1
|
Mistry H, Richardson CD, Higginbottom A, Ashford B, Ahamed SU, Moore Z, Matthews FE, Brayne C, Simpson JE, Wharton SB. Relationships of brain cholesterol and cholesterol biosynthetic enzymes to Alzheimer's pathology and dementia in the CFAS population-derived neuropathology cohort. Neurosci Res 2024; 204:22-33. [PMID: 38278219 PMCID: PMC11192635 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2024.01.003] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Altered cholesterol metabolism is implicated in brain ageing and Alzheimer's disease. We examined whether key genes regulating cholesterol metabolism and levels of brain cholesterol are altered in dementia and Alzheimer's disease neuropathological change (ADNC). Temporal cortex (n = 99) was obtained from the Cognitive Function and Ageing Study. Expression of the cholesterol biosynthesis rate-limiting enzyme HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) and its regulator, SREBP2, were detected using immunohistochemistry. Expression of HMGCR, SREBP2, CYP46A1 and ABCA1 were quantified by qPCR in samples enriched for astrocyte and neuronal RNA following laser-capture microdissection. Total cortical cholesterol was measured using the Amplex Red assay. HMGCR and SREBP2 proteins were predominantly expressed in pyramidal neurones, and in glia. Neuronal HMGCR did not vary with ADNC, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation or dementia status. Expression of HMGCR neuronal mRNA decreased with ADNC (p = 0.022) and increased with neuronal DNA damage (p = 0.049), whilst SREBP2 increased with ADNC (p = 0.005). High or moderate tertiles for cholesterol levels were associated with increased dementia risk (OR 1.44, 1.58). APOE ε4 allele was not associated with cortical cholesterol levels. ADNC is associated with gene expression changes that may impair cholesterol biosynthesis in neurones but not astrocytes, whilst levels of cortical cholesterol show a weak relationship to dementia status.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hemant Mistry
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and the Neuroscience Institute, the University of Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Adrian Higginbottom
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and the Neuroscience Institute, the University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Bridget Ashford
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and the Neuroscience Institute, the University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Saif U Ahamed
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and the Neuroscience Institute, the University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Zoe Moore
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and the Neuroscience Institute, the University of Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Carol Brayne
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Julie E Simpson
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and the Neuroscience Institute, the University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Stephen B Wharton
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and the Neuroscience Institute, the University of Sheffield, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ahmed H, Wang Y, Griffiths WJ, Levey AI, Pikuleva I, Liang SH, Haider A. Brain cholesterol and Alzheimer's disease: challenges and opportunities in probe and drug development. Brain 2024; 147:1622-1635. [PMID: 38301270 PMCID: PMC11068113 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae028] [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: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol homeostasis is impaired in Alzheimer's disease; however, attempts to modulate brain cholesterol biology have not translated into tangible clinical benefits for patients to date. Several recent milestone developments have substantially improved our understanding of how excess neuronal cholesterol contributes to the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease. Indeed, neuronal cholesterol was linked to the formation of amyloid-β and neurofibrillary tangles through molecular pathways that were recently delineated in mechanistic studies. Furthermore, remarkable advances in translational molecular imaging have now made it possible to probe cholesterol metabolism in the living human brain with PET, which is an important prerequisite for future clinical trials that target the brain cholesterol machinery in Alzheimer's disease patients-with the ultimate aim being to develop disease-modifying treatments. This work summarizes current concepts of how the biosynthesis, transport and clearance of brain cholesterol are affected in Alzheimer's disease. Further, current strategies to reverse these alterations by pharmacotherapy are critically discussed in the wake of emerging translational research tools that support the assessment of brain cholesterol biology not only in animal models but also in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hazem Ahmed
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Center for Radiopharmaceutical Sciences ETH-PSI-USZ, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences ETH, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Yuqin Wang
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - William J Griffiths
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Allan I Levey
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Irina Pikuleva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Steven H Liang
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Ahmed Haider
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Radiology, Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Nam YR, Kang M, Kim M, Seok MJ, Yang Y, Han YE, Oh SJ, Kim DG, Son H, Chang MY, Lee SH. Preparation of human astrocytes with potent therapeutic functions from human pluripotent stem cells using ventral midbrain patterning. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00112-7. [PMID: 38521186 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.03.012] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Astrocytes are glial-type cells that protect neurons from toxic insults and support neuronal functions and metabolism in a healthy brain. Leveraging these physiological functions, transplantation of astrocytes or their derivatives has emerged as a potential therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative disorders. METHODS To substantiate the clinical application of astrocyte-based therapy, we aimed to prepare human astrocytes with potent therapeutic capacities from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). To that end, we used ventral midbrain patterning during the differentiation of hPSCs into astrocytes, based on the roles of midbrain-specific factors in potentiating glial neurotrophic/anti-inflammatory activity. To assess the therapeutic effects of human midbrain-type astrocytes, we transplanted them into mouse models of Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). RESULTS Through a comprehensive series of in-vitro and in-vivo experiments, we were able to establish that the midbrain-type astrocytes exhibited the abilities to effectively combat oxidative stress, counter excitotoxic glutamate, and manage pathological protein aggregates. Our strategy for preparing midbrain-type astrocytes yielded promising results, demonstrating the strong therapeutic potential of these cells in various neurotoxic contexts. Particularly noteworthy is their efficacy in PD and AD-specific proteopathic conditions, in which the midbrain-type astrocytes outperformed forebrain-type astrocytes derived by the same organoid-based method. CONCLUSION The enhanced functions of the midbrain-type astrocytes extended to their ability to release signaling molecules that inhibited neuronal deterioration and senescence while steering microglial cells away from a pro-inflammatory state. This success was evident in both in-vitro studies using human cells and in-vivo experiments conducted in mouse models of PD and AD. In the end, our human midbrain-type astrocytes demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in alleviating neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, and the pathologies associated with the accumulation of α-synuclein and Amyloid β proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Rim Nam
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Minji Kang
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Minji Kim
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Jong Seok
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yunseon Yang
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Eun Han
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Soo-Jin Oh
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Do Gyeong Kim
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyeon Son
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Korea
| | - Mi-Yoon Chang
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Department of Premedicine, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Korea; Hanyang Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea.
| | - Sang-Hun Lee
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea; Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Guarnieri L, Bosco F, Leo A, Citraro R, Palma E, De Sarro G, Mollace V. Impact of micronutrients and nutraceuticals on cognitive function and performance in Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 95:102210. [PMID: 38296163 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102210] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major global health problem today and is the most common form of dementia. AD is characterized by the formation of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary clusters, leading to decreased brain acetylcholine levels in the brain. Another mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of AD is the abnormal phosphorylation of tau protein that accumulates at the level of neurofibrillary aggregates, and the areas most affected by this pathological process are usually the cholinergic neurons in cortical, subcortical, and hippocampal areas. These effects result in decreased cognitive function, brain atrophy, and neuronal death. Malnutrition and weight loss are the most frequent manifestations of AD, and these are also associated with greater cognitive decline. Several studies have confirmed that a balanced low-calorie diet and proper nutritional intake may be considered important factors in counteracting or slowing the progression of AD, whereas a high-fat or hypercholesterolemic diet predisposes to an increased risk of developing AD. Especially, fruits, vegetables, antioxidants, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and micronutrients supplementation exert positive effects on aging-related changes in the brain due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and radical scavenging properties. The purpose of this review is to summarize some possible nutritional factors that may contribute to the progression or prevention of AD, understand the role that nutrition plays in the formation of Aβ plaques typical of this neurodegenerative disease, to identify some potential therapeutic strategies that may involve some natural compounds, in delaying the progression of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenza Guarnieri
- Section of Pharmacology, Science of Health Department, School of Medicine, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Francesca Bosco
- Section of Pharmacology, Science of Health Department, School of Medicine, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.
| | - Antonio Leo
- Section of Pharmacology, Science of Health Department, School of Medicine, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; Research Center FAS@UMG, Department of Health Science, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Rita Citraro
- Section of Pharmacology, Science of Health Department, School of Medicine, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; Research Center FAS@UMG, Department of Health Science, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health (IRC-FSH), University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giovambattista De Sarro
- Section of Pharmacology, Science of Health Department, School of Medicine, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; Research Center FAS@UMG, Department of Health Science, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mollace
- Department of Health Sciences, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health (IRC-FSH), University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Thau H, Neuber S, Emmert MY, Nazari-Shafti TZ. Targeting Lipoprotein(a): Can RNA Therapeutics Provide the Next Step in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease? Cardiol Ther 2024; 13:39-67. [PMID: 38381282 PMCID: PMC10899152 DOI: 10.1007/s40119-024-00353-w] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Numerous genetic and epidemiologic studies have demonstrated an association between elevated levels of lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) and cardiovascular disease. As a result, lowering Lp(a) levels is widely recognized as a promising strategy for reducing the risk of new-onset coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure. Lp(a) consists of a low-density lipoprotein-like particle with covalently linked apolipoprotein A (apo[a]) and apolipoprotein B-100, which explains its pro-thrombotic, pro-inflammatory, and pro-atherogenic properties. Lp(a) serum concentrations are genetically determined by the apo(a) isoform, with shorter isoforms having a higher rate of particle synthesis. To date, there are no approved pharmacological therapies that effectively reduce Lp(a) levels. Promising treatment approaches targeting apo(a) expression include RNA-based drugs such as pelacarsen, olpasiran, SLN360, and lepodisiran, which are currently in clinical trials. In this comprehensive review, we provide a detailed overview of RNA-based therapeutic approaches and discuss the recent advances and challenges of RNA therapeutics specifically designed to reduce Lp(a) levels and thus the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henriette Thau
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Neuber
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maximilian Y Emmert
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), 13353, Berlin, Germany.
