1
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Ravizza T, Scheper M, Di Sapia R, Gorter J, Aronica E, Vezzani A. mTOR and neuroinflammation in epilepsy: implications for disease progression and treatment. Nat Rev Neurosci 2024; 25:334-350. [PMID: 38531962 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-024-00805-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Epilepsy remains a major health concern as anti-seizure medications frequently fail, and there is currently no treatment to stop or prevent epileptogenesis, the process underlying the onset and progression of epilepsy. The identification of the pathological processes underlying epileptogenesis is instrumental to the development of drugs that may prevent the generation of seizures or control pharmaco-resistant seizures, which affect about 30% of patients. mTOR signalling and neuroinflammation have been recognized as critical pathways that are activated in brain cells in epilepsy. They represent a potential node of biological convergence in structural epilepsies with either a genetic or an acquired aetiology. Interventional studies in animal models and clinical studies give strong support to the involvement of each pathway in epilepsy. In this Review, we focus on available knowledge about the pathophysiological features of mTOR signalling and the neuroinflammatory brain response, and their interactions, in epilepsy. We discuss mitigation strategies for each pathway that display therapeutic effects in experimental and clinical epilepsy. A deeper understanding of these interconnected molecular cascades could enhance our strategies for managing epilepsy. This could pave the way for new treatments to fill the gaps in the development of preventative or disease-modifying drugs, thus overcoming the limitations of current symptomatic medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Ravizza
- Department of Acute Brain and Cardiovascular Injury, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Mirte Scheper
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rossella Di Sapia
- Department of Acute Brain and Cardiovascular Injury, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Jan Gorter
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands.
| | - Annamaria Vezzani
- Department of Acute Brain and Cardiovascular Injury, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research IRCCS, Milano, Italy.
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2
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Brindley E, Heiland M, Mooney C, Diviney M, Mamad O, Hill TDM, Yan Y, Venø MT, Reschke CR, Batool A, Langa E, Sanz-Rodriguez A, Heller JP, Morris G, Conboy K, Kjems J, Brennan GP, Henshall DC. Brain cell-specific origin of circulating microRNA biomarkers in experimental temporal lobe epilepsy. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1230942. [PMID: 37808470 PMCID: PMC10556253 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1230942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis of epilepsy is complex and challenging and would benefit from the availability of molecular biomarkers, ideally measurable in a biofluid such as blood. Experimental and human epilepsy are associated with altered brain and blood levels of various microRNAs (miRNAs). Evidence is lacking, however, as to whether any of the circulating pool of miRNAs originates from the brain. To explore the link between circulating miRNAs and the pathophysiology of epilepsy, we first sequenced argonaute 2 (Ago2)-bound miRNAs in plasma samples collected from mice subject to status epilepticus induced by intraamygdala microinjection of kainic acid. This identified time-dependent changes in plasma levels of miRNAs with known neuronal and microglial-cell origins. To explore whether the circulating miRNAs had originated from the brain, we generated mice expressing FLAG-Ago2 in neurons or microglia using tamoxifen-inducible Thy1 or Cx3cr1 promoters, respectively. FLAG immunoprecipitates from the plasma of these mice after seizures contained miRNAs, including let-7i-5p and miR-19b-3p. Taken together, these studies confirm that a portion of the circulating pool of miRNAs in experimental epilepsy originates from the brain, increasing support for miRNAs as mechanistic biomarkers of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Brindley
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mona Heiland
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine Mooney
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Computer Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mairead Diviney
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Omar Mamad
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Thomas D. M. Hill
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Yan Yan
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Centre (iNANO) and Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Omiics ApS, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Morten T. Venø
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Centre (iNANO) and Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Omiics ApS, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Cristina R. Reschke
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aasia Batool
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elena Langa
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Amaya Sanz-Rodriguez
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Janosch P. Heller
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gareth Morris
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Conboy
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jørgen Kjems
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Centre (iNANO) and Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Gary P. Brennan
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Sciences, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David C. Henshall
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
- FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
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3
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Broekaart DWM, Zimmer TS, Cohen ST, Tessers R, Anink JJ, de Vries HE, Gorter JA, Prades R, Aronica E, van Vliet EA. The Gelatinase Inhibitor ACT-03 Reduces Gliosis in the Rapid Kindling Rat Model of Epilepsy, and Attenuates Inflammation and Loss of Barrier Integrity In Vitro. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092117. [PMID: 36140216 PMCID: PMC9495904 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are endopeptidases responsible for the cleavage of intra- and extracellular proteins. Several brain MMPs have been implicated in neurological disorders including epilepsy. We recently showed that the novel gelatinase inhibitor ACT-03 has disease-modifying effects in models of epilepsy. Here, we studied its effects on neuroinflammation and blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity. Using the rapid kindling rat model of epilepsy, we examined whether ACT-03 affected astro- and microgliosis in the brain using immunohistochemistry. Cellular and molecular alterations were further studied in vitro using human fetal astrocyte and brain endothelial cell (hCMEC/D3) cultures, with a focus on neuroinflammatory markers as well as on barrier permeability using an endothelial and astrocyte co-culture model. We observed less astro- and microgliosis in the brains of kindled animals treated with ACT-03 compared to control vehicle-treated animals. In vitro, ACT-03 treatment attenuated stimulation-induced mRNA expression of several pro-inflammatory factors in human fetal astrocytes and brain endothelial cells, as well as a loss of barrier integrity in endothelial and astrocyte co-cultures. Since ACT-03 has disease-modifying effects in epilepsy models, possibly via limiting gliosis, inflammation, and barrier integrity loss, it is of interest to further evaluate its effects in a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diede W. M. Broekaart
- Amsterdam UMC, Location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Till S. Zimmer
- Amsterdam UMC, Location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie T. Cohen
- Amsterdam UMC, Location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rianne Tessers
- Amsterdam UMC, Location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jasper J. Anink
- Amsterdam UMC, Location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Helga E. de Vries
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan A. Gorter
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roger Prades
- Accure Therapeutics S.L., 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Amsterdam UMC, Location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), 2103 SW Heemstede, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: (E.A.); (E.A.v.V.)
| | - Erwin A. van Vliet
- Amsterdam UMC, Location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: (E.A.); (E.A.v.V.)
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4
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Chu AJ, Williams JM. Astrocytic MicroRNA in Ageing, Inflammation, and Neurodegenerative Disease. Front Physiol 2022; 12:826697. [PMID: 35222067 PMCID: PMC8867065 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.826697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes actively regulate numerous cell types both within and outside of the central nervous system in health and disease. Indeed, astrocyte morphology, gene expression and function, alongside the content of astrocyte-derived extracellular vesicles (ADEVs), is significantly altered by ageing, inflammatory processes and in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Here, we review the relevant emerging literature focussed on perturbation in expression of microRNA (miRNA), small non-coding RNAs that potently regulate gene expression. Synthesis of this literature shows that ageing-related processes, neurodegenerative disease-associated mutations or peptides and cytokines induce dysregulated expression of miRNA in astrocytes and in some cases can lead to selective incorporation of miRNA into ADEVs. Analysis of the miRNA targets shows that the resulting downstream consequences of alterations to levels of miRNA include release of cytokines, chronic activation of the immune response, increased apoptosis, and compromised cellular functioning of both astrocytes and ADEV-ingesting cells. We conclude that perturbation of these functions likely exacerbates mechanisms leading to neuropathology and ultimately contributes to the cognitive or motor symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases. This field requires comprehensive miRNA expression profiling of both astrocytes and ADEVs to fully understand the effect of perturbed astrocytic miRNA expression in ageing and neurodegenerative disease.
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5
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Transfer RNA-Derived Fragments and isomiRs Are Novel Components of Chronic TBI-Induced Neuropathology. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10010136. [PMID: 35052815 PMCID: PMC8773447 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10010136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a secondary injury mechanism that evolves in the brain for months after traumatic brain injury (TBI). We hypothesized that an altered small non-coding RNA (sncRNA) signature plays a key role in modulating post-TBI secondary injury and neuroinflammation. At 3threemonths post-TBI, messenger RNA sequencing (seq) and small RNAseq were performed on samples from the ipsilateral thalamus and perilesional cortex of selected rats with a chronic inflammatory endophenotype, and sham-operated controls. The small RNAseq identified dysregulation of 2 and 19 miRNAs in the thalamus and cortex, respectively. The two candidates from the thalamus and the top ten from the cortex were selected for validation. In the thalamus, miR-146a-5p and miR-155-5p levels were upregulated, and in the cortex, miR-375-3p and miR-211-5p levels were upregulated. Analysis of isomiRs of differentially expressed miRNAs identified 3′ nucleotide additions that were increased after TBI. Surprisingly, we found fragments originating from 16 and 13 tRNAs in the thalamus and cortex, respectively. We further analyzed two upregulated fragments, 3′tRF-IleAAT and 3′tRF-LysTTT. Increased expression of the full miR-146a profile, and 3′tRF-IleAAT and 3′tRF-LysTTT was associated with a worse behavioral outcome in animals with chronic neuroinflammation. Our results highlight the importance of understanding the regulatory roles of as-yet unknown sncRNAs for developing better strategies to treat TBI and neuroinflammation.
