1
|
Dos Santos JCC, Mano GBC, da Cunha Barreto-Vianna AR, Garcia TFM, de Vasconcelos AV, Sá CSG, de Souza Santana SL, Farias AGP, Seimaru B, Lima MPP, Goes JVC, Gusmão CTP, Junior HLR. The Molecular Impact of Glucosylceramidase Beta 1 (Gba1) in Parkinson's Disease: a New Genetic State of the Art. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:6754-6770. [PMID: 38347286 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04008-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting 2-3% of those aged over 65, characterized by motor symptoms like slow movement, tremors, and muscle rigidity, along with non-motor symptoms such as anxiety and dementia. Lewy bodies, clumps of misfolded proteins, contribute to neuron loss in PD. Mutations in the GBA1 gene are considered the primary genetic risk factor of PD. GBA1 mutations result in decreased activity of the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase (GCase) resulting in α-synuclein accumulation. We know that α-synuclein aggregation, lysosomal dysfunction, and endoplasmic reticulum disturbance are recognized factors to PD susceptibility; however, the molecular mechanisms connecting GBA1 gene mutations to increased PD risk remain partly unknown. Thus, in this narrative review conducted according to a systematic review method, we aimed to present the main contributions arising from the molecular impact of the GBA1 gene to the pathogenesis of PD providing new insights into potential impacts for advances in the clinical care of people with PD, a neurological disorder that has contributed to the substantial increase in the global burden of disease accentuated by the aging population. In summary, this narrative review highlights the multifaceted impact of GBA1 mutations in PD, exploring their role in clinical manifestations, genetic predispositions, and molecular mechanisms. The review emphasizes the importance of GBA1 mutations in both motor and non-motor symptoms of PD, suggesting broader therapeutic and management strategies. It also discusses the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in advancing PD treatment and the need for future research to integrate these diverse aspects for improved diagnostics and therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Júlio César Claudino Dos Santos
- Christus University Center, UNICHRISTUS, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil.
- Center for Research and Drug Development (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil.
- Postgraduate Program in Morphofunctional Sciences, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Tulia Fernanda Meira Garcia
- Multicampi School of Medical Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Norte, Caico, Rio Grande Do Norte, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Ana Gabriela Ponte Farias
- Center for Research and Drug Development (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Seimaru
- Barão de Mauá University Center, CBM, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - João Vitor Caetano Goes
- Center for Research and Drug Development (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program of Pathology, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | | | - Howard Lopes Ribeiro Junior
- Center for Research and Drug Development (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program of Pathology, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hertz E, Chen Y, Sidransky E. Gaucher disease provides a unique window into Parkinson disease pathogenesis. Nat Rev Neurol 2024; 20:526-540. [PMID: 39107435 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-024-00999-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
An exciting development in the field of neurodegeneration is the association between the rare monogenic disorder Gaucher disease and the common complex disorder Parkinson disease (PD). Gaucher disease is a lysosomal storage disorder resulting from an inherited deficiency of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase, encoded by GBA1, which hydrolyses the glycosphingolipids glucosylceramide and glucosylsphingosine. The observation of parkinsonism in a rare subgroup of individuals with Gaucher disease first directed attention to the role of glucocerebrosidase deficiency in the pathogenesis of PD. PD occurs more frequently in people heterozygous for Gaucher GBA1 mutations, and 3-25% of people with Parkinson disease carry a GBA1 variant. However, only a small percentage of individuals with GBA1 variants develop parkinsonism, suggesting that the penetrance is low. Despite over a decade of intense research in this field, including clinical and radiological evaluations, genetic studies and investigations using model systems, the mechanism underlying GBA1-PD is still being pursued. Insights from this association have emphasized the role of lysosomal pathways in parkinsonism. Furthermore, different therapeutic strategies considered or developed for Gaucher disease can now inform drug development for PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Hertz
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yu Chen
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ellen Sidransky