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8044, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Timo Z Nazari-Shafti
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité (Junior) (Digital) Clinician Scientist Program, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ling E, Nemesh J, Goldman M, Kamitaki N, Reed N, Handsaker RE, Genovese G, Vogelgsang JS, Gerges S, Kashin S, Ghosh S, Esposito JM, Morris K, Meyer D, Lutservitz A, Mullally CD, Wysoker A, Spina L, Neumann A, Hogan M, Ichihara K, Berretta S, McCarroll SA. A concerted neuron-astrocyte program declines in ageing and schizophrenia. Nature 2024; 627:604-611. [PMID: 38448582 PMCID: PMC10954558 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07109-5] [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: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Human brains vary across people and over time; such variation is not yet understood in cellular terms. Here we describe a relationship between people's cortical neurons and cortical astrocytes. We used single-nucleus RNA sequencing to analyse the prefrontal cortex of 191 human donors aged 22-97 years, including healthy individuals and people with schizophrenia. Latent-factor analysis of these data revealed that, in people whose cortical neurons more strongly expressed genes encoding synaptic components, cortical astrocytes more strongly expressed distinct genes with synaptic functions and genes for synthesizing cholesterol, an astrocyte-supplied component of synaptic membranes. We call this relationship the synaptic neuron and astrocyte program (SNAP). In schizophrenia and ageing-two conditions that involve declines in cognitive flexibility and plasticity1,2-cells divested from SNAP: astrocytes, glutamatergic (excitatory) neurons and GABAergic (inhibitory) neurons all showed reduced SNAP expression to corresponding degrees. The distinct astrocytic and neuronal components of SNAP both involved genes in which genetic risk factors for schizophrenia were strongly concentrated. SNAP, which varies quantitatively even among healthy people of similar age, may underlie many aspects of normal human interindividual differences and may be an important point of convergence for multiple kinds of pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emi Ling
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - James Nemesh
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Melissa Goldman
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nolan Kamitaki
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nora Reed
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Robert E Handsaker
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Giulio Genovese
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jonathan S Vogelgsang
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sherif Gerges
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Seva Kashin
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sulagna Ghosh
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Daniel Meyer
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alyssa Lutservitz
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher D Mullally
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alec Wysoker
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Liv Spina
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anna Neumann
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marina Hogan
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kiku Ichihara
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sabina Berretta
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Steven A McCarroll
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ling E, Nemesh J, Goldman M, Kamitaki N, Reed N, Handsaker RE, Genovese G, Vogelgsang JS, Gerges S, Kashin S, Ghosh S, Esposito JM, French K, Meyer D, Lutservitz A, Mullally CD, Wysoker A, Spina L, Neumann A, Hogan M, Ichihara K, Berretta S, McCarroll SA. Concerted neuron-astrocyte gene expression declines in aging and schizophrenia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.07.574148. [PMID: 38260461 PMCID: PMC10802483 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.07.574148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Human brains vary across people and over time; such variation is not yet understood in cellular terms. Here we describe a striking relationship between people's cortical neurons and cortical astrocytes. We used single-nucleus RNA-seq to analyze the prefrontal cortex of 191 human donors ages 22-97 years, including healthy individuals and persons with schizophrenia. Latent-factor analysis of these data revealed that in persons whose cortical neurons more strongly expressed genes for synaptic components, cortical astrocytes more strongly expressed distinct genes with synaptic functions and genes for synthesizing cholesterol, an astrocyte-supplied component of synaptic membranes. We call this relationship the Synaptic Neuron-and-Astrocyte Program (SNAP). In schizophrenia and aging - two conditions that involve declines in cognitive flexibility and plasticity 1,2 - cells had divested from SNAP: astrocytes, glutamatergic (excitatory) neurons, and GABAergic (inhibitory) neurons all reduced SNAP expression to corresponding degrees. The distinct astrocytic and neuronal components of SNAP both involved genes in which genetic risk factors for schizophrenia were strongly concentrated. SNAP, which varies quantitatively even among healthy persons of similar age, may underlie many aspects of normal human interindividual differences and be an important point of convergence for multiple kinds of pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emi Ling
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - James Nemesh
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Melissa Goldman
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nolan Kamitaki
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nora Reed
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Robert E. Handsaker
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Giulio Genovese
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jonathan S. Vogelgsang
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Sherif Gerges
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Seva Kashin
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sulagna Ghosh
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | | | - Daniel Meyer
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alyssa Lutservitz
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Christopher D. Mullally
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alec Wysoker
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Liv Spina
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Anna Neumann
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Marina Hogan
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kiku Ichihara
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sabina Berretta
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Steven A. McCarroll
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zubillaga M, Tau J, Rosa D, Bellini MJ, Arnal N. Sex-dependent effect of sublethal copper concentrations on de novo cholesterol synthesis in astrocytes and their possible links to variations in cholesterol and amyloid precursor protein levels in neuronal membranes. Biol Sex Differ 2024; 15:4. [PMID: 38191520 PMCID: PMC10775608 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00578-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholesterol (Cho) is an essential lipophilic molecule in cells; however, both its decrease and its increase may favor the development of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although copper (Cu) is an essential trace metal for cells, the increased plasma concentration of its free form has been linked with AD development and severity. AD affects aged people, but its prevalence and severity are higher in women than in men. We have previously shown that Cu promotes Cho de novo synthesis in immature neurons as well as increased Cho in membrane rafts and Aβ levels in culture medium, but there are no results yet regarding sex differences in the effects of sublethal Cu exposure on Cho de novo synthesis. METHODS We examined the potential sex-specific impact of sublethal Cu concentrations on de novo Cho synthesis in primary cultures of male and female astrocytes. We also explored whether this had any correlation with variations in Cho and APP levels within neuronal membrane rafts. RESULTS Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that Cu treatment leads to a greater increase in ROS levels in female astrocytes than in males. Furthermore, through RT-PCR analysis, we observed an upregulation of SREBP-2 and HMGCR. Consistently, we observed an increase in de novo Cho synthesis. Finally, western blot analysis indicated that the levels of ABCA1 increase after Cu treatment, accompanied by a higher release of radiolabeled Cho and an elevation in Cho and APP levels in neuronal membrane rafts. Importantly, all these results were significantly more pronounced in female astrocytes than in males. CONCLUSIONS Our findings confirm that Cu stimulates Cho synthesis in astrocytes, both in a ROS-dependent and -independent manner. Moreover, female astrocytes displayed elevated levels of HMGCR, and de novo Cho synthesis compared to males following TBH and Cu treatments. This corresponds with higher levels of Cho released into the culture medium and a more significant Cho and APP rise within neuronal rafts. We consider that the increased risk of AD in females partly arises from sex-specific responses to metals and/or exogenous substances, impacting key enzyme regulation in various biochemical pathways, including HMGCR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Zubillaga
- Laboratorio de Neurociencia, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata (INIBIOLP), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Calle 60 y 120, CP 1900, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Julia Tau
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata (INIBIOLP), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Calle 60 y 120, CP 1900, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Diana Rosa
- Laboratorio de Nutrición Mineral, Fac. Cs Veterinarias, UNLP (Universidad Nacional de La Plata), Calle 60, CP 1900, La Plata, Argentina
| | - M José Bellini
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología y Cognición en el Envejecimiento y Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata (INIBIOLP), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Calle 60 y 120, CP 1900, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Nathalie Arnal
- Laboratorio de Neurociencia, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata (INIBIOLP), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), Calle 60 y 120, CP 1900, La Plata, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Masson EAY, Serrano J, Leger-Charnay E, Acar N. Cholesterol and oxysterols in retinal neuron-glia interactions: relevance for glaucoma. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2024; 3:1303649. [PMID: 38983043 PMCID: PMC11182186 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2023.1303649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Cholesterol is an essential component of cellular membranes, crucial for maintaining their structural and functional integrity. It is especially important for nervous tissues, including the retina, which rely on high amounts of plasma membranes for the transmission of the nervous signal. While cholesterol is by far the most abundant sterol, the retina also contains cholesterol precursors and metabolites, especially oxysterols, which are bioactive molecules. Cholesterol lack or excess is deleterious and some oxysterols are known for their effect on neuron survival. Cholesterol homeostasis must therefore be maintained. Retinal glial cells, especially Müller cells, the principal glial cells of the vertebrate retina, provide mechanical, nutritional, and metabolic support for the neighboring neurons. Several pieces of evidence indicate that Müller cells are major actors of cholesterol homeostasis in the retina, as it is known for other glial cells in the brain. This process is based on a close cooperation with neurons, and sterols can be signaling molecules participating in glia-neuron interactions. While some implication of cholesterol in age-related macular degeneration is now recognized, based on epidemiological and laboratory data, evidence for its role in glaucoma is still scarce. The association between cholesterolemia and glaucoma is controversial, but experimental data suggest that sterols could take part in the pathological processes. It has been demonstrated that Müller glial cells are implicated in the development of glaucoma through an ambivalent reactive retinal gliosis process. The early steps contribute to maintaining retinal homeostasis and favor the survival of ganglion cells, which are targeted during glaucoma. If gliosis persists, dysregulation of the neuroprotective functions, cytotoxic effects of gliotic Müller cells and disruption of glia-neuron interactions lead to an acceleration of ganglion cell death. Sterols could play a role in the glial cell response to glaucomatous injury. This represents an understudied but attractive topic to better understand glaucoma and conceive novel preventive or curative strategies. The present review describes the current knowledge on i) sterol metabolism in retinal glial cells, ii) the potential role of cholesterol in glaucoma, and iii) the possible relationships between cholesterol and oxysterols, glial cells and glaucoma. Focus is put on glia-neuron interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elodie A Y Masson
- Eye and Nutrition Research Group, Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Jeanne Serrano
- Eye and Nutrition Research Group, Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
- Sensory Perception, Glia/Neuron Interaction Research Group, Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Elise Leger-Charnay
- Eye and Nutrition Research Group, Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Niyazi Acar
- Eye and Nutrition Research Group, Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tripodi D, Vitarelli F, Spiti S, Leoni V. The Diagnostic Use of the Plasma Quantification of 24S-Hydroxycholesterol and Other Oxysterols in Neurodegenerative Disease. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1440:337-351. [PMID: 38036888 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-43883-7_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol regulates fluidity and structure of cellular membranes. The brain is involved in signal transduction, synaptogenesis, and membrane trafficking. An impairment of its metabolism was observed in different neurodegenerative diseases, such as Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer, and Huntington diseases. Because of the blood-brain barrier, cholesterol cannot be uptaken from the circulation and all the cholesterol is locally synthetized. The excess cholesterol in neurons is converted into 24S-hydroxycholesterol (24OHC) by the cholesterol 24-hydroxylase (CYP46A1). The plasmatic concentration of 24OHC results in the balance between cerebral production and liver elimination. It is related to the number of metabolically active neurons in the brain. Several factors that affect the brain cholesterol turnover and the liver elimination of oxysterols, the genetic background, nutrition, and lifestyle habits were found to significantly affect plasma levels of 24OHC. Reduced levels of 24OHC were found related to the loss of metabolically active cells and the degree of brain atrophy. The dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier, inflammation, and increased cholesterol turnover might overlap with this progressive reduction giving temporary increased levels of 24OHC.The study of plasma 24OHC is likely to offer an insight into brain cholesterol turnover with a limited diagnostic power.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Tripodi