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6
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Zimmer TS, David B, Broekaart DWM, Schidlowski M, Ruffolo G, Korotkov A, van der Wel NN, van Rijen PC, Mühlebner A, van Hecke W, Baayen JC, Idema S, François L, van Eyll J, Dedeurwaerdere S, Kessels HW, Surges R, Rüber T, Gorter JA, Mills JD, van Vliet EA, Aronica E. Seizure-mediated iron accumulation and dysregulated iron metabolism after status epilepticus and in temporal lobe epilepsy. Acta Neuropathol 2021; 142:729-759. [PMID: 34292399 PMCID: PMC8423709 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-021-02348-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal dysfunction due to iron accumulation in conjunction with reactive oxygen species (ROS) could represent an important, yet underappreciated, component of the epileptogenic process. However, to date, alterations in iron metabolism in the epileptogenic brain have not been addressed in detail. Iron-related neuropathology and antioxidant metabolic processes were investigated in resected brain tissue from patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and hippocampal sclerosis (TLE-HS), post-mortem brain tissue from patients who died after status epilepticus (SE) as well as brain tissue from the electrically induced SE rat model of TLE. Magnetic susceptibility of the presumed seizure-onset zone from three patients with focal epilepsy was compared during and after seizure activity. Finally, the cellular effects of iron overload were studied in vitro using an acute mouse hippocampal slice preparation and cultured human fetal astrocytes. While iron-accumulating neurons had a pyknotic morphology, astrocytes appeared to acquire iron-sequestrating capacity as indicated by prominent ferritin expression and iron retention in the hippocampus of patients with SE or TLE. Interictal to postictal comparison revealed increased magnetic susceptibility in the seizure-onset zone of epilepsy patients. Post-SE rats had consistently higher hippocampal iron levels during the acute and chronic phase (when spontaneous recurrent seizures are evident). In vitro, in acute slices that were exposed to iron, neurons readily took up iron, which was exacerbated by induced epileptiform activity. Human astrocyte cultures challenged with iron and ROS increased their antioxidant and iron-binding capacity, but simultaneously developed a pro-inflammatory phenotype upon chronic exposure. These data suggest that seizure-mediated, chronic neuronal iron uptake might play a role in neuronal dysfunction/loss in TLE-HS. On the other hand, astrocytes sequester iron, specifically in chronic epilepsy. This function might transform astrocytes into a highly resistant, pro-inflammatory phenotype potentially contributing to pro-epileptogenic inflammatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Till S Zimmer
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bastian David
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Diede W M Broekaart
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin Schidlowski
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - Gabriele Ruffolo
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Anatoly Korotkov
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole N van der Wel
- Department Cell Biology and Histology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department Electron Microscopy Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter C van Rijen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Centre, Rudolf Magnus Institute for Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Angelika Mühlebner
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wim van Hecke
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes C Baayen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Idema
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth François
- Neurosciences Therapeutic Area, UCB Pharma, Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium
| | - Jonathan van Eyll
- Neurosciences Therapeutic Area, UCB Pharma, Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium
| | | | - Helmut W Kessels
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rainer Surges
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Theodor Rüber
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan A Gorter
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - James D Mills
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL, London, UK
- Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Chalfont St Peter, UK
| | - Erwin A van Vliet
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands.
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Zimmer TS, Korotkov A, Zwakenberg S, Jansen FE, Zwartkruis FJT, Rensing NR, Wong M, Mühlebner A, van Vliet EA, Aronica E, Mills JD. Upregulation of the pathogenic transcription factor SPI1/PU.1 in tuberous sclerosis complex and focal cortical dysplasia by oxidative stress. Brain Pathol 2021; 31:e12949. [PMID: 33786950 PMCID: PMC8412124 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a congenital disorder characterized by cortical malformations and concomitant epilepsy caused by loss‐of‐function mutations in the mTOR suppressors TSC1 or TSC2. While the underlying molecular changes caused by mTOR activation in TSC have previously been investigated, the drivers of these transcriptional change have not been fully elucidated. A better understanding of the perturbed transcriptional regulation could lead to the identification of novel pathways for therapeutic intervention not only in TSC, but other genetic epilepsies in which mTOR activation plays a key role, such as focal cortical dysplasia 2b (FCD). Here, we analyzed RNA sequencing data from cortical tubers and a tsc2−/− zebrafish. We identified differential expression of the transcription factors (TFs) SPI1/PU.1, IRF8, GBX2, and IKZF1 of which SPI1/PU.1 and IRF8 targets were enriched among the differentially expressed genes. Furthermore, for SPI1/PU.1 these findings were conserved in TSC zebrafish model. Next, we confirmed overexpression of SPI1/PU.1 on the RNA and protein level in a separate cohort of surgically resected TSC tubers and FCD tissue, in fetal TSC tissue, and a Tsc1GFAP−/− mouse model of TSC. Subsequently, we validated the expression of SPI1/PU.1 in dysmorphic cells with mTOR activation in TSC tubers. In fetal TSC, we detected SPI1/PU.1 expression prenatally and elevated RNA Spi1 expression in Tsc1GFAP−/− mice before the development of seizures. Finally, in vitro, we identified that in astrocytes and neurons SPI1 transcription was driven by H2O2‐induced oxidative stress, independent of mTOR. We identified SPI1/PU.1 as a novel TF involved in the pro‐inflammatory gene expression of malformed cells in TSC and FCD 2b. This transcriptional program is activated in response to oxidative stress and already present prenatally. Importantly, SPI1/PU.1 protein appears to be strictly limited to malformed cells, as we did not find SPI1/PU.1 protein expression in mice nor in our in vitro models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Till S Zimmer
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anatoly Korotkov
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Susan Zwakenberg
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Molecular Cancer Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Floor E Jansen
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Fried J T Zwartkruis
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Molecular Cancer Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Michael Wong
- Department of Neurology, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Angelika Mühlebner
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Erwin A van Vliet
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, the Netherlands
| | - James D Mills
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL, London, UK.,Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Chalfont St Peter, UK
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8
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Vila Verde D, Zimmer T, Cattalini A, Pereira MF, van Vliet EA, Testa G, Gnatkovsky V, Aronica E, de Curtis M. Seizure activity and brain damage in a model of focal non-convulsive status epilepticus. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2021; 47:679-693. [PMID: 33421166 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Focal non-convulsive status epilepticus (FncSE) is a common emergency condition that may present as the first epileptic manifestation. In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that de novo FncSE should be promptly treated to improve post-status outcome. Whether seizure activity occurring during the course of the FncSE contributes to ensuing brain damage has not been demonstrated unequivocally and is here addressed. METHODS We used continuous video-EEG monitoring to characterise an acute experimental FncSE model induced by unilateral intrahippocampal injection of kainic acid (KA) in guinea pigs. Immunohistochemistry and mRNA expression analysis were utilised to detect and quantify brain injury, 3-days and 1-month after FncSE. RESULTS Seizure activity occurring during the course of FncSE involved both hippocampi equally. Neuronal loss, blood-brain barrier permeability changes, gliosis and up-regulation of inflammation, activity-induced and astrocyte-specific genes were observed in the KA-injected hippocampus. Diazepam treatment reduced FncSE duration and KA-induced neuropathological damage. In the contralateral hippocampus, transient and possibly reversible gliosis with increase of aquaporin-4 and Kir4.1 genes were observed 3 days post-KA. No tissue injury and gene expression changes were found 1-month after FncSE. CONCLUSIONS In our model, focal seizures occurring during FncSE worsen ipsilateral KA-induced tissue damage. FncSE only transiently activated glia in regions remote from KA-injection, suggesting that seizure activity during FncSE without local pathogenic co-factors does not promote long-lasting detrimental changes in the brain. These findings demonstrate that in our experimental model, brain damage remains circumscribed to the area where the primary cause (KA) of the FncSE acts. Our study emphasises the need to use antiepileptic drugs to contain local damage induced by focal seizures that occur during FncSE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Vila Verde
