able to bind IGF-2 and discuss the role of IGF-2 signaling in learning and memory, as well as in neuroprotection. We hope that comprehensive understanding of similarities and differences in IGF-2 signaling between model organisms and humans will be useful for development of more effective medicines targeting IGF-2 receptors.
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