1
|
Cuní-López C, Stewart R, Oikari LE, Nguyen TH, Roberts TL, Sun Y, Guo CC, Lupton MK, White AR, Quek H. Advanced patient-specific microglia cell models for pre-clinical studies in Alzheimer's disease. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:50. [PMID: 38365833 PMCID: PMC10870454 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03037-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder with a rapidly increasing prevalence worldwide. Current approaches targeting hallmark pathological features of AD have had no consistent clinical benefit. Neuroinflammation is a major contributor to neurodegeneration and hence, microglia, the brain's resident immune cells, are an attractive target for potentially more effective therapeutic strategies. However, there is no current in vitro model system that captures AD patient-specific microglial characteristics using physiologically relevant and experimentally flexible culture conditions. METHODS To address this shortcoming, we developed novel 3D Matrigel-based monocyte-derived microglia-like cell (MDMi) mono-cultures and co-cultures with neuro-glial cells (ReNcell VM). We used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) analysis to compare the transcriptomic signatures of MDMi between model systems (2D, 3D and 3D co-culture) and against published human microglia datasets. To demonstrate the potential of MDMi for use in personalized pre-clinical strategies, we generated and characterized MDMi models from sixteen AD patients and matched healthy controls, and profiled cytokine responses upon treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs (dasatinib and spiperone). RESULTS MDMi in 3D exhibited a more branched morphology and longer survival in culture compared to 2D. scRNAseq uncovered distinct MDMi subpopulations that exhibit higher functional heterogeneity and best resemble human microglia in 3D co-culture. AD MDMi in 3D co-culture showed altered cell-to-cell interactions, growth factor and cytokine secretion profiles and responses to amyloid-β. Drug testing assays revealed patient- and model-specific cytokine responses. CONCLUSION Our study presents a novel, physiologically relevant and AD patient-specific 3D microglia cell model that opens avenues towards improving personalized drug development strategies in AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Cuní-López
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Romal Stewart
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane City, QLD, 4029, Australia
| | - Lotta E Oikari
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane City, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Tam Hong Nguyen
- Scientific Services, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Tara L Roberts
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane City, QLD, 4029, Australia
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research and School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Liverpool, NSW, 2170, Australia
| | - Yifan Sun
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Christine C Guo
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
- ActiGraph LLC, Pensacola, FL, 32502, USA
| | - Michelle K Lupton
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane City, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Anthony R White
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia.
| | - Hazel Quek
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia.
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia.
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane City, QLD, 4000, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dai S, Qiu L, Veeraraghavan VP, Sheu CL, Mony U. Advances in iPSC Technology in Neural Disease Modeling, Drug Screening, and Therapy. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:809-819. [PMID: 37291782 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x18666230608105703] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) including Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington's disease are all incurable and can only be managed with drugs for the associated symptoms. Animal models of human illnesses help to advance our understanding of the pathogenic processes of diseases. Understanding the pathogenesis as well as drug screening using appropriate disease models of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are vital for identifying novel therapies. Human-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models can be an efficient model to create disease in a dish and thereby can proceed with drug screening and identifying appropriate drugs. This technology has many benefits, including efficient reprogramming and regeneration potential, multidirectional differentiation, and the lack of ethical concerns, which open up new avenues for studying neurological illnesses in greater depth. The review mainly focuses on the use of iPSC technology in neuronal disease modeling, drug screening, and cell therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sihan Dai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Linhui Qiu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Vishnu Priya Veeraraghavan
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMManD), Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, India
| | - Chia-Lin Sheu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Ullas Mony
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMManD), Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Elmansy MF, Reidl CT, Rahaman M, Özdinler PH, Silverman RB. Small molecules targeting different cellular pathologies for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:2260-2302. [PMID: 37243319 PMCID: PMC10592673 DOI: 10.1002/med.21974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease in which the motor neuron circuitry displays progressive degeneration, affecting mostly the motor neurons in the brain and in the spinal cord. There are no effective cures, albeit three drugs, riluzole, edaravone, and AMX0035 (a combination of sodium phenylbutyrate and taurursodiol), have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, with limited improvement in patients. There is an urgent need to build better and more effective treatment strategies for ALS. Since the disease is very heterogenous, numerous approaches have been explored, such as targeting genetic mutations, decreasing oxidative stress and excitotoxicity, enhancing mitochondrial function and protein degradation mechanisms, and inhibiting neuroinflammation. In addition, various chemical libraries or previously identified drugs have been screened for potential repurposing in the treatment of ALS. Here, we review previous drug discovery efforts targeting a variety of cellular pathologies that occur from genetic mutations that cause ALS, such as mutations in SOD1, C9orf72, FUS, and TARDP-43 genes. These mutations result in protein aggregation, which causes neuronal degeneration. Compounds used to target cellular pathologies that stem from these mutations are discussed and comparisons among different preclinical models are presented. Because the drug discovery landscape for ALS and other motor neuron diseases is changing rapidly, we also offer recommendations for a novel, more effective, direction in ALS drug discovery that could accelerate translation of effective compounds from animals to patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed F. Elmansy