- Epilepsy Unit, Fondazione Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Till Zimmer
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marlene F Pereira
- Department of Oncology and Hematooncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Laboratory of Stem Cell Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Erwin A van Vliet
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Giuseppe Testa
- Department of Oncology and Hematooncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Laboratory of Stem Cell Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Vadym Gnatkovsky
- Epilepsy Unit, Fondazione Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands
| | - Marco de Curtis
- Epilepsy Unit, Fondazione Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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9
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Bongaarts A, de Jong JM, Broekaart DWM, van Scheppingen J, Anink JJ, Mijnsbergen C, Jansen FE, Spliet WGM, den Dunnen WFA, Gruber VE, Scholl T, Hainfellner JA, Feucht M, Borkowska J, Kotulska K, Jozwiak S, Grajkowska W, Buccoliero AM, Caporalini C, Giordano F, Genitori L, Scicluna BP, Schouten-van Meeteren AYN, van Vliet EA, Mühlebner A, Mills JD, Aronica E. Dysregulation of the MMP/TIMP Proteolytic System in Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytomas in Patients With Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: Modulation of MMP by MicroRNA-320d In Vitro. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2020; 79:777-790. [PMID: 32472129 PMCID: PMC7304985 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlaa040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a rare genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the TSC1 or TSC2 gene, is characterized by the growth of hamartomas in several organs. This includes the growth of low-grade brain tumors, known as subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGA). Previous studies have shown differential expression of genes related to the extracellular matrix in SEGA. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) are responsible for remodeling the extracellular matrix and are associated with tumorigenesis. This study aimed to investigate the MMP/TIMP proteolytic system in SEGA and the regulation of MMPs by microRNAs, which are important post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression. We investigated the expression of MMPs and TIMPs using previously produced RNA-Sequencing data, real-time quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry in TSC-SEGA samples and controls. We found altered expression of several MMPs and TIMPs in SEGA compared to controls. We identified the lowly expressed miR-320d in SEGA as a potential regulator of MMPs, which can decrease MMP2 expression in human fetal astrocyte cultures. This study provides evidence of a dysregulated MMP/TIMP proteolytic system in SEGA of which MMP2 could be rescued by microRNA-320d. Therefore, further elucidating microRNA-mediated MMP regulation may provide insights into SEGA pathogenesis and identify novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anika Bongaarts
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jody M de Jong
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Diede W M Broekaart
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jackelien van Scheppingen
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jasper J Anink
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline Mijnsbergen
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Floor E Jansen
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wim G M Spliet
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands (WGMS); Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands (WFAdD)
| | | | - Victoria E Gruber
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Theresa Scholl
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Martha Feucht
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julita Borkowska
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kotulska
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sergiusz Jozwiak
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Child Neurology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wieslawa Grajkowska
- Department of Pathology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Flavio Giordano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Anna Meyer Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Genitori
- Department of Neurosurgery, Anna Meyer Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Brendon P Scicluna
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Center for Experimental & Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam
| | - Antoinette Y N Schouten-van Meeteren
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erwin A van Vliet
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Angelika Mühlebner
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - James D Mills
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands
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10
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Verhoog QP, Holtman L, Aronica E, van Vliet EA. Astrocytes as Guardians of Neuronal Excitability: Mechanisms Underlying Epileptogenesis. Front Neurol 2020; 11:591690. [PMID: 33324329 PMCID: PMC7726323 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.591690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are key homeostatic regulators in the central nervous system and play important roles in physiology. After brain damage caused by e.g., status epilepticus, traumatic brain injury, or stroke, astrocytes may adopt a reactive phenotype. This process of reactive astrogliosis is important to restore brain homeostasis. However, persistent reactive astrogliosis can be detrimental for the brain and contributes to the development of epilepsy. In this review, we will focus on physiological functions of astrocytes in the normal brain as well as pathophysiological functions in the epileptogenic brain, with a focus on acquired epilepsy. We will discuss the role of astrocyte-related processes in epileptogenesis, including reactive astrogliosis, disturbances in energy supply and metabolism, gliotransmission, and extracellular ion concentrations, as well as blood-brain barrier dysfunction and dysregulation of blood flow. Since dysfunction of astrocytes can contribute to epilepsy, we will also discuss their role as potential targets for new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quirijn P. Verhoog
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Linda Holtman
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, Netherlands
| | - Erwin A. van Vliet
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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11
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The Important Role of Perituberal Tissue in Epileptic Patients with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex by the Transcriptome Analysis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:4980609. [PMID: 33123575 PMCID: PMC7585662 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4980609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is most common in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). However, in addition to the challenging treatment, the pathogenesis of epilepsy is still controversial. To determine the transcriptome characteristics of perituberal tissue (PT) and clarify its role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy, GSE16969 was downloaded from the GEO database for further study by comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. Identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), functional enrichment analysis, construction of protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, and selection of Hub genes were performed using R language, Metascape, STRING, and Cytoscape, respectively. Comparing with cortical tuber (CT), 220 DEGs, including 95 upregulated and 125 downregulated genes, were identified in PT and mainly enriched in collagen-containing extracellular matrix and positive regulation of receptor-mediated endocytosis, as well as the pathways of ECM-receptor interaction and neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction. As for normal cortex (NC), 1549 DEGs, including 30 upregulated and 1519 downregulated genes, were identified and mainly enriched in presynapse, dendrite and axon, and also the pathways of dopaminergic synapse and oxytocin signaling pathway. In the PPI network, 4 hub modules were found between PT and CT, and top 5 hub modules were selected between PT and NC. C3, APLNR, ANXA2, CD44, CLU, CP, MCHR2, HTR1E, CTSG, APP, and GNG2 were identified as Hub genes, of which, C3, CD44, ANXA2, HTR1E, and APP were identified as Hub-BottleNeck genes. In conclusion, PT has the unique characteristics different from CT and NC in transcriptome and makes us further understand its importance in the TSC-associated epilepsy.