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Hospital Pio XI of Desio, ASST-Brianza and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Desio, MB, Italy
| | - Federica Vitarelli
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Hospital Pio XI of Desio, ASST-Brianza and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Desio, MB, Italy
| | - Simona Spiti
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Hospital Pio XI of Desio, ASST-Brianza and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Desio, MB, Italy
| | - Valerio Leoni
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Hospital Pio XI of Desio, ASST-Brianza and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Desio, MB, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Biojone C, Cannarozzo C, Seiffert N, Diniz CRAF, Brunello CA, Castrén E, Casarotto P. Mutation in the TRKB Cholesterol Recognition Site that blocks Antidepressant Binding does not Influence the Basal or BDNF-Stimulated Activation of TRKB. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 44:4. [PMID: 38104054 PMCID: PMC10725331 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01438-1] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) acting upon its receptor Neurotrophic tyrosine kinase receptor 2 (NTRK2, TRKB) plays a central role in the development and maintenance of synaptic function and activity- or drug-induced plasticity. TRKB possesses an inverted cholesterol recognition and alignment consensus sequence (CARC), suggesting this receptor can act as a cholesterol sensor. We have recently shown that antidepressant drugs directly bind to the CARC domain of TRKB dimers, and that this binding as well as biochemical and behavioral responses to antidepressants are lost with a mutation in the TRKB CARC motif (Tyr433Phe). However, it is not clear if this mutation can also compromise the receptor function and lead to behavioral alterations. Here, we observed that Tyr433Phe mutation does not alter BDNF binding to TRKB, or BDNF-induced dimerization of TRKB. In this line, primary cultures from embryos of heterozygous Tyr433Phe mutant mice (hTRKB.Tyr433Phe) are responsive to BDNF-induced activation of TRKB, and samples from adult mice do not show any difference on TRKB activation compared to wild-type littermates (TRKB.wt). The behavioral phenotype of hTRKB.Tyr433Phe mice is indistinguishable from the wild-type mice in cued fear conditioning, contextual discrimination task, or the elevated plus maze, whereas mice heterozygous to BDNF null allele show a phenotype in context discrimination task. Taken together, our results indicate that Tyr433Phe mutation in the TRKB CARC motif does not show signs of loss-of-function of BDNF responses, while antidepressant binding to TRKB and responses to antidepressants are lost in Tyr433Phe mutants, making them an interesting mouse model for antidepressant research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Biojone
- Neuroscience Center - HiLife, University of Helsinki, P. O. Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit (TNU), Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Cecilia Cannarozzo
- Neuroscience Center - HiLife, University of Helsinki, P. O. Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nina Seiffert
- Neuroscience Center - HiLife, University of Helsinki, P. O. Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Cassiano R A F Diniz
- Neuroscience Center - HiLife, University of Helsinki, P. O. Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Cecilia A Brunello
- Neuroscience Center - HiLife, University of Helsinki, P. O. Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eero Castrén
- Neuroscience Center - HiLife, University of Helsinki, P. O. Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Plinio Casarotto
- Neuroscience Center - HiLife, University of Helsinki, P. O. Box 63, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gao Y, Ye S, Tang Y, Tong W, Sun S. Brain cholesterol homeostasis and its association with neurodegenerative diseases. Neurochem Int 2023; 171:105635. [PMID: 37949118 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2023.105635] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The brain is the most cholesterol-rich organ in mammals. However, cholesterol metabolism in the brain is completely independent of other tissues due to the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes are the main cells responsible for cholesterol synthesis in the brain. The cholesterol content in the brain is maintained at a relatively constant level under strict regulation of synthesis, transport, and turnover, that is, brain cholesterol homeostasis. Once this balance is disrupted, neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD) ensue. This review summarizes the processes controlling cholesterol homeostasis with respect to the synthesis, transport and turnover of cholesterol in the brain. We further focus on how cholesterol imbalance contributes to neurodegenerative diseases to explore the possibilities to modulate the key steps involved, which will provide clues for the development of therapies for the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Gao
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Shiying Ye
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yuehong Tang
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Wenjuan Tong
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
| | - Shaowei Sun
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
del Valle E, Rubio-Sardón N, Menéndez-Pérez C, Martínez-Pinilla E, Navarro A. Apolipoprotein D as a Potential Biomarker in Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15631. [PMID: 37958618 PMCID: PMC10650001 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders (NDs) are a diverse group of pathologies, including schizophrenia or bipolar disorders, that directly affect the mental and physical health of those who suffer from them, with an incidence that is increasing worldwide. Most NDs result from a complex interaction of multiple genes and environmental factors such as stress or traumatic events, including the recent Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic. In addition to diverse clinical presentations, these diseases are heterogeneous in their pathogenesis, brain regions affected, and clinical symptoms, making diagnosis difficult. Therefore, finding new biomarkers is essential for the detection, prognosis, response prediction, and development of new treatments for NDs. Among the most promising candidates is the apolipoprotein D (Apo D), a component of lipoproteins implicated in lipid metabolism. Evidence suggests an increase in Apo D expression in association with aging and in the presence of neuropathological processes. As a part of the cellular neuroprotective defense machinery against oxidative stress and inflammation, changes in Apo D levels have been demonstrated in neuropsychiatric conditions like schizophrenia (SZ) or bipolar disorders (BPD), not only in some brain areas but in corporal fluids, i.e., blood or serum of patients. What is not clear is whether variation in Apo D quantity could be used as an indicator to detect NDs and their progression. This review aims to provide an updated view of the clinical potential of Apo D as a possible biomarker for NDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva del Valle
- Department of Morphology and Cell Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (E.d.V.); (N.R.-S.); (C.M.-P.); (A.N.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Nuria Rubio-Sardón
- Department of Morphology and Cell Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (E.d.V.); (N.R.-S.); (C.M.-P.); (A.N.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Carlota Menéndez-Pérez
- Department of Morphology and Cell Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (E.d.V.); (N.R.-S.); (C.M.-P.); (A.N.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Eva Martínez-Pinilla
- Department of Morphology and Cell Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (E.d.V.); (N.R.-S.); (C.M.-P.); (A.N.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ana Navarro
- Department of Morphology and Cell Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; (E.d.V.); (N.R.-S.); (C.M.-P.); (A.N.)
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Benachenhou S, Laroui A, Dionne O, Rojas D, Toupin A, Çaku A. Cholesterol alterations in fragile X syndrome, autism spectrum disorders and other neurodevelopmental disorders. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 173:115-139. [PMID: 37993175 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are a group of etiologically diverse diseases primarily associated with abnormal brain development, impaired cognition, and various behavioral problems. The majority of NDDs present a wide range of clinical phenotypes while sharing distinct cellular and biochemical alterations. Low plasma cholesterol levels have been reported in a subset of NNDs including, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and fragile X syndrome (FXS). The present review focuses on cholesterol metabolism and discusses the current evidence of lipid disruption in ASD, FXS, and other genetically related NDDs. The characterization of these common deficits might provide valuable insights into their underlying physiopathology and help identify potential therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sérine Benachenhou
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Asma Laroui
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Olivier Dionne
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Daniela Rojas
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Amanda Toupin
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Artuela Çaku
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rudajev V, Novotny J. Cholesterol-dependent amyloid β production: space for multifarious interactions between amyloid precursor protein, secretases, and cholesterol. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:171. [PMID: 37705117 PMCID: PMC10500844 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01127-y] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloid β is considered a key player in the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Many studies investigating the effect of statins on lowering cholesterol suggest that there may be a link between cholesterol levels and AD pathology. Since cholesterol is one of the most abundant lipid molecules, especially in brain tissue, it affects most membrane-related processes, including the formation of the most dangerous form of amyloid β, Aβ42. The entire Aβ production system, which includes the amyloid precursor protein (APP), β-secretase, and the complex of γ-secretase, is highly dependent on membrane cholesterol content. Moreover, cholesterol can affect amyloidogenesis in many ways. Cholesterol influences the stability and activity of secretases, but also dictates their partitioning into specific cellular compartments and cholesterol-enriched lipid rafts, where the amyloidogenic machinery is predominantly localized. The most complicated relationships have been found in the interaction between cholesterol and APP, where cholesterol affects not only APP localization but also the precise character of APP dimerization and APP processing by γ-secretase, which is important for the production of Aβ of different lengths. In this review, we describe the intricate web of interdependence between cellular cholesterol levels, cholesterol membrane distribution, and cholesterol-dependent production of Aβ, the major player in AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Rudajev
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Novotny
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
The Cerebellum in Niemann-Pick C1 Disease: Mouse Versus Man. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 22:102-119. [PMID: 35040097 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-021-01347-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Selective neuronal vulnerability is common to most degenerative disorders, including Niemann-Pick C (NPC), a rare genetic disease with altered intracellular trafficking of cholesterol. Purkinje cell dysfunction and loss are responsible for cerebellar ataxia, which is among the prevailing neurological signs of the NPC disease. In this review, we focus on some questions that are still unresolved. First, we frame the cerebellar vulnerability in the context of the extended postnatal time length by which the development of this structure is completed in mammals. In line with this thought, the much later development of cerebellar symptoms in humans is due to the later development and/or maturation of the cerebellum. Hence, the occurrence of developmental events under a protracted condition of defective intracellular cholesterol mobilization hits the functional maturation of the various cell types generating the ground of increased vulnerability. This is particularly consistent with the high cholesterol demand required for cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, and synapse formation/remodeling. Other major questions we address are why the progression of Purkinje cells loss is always from the anterior to the posterior lobes and why cerebellar defects persist in the mouse model even when genetic manipulations can lead to nearly normal survival.
Collapse
|
17
|
Yang D, Wang X, Zhang L, Fang Y, Zheng Q, Liu X, Yu W, Chen S, Ying J, Hua F. Lipid metabolism and storage in neuroglia: role in brain development and neurodegenerative diseases. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:106. [PMID: 35831869 PMCID: PMC9277953 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00828-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of neuroglia in maintaining normal brain function under physiological and pathological conditions has been supported by growing evidence in recent years. The most important issues regarding glial metabolism and function include the cooperation between glial populations and neurons, morphological and functional changes in pathological states, and the role in the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Although lipid accumulation and further lipid droplet production in neurodegenerative disease brain models have been observed for a long time, the dynamic development of brain lipid droplet research in recent years suggests its role in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases was previously underestimated. First recognized as organelles of lipid storage, lipid droplets (LDs) have emerged as an important organelle in metabolic diseases, inflammation, and host defense. Dynamic changes in lipid metabolism within neurons and glial cells resulting in lipid accumulation and lipid droplet formation are present in brain models of various neurodegenerative diseases, yet their role in the brain remains largely unexplored. This paper first reviews the metabolism and accumulation of several major lipids in the brain and discusses the regulation of lipid accumulation in different types of brain cells. We explore the potential role of intracellular lipid accumulation in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration, starting from lipid metabolism and LDs biogenesis in glial cells, and discuss several pathological factors that promote lipid droplet formation, mainly focusing on oxidative stress, energy metabolism and glial cell-neuron coupling, which are closely related to the etiology and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, the directions and challenges of intracellular lipid metabolism in glial cells in neurodegeneration are discussed.