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Balestrino R, Martone T, Toffoli M, Montanaro E, Fabbri M, Artusi CA, Romagnolo A, Zibetti M, Rizzone M, Goldwurm S, Lopiano L, Schapira AHV. Levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel infusion (LCIG) in Parkinson disease with genetic mutations. Neurol Sci 2024; 45:1489-1497. [PMID: 37926749 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-07173-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel infusion (LCIG) is a therapeutic option for advanced Parkinson disease (PD) patients with troublesome motor complications, unresponsive to conventional oral treatment. There is some evidence to suggest that the genetic background may influence the clinical presentation and rate of progression of PD. Whether the genetic background influences the outcome of device-assisted therapies is currently debated. Some studies have investigated the effectiveness of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in PD patients with different genetic background, while evidence is lacking regarding LCIG. METHODS A cohort of LCIG patients underwent genetic testing. The motor and neuropsychological outcomes of LCIG were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS Fifty-six patients were analyzed, nine of them (15%) had at least one mutation/variant in a PD-associated gene: five GBA1, two SNCA, one LRRK2, one PRKN; 13 (23%) carried the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism. The mean duration of follow-up was 4.9 ± 2.6 years. There were no significant differences in motor or neuropsychological outcomes between patients with and without these gene mutations/variants. No cognitive worsening was observed at follow-up among GBA-PD patients, and they responded well to LCIG in terms of motor symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we observed a significant benefit in terms of motor complications in our cohort, including patients carrying genetic mutations/variants. Due to the small sample and limited number of patients carrying genetic mutations/variants, no definitive conclusions can be drawn yet on the genotype impact on LCIG outcome. A careful selection of patients, regardless of the genetic background, is pivotal for an optimal outcome of LCIG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Balestrino
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
- Neurology 2 Unit, A.O.U., Città Della Salute E Della Scienza Di Torino, Corso Bramante 88, 10124, Turin, Italy.
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK.
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
- Neurology and Neurorehabiliation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
| | - T Martone
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - M Toffoli
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - E Montanaro
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 2 Unit, A.O.U., Città Della Salute E Della Scienza Di Torino, Corso Bramante 88, 10124, Turin, Italy
| | - M Fabbri
- Department of Neurosciences, Clinical Investigation Center 1436, NS-Park/FCRIN Network and NeuroToul COEN Center, Toulouse University Hospital, INSERM, University of Toulouse 3, Parkinson Toulouse Expert Center, Toulouse, France
| | - C A Artusi
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 2 Unit, A.O.U., Città Della Salute E Della Scienza Di Torino, Corso Bramante 88, 10124, Turin, Italy
| | - A Romagnolo
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 2 Unit, A.O.U., Città Della Salute E Della Scienza Di Torino, Corso Bramante 88, 10124, Turin, Italy
| | - M Zibetti
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 2 Unit, A.O.U., Città Della Salute E Della Scienza Di Torino, Corso Bramante 88, 10124, Turin, Italy
| | - M Rizzone
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 2 Unit, A.O.U., Città Della Salute E Della Scienza Di Torino, Corso Bramante 88, 10124, Turin, Italy
| | - S Goldwurm
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - L Lopiano
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 2 Unit, A.O.U., Città Della Salute E Della Scienza Di Torino, Corso Bramante 88, 10124, Turin, Italy
| | - A H V Schapira
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Slingerland S, van der Zee S, Carli G, Slomp AC, Boertien JM, d’Angremont E, Bohnen NI, Albin RL, van Laar T. Cholinergic innervation topography in GBA-associated de novo Parkinson's disease patients. Brain 2024; 147:900-910. [PMID: 37748026 PMCID: PMC10907081 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The most common genetic risk factors for Parkinson's disease are GBA1 mutations, encoding the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase. Patients with GBA1 mutations (GBA-PD) exhibit earlier age of onset and faster disease progression with more severe cognitive impairments, postural instability and gait problems. These GBA-PD features suggest more severe cholinergic system pathologies. PET imaging with the vesicular acetylcholine transporter ligand 18F-F-fluoroethoxybenzovesamicol (18F-FEOBV PET) provides the opportunity to investigate cholinergic changes and their relationship to clinical features in GBA-PD. The study investigated 123 newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve Parkinson's disease subjects-with confirmed presynaptic dopaminergic deficits on PET imaging. Whole-gene GBA1 sequencing of saliva samples was performed to evaluate GBA1 variants. Patients underwent extensive neuropsychological assessment of all cognitive domains, motor evaluation with the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, brain MRI, dopaminergic PET to measure striatal-to-occipital ratios of the putamen and 18F-FEOBV PET. We investigated differences in regional cholinergic innervation between GBA-PD carriers and non-GBA1 mutation carriers (non-GBA-PD), using voxel-wise and volume of interest-based approaches. The degree of overlap between t-maps from two-sample t-test models was quantified using the Dice similarity coefficient. Seventeen (13.8%) subjects had a GBA1 mutation. No significant differences were found in clinical features and dopaminergic ratios between GBA-PD and non-GBA-PD at diagnosis. Lower 18F-FEOBV binding was found in both the GBA-PD and non-GBA-PD groups compared to controls. Dice (P < 