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12
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Zimmer TS, Broekaart DWM, Gruber VE, van Vliet EA, Mühlebner A, Aronica E. Tuberous Sclerosis Complex as Disease Model for Investigating mTOR-Related Gliopathy During Epileptogenesis. Front Neurol 2020; 11:1028. [PMID: 33041976 PMCID: PMC7527496 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.01028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) represents the prototypic monogenic disorder of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway dysregulation. It provides the rational mechanistic basis of a direct link between gene mutation and brain pathology (structural and functional abnormalities) associated with a complex clinical phenotype including epilepsy, autism, and intellectual disability. So far, research conducted in TSC has been largely neuron-oriented. However, the neuropathological hallmarks of TSC and other malformations of cortical development also include major morphological and functional changes in glial cells involving astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, NG2 glia, and microglia. These cells and their interglial crosstalk may offer new insights into the common neurobiological mechanisms underlying epilepsy and the complex cognitive and behavioral comorbidities that are characteristic of the spectrum of mTOR-associated neurodevelopmental disorders. This review will focus on the role of glial dysfunction, the interaction between glia related to mTOR hyperactivity, and its contribution to epileptogenesis in TSC. Moreover, we will discuss how understanding glial abnormalities in TSC might give valuable insight into the pathophysiological mechanisms that could help to develop novel therapeutic approaches for TSC or other pathologies characterized by glial dysfunction and acquired mTOR hyperactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Till S Zimmer
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Diede W M Broekaart
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Erwin A van Vliet
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Angelika Mühlebner
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, Netherlands
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13
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Korotkov A, Puhakka N, Gupta SD, Vuokila N, Broekaart DWM, Anink JJ, Heiskanen M, Karttunen J, van Scheppingen J, Huitinga I, Mills JD, van Vliet EA, Pitkänen A, Aronica E. Increased expression of miR142 and miR155 in glial and immune cells after traumatic brain injury may contribute to neuroinflammation via astrocyte activation. Brain Pathol 2020; 30:897-912. [PMID: 32460356 PMCID: PMC7540383 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with the pathological activation of immune-competent cells in the brain, such as astrocytes, microglia and infiltrating immune blood cells, resulting in chronic inflammation and gliosis. This may contribute to the secondary injury after TBI, thus understanding of these processes is crucial for the development of effective treatments of post-traumatic pathologies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) are small noncoding RNAs, functioning as posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression. The increased expression of inflammation-associated microRNAs miR155 and miR142 has been reported after TBI in rats. However, expression of these miRNAs in the human brain post-TBI is not studied and their functions are not well understood. Moreover, circulating miR155 and miR142 are candidate biomarkers. Therefore, we characterized miR142 and miR155 expression in the perilesional cortex and plasma of rats that underwent lateral fluid-percussion injury, a model for TBI and in the human perilesional cortex post-TBI. We demonstrated higher miR155 and miR142 expression in the perilesional cortex of rats 2 weeks post-TBI. In plasma, miR155 was associated with proteins and miR142 with extracellular vesicles, however their expression did not change. In the human perilesional cortex miR155 was most prominently expressed by activated astrocytes, whereas miR142 was expressed predominantly by microglia, macrophages and lymphocytes. Pro-inflammatory medium from macrophage-like cells stimulated miR155 expression in astrocytes and overexpression of miR142 in these cells further potentiated a pro-inflammatory state of activated astrocytes. We conclude that miR155 and miR142 promote brain inflammation via astrocyte activation and may be involved in the secondary brain injury after TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anatoly Korotkov
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamMeibergdreef 9Amsterdam1105 AZthe Netherlands
| | - Noora Puhakka
- Department of Neurology, A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFI‐70211Finland
| | - Shalini Das Gupta
- Department of Neurology, A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFI‐70211Finland
| | - Niina Vuokila
- Department of Neurology, A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFI‐70211Finland
| | - Diede W. M. Broekaart
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamMeibergdreef 9Amsterdam1105 AZthe Netherlands
| | - Jasper J. Anink
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamMeibergdreef 9Amsterdam1105 AZthe Netherlands
| | - Mette Heiskanen
- Department of Neurology, A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFI‐70211Finland
| | - Jenni Karttunen
- Department of Neurology, A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFI‐70211Finland
| | - Jackelien van Scheppingen
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamMeibergdreef 9Amsterdam1105 AZthe Netherlands
- Department of NeuroimmunologyNetherlands Institute for NeuroscienceMeibergdreef 47Amsterdam1105 BAthe Netherlands
| | - Inge Huitinga
- Department of NeuroimmunologyNetherlands Institute for NeuroscienceMeibergdreef 47Amsterdam1105 BAthe Netherlands
| | - James D. Mills
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamMeibergdreef 9Amsterdam1105 AZthe Netherlands
| | - Erwin A. van Vliet
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamMeibergdreef 9Amsterdam1105 AZthe Netherlands
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for NeuroscienceUniversity of AmsterdamScience Park 904Amsterdam1090 GEthe Netherlands
| | - Asla Pitkänen
- Department of Neurology, A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFI‐70211Finland
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMC, University of AmsterdamMeibergdreef 9Amsterdam1105 AZthe Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN)Heemstedethe Netherlands
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14
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Broekaart DWM, van Scheppingen J, Anink JJ, Wierts L, van het Hof B, Jansen FE, Spliet WG, van Rijen PC, Kamphuis WW, de Vries HE, Aronica E, van Vliet EA. Increased matrix metalloproteinases expression in tuberous sclerosis complex: modulation by microRNA 146a and 147b in vitro. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2020; 46:142-159. [PMID: 31183875 PMCID: PMC7217197 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
AIM Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their endogenous tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) control proteolysis within the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the brain. Dysfunction of this enzymatic system due to brain inflammation can disrupt the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. However, this has not been extensively studied in the epileptogenic human brain. METHODS We investigated the expression and cellular localization of major MMPs (MMP2, MMP3, MMP9 and MMP14) and TIMPs (TIMP1, TIMP2, TIMP3 and TIMP4) using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry in resected epileptogenic brain tissue from patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a severe neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by intractable epilepsy and prominent neuroinflammation. Furthermore, we determined whether anti-inflammatory microRNAs, miR146a and miR147b, which can regulate gene expression at the transcriptional level, could attenuate dysregulated MMP and TIMP expression in TSC tuber-derived astroglial cultures. RESULTS We demonstrated higher mRNA and protein expression of MMPs and TIMPs in TSC tubers compared to control and perituberal brain tissue, particularly in dysmorphic neurons and giant cells, as well as in reactive astrocytes, which was associated with BBB dysfunction. More importantly, IL-1β-induced dysregulation of MMP3, TIMP2, TIMP3 and TIMP4 could be rescued by miR146a and miR147b in tuber-derived TSC cultures. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence of dysregulation of the MMP/TIMP proteolytic system in TSC, which is associated with BBB dysfunction. As dysregulated MMP and TIMP expression can be ameliorated in vitro by miR146a and miR147b, these miRNAs deserve further investigation as a novel therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. W. M. Broekaart
- Department of (Neuro)PathologyAmsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - J. van Scheppingen
- Department of (Neuro)PathologyAmsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - J. J. Anink
- Department of (Neuro)PathologyAmsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - L. Wierts
- Brendinn TherapeuticsAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and ImmunologyAmsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMCVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - B. van het Hof
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and ImmunologyAmsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMCVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - F. E. Jansen
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - W. G. Spliet
- Department of PathologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - P. C. van Rijen
- Department of NeurosurgeryRudolf Magnus Institute for NeuroscienceUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - W. W. Kamphuis
- Brendinn TherapeuticsAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and ImmunologyAmsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMCVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - H. E. de Vries
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and ImmunologyAmsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMCVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - E. Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)PathologyAmsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN)HeemstedeThe Netherlands
| | - E. A. van Vliet
- Department of (Neuro)PathologyAmsterdam NeuroscienceAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Swammerdam Institute for Life SciencesCenter for NeuroscienceUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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15
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Zimmer TS, Ciriminna G, Arena A, Anink JJ, Korotkov A, Jansen FE, van Hecke W, Spliet WG, van Rijen PC, Baayen JC, Idema S, Rensing NR, Wong M, Mills JD, van Vliet EA, Aronica E. Chronic activation of anti-oxidant pathways and iron accumulation in epileptogenic malformations. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2020; 46:546-563. [PMID: 31869431 PMCID: PMC7308211 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Aims Oxidative stress is evident in resected epileptogenic brain tissue of patients with developmental brain malformations related to mammalian target of rapamycin activation: tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) and focal cortical dysplasia type IIb (FCD IIb). Whether chronic activation of anti‐oxidant pathways is beneficial or contributes to pathology is not clear. Methods We investigated oxidative stress markers, including haem oxygenase 1, ferritin and the inflammation associated microRNA‐155 in surgically resected epileptogenic brain tissue of TSC (n = 10) and FCD IIb (n = 8) patients and in a TSC model (Tsc1GFAP−/− mice) using immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, real‐time quantitative PCR and immunoblotting. Using human foetal astrocytes we performed an in vitro characterization of the anti‐oxidant response to acute and chronic oxidative stress and evaluated overexpression of the disease‐relevant pro‐inflammatory microRNA‐155. Results Resected TSC or FCD IIb tissue displayed higher expression of oxidative stress markers and microRNA‐155. Tsc1GFAP−/− mice expressed more microRNA‐155 and haem oxygenase 1 in the brain compared to wild‐type, preceding the typical development of spontaneous seizures in these animals. In vitro, chronic microRNA‐155 overexpression induced haem oxygenase 1, iron regulatory elements and increased susceptibility to oxidative stress. Overexpression of iron regulatory genes was also detected in patients with TSC, FCD IIb and Tsc1GFAP−/− mice. Conclusion Our results demonstrate that early and sustained activation of anti‐oxidant signalling and dysregulation of iron metabolism are a pathological hallmark of FCD IIb and TSC. Our findings suggest novel therapeutic strategies aimed at controlling the pathological link between both processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- T S Zimmer
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G Ciriminna
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Arena
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - J J Anink
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Korotkov
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - F E Jansen
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - W van Hecke
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - W G Spliet
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - P C van Rijen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Centre, Rudolf Magnus Institute for Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J C Baayen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S Idema
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - N R Rensing
- Department of Neurology, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - M Wong
- Department of Neurology, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - J D Mills
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E A van Vliet
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands
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16