Collapse
|
18
|
Xie E, Nadeem U, Xie B, D’Souza M, Sulakhe D, Skondra D. Using Computational Drug-Gene Analysis to Identify Novel Therapeutic Candidates for Retinal Neuroprotection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012648. [PMID: 36293505 PMCID: PMC9604082 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012648] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal cell death is responsible for irreversible vision loss in many retinal disorders. No commercially approved treatments are currently available to attenuate retinal cell loss and preserve vision. We seek to identify chemicals/drugs with thoroughly-studied biological functions that possess neuroprotective effects in the retina using a computational bioinformatics approach. We queried the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) to identify genes associated with retinal neuroprotection. Enrichment analysis was performed using ToppGene to identify compounds related to the identified genes. This analysis constructs a Pharmacome from multiple drug-gene interaction databases to predict compounds with statistically significant associations to genes involved in retinal neuroprotection. Compounds with known deleterious effects (e.g., asbestos, ethanol) or with no clinical indications (e.g., paraquat, ozone) were manually filtered. We identified numerous drug/chemical classes associated to multiple genes implicated in retinal neuroprotection using a systematic computational approach. Anti-diabetics, lipid-lowering medicines, and antioxidants are among the treatments anticipated by this analysis, and many of these drugs could be readily repurposed for retinal neuroprotection. Our technique serves as an unbiased tool that can be utilized in the future to lead focused preclinical and clinical investigations for complex processes such as neuroprotection, as well as a wide range of other ocular pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward Xie
- Chicago Medical School at Rosalind, Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Urooba Nadeem
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Bingqing Xie
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Mark D’Souza
- Duchossois Family Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Dinanath Sulakhe
- Duchossois Family Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Dimitra Skondra
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Cibelli A, Scemes E, Spray DC. Activity and Stability of Panx1 Channels in Astrocytes and Neuroblastoma Cells Are Enhanced by Cholesterol Depletion. Cells 2022; 11:3219. [PMID: 36291086 PMCID: PMC9600160 DOI: 10.3390/cells11203219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pannexin1 (Panx1) is expressed in both neurons and glia where it forms ATP-permeable channels that are activated under pathological conditions such as epilepsy, migraine, inflammation, and ischemia. Membrane lipid composition affects proper distribution and function of receptors and ion channels, and defects in cholesterol metabolism are associated with neurological diseases. In order to understand the impact of membrane cholesterol on the distribution and function of Panx1 in neural cells, we used fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) to evaluate its mobility and electrophysiology and dye uptake to assess channel function. We observed that cholesterol extraction (using methyl-β-cyclodextrin) and inhibition of its synthesis (lovastatin) decreased the lateral diffusion of Panx1 in the plasma membrane. Panx1 channel activity (dye uptake, ATP release and ionic current) was enhanced in cholesterol-depleted Panx1 transfected cells and in wild-type astrocytes compared to non-depleted or Panx1 null cells. Manipulation of cholesterol levels may, therefore, offer a novel strategy by which Panx1 channel activation might modulate various pathological conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Cibelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Eliana Scemes
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, NY Medical College, Valhalla, NY10595, USA
| | - David C. Spray
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
PCSK9 Affects Astrocyte Cholesterol Metabolism and Reduces Neuron Cholesterol Supplying In Vitro: Potential Implications in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012192. [PMID: 36293049 PMCID: PMC9602670 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9) involvement in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is poorly investigated. We evaluated the in vitro PCSK9 modulation of astrocyte cholesterol metabolism and neuronal cholesterol supplying, which is fundamental for neuronal functions. Moreover, we investigated PCSK9 neurotoxic effects. In human astrocytoma cells, PCSK9 reduced cholesterol content (−20%; p < 0.05), with a greater effect in presence of beta amyloid peptide (Aβ) (−37%; p < 0.01). PCSK9 increased cholesterol synthesis and reduced the uptake of apoE-HDL-derived cholesterol (−36%; p < 0.0001), as well as the LDL receptor (LDLR) and the apoE receptor 2 (ApoER2) expression (−66% and −31%, respectively; p < 0.01). PCSK9 did not modulate ABCA1- and ABCG1-cholesterol efflux, ABCA1 levels, or membrane cholesterol. Conversely, ABCA1 expression and activity, as well as membrane cholesterol, were reduced by Aβ (p < 0.05). In human neuronal cells, PCSK9 reduced apoE-HDL-derived cholesterol uptake (−41%; p < 0.001) and LDLR/apoER2 expression (p < 0.05). Reduced cholesterol internalization occurred also in PCSK9-overexpressing neurons exposed to an astrocyte-conditioned medium (−39%; p < 0.001). PCSK9 reduced neuronal cholesterol content overall (−29%; p < 0.05) and increased the Aβ-induced neurotoxicity (p < 0.0001). Our data revealed an interfering effect of PCSK9, in cooperation with Aβ, on brain cholesterol metabolism leading to neuronal cholesterol reduction, a potentially deleterious effect. PCSK9 also exerted a neurotoxic effect, and thus represents a potential pharmacological target in AD.
Collapse
|
21
|
Bossaerts L, Cacace R, Van Broeckhoven C. The role of ATP-binding cassette subfamily A in the etiology of Alzheimer's disease. Mol Neurodegener 2022; 17:31. [PMID: 35477481 PMCID: PMC9044696 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-022-00536-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, clinically characterized by memory deficits and progressive cognitive decline. Despite decades of research effective therapies are lacking, and a large part of the genetic heritability remains unidentified. ABCA7 and ABCA1, members of the ATP-binding cassette subfamily A (ABCA), were identified as AD risk genes in genome-wide association studies. Nevertheless, genetic and/or functional studies propose a link between AD and two other members of the ABCA subclass, i.e., ABCA2 and ABCA5. Main body Changes in expression or dysfunction of these transporters were found to increase amyloid β levels. This might be related to the common role of ABCA transporters in cellular cholesterol homeostasis, for which a prominent role in AD development has been suggested. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview and discussion on the contribution of the ABCA subfamily to the etiopathogenesis of AD. Conclusions A better understanding of the function and identification of disease-associated genetic variants in ABCA transporters can contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liene Bossaerts
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases Group, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Rita Cacace
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases Group, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christine Van Broeckhoven
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases Group, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, Antwerp, Belgium. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp - CDE, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610, Antwerp, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
NGF Modulates Cholesterol Metabolism and Stimulates ApoE Secretion in Glial Cells Conferring Neuroprotection against Oxidative Stress. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094842. [PMID: 35563230 PMCID: PMC9100774 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol plays a crucial role in the brain, where its metabolism is particularly regulated by astrocytic activity. Indeed, adult neurons suppress their own cholesterol biosynthesis and import this sterol through ApoE-rich particles secreted from astrocytes. Recent evidence suggests that nerve growth factor (NGF) may exert neurotrophic activity by influencing cell metabolism. Nevertheless, the effect of NGF on glial cholesterol homeostasis has still not been elucidated. Thus, the aim of this project is to assess whether NGF could influence cholesterol metabolism in glial cells. To reach this objective, the U373 astrocyte-derived cell line was used as an experimental model. Immunoblot and ELISA analysis showed that proteins and enzymes belonging to the cholesterol metabolism network were increased upon NGF treatment in glial cells. Furthermore, NGF significantly increased ApoE secretion and the amount of extracellular cholesterol in the culture medium. Co-culture and U373-conditioned medium experiments demonstrated that NGF treatment efficiently counteracted rotenone-mediated cytotoxicity in N1E-115 neuronal cells. Conversely, neuroprotection mediated by NGF treatment was suppressed when N1E-115 were co-cultured with ApoE-silenced U373 cells. Taken together, these data suggest that NGF controls cholesterol homeostasis in glial cells. More importantly, NGF exerts neuroprotection against oxidative stress, which is likely associated with the induction of glial ApoE secretion.
Collapse
|
23
|
Nishi T, Metcalf CS, Fujimoto S, Hasegawa S, Miyamoto M, Sunahara E, Watanabe S, Kondo S, White HS. Anticonvulsive properties of soticlestat, a novel cholesterol 24-hydroxylase inhibitor. Epilepsia 2022; 63:1580-1590. [PMID: 35316533 PMCID: PMC9311151 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Objective The formation of 24S‐hydroxycholesterol is a brain‐specific mechanism of cholesterol catabolism catalyzed by cholesterol 24‐hydroxylase (CYP46A1, also known as CH24H). CH24H has been implicated in various biological mechanisms, whereas pharmacological lowering of 24S‐hydroxycholesterol has not been fully studied. Soticlestat is a novel small‐molecule inhibitor of CH24H. Its therapeutic potential was previously identified in a mouse model with an epileptic phenotype. In the present study, the anticonvulsive property of soticlestat was characterized in rodent models of epilepsy that have long been used to identify antiseizure medications. Methods The anticonvulsive property of soticlestat was investigated in maximal electroshock seizures (MES), pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) acute seizures, 6‐Hz psychomotor seizures, audiogenic seizures, amygdala kindling, PTZ kindling, and corneal kindling models. Soticlestat was characterized in a PTZ kindling model under steady‐state pharmacokinetics to relate its anticonvulsive effects to pharmacodynamics. Results Among models of acutely evoked seizures, whereas anticonvulsive effects of soticlestat were identified in Frings mice, a genetic model of audiogenic seizures, it was found ineffective in MES, acute PTZ seizures, and 6‐Hz seizures. The protective effects of soticlestat against audiogenic seizures increased with repetitive dosing. Soticlestat was also tested in models of progressive seizure severity. Soticlestat treatment delayed kindling acquisition, whereas fully kindled animals were not protected. Importantly, soticlestat suppressed the progression of seizure severity in correlation with 24S‐hydroxycholesterol lowering in the brain, suggesting that 24S‐hydroxycholesterol can be aggressively reduced to produce more potent effects on seizure development in kindling acquisition. Significance The data collectively suggest that soticlestat can ameliorate seizure symptoms through a mechanism distinct from conventional antiseizure medications. With its novel mechanism of action, soticlestat could constitute a novel class of antiseizure medications for treatment of intractable epilepsy disorders such as developmental and epileptic encephalopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toshiya Nishi
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Cameron S Metcalf
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Shinji Fujimoto
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Shigeo Hasegawa
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Maki Miyamoto
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Eiji Sunahara
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Sayuri Watanabe
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Shinichi Kondo
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - H Steve White