0.05, cluster size 100) showed good overlap (0.7326) between the GBA-PD and non-GBA-PD maps. GBA-PD patients showed more widespread reduction in 18F-FEOBV binding than non-GBA-PD when compared to controls in occipital, parietal, temporal and frontal cortices (P < 0.05, FDR-corrected). In volume of interest analyses (Bonferroni corrected), the left parahippocampal gyrus was more affected in GBA-PD. De novo GBA-PD show a distinct topography of regional cholinergic terminal ligand binding. Although the Parkinson's disease groups were not distinguishable clinically, in comparison to healthy controls, GBA-PD showed more extensive cholinergic denervation compared to non-GBA-PD. A larger group is needed to validate these findings. Our results suggest that de novo GBA-PD and non-GBA-PD show differential patterns of cholinergic system changes before clinical phenotypic differences between carriers versus non-carrier groups are observable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Slingerland
- Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sygrid van der Zee
- Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Giulia Carli
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anne C Slomp
- Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey M Boertien
- Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Emile d’Angremont
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Nicolaas I Bohnen
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Neurology Service and GRECC, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Morris K. Udall Center of Excellence for Parkinson’s Disease Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Parkinson’s Foundation Research Center of Excellence, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Roger L Albin
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Neurology Service and GRECC, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Morris K. Udall Center of Excellence for Parkinson’s Disease Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Parkinson’s Foundation Research Center of Excellence, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Teus van Laar
- Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ren J, Yan L, Zhou H, Pan C, Xue C, Wu J, Liu W. Unraveling neurotransmitter changes in de novo GBA-related and idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 185:106254. [PMID: 37558169 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Presently, neurotransmitter deficits in GBA-related Parkinson's disease (GBA-PD) and relationships with cognitive impairment are poorly understood. A better understanding of neurotransmitter impairments in GBA-PD - particularly in the newly diagnosed drug-naïve phase - may support developing targeted intervention strategies. We aimed to investigate patterns of neurotransmitter deficits in GBA-PD and idiopathic PD (iPD) and cognitive performance correlations. METHODS We recruited 189 newly diagnosed PD patients for GBA sequencing. Voxel-wise gray matter volume (GMV) was evaluated in a subgroup of 17 GBA-PD, 100 iPD, and 32 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). The JuSpace toolbox covering various neurotransmitter maps helped assess whether the spatial patterns of GMV alterations in GBA-PD or iPD patients (relative to HCs) were associated with specific neurotransmitter systems. RESULTS GBA-PD patients indicated widespread GM atrophy in the fronto-temporal-occipital region compared with HCs. GMV atrophy was spatially correlated in GBA-PD and iPD with serotonergic, dopaminergic, and acetylcholinergic pathway distributions (p < 0.05, false discovery rate corrected). Executive function and language in cognitive domains were also associated with the strength of GMV colocalization of serotonergic, dopaminergic, and acetylcholinergic circuits. CONCLUSIONS Regional GM atrophy related to specific neurotransmitter deficits in de novo GBA-PD and iPD patients could provide new insights into pathophysiological processes, facilitating potential therapeutic targets to support PD management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingru Ren
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lei Yan
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chenxi Pan
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Xue
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weiguo Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Droby A, Thaler A, Mirelman A. Imaging Markers in Genetic Forms of Parkinson's Disease. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1212. [PMID: 37626568 PMCID: PMC10452191 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13081212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as bradykinesia, rigidity, and resting tremor. While the majority of PD cases are sporadic, approximately 15-20% of cases have a genetic component. Advances in neuroimaging techniques have provided valuable insights into the pathophysiology of PD, including the different genetic forms of the disease. This literature review aims to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding neuroimaging findings in genetic PD, focusing on the most prevalent known genetic forms: mutations in the GBA1, LRRK2, and Parkin genes. In this review, we will highlight the contributions of various neuroimaging modalities, including positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in elucidating the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and potentially identifying candidate biomarkers for genetic forms of PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amgad Droby
- Laboratory for Early Markers of Neurodegeneration (LEMON), Neurological Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6801298, Israel; (A.T.); (A.M.)