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Bongaarts A, van Scheppingen J, Korotkov A, Mijnsbergen C, Anink JJ, Jansen FE, Spliet WGM, den Dunnen WFA, Gruber VE, Scholl T, Samueli S, Hainfellner JA, Feucht M, Kotulska K, Jozwiak S, Grajkowska W, Buccoliero AM, Caporalini C, Giordano F, Genitori L, Coras R, Blümcke I, Krsek P, Zamecnik J, Meijer L, Scicluna BP, Schouten-van Meeteren AYN, Mühlebner A, Mills JD, Aronica E. The coding and non-coding transcriptional landscape of subependymal giant cell astrocytomas. Brain 2020; 143:131-149. [PMID: 31834371 PMCID: PMC6935755 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awz370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominantly inherited neurocutaneous disorder caused by inactivating mutations in TSC1 or TSC2, key regulators of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway. In the CNS, TSC is characterized by cortical tubers, subependymal nodules and subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGAs). SEGAs may lead to impaired circulation of CSF resulting in hydrocephalus and raised intracranial pressure in patients with TSC. Currently, surgical resection and mTORC1 inhibitors are the recommended treatment options for patients with SEGA. In the present study, high-throughput RNA-sequencing (SEGAs n = 19, periventricular control n = 8) was used in combination with computational approaches to unravel the complexity of SEGA development. We identified 9400 mRNAs and 94 microRNAs differentially expressed in SEGAs compared to control tissue. The SEGA transcriptome profile was enriched for the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, a major regulator of cell proliferation and survival. Analysis at the protein level confirmed that extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) is activated in SEGAs. Subsequently, the inhibition of ERK independently of mTORC1 blockade decreased efficiently the proliferation of primary patient-derived SEGA cultures. Furthermore, we found that LAMTOR1, LAMTOR2, LAMTOR3, LAMTOR4 and LAMTOR5 were overexpressed at both gene and protein levels in SEGA compared to control tissue. Taken together LAMTOR1-5 can form a complex, known as the 'Ragulator' complex, which is known to activate both mTORC1 and MAPK/ERK pathways. Overall, this study shows that the MAPK/ERK pathway could be used as a target for treatment independent of, or in combination with mTORC1 inhibitors for TSC patients. Moreover, our study provides initial evidence of a possible link between the constitutive activated mTORC1 pathway and a secondary driver pathway of tumour growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anika Bongaarts
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Anatoly Korotkov
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline Mijnsbergen
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jasper J Anink
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Floor E Jansen
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wim G M Spliet
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wilfred F A den Dunnen
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Victoria E Gruber
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Theresa Scholl
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sharon Samueli
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Martha Feucht
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katarzyna Kotulska
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sergiusz Jozwiak
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Child Neurology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wieslawa Grajkowska
- Department of Pathology, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Flavio Giordano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Anna Meyer Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Genitori
- Department of Neurosurgery, Anna Meyer Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Roland Coras
- Department of Neuropathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ingmar Blümcke
- Department of Neuropathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Pavel Krsek
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Charles University, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Josef Zamecnik
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Charles University, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lisethe Meijer
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Brendon P Scicluna
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine and Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Antoinette Y N Schouten-van Meeteren
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Angelika Mühlebner
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - James D Mills
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), The Netherlands
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17
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Korotkov A, Broekaart DWM, Banchaewa L, Pustjens B, van Scheppingen J, Anink JJ, Baayen JC, Idema S, Gorter JA, van Vliet EA, Aronica E. microRNA-132 is overexpressed in glia in temporal lobe epilepsy and reduces the expression of pro-epileptogenic factors in human cultured astrocytes. Glia 2019; 68:60-75. [PMID: 31408236 PMCID: PMC6899748 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is a chronic neurological disease in humans, which is refractory to pharmacological treatment in about 30% of the patients. Reactive glial cells are thought to play a major role during the development of epilepsy (epileptogenesis) via regulation of brain inflammation and remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM). These processes can be regulated by microRNAs (miRs), a class of small non‐coding RNAs, which can control entire gene networks at a post‐transcriptional level. The expression of miRs is known to change dynamically during epileptogenesis. miR‐132 is one of the most commonly upregulated miRs in animal TLE models with important roles shown in neurons. However, the possible role of miR‐132 in glia remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to characterize the cell‐type specific expression of miR‐132 in the hippocampus of patients with TLE and during epileptogenesis in a rat TLE model. Furthermore, the potential role of miR‐132 was investigated by transfection of human primary cultured astrocytes that were stimulated with the cytokines IL‐1β or TGF‐β1. We showed an increased expression of miR‐132 in the human and rat epileptogenic hippocampus, particularly in glial cells. Transfection of miR‐132 in human primary astrocytes reduced the expression of pro‐epileptogenic COX‐2, IL‐1β, TGF‐β2, CCL2, and MMP3. This suggests that miR‐132, particularly in astrocytes, represents a potential therapeutic target that warrants further in vivo investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anatoly Korotkov
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Diede W M Broekaart
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Leyla Banchaewa
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ben Pustjens
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jackelien van Scheppingen
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jasper J Anink
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes C Baayen
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam Neuroscience, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sander Idema
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam Neuroscience, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jan A Gorter
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Erwin A van Vliet
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, the Netherlands
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18
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Benova B, Jacques TS. Genotype-phenotype correlations in focal malformations of cortical development: a pathway to integrated pathological diagnosis in epilepsy surgery. Brain Pathol 2019; 29:473-484. [PMID: 30485578 PMCID: PMC8028510 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Malformations of cortical development (MCD) comprise a broad spectrum of developmental brain abnormalities. Patients presenting with MCDs often suffer from drug-resistant focal epilepsy, and some become candidates for epilepsy surgery. Their likelihood of achieving freedom from seizures, however, remains uncertain, and depends in a major part on the underlying pathology. Tissue samples obtained in epilepsy surgery form the basis of definite histopathological diagnosis; however, new molecular genetic methods have not yet been implemented in diagnostic processes for MCD cases. Furthermore, it has not been completely understood how the underlying pathology affects patients' outcomes after epilepsy surgery. We performed a systematic literature review of studies describing both histopathological and molecular genetic findings in MCD, along with studies on epilepsy surgery outcomes. We aimed to correlate the genetic causes with the underlying morphological abnormalities in focal cortical malformations and to stress the importance of the underlying biology for patient management and counseling. From the summarized findings of multiple authors, it is obvious that MCD may have a diverse genetic background despite a similar or even identical histopathological picture. Even though most of their molecular genetic findings converge on various levels of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, the exact mechanisms underlying MCD formation have not yet been completely described or indeed how this pathway generates a diverse range of histological abnormalities. Based on our findings, we therefore propose that all patients diagnosed and operated for drug-resistant epilepsy should have an integrated molecular and pathological diagnosis similar to the current practice in brain tumor diagnostic processes that might lead to more accurate diagnosis and effective stratification of patients undergoing epilepsy surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Benova
- 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Department of Paediatric NeurologyCharles University and Motol University HospitalPragueCzech Republic
- 2nd Faculty of MedicineCharles UniversityPragueCzech Republic
- Developmental Biology and Cancer ProgrammeUCL GOS Institute of Child HealthLondonUK
| | - Thomas S. Jacques
- Developmental Biology and Cancer ProgrammeUCL GOS Institute of Child HealthLondonUK
- Department of HistopathologyGreat Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
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19
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Yang Q, Zhou J. Neuroinflammation in the central nervous system: Symphony of glial cells. Glia 2018; 67:1017-1035. [DOI: 10.1002/glia.23571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Qiao‐qiao Yang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai China
| | - Jia‐wei Zhou
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai 200031 China
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20
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Abstract
A rapidly growing body of evidence supports the premise that neuroinflammation plays an important role in initiating and sustaining seizures in a range of pediatric epilepsies. Clinical and experimental evidence indicate that neuroinflammation is both an outcome and a contributor to seizures. In this manner, seizures that arise from an initial insult (e.g. infection, trauma, genetic mutation) contribute to an inflammatory response that subsequently promotes recurrent seizures. This cyclical relationship between seizures and neuroinflammation has been described as a 'vicious cycle.' Studies of human tissue resected for surgical treatment of refractory epilepsy have reported activated inflammatory and immune signaling pathways, while animal models have been used to demonstrate that key inflammatory mediators lead to increased seizure susceptibility. Further characterization of the molecular mechanisms involved in this cycle may ultimately enable the development of new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of epilepsy. In this brief review we focus on key inflammatory mediators that have become prominent in recent literature of epilepsy, including newly characterized microRNAs and their potential role in neuroinflammatory signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Bagla
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Room 3L22, Children's Hospital of Michigan, 3901 Beaubien Blvd, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Alan A Dombkowski
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Pediatrics, Room 3L22, Children's Hospital of Michigan, 3901 Beaubien Blvd, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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21
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Bookland M, Tang-Schomer M, Gillan E, Kolmakova A. Circulating serum oncologic miRNA in pediatric juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma patients predicts mural nodule volume. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2018; 160:1571-1581. [PMID: 29911246 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-018-3589-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Juvenile pilocytic astrocytomas represent the largest group of pediatric brain tumors. The ideal management for these tumors is early, total surgical resection. To detect and track treatment response, a screening tool is needed to identify patients for surgical evaluation and assess the quality of treatment. The identification of aberrant miRNA profiles in the sera of juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma patients could provide such a screening tool. METHODS The authors reviewed the serum profiles of 84 oncologically relevant miRNAs in pediatric juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma patients via qPCR screening. RESULTS miR-21, miR-15b, miR-23a, and miR-146b were significantly elevated in the sera of JPA patients as compared to non-oncologic controls, oncologic controls, and post-JPA resection samples (p < 0.001, 0.022, 0.034, 0.044). miR-21 had the highest AUC on ROC analysis (AUC > 0.99, sensitivity 75%, specificity 100%). All four miRNAs also correlated well with tumor mural nodule size, though they only poorly correlated with total tumor size, including cystic components (Spearman's R2: miR-21 91.7 vs 6.9%, miR-15b 86.3 vs 23.1%, miR-23a 85.8 vs 23.0%, miR-146b 59.8 vs 11.9%). CONCLUSION In this small pilot study, pediatric juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma patients had significant elevations in serum miR-21, miR-15b, miR-23a, and miR-146b levels that do not appear to be driven by hydrocephalus or local distortion of the intracranial contents. These alterations correlate with solid tumor component volume and reverse with complete tumor resection, suggesting that this serum miRNA profile may delineate biomarkers for screening and tracking juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma patients. Additional studies, with a larger cohort, are needed to verify these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Bookland
- Division of Neurosurgery, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, 282 Washington St, Hartford, CT, 06106, USA.
- Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut Health Center, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA.
| | - Min Tang-Schomer
- Division of Neurosurgery, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, 282 Washington St, Hartford, CT, 06106, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut Health Center, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
- The Jackson Laboratory, 299 Farmington Ave, Farmington, 06032, CT, USA
| | - Eileen Gillan
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, 282 Washington St, Hartford, CT, 06106, USA
| | - Antonina Kolmakova
- Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut Health Center, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
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22
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Drion CM, van Scheppingen J, Arena A, Geijtenbeek KW, Kooijman L, van Vliet EA, Aronica E, Gorter JA. Effects of rapamycin and curcumin on inflammation and oxidative stress in vitro and in vivo - in search of potential anti-epileptogenic strategies for temporal lobe epilepsy. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:212. [PMID: 30037344 PMCID: PMC6056921 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1247-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies in various rodent epilepsy models have suggested that mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibition with rapamycin has anti-epileptogenic potential. Since treatment with rapamycin produces unwanted side effects, there is growing interest to study alternatives to rapamycin as anti-epileptogenic drugs. Therefore, we investigated curcumin, the main component of the natural spice turmeric. Curcumin is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects and has been reported to inhibit the mTOR pathway. These properties make it a potential anti-epileptogenic compound and an alternative for rapamycin. Methods To study the anti-epileptogenic potential of curcumin compared to rapamycin, we first studied the effects of both compounds on mTOR activation, inflammation, and oxidative stress in vitro, using cell cultures of human fetal astrocytes and the neuronal cell line SH-SY5Y. Next, we investigated the effects of rapamycin and intracerebrally applied curcumin on status epilepticus (SE)—induced inflammation and oxidative stress in hippocampal tissue, during early stages of epileptogenesis in the post-electrical SE rat model for temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Results Rapamycin, but not curcumin, suppressed mTOR activation in cultured astrocytes. Instead, curcumin suppressed the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that curcumin, but not rapamycin, reduced the levels of inflammatory markers IL-6 and COX-2 in cultured astrocytes that were challenged with IL-1β. In SH-SY5Y cells, curcumin reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, suggesting anti-oxidant effects. In the post-SE rat model, however, treatment with rapamycin or curcumin did not suppress the expression of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers 1 week after SE. Conclusions These results indicate anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of curcumin, but not rapamycin, in vitro. Intracerebrally applied curcumin modified the MAPK pathway in vivo at 1 week after SE but failed to produce anti-inflammatory or anti-oxidant effects. Future studies should be directed to increasing the bioavailability of curcumin (or related compounds) in the brain to assess its anti-epileptogenic potential in vivo. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-018-1247-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Drion
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J van Scheppingen
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Arena
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - K W Geijtenbeek
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - L Kooijman
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E A van Vliet
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E Aronica
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands
| | - J A Gorter
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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23
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Korotkov A, Broekaart DWM, van Scheppingen J, Anink JJ, Baayen JC, Idema S, Gorter JA, Aronica E, van Vliet EA. Increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase 3 can be attenuated by inhibition of microRNA-155 in cultured human astrocytes. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:211. [PMID: 30031401 PMCID: PMC6054845 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1245-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is a chronic neurological disease, in which about 30% of patients cannot be treated adequately with anti-epileptic drugs. Brain inflammation and remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) seem to play a major role in TLE. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic enzymes largely responsible for the remodeling of the ECM. The inhibition of MMPs has been suggested as a novel therapy for epilepsy; however, available MMP inhibitors lack specificity and cause serious side effects. We studied whether MMPs could be modulated via microRNAs (miRNAs). Several miRNAs mediate inflammatory responses in the brain, which are known to control MMP expression. The aim of this study was to investigate whether an increased expression of MMPs after interleukin-1β (IL-1β) stimulation can be attenuated by inhibition of the inflammation-associated miR-155. Methods We investigated the expression of MMP2, MMP3, MMP9, and MMP14 in cultured human fetal astrocytes after stimulation with the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β. The cells were transfected with miR-155 antagomiR, and the effect on MMP3 expression was investigated using real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting. Furthermore, we characterized MMP3 and miR-155 expression in brain tissue of TLE patients with hippocampal sclerosis (TLE-HS) and during epileptogenesis in a rat TLE model. Results Inhibition of miR-155 by the antagomiR attenuated MMP3 overexpression after IL-1β stimulation in astrocytes. Increased expression of MMP3 and miR-155 was also evident in the hippocampus of TLE-HS patients and throughout epileptogenesis in the rat TLE model. Conclusions Our experiments showed that MMP3 is dynamically regulated by seizures as shown by increased expression in TLE tissue and during different phases of epileptogenesis in the rat TLE model. MMP3 can be induced by the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and is regulated by miR-155, suggesting a possible strategy to prevent epilepsy via reduction of inflammation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-018-1245-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anatoly Korotkov
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Diede W M Broekaart
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jackelien van Scheppingen
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jasper J Anink
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes C Baayen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Idema
- Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan A Gorter
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands
| | - Erwin A van Vliet
- Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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24
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mTOR Signaling and Neural Stem Cells: The Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Model. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051474. [PMID: 29772672 PMCID: PMC5983755 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), a serine-threonine kinase, plays a pivotal role in regulating cell growth and proliferation. Notably, a great deal of evidence indicates that mTOR signaling is also crucial in controlling proliferation and differentiation of several stem cell compartments. Consequently, dysregulation of the mTOR pathway is often associated with a variety of disease, such as cancer and metabolic and genetic disorders. For instance, hyperactivation of mTORC1 in neural stem cells (NSCs) is associated with the insurgence of neurological manifestation characterizing tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). In this review, we survey the recent contributions of TSC physiopathology studies to understand the role of mTOR signaling in both neurogenesis and tumorigenesis and discuss how these new insights can contribute to developing new therapeutic strategies for neurological diseases and cancer.