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Rudge JD. A New Hypothesis for Alzheimer’s Disease: The Lipid Invasion Model. J Alzheimers Dis Rep 2022; 6:129-161. [PMID: 35530118 PMCID: PMC9028744 DOI: 10.3233/adr-210299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper proposes a new hypothesis for Alzheimer’s disease (AD)—the lipid invasion model. It argues that AD results from external influx of free fatty acids (FFAs) and lipid-rich lipoproteins into the brain, following disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The lipid invasion model explains how the influx of albumin-bound FFAs via a disrupted BBB induces bioenergetic changes and oxidative stress, stimulates microglia-driven neuroinflammation, and causes anterograde amnesia. It also explains how the influx of external lipoproteins, which are much larger and more lipid-rich, especially more cholesterol-rich, than those normally present in the brain, causes endosomal-lysosomal abnormalities and overproduction of the peptide amyloid-β (Aβ). This leads to the formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, the most well-known hallmarks of AD. The lipid invasion model argues that a key role of the BBB is protecting the brain from external lipid access. It shows how the BBB can be damaged by excess Aβ, as well as by most other known risk factors for AD, including aging, apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4), and lifestyle factors such as hypertension, smoking, obesity, diabetes, chronic sleep deprivation, stress, and head injury. The lipid invasion model gives a new rationale for what we already know about AD, explaining its many associated risk factors and neuropathologies, including some that are less well-accounted for in other explanations of AD. It offers new insights and suggests new ways to prevent, detect, and treat this destructive disease and potentially other neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D’Arcy Rudge
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kwon SJ, Hong KW, Choi S, Hong JS, Kim JW, Kim JW, Lee HJ, Jang HB, Yum KS. Association of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase gene polymorphism with obesity and lipid metabolism in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:319-328. [PMID: 34806144 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00877-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is higher than that among typically developing children and adolescents. However, very few studies have explored the genetic factors associated with obesity in children and adolescents with ASD. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the associations between 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) gene polymorphisms and obesity among children and adolescents with ASD. The study participants consisted of 33 children and adolescents with ASD and 271 age- and sex-matched typically developing controls. We compared the metabolic traits (body mass index, blood pressure, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, and fasting glucose levels) between the ASD and control group. Furthermore, we assessed the genotypes of rs12654264 in the HMGCR gene within the participants with ASD, and compared metabolic traits among the different allele subgroups. The mean body mass index (BMI) and triglyceride level of the ASD group were significantly higher than those of the control group. Within the ASD group, the triglyceride level of participants with rs12654264-T alleles was significantly higher than that of participants with A-alleles. A pattern of increasing values in the BMI and fasting glucose was also observed in participants with T allele. This is the first study to show that obesity in children and adolescents with ASD is associated with the cholesterol synthesis pathway. Future studies are needed to further clarify the molecular mechanisms by which the HMGCR gene influences metabolic traits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Si Jin Kwon
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Silvia Choi
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Su Hong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine/Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Kreger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jung Won Kim
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ju Whi Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Ja Lee
- Department of Chronic Disease Convergence Research, Korea National Institute of Health, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Byul Jang
- Department of Chronic Disease Convergence Research, Korea National Institute of Health, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Keun-Sang Yum
- Department of Family Medicine, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Vallés AS, Barrantes FJ. Dysregulation of Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor-Cholesterol Crosstalk in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:744597. [PMID: 34803605 PMCID: PMC8604044 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.744597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of complex neurodevelopmental diseases that include impaired social interaction, delayed and disordered language, repetitive or stereotypic behavior, restricted range of interests, and altered sensory processing. The underlying causes of the core symptoms remain unclear, as are the factors that trigger their onset. Given the complexity and heterogeneity of the clinical phenotypes, a constellation of genetic, epigenetic, environmental, and immunological factors may be involved. The lack of appropriate biomarkers for the evaluation of neurodevelopmental disorders makes it difficult to assess the contribution of early alterations in neurochemical processes and neuroanatomical and neurodevelopmental factors to ASD. Abnormalities in the cholinergic system in various regions of the brain and cerebellum are observed in ASD, and recently altered cholesterol metabolism has been implicated at the initial stages of the disease. Given the multiple effects of the neutral lipid cholesterol on the paradigm rapid ligand-gated ion channel, the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, we explore in this review the possibility that the dysregulation of nicotinic receptor-cholesterol crosstalk plays a role in some of the neurological alterations observed in ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Sofía Vallés
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (UNS-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Francisco J Barrantes
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (BIOMED), UCA-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Clouston SAP, Muñiz Terrera G, Rodgers JL, O'Keefe P, Mann F, Lewis NA, Wänström L, Kaye J, Hofer SM. Cohort and Period Effects as Explanations for Declining Dementia Trends and Cognitive Aging. POPULATION AND DEVELOPMENT REVIEW 2021; 47:611-637. [PMID: 36937313 PMCID: PMC10021404 DOI: 10.1111/padr.12409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Studies have reported that the age-adjusted incidence of cognitive impairment and dementia may have decreased over the past two decades. Aging is the predominant risk factor for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and for neurocognitive decline. However, aging cannot explain changes in overall age-adjusted incidence of dementia. The objective of this position paper was to describe the potential for cohort and period effects in cognitive decline and incidence of dementia. Cohort effects have long been reported in demographic literature, but starting in the early 1980s, researchers began reporting cohort trends in cognitive function. At the same time, period effects have emerged in economic factors and stressors in early and midlife that may result in reduced cognitive dysfunction. Recognizing that aging individuals today were once children and adolescents, and that research has clearly noted that childhood cognitive performance is a primary determinant of old-age cognitive performance, this is the first study that proposes the need to connect known cohort effects in childhood cognition with differences in late-life functioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean A P Clouston
- Program in Public Health and Department of Family, Population, and Preventive Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Graciela Muñiz Terrera
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Center for Dementia Prevention, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Joseph Lee Rodgers
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Frank Mann
- Program in Public Health and Department of Family, Population, and Preventive Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Nathan A Lewis
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC
| | - Linda Wänström
- Department of Computer and Informational Science, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Jeffrey Kaye
- Oregon Center for Aging and Technology, Oregon Health and Sciences University, and NIA-Layton Aging & Alzheimer's Disease Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Scott M Hofer
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lin F, Yao X, Kong C, Liu X, Zhao Z, Rao S, Wang L, Li S, Wang J, Dai Q. 25-Hydroxycholesterol protecting from cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury through the inhibition of STING activity. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:20149-20163. [PMID: 34406977 PMCID: PMC8436919 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) injury refers to impaired blood supply to the brain that is caused by a cerebrovascular disease, resulting in local brain tissue ischemia, hypoxic necrosis, and rapid neurological impairment. Nevertheless, the mechanisms involved are unclear, and pharmacological interventions are lacking. 25-Hydroxycholesterol (25-HC) was reported to be involved in cholesterol and lipid metabolism as an oxysterol molecule. This study aimed to determine whether 25-HC exerts a cerebral protective effect on MCAO injury and investigate its potential mechanism. 25-HC was administered prior to reperfusion in a mouse model of MCAO injury. 25-HC evidently decreased infarct size induced by MCAO and enhanced brain function. It reduced stimulator of interferon gene (STING) activity and regulated mTOR to inhibit autophagy and induce cerebral ischemia tolerance. Thus, 25-HC improved MCAO injury through the STING channel. As indicated in this preliminary study, 25-HC improved MCAO injury by inhibiting STING activity and autophagy as well as by reducing brain nerve cell apoptosis. Thus, it is a potential treatment drug for brain injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feihong Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinyu Yao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chang Kong
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhangfan Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Suhuan Rao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junlu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qinxue Dai
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Cheraghzadeh M, Nazeri Z, Mohammadi A, Azizidoost S, Aberomand M, Kheirollah A. Amyloid Beta sharply increases HMG-CoA reductase protein levels in astrocytes isolated from C57BL/6 mice. GENE REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2021.101070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
30
|
Colardo M, Martella N, Pensabene D, Siteni S, Di Bartolomeo S, Pallottini V, Segatto M. Neurotrophins as Key Regulators of Cell Metabolism: Implications for Cholesterol Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5692. [PMID: 34073639 PMCID: PMC8198482 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins constitute a family of growth factors initially characterized as predominant mediators of nervous system development, neuronal survival, regeneration and plasticity. Their biological activity is promoted by the binding of two different types of receptors, leading to the generation of multiple and variegated signaling cascades in the target cells. Increasing evidence indicates that neurotrophins are also emerging as crucial regulators of metabolic processes in both neuronal and non-neuronal cells. In this context, it has been reported that neurotrophins affect redox balance, autophagy, glucose homeostasis and energy expenditure. Additionally, the trophic support provided by these secreted factors may involve the regulation of cholesterol metabolism. In this review, we examine the neurotrophins' signaling pathways and their effects on metabolism by critically discussing the most up-to-date information. In particular, we gather experimental evidence demonstrating the impact of these growth factors on cholesterol metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Colardo
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (M.C.); (N.M.); (D.P.); (S.D.B.)
| | - Noemi Martella
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (M.C.); (N.M.); (D.P.); (S.D.B.)
| | - Daniele Pensabene
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (M.C.); (N.M.); (D.P.); (S.D.B.)
| | - Silvia Siteni
- Department of Cell Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
| | - Sabrina Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (M.C.); (N.M.); (D.P.); (S.D.B.)