- Movement Disorders Unit, Neurological Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 39040, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 39040, Israel
| | - Avner Thaler
- Laboratory for Early Markers of Neurodegeneration (LEMON), Neurological Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6801298, Israel; (A.T.); (A.M.)
- Movement Disorders Unit, Neurological Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 39040, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 39040, Israel
| | - Anat Mirelman
- Laboratory for Early Markers of Neurodegeneration (LEMON), Neurological Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6801298, Israel; (A.T.); (A.M.)
- Movement Disorders Unit, Neurological Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 39040, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 39040, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chatterjee D, Krainc D. Mechanisms of Glucocerebrosidase Dysfunction in Parkinson's Disease. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:168023. [PMID: 36828270 PMCID: PMC10247409 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Beta-glucocerebrosidase is a lysosomal hydrolase, encoded by GBA1 that represents the most common risk gene associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) and Lewy Body Dementia. Glucocerebrosidase dysfunction has been also observed in the absence of GBA1 mutations across different genetic and sporadic forms of PD and related disorders, suggesting a broader role of glucocerebrosidase in neurodegeneration. In this review, we highlight recent advances in mechanistic characterization of glucocerebrosidase function as the foundation for development of novel therapeutics targeting glucocerebrosidase in PD and related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diptaman Chatterjee
- Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA. https://twitter.com/NeilChatterBox
| | - Dimitri Krainc
- Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA; Simpson Querrey Center for Neurogenetics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Who is at Risk of Parkinson Disease? Refining the Preclinical Phase of GBA1 and LRRK2 Variant Carriers: a Clinical, Biochemical, and Imaging Approach. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2023; 23:121-130. [PMID: 36881256 PMCID: PMC10119235 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-023-01259-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Genetic variants in GBA1 and LRRK2 genes are the commonest genetic risk factor for Parkinson disease (PD); however, the preclinical profile of GBA1 and LRRK2 variant carriers who will develop PD is unclear. This review aims to highlight the more sensitive markers that can stratify PD risk in non-manifesting GBA1 and LRRK2 variant carriers. RECENT FINDINGS Several case-control and a few longitudinal studies evaluated clinical, biochemical, and neuroimaging markers within cohorts of non-manifesting carriers of GBA1 and LRRK2 variants. Despite similar levels of penetrance of PD in GBA1 and LRRK2 variant carriers (10-30%), these individuals have distinct preclinical profiles. GBA1 variant carriers at higher risk of PD can present with prodromal symptoms suggestive of PD (hyposmia), display increased α-synuclein levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and show dopamine transporter abnormalities. LRRK2 variant carriers at higher risk of PD might show subtle motor abnormalities, but no prodromal symptoms, higher exposure to some environmental factors (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs), and peripheral inflammatory profile. This information will help clinicians tailor appropriate screening tests and counseling and facilitate researchers in the development of predictive markers, disease-modifying treatments, and selection of healthy individuals who might benefit from preventive interventions.