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25
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Glia-to-neuron transfer of miRNAs via extracellular vesicles: a new mechanism underlying inflammation-induced synaptic alterations. Acta Neuropathol 2018; 135:529-550. [PMID: 29302779 PMCID: PMC5978931 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-017-1803-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence indicates synaptic dysfunction as an early mechanism affected in neuroinflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, which are characterized by chronic microglia activation. However, the mode(s) of action of reactive microglia in causing synaptic defects are not fully understood. In this study, we show that inflammatory microglia produce extracellular vesicles (EVs) which are enriched in a set of miRNAs that regulate the expression of key synaptic proteins. Among them, miR-146a-5p, a microglia-specific miRNA not present in hippocampal neurons, controls the expression of presynaptic synaptotagmin1 (Syt1) and postsynaptic neuroligin1 (Nlg1), an adhesion protein which play a crucial role in dendritic spine formation and synaptic stability. Using a Renilla-based sensor, we provide formal proof that inflammatory EVs transfer their miR-146a-5p cargo to neuron. By western blot and immunofluorescence analysis we show that vesicular miR-146a-5p suppresses Syt1 and Nlg1 expression in receiving neurons. Microglia-to-neuron miR-146a-5p transfer and Syt1 and Nlg1 downregulation do not occur when EV-neuron contact is inhibited by cloaking vesicular phosphatidylserine residues and when neurons are exposed to EVs either depleted of miR-146a-5p, produced by pro-regenerative microglia, or storing inactive miR-146a-5p, produced by cells transfected with an anti-miR-146a-5p. Morphological analysis reveals that prolonged exposure to inflammatory EVs leads to significant decrease in dendritic spine density in hippocampal neurons in vivo and in primary culture, which is rescued in vitro by transfection of a miR-insensitive Nlg1 form. Dendritic spine loss is accompanied by a decrease in the density and strength of excitatory synapses, as indicated by reduced mEPSC frequency and amplitude. These findings link inflammatory microglia and enhanced EV production to loss of excitatory synapses, uncovering a previously unrecognized role for microglia-enriched miRNAs, released in association to EVs, in silencing of key synaptic genes.
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26
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Tiwari D, Peariso K, Gross C. MicroRNA-induced silencing in epilepsy: Opportunities and challenges for clinical application. Dev Dyn 2018; 247:94-110. [PMID: 28850760 PMCID: PMC5740004 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are master regulators of gene expression. Single microRNAs influence multiple proteins within diverse molecular pathways and networks. Therefore, changes in levels or activity of microRNAs can have profound effects on cellular function. This makes dysregulated microRNA-induced silencing an attractive potential disease mechanism in complex disorders like epilepsy, where numerous cellular pathways and processes are affected simultaneously. Indeed, several years of research in rodent models have provided strong evidence that acute or recurrent seizures change microRNA expression and function. Moreover, altered microRNA expression has been observed in brain and blood from patients with various epilepsy disorders, such as tuberous sclerosis. MicroRNAs can be easily manipulated using sense or antisense oligonucleotides, opening up opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Here, we summarize studies using these techniques to identify microRNAs that modulate seizure susceptibility, describe protein targets mediating some of these effects, and discuss cellular pathways, for example neuroinflammation, that are controlled by epilepsy-associated microRNAs. We critically assess current gaps in knowledge regarding target- and cell-specificity of microRNAs that have to be addressed before clinical application as therapeutic targets or biomarkers. The recent progress in understanding microRNA function in epilepsy has generated strong momentum to encourage in-depth mechanistic studies to develop microRNA-targeted therapies. Developmental Dynamics 247:94-110, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durgesh Tiwari
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Neurology, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Katrina Peariso
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Neurology, Cincinnati, Ohio
- University of Cincinnati, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Christina Gross
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Neurology, Cincinnati, Ohio
- University of Cincinnati, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati, Ohio
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27
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Comparative analysis of cytokine/chemokine regulatory networks in patients with hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and focal cortical dysplasia (FCD). Sci Rep 2017; 7:15904. [PMID: 29162878 PMCID: PMC5698416 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16041-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Experimental and clinical evidence have demonstrated aberrant expression of cytokines/chemokines and their receptors in patients with hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and focal cortical dysplasia (FCD). However, there is limited information regarding the modulation of cytokine/chemokine-regulatory networks, suggesting contribution of miRNAs and downstream transcription factors/receptors in these pathologies. Hence, we studied the levels of multiple inflammatory mediators (IL1β, IL1Ra, IL6, IL10, CCL3, CCL4, TNFα and VEGF) along with transcriptional changes of nine related miRNAs and mRNA levels of downstream effectors of significantly altered cytokines/chemokines in brain tissues obtained from patients with HS (n = 26) and FCD (n = 26). Up regulation of IL1β, IL6, CCL3, CCL4, STAT-3, C-JUN and CCR5, and down regulation of IL 10 were observed in both HS and FCD cases (p < 0.05). CCR5 was significantly up regulated in FCD as compared to HS (p < 0.001). Both, HS and FCD presented decreased miR-223-3p, miR-21-5p, miR-204-5p and let-7a-5p and increased miR-155-5p expression (p < 0.05). As compared to HS, miR-204-5p (upstream to CCR5 and IL1β) and miR-195-5p (upstream to CCL4) were significantly decreased in FCD patients (p < 0.01). Our results suggest differential alteration of cytokine/chemokine regulatory networks in HS and FCD and provide a rationale for developing pathology specific therapy.
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Lam HC, Liu HJ, Baglini CV, Filippakis H, Alesi N, Nijmeh J, Du H, Lope AL, Cottrill KA, Handen A, Asara JM, Kwiatkowski DJ, Ben-Sahra I, Oldham WM, Chan SY, Henske EP. Rapamycin-induced miR-21 promotes mitochondrial homeostasis and adaptation in mTORC1 activated cells. Oncotarget 2017; 8:64714-64727. [PMID: 29029388 PMCID: PMC5630288 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
mTORC1 hyperactivation drives the multi-organ hamartomatous disease tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Rapamycin inhibits mTORC1, inducing partial tumor responses; however, the tumors regrow following treatment cessation. We discovered that the oncogenic miRNA, miR-21, is increased in Tsc2-deficient cells and, surprisingly, further increased by rapamycin. To determine the impact of miR-21 in TSC, we inhibited miR-21 in vitro. miR-21 inhibition significantly repressed the tumorigenic potential of Tsc2-deficient cells and increased apoptosis sensitivity. Tsc2-deficient cells' clonogenic and anchorage independent growth were reduced by ∼50% (p<0.01) and ∼75% (p<0.0001), respectively, and combined rapamycin treatment decreased soft agar growth by ∼90% (p<0.0001). miR-21 inhibition also increased sensitivity to apoptosis. Through a network biology-driven integration of RNAseq data, we discovered that miR-21 promotes mitochondrial adaptation and homeostasis in Tsc2-deficient cells. miR-21 inhibition reduced mitochondrial polarization and function in Tsc2-deficient cells, with and without co-treatment with rapamycin. Importantly, miR-21 inhibition limited Tsc2-deficient tumor growth in vivo, reducing tumor size by approximately 3-fold (p<0.0001). When combined with rapamcyin, miR-21 inhibition showed even more striking efficacy, both during treatment and after treatment cessation, with a 4-fold increase in median survival following rapamycin cessation (p=0.0008). We conclude that miR-21 promotes mTORC1-driven tumorigenesis via a mechanism that involves the mitochondria, and that miR-21 is a potential therapeutic target for TSC-associated hamartomas and other mTORC1-driven tumors, with the potential for synergistic efficacy when combined with rapalogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilaire C. Lam
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heng-Jia Liu
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christian V. Baglini
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Harilaos Filippakis
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicola Alesi
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Julie Nijmeh
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heng Du
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alicia Llorente Lope
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Katherine A. Cottrill
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Center for Pulmonary Vascular Biology and Medicine, Pittsburgh Heart, Lung, Blood, and Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Adam Handen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Center for Pulmonary Vascular Biology and Medicine, Pittsburgh Heart, Lung, Blood, and Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - John M. Asara
- Department of Medicine, Division of Signal Transduction, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David J. Kwiatkowski
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Issam Ben-Sahra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - William M. Oldham
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stephen Y. Chan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Center for Pulmonary Vascular Biology and Medicine, Pittsburgh Heart, Lung, Blood, and Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth P. Henske
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Aronica E, Bauer S, Bozzi Y, Caleo M, Dingledine R, Gorter JA, Henshall DC, Kaufer D, Koh S, Löscher W, Louboutin JP, Mishto M, Norwood BA, Palma E, Poulter MO, Terrone G, Vezzani A, Kaminski RM. Neuroinflammatory targets and treatments for epilepsy validated in experimental models. Epilepsia 2017; 58 Suppl 3:27-38. [PMID: 28675563 DOI: 10.1111/epi.13783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
A large body of evidence that has accumulated over the past decade strongly supports the role of inflammation in the pathophysiology of human epilepsy. Specific inflammatory molecules and pathways have been identified that influence various pathologic outcomes in different experimental models of epilepsy. Most importantly, the same inflammatory pathways have also been found in surgically resected brain tissue from patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy. New antiseizure therapies may be derived from these novel potential targets. An essential and crucial question is whether targeting these molecules and pathways may result in anti-ictogenesis, antiepileptogenesis, and/or disease-modification effects. Therefore, preclinical testing in models mimicking relevant aspects of epileptogenesis is needed to guide integrated experimental and clinical trial designs. We discuss the most recent preclinical proof-of-concept studies validating a number of therapeutic approaches against inflammatory mechanisms in animal models that could represent novel avenues for drug development in epilepsy. Finally, we suggest future directions to accelerate preclinical to clinical translation of these recent discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,SEIN-Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland, Heemstede, The Netherlands