| | - Valentina Pallottini
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy;
- Neuroendocrinology Metabolism and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Segatto
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (M.C.); (N.M.); (D.P.); (S.D.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Birolini G, Verlengia G, Talpo F, Maniezzi C, Zentilin L, Giacca M, Conforti P, Cordiglieri C, Caccia C, Leoni V, Taroni F, Biella G, Simonato M, Cattaneo E, Valenza M. SREBP2 gene therapy targeting striatal astrocytes ameliorates Huntington's disease phenotypes. Brain 2021; 144:3175-3190. [PMID: 33974044 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain cholesterol is produced mainly by astrocytes and is important for neuronal function. Its biosynthesis is severely reduced in mouse models of Huntington's disease. One possible mechanism is a diminished nuclear translocation of the transcription factor sterol regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP2) and, consequently, reduced activation of SREBP-controlled genes in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. Here we evaluated the efficacy of a gene therapy based on the unilateral intra-striatal injection of a recombinant adeno-associated virus 2/5 (AAV2/5) targeting astrocytes specifically and carrying the transcriptionally active N-terminal fragment of human SREBP2. Robust hSREBP2 expression in striatal glial cells in R6/2 Huntington's disease mice activated the transcription of cholesterol biosynthesis pathway genes, restored synaptic transmission, reversed Drd2 transcript levels decline, cleared mutant Huntingtin aggregates and attenuated behavioral deficits. We conclude that glial SREBP2 participates in Huntington's disease brain pathogenesis in vivo and that AAV-based delivery of SREBP2 to astrocytes counteracts key features of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Birolini
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy.,Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi″, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Verlengia
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, 20132, Milan, Italy.,Department of BioMedical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Talpo
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Maniezzi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lorena Zentilin
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, ICGEB, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Mauro Giacca
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, ICGEB, 34149, Trieste, Italy.,School of Cardiovascular Medicine and Sciences, King's College London, SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Paola Conforti
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy.,Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi″, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Cordiglieri
- Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi″, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Caccia
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics. Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20131 Milan, Italy
| | - Valerio Leoni
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900, Monza, Italy.,Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Hospital of Desio, ASST Monza, 20900, Monza, Italy
| | - Franco Taroni
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics. Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20131 Milan, Italy
| | - Gerardo Biella
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Michele Simonato
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, 20132, Milan, Italy.,Department of BioMedical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Cattaneo
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy.,Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi″, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Valenza
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy.,Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi″, 20122, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Cannarozzo C, Fred SM, Girych M, Biojone C, Enkavi G, Róg T, Vattulainen I, Casarotto PC, Castrén E. Cholesterol-recognition motifs in the transmembrane domain of the tyrosine kinase receptor family: The case of TRKB. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 53:3311-3322. [PMID: 33825223 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol is an essential constituent of cell membranes. The discovery of cholesterol-recognition amino acid consensus (CRAC) motif in proteins indicated a putative direct, non-covalent interaction between cholesterol and proteins. In the present study, we evaluated the presence of a CRAC motif and its inverted version (CARC) in the transmembrane region (TMR) of the tyrosine kinase receptor family (RTK) in several species using in silico methods. CRAC motifs were found across all species analyzed, while CARC was found only in vertebrates. The tropomyosin-related kinase B (TRKB), a member of the RTK family, through interaction with its endogenous ligand brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a core participant in the neuronal plasticity process and exhibits a CARC motif in its TMR. Upon identifying the conserved CARC motif in the TRKB, we performed molecular dynamics simulations of the mouse TRKB.TMR. The simulations indicated that cholesterol interaction with the TRKB CARC motif occurs mainly at the central Y433 residue. Our binding assay suggested a bell-shaped effect of cholesterol on BDNF interaction with TRKB receptors, and our results suggest that CARC/CRAC motifs may play a role in the function of the RTK family TMR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Senem Merve Fred
- Neuroscience Center - HiLife, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mykhailo Girych
- Department of Physics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Caroline Biojone
- Neuroscience Center - HiLife, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Giray Enkavi
- Department of Physics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tomasz Róg
- Department of Physics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ilpo Vattulainen
- Department of Physics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Computational Physics Laboratory, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | | | - Eero Castrén
- Neuroscience Center - HiLife, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Werkman IL, Kövilein J, de Jonge JC, Baron W. Impairing committed cholesterol biosynthesis in white matter astrocytes, but not grey matter astrocytes, enhances in vitro myelination. J Neurochem 2021; 156:624-641. [PMID: 32602556 PMCID: PMC7984098 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Remyelination is a regenerative process that is essential to recover saltatory conduction and to prevent neurodegeneration upon demyelination. The formation of new myelin involves the differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) toward oligodendrocytes and requires high amounts of cholesterol. Astrocytes (ASTRs) modulate remyelination by supplying lipids to oligodendrocytes. Remarkably, remyelination is more efficient in grey matter (GM) than in white matter (WM), which may relate to regional differences in ASTR subtype. Here, we show that a feeding layer of gmASTRs was more supportive to in vitro myelination than a feeding layer of wmASTRs. While conditioned medium from both gmASTRs and wmASTRs accelerated gmOPC differentiation, wmOPC differentiation is enhanced by secreted factors from gmASTRs, but not wmASTRs. In vitro analyses revealed that gmASTRs secreted more cholesterol than wmASTRs. Cholesterol efflux from both ASTR types was reduced upon exposure to pro-inflammatory cytokines, which was mediated via cholesterol transporter ABCA1, but not ABCG1, and correlated with a minor reduction of myelin membrane formation by oligodendrocytes. Surprisingly, a wmASTR knockdown of Fdft1 encoding for squalene synthase (SQS), an enzyme essential for the first committed step in cholesterol biosynthesis, enhanced in vitro myelination. Reduced secretion of interleukin-1β likely by enhanced isoprenylation, and increased unsaturated fatty acid synthesis, both pathways upstream of SQS, likely masked the effect of reduced levels of ASTR-derived cholesterol. Hence, our findings indicate that gmASTRs export more cholesterol and are more supportive to myelination than wmASTRs, but specific inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis in ASTRs is beneficial for wmASTR-mediated modulation of myelination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inge L. Werkman
- Biomedical Sciences of Cells & Systemssection Molecular NeurobiologyUniversity of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenthe Netherlands
- Present address:
Department of BiologyUniversity of VirginiaCharlottesvilleVAUSA
| | - Janine Kövilein
- Biomedical Sciences of Cells & Systemssection Molecular NeurobiologyUniversity of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenthe Netherlands
| | - Jenny C. de Jonge
- Biomedical Sciences of Cells & Systemssection Molecular NeurobiologyUniversity of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenthe Netherlands
| | - Wia Baron
- Biomedical Sciences of Cells & Systemssection Molecular NeurobiologyUniversity of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenthe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hamada K, Ferguson LB, Mayfield RD, Krishnan HR, Maienschein-Cline M, Lasek AW. Binge-like ethanol drinking activates anaplastic lymphoma kinase signaling and increases the expression of STAT3 target genes in the mouse hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. GENES, BRAIN, AND BEHAVIOR 2021; 20:e12729. [PMID: 33641239 PMCID: PMC8944393 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) has a complex pathogenesis, making it a difficult disorder to treat. Identifying relevant signaling pathways in the brain may be useful for finding new pharmacological targets to treat AUD. The receptor tyrosine kinase anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) activates the transcription factor STAT3 in response to ethanol in cell lines. Here, we show ALK activation and upregulation of known STAT3 target genes (Socs3, Gfap and Tnfrsf1a) in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and ventral hippocampus (HPC) of mice after 4 days of binge-like ethanol drinking. Mice treated with the STAT3 inhibitor stattic drank less ethanol than vehicle-treated mice, demonstrating the behavioral importance of STAT3. To identify novel ethanol-induced target genes downstream of the ALK and STAT3 pathway, we analyzed the NIH LINCS L1000 database for gene signature overlap between ALK inhibitor (alectinib and NVP-TAE684) and STAT3 inhibitor (niclosamide) treatments on cell lines. These genes were then compared with differentially expressed genes in the PFC of mice after binge-like drinking. We found 95 unique gene candidates, out of which 57 had STAT3 binding motifs in their promoters. We further showed by qPCR that expression of the putative STAT3 genes Nr1h2, Smarcc1, Smarca4 and Gpnmb were increased in either the PFC or HPC after binge-like drinking. Together, these results indicate activation of the ALK-STAT3 signaling pathway in the brain after binge-like ethanol consumption, identify putative novel ethanol-responsive STAT3 target genes, and suggest that STAT3 inhibition may be a potential method to reduce binge drinking in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kana Hamada
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
- Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Laura B. Ferguson
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol Addiction Research and Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA
- Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - R. Dayne Mayfield
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol Addiction Research and Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA
| | - Harish R. Krishnan
- Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | | | - Amy W. Lasek
- Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Soticlestat, a novel cholesterol 24-hydroxylase inhibitor shows a therapeutic potential for neural hyperexcitation in mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17081. [PMID: 33051477 PMCID: PMC7553946 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74036-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol 24-hydroxylase (CH24H) is a brain-specific enzyme that converts cholesterol into 24S-hydroxycholesterol, the primary mechanism of cholesterol catabolism in the brain. The therapeutic potential of CH24H activation has been extensively investigated, whereas the effects of CH24H inhibition remain poorly characterized. In this study, the therapeutic potential of CH24H inhibition was investigated using a newly identified small molecule, soticlestat (TAK-935/OV935). The biodistribution and target engagement of soticlestat was assessed in mice. CH24H-knockout mice showed a substantially lower level of soticlestat distribution in the brain than wild-type controls. Furthermore, brain-slice autoradiography studies demonstrated the absence of [3H]soticlestat staining in CH24H-knockout mice compared with wild-type mice, indicating a specificity of soticlestat binding to CH24H. The pharmacodynamic effects of soticlestat were characterized in a transgenic mouse model carrying mutated human amyloid precursor protein and presenilin 1 (APP/PS1-Tg). These mice, with excitatory/inhibitory imbalance and short life-span, yielded a remarkable survival benefit when bred with CH24H-knockout animals. Soticlestat lowered brain 24S-hydroxycholesterol in a dose-dependent manner and substantially reduced premature deaths of APP/PS1-Tg mice at a dose lowering brain 24S-hydroxycholesterol by approximately 50%. Furthermore, microdialysis experiments showed that soticlestat can suppress potassium-evoked extracellular glutamate elevations in the hippocampus. Taken together, these data suggest that soticlestat-mediated inhibition of CH24H may have therapeutic potential for diseases associated with neural hyperexcitation.
Collapse
|
36
|
Impact of Sex and Age on the Mevalonate Pathway in the Brain: A Focus on Effects Induced by Maternal Exposure to Exogenous Compounds. Metabolites 2020; 10:metabo10080304. [PMID: 32722471 PMCID: PMC7463490 DOI: 10.3390/metabo10080304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The mevalonate pathway produces cholesterol and other compounds crucial for numerous cellular processes. It is well known that age and sex modulate this pathway in the liver. Recently, similar effects were also noted in different brain areas, suggesting that alterations of the mevalonate pathway are at the root of marked sex-specific disparities in some neurodevelopmental disorders related to disturbed cholesterol homeostasis. Here, we show how the mevalonate pathway is modulated in a sex-, age- and region-specific manner, and how maternal exposure to exogenous compounds can disturb the regulation of this pathway in the brain, possibly inducing functional alterations.