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang D, Shi Y, Yao J, Zhou L, Wei H, Liu J, Tong Q, Ma L, He H, Wu T. Free-Water Imaging of the Substantia Nigra in GBA Pathogenic Variant Carriers. Mov Disord 2023. [PMID: 36797645 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pathogenic variants in the glucocerebrosidase gene (GBA) have been identified as the most common genetic risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the features of substantia nigra damage in GBA pathogenic variant carriers remain unclear. OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the microstructural changes in the substantia nigra in non-manifesting GBA pathogenic variant carriers (GBA-NMC) and PD patients with GBA pathogenic variant (GBA-PD) with free-water imaging. METHODS First, we compared free water values in the posterior substantia nigra between non-manifesting non-carriers (NMNC, n = 29), GBA-NMC (n = 26), and GBA-PD (n = 16). Then, free water values in the posterior substantia nigra were compared between GBA-PD and early- (n = 19) and late-onset (n = 40) idiopathic PD (iPD) patients. Furthermore, we examined whether the baseline free water values could predict the progressions of clinical symptoms. RESULTS The free water values in the posterior substantia nigra were significantly higher in the GBA-NMC and GBA-PD groups compared to NMNC, and were significantly increased in the GBA-PD group than both early- and late-onset iPD. Free water values in the posterior substantia nigra could predict the progression of anxiety and cognitive decline in GBA-NMC and GBA-PD groups. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that free water values are elevated in the substantia nigra and predict the development of non-motor symptoms in GBA-NMC and GBA-PD. Our findings demonstrate that a significant nigral impairment already exists in GBA-NMC, and nigral injury may be more severe in GBA-PD than in iPD. These results support that free-water imaging can as a potential early marker of substantia nigra damage. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongling Zhang
- Center for Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.,Parkinson's Disease Center, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuting Shi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junye Yao
- Center for Brain Imaging Science and Technology, College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liche Zhou
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongjiang Wei
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiqi Tong
- Research Center for Healthcare Data Science, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingyan Ma
- Center for Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.,Parkinson's Disease Center, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongjian He
- Center for Brain Imaging Science and Technology, College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,School of Physics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Center for Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.,Parkinson's Disease Center, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Perovnik M, Rus T, Schindlbeck KA, Eidelberg D. Functional brain networks in the evaluation of patients with neurodegenerative disorders. Nat Rev Neurol 2023; 19:73-90. [PMID: 36539533 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-022-00753-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Network analytical tools are increasingly being applied to brain imaging maps of resting metabolic activity (PET) or blood oxygenation-dependent signals (functional MRI) to characterize the abnormal neural circuitry that underlies brain diseases. This approach is particularly valuable for the study of neurodegenerative disorders, which are characterized by stereotyped spread of pathology along discrete neural pathways. Identification and validation of disease-specific brain networks facilitate the quantitative assessment of pathway changes over time and during the course of treatment. Network abnormalities can often be identified before symptom onset and can be used to track disease progression even in the preclinical period. Likewise, network activity can be modulated by treatment and might therefore be used as a marker of efficacy in clinical trials. Finally, early differential diagnosis can be achieved by simultaneously measuring the activity levels of multiple disease networks in an individual patient's scans. Although these techniques were originally developed for PET, over the past several years analogous methods have been introduced for functional MRI, a more accessible non-invasive imaging modality. This advance is expected to broaden the application of network tools to large and diverse patient populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matej Perovnik
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tomaž Rus
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - David Eidelberg
- Center for Neurosciences, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Disrupted topological organization of resting-state functional brain networks in Parkinson's disease patients with glucocerebrosidase gene mutations. Neuroradiology 2023; 65:361-370. [PMID: 36269334 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-022-03067-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The mutations of the glucocerebrosidase (GBA) gene are the greatest genetic risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD). The mechanism underlying the association between GBA mutations and PD has not been fully elucidated. METHODS Using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging and graph theory analysis to investigate the disrupted topological organization in PD patients with GBA mutation (GBA-PD). Eleven GBA-PD patients, 11 noncarriers with PD, and 18 healthy controls (HCs) with a similar age and sex distribution were recruited. Individual whole-brain functional connectome was constructed, and the global and nodal topological disruptions were calculated among groups. Partial correlation analyses between the clinical features of patients with PD and topological alterations were performed. RESULTS The GBA-PD group showed prominently decreased characteristic path length (Lp) and increased global efficiency (Eg) compared to HCs at the global level; a significantly increased nodal betweenness centrality in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and precuneus within the default mode network, and precentral gyrus within the sensorimotor network, while a significantly decreased betweenness centrality in nodes within the cingulo-opercular network compared to the noncarrier group at the regional level. The altered nodal betweenness centrality of mPFC was positively correlated with fatigue severity scale scores in all patients with PD. CONCLUSION The preliminary pilot study found that GBA-PD patients had a higher functional integration at the global level. The nodal result of the mPFC is congruent with the potential fatigue pathology in PD and is suggestive of a profound effect of GBA mutations on the clinical fatigue in patients with PD.