| | - Sebastian Bauer
- Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Yuri Bozzi
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy.,Laboratory of Molecular Neuropathology, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Matteo Caleo
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Raymond Dingledine
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A
| | - Jan A Gorter
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David C Henshall
- Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniela Kaufer
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, California, U.S.A
| | - Sookyong Koh
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A
| | - Wolfgang Löscher
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jean-Pierre Louboutin
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica.,Gene Therapy Program, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A
| | - Michele Mishto
- Charite University Medicine Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Braxton A Norwood
- Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany.,Neuroscience Division, Expesicor LLC, Kalispell, Montana, U.S.A
| | - Eleonora Palma
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Michael O Poulter
- Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gaetano Terrone
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - Annamaria Vezzani
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
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Coding and small non-coding transcriptional landscape of tuberous sclerosis complex cortical tubers: implications for pathophysiology and treatment. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8089. [PMID: 28808237 PMCID: PMC5556011 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06145-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is a rare genetic disorder that results from a mutation in the TSC1 or TSC2 genes leading to constitutive activation of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). TSC is associated with autism, intellectual disability and severe epilepsy. Cortical tubers are believed to represent the neuropathological substrates of these disabling manifestations in TSC. In the presented study we used high-throughput RNA sequencing in combination with systems-based computational approaches to investigate the complexity of the TSC molecular network. Overall we detected 438 differentially expressed genes and 991 differentially expressed small non-coding RNAs in cortical tubers compared to autopsy control brain tissue. We observed increased expression of genes associated with inflammatory, innate and adaptive immune responses. In contrast, we observed a down-regulation of genes associated with neurogenesis and glutamate receptor signaling. MicroRNAs represented the largest class of over-expressed small non-coding RNA species in tubers. In particular, our analysis revealed that the miR-34 family (including miR-34a, miR-34b and miR-34c) was significantly over-expressed. Functional studies demonstrated the ability of miR-34b to modulate neurite outgrowth in mouse primary hippocampal neuronal cultures. This study provides new insights into the TSC transcriptomic network along with the identification of potential new treatment targets.
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31
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Iori
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche "Mario Negri", Milano, Italy
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche "Mario Negri", Milano, Italy
| | - Annamaria Vezzani
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche "Mario Negri", Milano, Italy
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Samueli S, Abraham K, Dressler A, Gröppel G, Mühlebner-Fahrngruber A, Scholl T, Kasprian G, Laccone F, Feucht M. Efficacy and safety of Everolimus in children with TSC - associated epilepsy - Pilot data from an open single-center prospective study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2016; 11:145. [PMID: 27809914 PMCID: PMC5094073 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-016-0530-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy occurs in up to 90 % of all individuals with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). In 67 % disease onset is during childhood. In ≥ 50 % seizures are refractory to currently available treatment options. The mTOR-Inhibitor Everolimus (Votubia®) was approved for the treatment of subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) and renal angiomyolipoma (AML) in Europe in 2011. It's anticonvulsive/antiepileptic properties are promising, but evidence is still limited. Study aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Everolimus in children and adolescents with TSC-associated epilepsies. METHODS Inclusion-criteria of this investigator-initiated, single-center, open, prospective study were: 1) the ascertained diagnosis of TSC; 2) age ≤ 18 years; 3) treatment indication for Votubia® according to the European Commission guidelines; 4) drug-resistant TSC-associated epilepsy, 5) prospective continuous follow-up for at least 6 months after treatment initiation and 6) informed consent to participate. Votubia® was orally administered once/day, starting with 4.5 mg/m2 and titrated to achieve blood trough concentrations between 5 and 15 ng/ml. Primary endpoint was the reduction in seizure frequency of ≥ 50 % compared to baseline. RESULTS Fifteen patients (nine male) with a median age of six (range; 1-18) years fulfilled the inclusion criteria. 26 % (4/15) had TSC1, 66 % (10/15) had TSC2 mutations. In one patient no mutation was found. Time of observation after treatment initiation was median 22 (range; 6-50) months. At last observation, 80 % (12/15) of the patients were responders, 58 % of them (7/12) were seizure free. The overall reduction in seizure frequency was 60 % in focal seizures, 80 % in generalized tonic clonic seizures and 87 % in drop attacks. The effect of Everolimus was seen already at low doses, early after treatment initiation. Loss of efficacy over time was not observed. Transient side effects were seen in 93 % (14/15) of the patients. In no case the drug had to be withdrawn. CONCLUSION Everolimus seems to be an effective treatment option not only for SEGA and AML, but also for TSC-related epilepsies. Although there are potential serious side effects, treatment was tolerated well by the majority of patients, provided that patients are under close surveillance of epileptologists who are familiar with immunosuppressive agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Samueli
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Klaus Abraham
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anastasia Dressler
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gudrun Gröppel
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Theresa Scholl
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor Kasprian
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franco Laccone
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martha Feucht
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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33
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Extrinsic and Intrinsic Regulation of Axon Regeneration by MicroRNAs after Spinal Cord Injury. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:1279051. [PMID: 27818801 PMCID: PMC5081430 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1279051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury is a devastating disease which disrupts the connections between the brain and spinal cord, often resulting in the loss of sensory and motor function below the lesion site. Most injured neurons fail to regenerate in the central nervous system after injury. Multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors contribute to the general failure of axonal regeneration after injury. MicroRNAs can modulate multiple genes' expression and are tightly controlled during nerve development or the injury process. Evidence has demonstrated that microRNAs and their signaling pathways play important roles in mediating axon regeneration and glial scar formation after spinal cord injury. This article reviews the role and mechanism of differentially expressed microRNAs in regulating axon regeneration and glial scar formation after spinal cord injury, as well as their therapeutic potential for promoting axonal regeneration and repair of the injured spinal cord.
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34
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Fuso A, Iyer AM, van Scheppingen J, Maccarrone M, Scholl T, Hainfellner JA, Feucht M, Jansen FE, Spliet WG, Krsek P, Zamecnik J, Mühlebner A, Aronica E. Promoter-Specific Hypomethylation Correlates with IL-1β Overexpression in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC). J Mol Neurosci 2016; 59:464-70. [PMID: 27122151 PMCID: PMC4972849 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-016-0750-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), overexpression of numerous genes associated with inflammation has been observed. Among different proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) has been shown to be significantly involved in epileptogenesis and maintenance of seizures. Recent evidence indicates that IL-1β gene expression can be regulated by DNA methylation of its promoter. In the present study, we hypothesized that hypomethylation in the promoter region of the IL-1β gene may underlie its overexpression observed in TSC brain tissue. Bisulfite sequencing was used to study the methylation status of the promoter region of the IL-1β gene in TSC and control samples. We identified hypomethylation in the promoter region of the IL-1β gene in TSC samples. IL-1β is overexpressed in tubers, and gene expression is correlated with promoter hypomethylation at CpG and non-CpG sites. Our results provide the first evidence of epigenetic modulation of the IL-1β signaling in TSC. Thus, strategies that target epigenetic alterations could offer new therapeutic avenues to control the persistent activation of interleukin-1β-mediated inflammatory signaling in TSC brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Fuso
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC)/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64-65, 00143, Rome, Italy
| | - A M Iyer
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J van Scheppingen
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Maccarrone
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC)/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64-65, 00143, Rome, Italy.,Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - T Scholl
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - J A Hainfellner
- Institute of Neurology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - M Feucht
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - F E Jansen
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - W G Spliet
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - P Krsek
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - J Zamecnik
- Department of Pathology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - A Mühlebner
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Pediatrics, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - E Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands.
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