Collapse
|
37
|
McFarlane O, Kędziora-Kornatowska K. Cholesterol and Dementia: A Long and Complicated Relationship. Curr Aging Sci 2020; 13:42-51. [PMID: 31530269 PMCID: PMC7403650 DOI: 10.2174/1874609812666190917155400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a huge demand for efficient strategies for maintaining cognitive wellbeing with age, especially in the context of population aging. Dementia constitutes the main reason for disability and dependency in the elderly. Identification of potential risk and protective factors, as well as determinants of conversion from MCI to dementia, is therefore crucial. In case of Alzheimer's disease, the most prevalent dementia syndrome amongst the members of modern societies, neurodegenerative processes in the brain can begin many years before first clinical symptoms appear. First functional changes typically mean advanced neuron loss, therefore, the earliest possible diagnosis is critical for implementation of promising early pharmaceutical interventions. OBJECTIVE The study aimed to discuss the relationships between both circulating and brain cholesterol with cognition, and explore its potential role in early diagnosis of cognitive disorders. METHODS Literature review. RESULTS The causal role of high cholesterol levels in AD or MCI has not been confirmed. It has been postulated that plasma levels of 24(S)-OHC can potentially be used as an early biochemical marker of altered cholesterol homeostasis in the CNS. Some studies brought conflicting results, finding normal or lowered levels of 24(S)-OHC in dementia patients compared to controls. In spite of decades of research on the relationship between cholesterol and dementia, so far, no single trusted indicator of an early cognitive deterioration has been identified. CONCLUSION The current state of knowledge makes the use of cholesterol markers of cognitive decline in clinical practice impossible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oliwia McFarlane
- Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, P.O. Box: 85-830, Bydgoszcz, Poland; Tel/Fax: ++48-52-585-5408; E-mail:
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Léger-Charnay E, Masson EAY, Morala T, Martine L, Buteau B, Leclere L, Bretillon L, Gambert S. Is 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol a potent modulator of cholesterol metabolism in Müller cells? An in vitro study about neuron to glia communication in the retina. Exp Eye Res 2019; 189:107857. [PMID: 31654618 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Communication between neurons and glia plays a major role in nervous tissue homeostasis. It is thought to participate in tuning cholesterol metabolism to cellular demand, which is a critical issue for neuronal health. Cholesterol is a membrane lipid crucial for nervous tissue functioning, and perturbed regulation of its metabolism has been linked to several neurodegenerative disorders. In the brain, 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol (24S-OHC) is an oxysterol synthesized by neurons to eliminate cholesterol, and 24S-OHC has been shown to regulate cholesterol metabolism in astrocytes, glial cells which provide cholesterol to neurons. In the retina, 24S-OHC is also an elimination product of cholesterol produced by neurons, especially the retinal ganglion cells. However, it is not known whether Müller cells, the major macroglial cells of the retina, play the role of cholesterol provider for retinal neurons and whether they respond to 24S-OHC signaling, similarly to brain glial cells. In the present study, primary cultures of rat Müller cells were treated with 0, 0.5 or 1.5 μM 24S-OHC for 48 hours. The levels of cholesterol, precursors and oxysterols were quantified using gas chromatography coupled to flame-ionization detection or mass spectrometry. In addition, the expression of key genes related to cholesterol metabolism was analyzed using RTq-PCR. Müller cells were shown to express many genes linked to cholesterol metabolism, including genes coding for proteins implicated in cholesterol biosynthesis (HMGCR), cholesterol uptake and export via lipoproteins (LDL-R, SR-BI, ApoE and ABACA1) and regulation of cholesterol metabolism (SREBP2 and LXRβ). Cholesterol and several of its precursors and oxidative products were present. CYP27A1, the main retinal enzyme implicated in cholesterol elimination via oxysterol production, was quantified at low transcript levels but neither of its two typical products were detected in Müller cells. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that 24S-OHC has a strong hypocholesterolemic effect in Müller cells, leading to cholesterol depletion (-37 % at 1.5 μM). This was mediated by a decrease in cholesterol synthesis, as illustrated by reduced levels of cholesterol precursors: desmosterol (-38 % at 1.5 μM) and lathosterol (-84 % at 1.5 μM), and strong downregulation of HMGCR gene expression (2.4 fold decrease at 1.5μM). In addition, LDL-R and SR-BI gene expression were reduced in response to 24S-OHC treatment (2 fold and 1.6 fold at 1.5 μM, respectively), suggesting diminished lipoprotein uptake by the cells. On the contrary, there was a dramatic overexpression of ABCA1 transporter (10 fold increase at 1.5 μM), probably mediating an increase in cholesterol efflux. Finally, 24S-OHC induced a small but significant upregulation of the CYP27A1 gene. These data indicate that Müller cells possess the necessary cholesterol metabolism machinery and that they are able to sharply adjust their cholesterol metabolism in response to 24S-OHC, a signal molecule of neuronal cholesterol status. This suggests that Müller cells could be major players of cholesterol homeostasis in the retina via neuron-glia crosstalk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elise Léger-Charnay
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRA, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Elodie A Y Masson
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRA, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Tristan Morala
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRA, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Lucy Martine
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRA, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Bénédicte Buteau
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRA, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Laurent Leclere
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRA, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Lionel Bretillon
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRA, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Ségolène Gambert
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRA, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000, Dijon, France; Laboratoire de Biochimie Médicale, Plateforme de Biologie Hospitalo-Universitaire, F-21000, Dijon, France.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Genaro-Mattos TC, Anderson A, Allen LB, Korade Z, Mirnics K. Cholesterol Biosynthesis and Uptake in Developing Neurons. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:3671-3681. [PMID: 31244054 PMCID: PMC7184320 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain cholesterol biosynthesis, a separate and distinct process from whole-body cholesterol homeostasis, starts during embryonic development. To gain a better understanding of the neuronal and glial contributions to the brain cholesterol pool, we studied this process in control, Dhcr7-/-, and Dhcr24-/- cell cultures. Our LC-MS/MS method allowed us to measure several different sterol intermediates and cholesterol during neuronal differentiation. We found that developing cortical neurons rely on endogenous cholesterol synthesis and utilize ApoE-complexed cholesterol and sterol precursors from their surroundings. Both developing neurons and astrocytes release cholesterol into their local environment. Our studies also uncovered that developing neurons produced significantly higher amounts of cholesterol per cell than the astrocytes. Finally, we established that both neurons and astroglia preferentially use the Bloch sterol biosynthesis pathway, where desmosterol is the immediate precursor to cholesterol. Overall, our studies suggest that endogenous sterol synthesis in developing neurons is a critical and complexly regulated homeostatic process during brain development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago C. Genaro-Mattos
- Munroe-Meyer Institute for Genetics and Rehabilitation, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68105, United States
| | - Allison Anderson
- Munroe-Meyer Institute for Genetics and Rehabilitation, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68105, United States
| | - Luke B. Allen
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Zeljka Korade
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States,Corresponding Authors:.
| | - Károly Mirnics
- Munroe-Meyer Institute for Genetics and Rehabilitation, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68105, United States,Corresponding Authors:.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Segatto M, Tonini C, Pfrieger FW, Trezza V, Pallottini V. Loss of Mevalonate/Cholesterol Homeostasis in the Brain: A Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder and Rett Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20133317. [PMID: 31284522 PMCID: PMC6651320 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20133317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The mevalonate (MVA)/cholesterol pathway is crucial for central nervous system (CNS) development and function and consequently, any dysfunction of this fundamental metabolic pathway is likely to provoke pathologic changes in the brain. Mutations in genes directly involved in MVA/cholesterol metabolism cause a range of diseases, many of which present neurologic and psychiatric symptoms. This raises the question whether other diseases presenting similar symptoms are related albeit indirectly to the MVA/cholesterol pathway. Here, we summarized the current literature suggesting links between MVA/cholesterol dysregulation and specific diseases, namely autism spectrum disorder and Rett syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Segatto
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche (IS), Italy
| | - Claudia Tonini
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Frank W Pfrieger
- Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences (INCI) CNRS UPR 3212, Université de Strasbourg, 5, rue Blaise Pascal, 67084 Strasbourg Cedex, France
| | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Pallottini
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Saint-Pol J, Gosselet F. Oxysterols and the NeuroVascular Unit (NVU): A far true love with bright and dark sides. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 191:105368. [PMID: 31026511 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The brain is isolated from the whole body by the blood-brain barrier (BBB) which is located in brain microvessel endothelial cells (ECs). Through physical and metabolic properties induced by brain pericytes, astrocytes and neurons (these cells and the ECs referred to as the neurovascular unit (NVU)), the BBB hardly restricts exchanges of molecules between the brain and the bloodstream. Among them, cholesterol exchanges between these two compartments are very limited and occur through the transport of LDLs across the BBB. Oxysterols (mainly 24S and 27-hydroxycholesterol) daily cross the BBB and regulate molecule/cholesterol exchanges via Liver X nuclear Receptors (LXRs). In addition, these oxysterols have been linked to pathological processes in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Here we propose an overview of the actual knowledge concerning oxysterols and the NVU cells in physiological and in Alzheimer's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julien Saint-Pol
- University of Artois, Blood-Brain Barrier Laboratory (BBB Lab), EA2465, F-62300 Lens, France.
| | - Fabien Gosselet
- University of Artois, Blood-Brain Barrier Laboratory (BBB Lab), EA2465, F-62300 Lens, France
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
DelBove CE, Strothman CE, Lazarenko RM, Huang H, Sanders CR, Zhang Q. Reciprocal modulation between amyloid precursor protein and synaptic membrane cholesterol revealed by live cell imaging. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 127:449-461. [PMID: 30885793 PMCID: PMC6588454 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The amyloid precursor protein (APP) has been extensively studied because of its association with Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, APP distribution across different subcellular membrane compartments and its function in neurons remains unclear. We generated an APP fusion protein with a pH-sensitive green fluorescent protein at its ectodomain and a pH-insensitive blue fluorescent protein at its cytosolic domain and used it to measure APP's distribution, subcellular trafficking, and cleavage in live neurons. This reporter, closely resembling endogenous APP, revealed only a limited correlation between synaptic activities and APP trafficking. However, the synaptic surface fraction of APP was increased by a reduction in membrane cholesterol levels, a phenomenon that involves APP's cholesterol-binding motif. Mutations at or near binding sites not only reduced both the surface fraction of APP and membrane cholesterol levels in a dominant negative manner, but also increased synaptic vulnerability to moderate membrane cholesterol reduction. Our results reveal reciprocal modulation of APP and membrane cholesterol levels at synaptic boutons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire E DelBove
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, United States of America
| | - Claire E Strothman
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, United States of America
| | - Roman M Lazarenko
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, United States of America
| | - Hui Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, United States of America
| | - Charles R Sanders
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, United States of America; Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, United States of America
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, United States of America; Brain Institute, Florida Atlantic University, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Ahmad F, Sun Q, Patel D, Stommel JM. Cholesterol Metabolism: A Potential Therapeutic Target in Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11020146. [PMID: 30691162 PMCID: PMC6406281 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11020146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is a highly lethal adult brain tumor with no effective treatments. In this review, we discuss the potential to target cholesterol metabolism as a new strategy for treating glioblastomas. Twenty percent of cholesterol in the body is in the brain, yet the brain is unique among organs in that it has no access to dietary cholesterol and must synthesize it de novo. This suggests that therapies targeting cholesterol synthesis in brain tumors might render their effects without compromising cell viability in other organs. We will describe cholesterol synthesis and homeostatic feedback pathways in normal brain and brain tumors, as well as various strategies for targeting these pathways for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fahim Ahmad
- National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Radiation Oncology Branch, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Qian Sun
- National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Radiation Oncology Branch, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Deven Patel
- National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Radiation Oncology Branch, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Jayne M Stommel
- National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Radiation Oncology Branch, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Hussain G, Wang J, Rasul A, Anwar H, Imran A, Qasim M, Zafar S, Kamran SKS, Razzaq A, Aziz N, Ahmad W, Shabbir A, Iqbal J, Baig SM, Sun T. Role of cholesterol and sphingolipids in brain development and neurological diseases. Lipids Health Dis 2019; 18:26. [PMID: 30683111 PMCID: PMC6347843 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-019-0965-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain is a vital organ of the human body which performs very important functions such as analysis, processing, coordination, and execution of electrical signals. For this purpose, it depends on a complex network of nerves which are ensheathed in lipids tailored myelin; an abundant source of lipids in the body. The nervous system is enriched with important classes of lipids; sphingolipids and cholesterol which compose the major portion of the brain particularly in the form of myelin. Both cholesterol and sphingolipids are embedded in the microdomains of membrane rafts and are functional units of the neuronal cell membrane. These molecules serve as the signaling molecules; hold important roles in the neuronal differentiation, synaptogenesis, and many others. Thus, their adequate provision and active metabolism are of crucial importance in the maintenance of physiological functions of brain and body of an individual. In the present review, we have highlighted the physiological roles of cholesterol and sphingolipids in the development of the nervous system as well as the association of their altered metabolism to neurological and neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ghulam Hussain
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan.