Collapse
|
12
|
GBA1 Gene Mutations in α-Synucleinopathies-Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Pathology and Their Clinical Significance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032044. [PMID: 36768367 PMCID: PMC9917178 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
α-Synucleinopathies comprise a group of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by altered accumulation of a protein called α-synuclein inside neurons and glial cells. This aggregation leads to the formation of intraneuronal inclusions, Lewy bodies, that constitute the hallmark of α-synuclein pathology. The most prevalent α-synucleinopathies are Parkinson's disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and multiple system atrophy (MSA). To date, only symptomatic treatment is available for these disorders, hence new approaches to their therapy are needed. It has been observed that GBA1 mutations are one of the most impactful risk factors for developing α-synucleinopathies such as PD and DLB. Mutations in the GBA1 gene, which encodes a lysosomal hydrolase β-glucocerebrosidase (GCase), cause a reduction in GCase activity and impaired α-synuclein metabolism. The most abundant GBA1 gene mutations are N370S or N409S, L444P/L483P and E326K/E365K. The mechanisms by which GCase impacts α-synuclein aggregation are poorly understood and need to be further investigated. Here, we discuss some of the potential interactions between α-synuclein and GCase and show how GBA1 mutations may impact the course of the most prevalent α-synucleinopathies.
Collapse
|
13
|
Real CC, Binda KH, Thomsen MB, Lillethorup TP, Brooks DJ, Landau AM. Selecting the Best Animal Model of Parkinson's Disease for Your Research Purpose: Insight from in vivo PET Imaging Studies. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:1241-1272. [PMID: 36797611 PMCID: PMC10286593 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230216101659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative multisystem disorder leading to motor and non-motor symptoms in millions of individuals. Despite intense research, there is still no cure, and early disease biomarkers are lacking. Animal models of PD have been inspired by basic elements of its pathogenesis, such as dopamine dysfunction, alpha-synuclein accumulation, neuroinflammation and disruption of protein degradation, and these have been crucial for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of pathology, the identification of biomarkers, and evaluation of novel therapies. Imaging biomarkers are non-invasive tools to assess disease progression and response to therapies; their discovery and validation have been an active field of translational research. Here, we highlight different considerations of animal models of PD that can be applied to future research, in terms of their suitability to answer different research questions. We provide the reader with important considerations of the best choice of model to use based on the disease features of each model, including issues related to different species. In addition, positron emission tomography studies conducted in PD animal models in the last 5 years are presented. With a variety of different species, interventions and genetic information, the choice of the most appropriate model to answer research questions can be daunting, especially since no single model recapitulates all aspects of this complex disorder. Appropriate animal models in conjunction with in vivo molecular imaging tools, if selected properly, can be a powerful combination for the assessment of novel therapies and developing tools for early diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Cristiano Real
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karina Henrique Binda
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Majken Borup Thomsen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thea Pinholt Lillethorup
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - David James Brooks
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Institute of Translational and Clinical Research, University of Newcastle, Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Anne Marlene Landau
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Vieira SRL, Schapira AHV. Glucocerebrosidase mutations and Parkinson disease. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2022; 129:1105-1117. [PMID: 35932311 PMCID: PMC9463283 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-022-02531-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of glucocerebrosidase (GBA1) mutations as the greatest numerical genetic risk factor for the development of Parkinson disease (PD) resulted in a paradigm shift within the research landscape. Efforts to elucidate the mechanisms behind GBA1-associated PD have highlighted shared pathways in idiopathic PD including the loss and gain-of-function hypotheses, endoplasmic reticulum stress, lipid metabolism, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and altered autophagy-lysosomal pathway responsible for degradation of aggregated and misfolded a-synuclein. GBA1-associated PD exhibits subtle differences in phenotype and disease progression compared to idiopathic counterparts notably an earlier age of onset, faster motor decline and greater frequency of non-motor symptoms (which also constitute a significant aspect of the prodromal phase of the disease). GBA1-targeted therapies have been developed and are being investigated in clinical trials. The most notable are Ambroxol, a small molecule chaperone, and Venglustat, a blood-brain-barrier-penetrant substrate reduction therapy agent. It is imperative that further studies clarify the aetiology of GBA1-associated PD, enabling the development of a greater abundance of targeted therapies in this new era of precision medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia R L Vieira
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, University College London Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Rowland Hill St., London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Anthony H V Schapira
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, University College London Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Rowland Hill St., London, NW3 2PF, UK.
| |
Collapse
|