| | - Jing Wang
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, Fujian Province, China
| | - Azhar Rasul
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Haseeb Anwar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Ali Imran
- Institute of Home and Food Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Qasim
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Shamaila Zafar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Syed Kashif Shahid Kamran
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Aroona Razzaq
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Nimra Aziz
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Waseem Ahmad
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Asghar Shabbir
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Javed Iqbal
- Department of Neurology, Allied Hospital, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Shahid Mahmood Baig
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Health Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), PIEAS, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Tao Sun
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, Fujian Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Fracassi A, Marangoni M, Rosso P, Pallottini V, Fioramonti M, Siteni S, Segatto M. Statins and the Brain: More than Lipid Lowering Agents? Curr Neuropharmacol 2019; 17:59-83. [PMID: 28676012 PMCID: PMC6341496 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x15666170703101816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Statins represent a class of medications widely prescribed to efficiently treat dyslipidemia. These drugs inhibit 3-βhydroxy 3β-methylglutaryl Coenzyme A reductase (HMGR), the rate-limiting enzyme of mevalonate (MVA) pathway. Besides cholesterol, MVA pathway leads to the production of several other compounds, which are essential in the regulation of a plethora of biological activities, including in the central nervous system. For these reasons, statins are able to induce pleiotropic actions, and acquire increased interest as potential and novel modulators in brain processes, especially during pathological conditions. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this review is to summarize and examine the current knowledge about pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of statins in the brain. In addition, effects of statin on brain diseases are discussed providing the most up-to-date information. METHODS Relevant scientific information was identified from PubMed database using the following keywords: statins and brain, central nervous system, neurological diseases, neurodegeneration, brain tumors, mood, stroke. RESULTS 315 scientific articles were selected and analyzed for the writing of this review article. Several papers highlighted that statin treatment is effective in preventing or ameliorating the symptomatology of a number of brain pathologies. However, other studies failed to demonstrate a neuroprotective effect. CONCLUSION Even though considerable research studies suggest pivotal functional outcomes induced by statin therapy, additional investigation is required to better determine the pharmacological effectiveness of statins in the brain, and support their clinical use in the management of different neuropathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Marco Segatto
- Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University, viale del Policlinico 155, 00186 Rome, Italy; E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Li Z, Zheng J, Zhang XF. Detrimental Effects of Paraquat on Astrocytes-Regulating Synaptic Functions. Dose Response 2018; 16:1559325818761681. [PMID: 29686592 PMCID: PMC5904721 DOI: 10.1177/1559325818761681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Paraquat (PQ) exposure is known as a risk factor for developing neurodegenerative diseases. Astrocytes are implicated and affected in neurodegenerative diseases and brain injuries, so it is suspected that PQ may impose detrimental effects on astrocytes function. Here, we present a study of the effects of PQ on synaptic function of astrocytes. Human astrocytes (HA1800) were separately treated with PQ at 200, 400, and 800 µmol/L for 12, 24, and 48 hours, respectively. The concentrations of membrane cholesterol, intracellular glutamate, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) were assessed by measuring changes with Kits after PQ treatment. Expression levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) were detected using Western blot method. The results indicated that astrocytes were highly susceptible to PQ showing astrogliosis characterized by enhanced GFAP expression (P < .05). The decreased cholesterol level and ApoE expression were observed in PQ-treated astrocytes and so were the decreased levels of glutamates and ATP in PQ-treated astrocytes. These results suggested that PQ exerted the detrimental effects on synaptic function of astrocytes, which may be involved in the progressive process of neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Li
- Department of Toxicology, Public Health School, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Public Health Monitoring, Heilongjiang Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Feng Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, Public Health School, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Kyle SM, Vashi N, Justice MJ. Rett syndrome: a neurological disorder with metabolic components. Open Biol 2018; 8:170216. [PMID: 29445033 PMCID: PMC5830535 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.170216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurological disorder caused by mutations in the X-linked gene methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2), a ubiquitously expressed transcriptional regulator. Despite remarkable scientific progress since its discovery, the mechanism by which MECP2 mutations cause RTT symptoms is largely unknown. Consequently, treatment options for patients are currently limited and centred on symptom relief. Thought to be an entirely neurological disorder, RTT research has focused on the role of MECP2 in the central nervous system. However, the variety of phenotypes identified in Mecp2 mutant mouse models and RTT patients implicate important roles for MeCP2 in peripheral systems. Here, we review the history of RTT, highlighting breakthroughs in the field that have led us to present day. We explore the current evidence supporting metabolic dysfunction as a component of RTT, presenting recent studies that have revealed perturbed lipid metabolism in the brain and peripheral tissues of mouse models and patients. Such findings may have an impact on the quality of life of RTT patients as both dietary and drug intervention can alter lipid metabolism. Ultimately, we conclude that a thorough knowledge of MeCP2's varied functional targets in the brain and body will be required to treat this complex syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M Kyle
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, The Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Neeti Vashi
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, The Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1A1
| | - Monica J Justice
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, The Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1A1
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Perkins M, Wolf AB, Chavira B, Shonebarger D, Meckel JP, Leung L, Ballina L, Ly S, Saini A, Jones TB, Vallejo J, Jentarra G, Valla J. Altered Energy Metabolism Pathways in the Posterior Cingulate in Young Adult Apolipoprotein E ɛ4 Carriers. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 53:95-106. [PMID: 27128370 PMCID: PMC4942726 DOI: 10.3233/jad-151205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The APOE gene, encoding apolipoprotein E, is the primary genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Apolipoprotein E ɛ4 allele (APOE4) carriers have alterations in brain structure and function (as measured by brain imaging) even as young adults. Examination of this population is valuable in further identifying details of these functional changes and their association with vulnerability to AD decades later. Previous work demonstrates functional declines in mitochondrial activity in the posterior cingulate cortex, a key region in the default mode network, which appears to be strongly associated with functional changes relevant to AD risk. Here, we demonstrate alterations in the pathways underlying glucose, ketone, and mitochondrial energy metabolism. Young adult APOE4 carriers displayed upregulation of specific glucose (GLUT1 & GLUT3) and monocarboxylate (MCT2) transporters, the glucose metabolism enzyme hexokinase, the SCOT & AACS enzymes involved in ketone metabolism, and complexes I, II, and IV of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. The monocarboxylate transporter (MCT4) was found to be downregulated in APOE4 carriers. These data suggest that widespread dysregulation of energy metabolism in this at-risk population, even decades before possible disease onset. Therefore, these findings support the idea that alterations in brain energy metabolism may contribute significantly to the risk that APOE4 confers for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Perkins
- Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA.,Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Andrew B Wolf
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Bernardo Chavira
- Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA.,Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | - J P Meckel
- Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA
| | - Lana Leung
- Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA.,Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | - Sarah Ly
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aman Saini
- Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA
| | | | - Johana Vallejo
- Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA.,Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Garilyn Jentarra
- Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA.,Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Jon Valla
- Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA.,Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Mast N, Lin JB, Anderson KW, Bjorkhem I, Pikuleva IA. Transcriptional and post-translational changes in the brain of mice deficient in cholesterol removal mediated by cytochrome P450 46A1 (CYP46A1). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187168. [PMID: 29073233 PMCID: PMC5658173 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytochrome P450 46A1 (CYP46A1) converts cholesterol to 24-hydroxycholesterol and thereby controls the major pathways of cholesterol removal from the brain. Cyp46a1-/- mice have a reduction in the rate of cholesterol biosynthesis in the brain and significant impairments to memory and learning. To gain insights into the mechanisms underlying Cyp46a1-/- phenotype, we used Cyp46a1-/- mice and quantified their brain sterol levels and the expression of the genes pertinent to cholesterol homeostasis. We also compared the Cyp46a1-/- and wild type brains for protein phosphorylation and ubiquitination. The data obtained enable the following inferences. First, there seems to be a compensatory upregulation in the Cyp46a1-/- brain of the pathways of cholesterol storage and CYP46A1-independent removal. Second, transcriptional regulation of the brain cholesterol biosynthesis via sterol regulatory element binding transcription factors is not significantly activated in the Cyp46a1-/- brain to explain a compensatory decrease in cholesterol biosynthesis. Third, some of the liver X receptor target genes (Abca1) are paradoxically upregulated in the Cyp46a1-/- brain, possibly due to a reduced activation of the small GTPases RAB8, CDC42, and RAC as a result of a reduced phosphorylation of RAB3IP and PAK1. Fourth, the phosphorylation of many other proteins (a total of 146) is altered in the Cyp46a1-/- brain, including microtubule associated and neurofilament proteins (the MAP and NEF families) along with proteins related to synaptic vesicles and synaptic neurotransmission (e.g., SLCs, SHANKs, and BSN). Fifth, the extent of protein ubiquitination is increased in the Cyp46a1-/- brain, and the affected proteins pertain to ubiquitination (UBE2N), cognition (STX1B and ATP1A2), cytoskeleton function (TUBA1A and YWHAZ), and energy production (ATP1A2 and ALDOA). The present study demonstrates the diverse potential effects of CYP46A1 deficiency on brain functions and identifies important proteins that could be affected by this deficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Mast
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Joseph B. Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Kyle W. Anderson
- Biomolecular Measurement Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States of America
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ingemar Bjorkhem
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Chemistry, Karolinska Institute, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Irina A. Pikuleva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Tse KH, Herrup K. Re-imagining Alzheimer's disease - the diminishing importance of amyloid and a glimpse of what lies ahead. J Neurochem 2017; 143:432-444. [PMID: 28547865 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 05/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Many have criticized the amyloid cascade hypothesis of Alzheimer's disease for its inconsistencies and failures to either accurately predict disease symptoms or guide the development of productive therapies. In addition to criticisms, however, we believe that the field would benefit from having alternative narratives and disease models that can either replace or function alongside of an amyloid-centric view of Alzheimer's. This review is an attempt to meet that need. We offer three experimentally verified amyloid-independent mechanisms, each of which plausibly contributes substantially to the aetiology of Alzheimer's disease: loss of DNA integrity, faulty cell cycle regulation, regression of myelination. We outline the ways in which the failure of each can contribute to AD initiation and progression, and review how, acting alone or in combination with each other, they are sufficient for explaining the full range of AD pathologies. Yet, these three alternatives represent only a few of the many non-amyloid mechanisms that can explain AD pathogenesis. Therefore instead of proposing a single 'alternative hypothesis' to the amyloid cascade theory, sporadic AD is pictured as the result of independent yet intersecting age-related pathologies that afflict the ageing human brain. This article is part of the series "Beyond Amyloid". Cover Image for this issue: doi. 10.1111/jnc.13823.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Hei Tse
- Division of Life Science and the State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Karl Herrup
- Division of Life Science and the State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|