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Molecular Biosciences, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Center for Developmental Therapeutics, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
- Department of Organometallic and Organometalloid Chemistry, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Cory T. Reidl
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Molecular Biosciences, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Center for Developmental Therapeutics, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Mizzanoor Rahaman
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Molecular Biosciences, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Center for Developmental Therapeutics, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - P. Hande Özdinler
- Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Richard B. Silverman
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Molecular Biosciences, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Center for Developmental Therapeutics, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Khamis ZI, Sarker DB, Xue Y, Al-Akkary N, James VD, Zeng C, Li Y, Sang QXA. Modeling Human Brain Tumors and the Microenvironment Using Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041253. [PMID: 36831595 PMCID: PMC9954701 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain cancer is a group of diverse and rapidly growing malignancies that originate in the central nervous system (CNS) and have a poor prognosis. The complexity of brain structure and function makes brain cancer modeling extremely difficult, limiting pathological studies and therapeutic developments. Advancements in human pluripotent stem cell technology have opened a window of opportunity for brain cancer modeling, providing a wealth of customizable methods to simulate the disease in vitro. This is achieved with the advent of genome editing and genetic engineering technologies that can simulate germline and somatic mutations found in human brain tumors. This review investigates induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based approaches to model human brain cancer. The applications of iPSCs as renewable sources of individual brain cell types, brain organoids, blood-brain barrier (BBB), and brain tumor models are discussed. The brain tumor models reviewed are glioblastoma and medulloblastoma. The iPSC-derived isogenic cells and three-dimensional (3D) brain cancer organoids combined with patient-derived xenografts will enhance future compound screening and drug development for these deadly human brain cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahraa I. Khamis
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
- High-Performance Materials Institute, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Molecular Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences-I, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Drishty B. Sarker
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Yu Xue
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Nancy Al-Akkary
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Molecular Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences-I, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Viviana D. James
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Changchun Zeng
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
- High-Performance Materials Institute, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Qing-Xiang Amy Sang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-850-644-8683; Fax: +1-850-644-8281
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Var SR, Strell P, Johnson ST, Roman A, Vasilakos Z, Low WC. Transplanting Microglia for Treating CNS Injuries and Neurological Diseases and Disorders, and Prospects for Generating Exogenic Microglia. Cell Transplant 2023; 32:9636897231171001. [PMID: 37254858 PMCID: PMC10236244 DOI: 10.1177/09636897231171001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia are associated with a wide range of both neuroprotective and neuroinflammatory functions in the central nervous system (CNS) during development and throughout lifespan. Chronically activated and dysfunctional microglia are found in many diseases and disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and CNS-related injuries, and can accelerate or worsen the condition. Transplantation studies designed to replace and supplement dysfunctional microglia with healthy microglia offer a promising strategy for addressing microglia-mediated neuroinflammation and pathologies. This review will cover microglial involvement in neurological diseases and disorders and CNS-related injuries, current microglial transplantation strategies, and different approaches and considerations for generating exogenic microglia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna R. Var
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical
School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, Medical School,
University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Phoebe Strell
- Stem Cell Institute, Medical School,
University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical
Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Sether T. Johnson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical
School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, Medical School,
University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Alex Roman
- Department of Neuroscience, University
of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Zoey Vasilakos
- Stem Cell Institute, Medical School,
University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University
of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Walter C. Low
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical
School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Stem Cell Institute, Medical School,
University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical
Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ahmad I, Subramani M. Microglia: Friends or Foes in Glaucoma? A Developmental Perspective. Stem Cells Transl Med 2022; 11:1210-1218. [PMID: 36426733 PMCID: PMC9801300 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szac077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is the most prevalent form of optic neuropathy where a progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) leads to irreversible loss of vision. The mechanism underlying glaucomatous degeneration remains poorly understood. However, evidence suggests that microglia, which regulate RGC numbers and synaptic integrity during development and provide homeostatic support in adults, may contribute to the disease process. Hence, microglia represent a valid cellular target for therapeutic approaches in glaucoma. Here, we provide an overview of the role of microglia in RGC development and degeneration in the backdrop of neurogenesis and neurodegeneration in the central nervous system and discuss how pathological recapitulation of microglia-mediated developmental mechanisms may help initiate or exacerbate glaucomatous degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iqbal Ahmad
- Corresponding author: Iqbal Ahmad, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Murali Subramani
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Toledano-Díaz A, Álvarez MI, Toledano A. The relationships between neuroglial and neuronal changes in Alzheimer's disease, and the related controversies II: gliotherapies and multimodal therapy. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2022; 14:11795735221123896. [PMID: 36407561 PMCID: PMC9666878 DOI: 10.1177/11795735221123896] [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: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the original description of Alzheimer´s disease (AD), research into this condition has mainly focused on assessing the alterations to neurons associated with dementia, and those to the circuits in which they are involved. In most of the studies on human brains and in many models of AD, the glial cells accompanying these neurons undergo concomitant alterations that aggravate the course of neurodegeneration. As a result, these changes to neuroglial cells are now included in all the "pathogenic cascades" described in AD. Accordingly, astrogliosis and microgliosis, the main components of neuroinflammation, have been integrated into all the pathogenic theories of this disease, as discussed in this part of the two-part monograph that follows an accompanying article on gliopathogenesis and glioprotection. This initial reflection verified the implication of alterations to the neuroglia in AD, suggesting that these cells may also represent therapeutic targets to prevent neurodegeneration. In this second part of the monograph, we will analyze the possibilities of acting on glial cells to prevent or treat the neurodegeneration that is the hallmark of AD and other pathologies. Evidence of the potential of different pharmacological, non-pharmacological, cell and gene therapies (widely treated) to prevent or treat this disease is now forthcoming, in most cases as adjuncts to other therapies. A comprehensive AD multimodal therapy is proposed in which neuronal and neuroglial pharmacological treatments are jointly considered, as well as the use of new cell and gene therapies and non-pharmacological therapies that tend to slow down the progress of dementia.
Collapse
|
8
|
Van Breedam E, Ponsaerts P. Promising Strategies for the Development of Advanced In Vitro Models with High Predictive Power in Ischaemic Stroke Research. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137140. [PMID: 35806146 PMCID: PMC9266337 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Although stroke is one of the world’s leading causes of death and disability, and more than a thousand candidate neuroprotective drugs have been proposed based on extensive in vitro and animal-based research, an effective neuroprotective/restorative therapy for ischaemic stroke patients is still missing. In particular, the high attrition rate of neuroprotective compounds in clinical studies should make us question the ability of in vitro models currently used for ischaemic stroke research to recapitulate human ischaemic responses with sufficient fidelity. The ischaemic stroke field would greatly benefit from the implementation of more complex in vitro models with improved physiological relevance, next to traditional in vitro and in vivo models in preclinical studies, to more accurately predict clinical outcomes. In this review, we discuss current in vitro models used in ischaemic stroke research and describe the main factors determining the predictive value of in vitro models for modelling human ischaemic stroke. In light of this, human-based 3D models consisting of multiple cell types, either with or without the use of microfluidics technology, may better recapitulate human ischaemic responses and possess the potential to bridge the translational gap between animal-based in vitro and in vivo models, and human patients in clinical trials.
Collapse
|
9
|
Gumbs SBH, Kübler R, Gharu L, Schipper PJ, Borst AL, Snijders GJLJ, Ormel PR, van Berlekom AB, Wensing AMJ, de Witte LD, Nijhuis M. Human microglial models to study HIV infection and neuropathogenesis: a literature overview and comparative analyses. J Neurovirol 2022; 28:64-91. [PMID: 35138593 PMCID: PMC9076745 DOI: 10.1007/s13365-021-01049-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
HIV persistence in the CNS despite antiretroviral therapy may cause neurological disorders and poses a critical challenge for HIV cure. Understanding the pathobiology of HIV-infected microglia, the main viral CNS reservoir, is imperative. Here, we provide a comprehensive comparison of human microglial culture models: cultured primary microglia (pMG), microglial cell lines, monocyte-derived microglia (MDMi), stem cell-derived microglia (iPSC-MG), and microglia grown in 3D cerebral organoids (oMG) as potential model systems to advance HIV research on microglia. Functional characterization revealed phagocytic capabilities and responsiveness to LPS across all models. Microglial transcriptome profiles of uncultured pMG showed the highest similarity to cultured pMG and oMG, followed by iPSC-MG and then MDMi. Direct comparison of HIV infection showed a striking difference, with high levels of viral replication in cultured pMG and MDMi and relatively low levels in oMG resembling HIV infection observed in post-mortem biopsies, while the SV40 and HMC3 cell lines did not support HIV infection. Altogether, based on transcriptional similarities to uncultured pMG and susceptibility to HIV infection, MDMi may serve as a first screening tool, whereas oMG, cultured pMG, and iPSC-MG provide more representative microglial culture models for HIV research. The use of current human microglial cell lines (SV40, HMC3) is not recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie B H Gumbs
- Translational Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Raphael Kübler
- Translational Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lavina Gharu
- Translational Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Pauline J Schipper
- Translational Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anne L Borst
- Translational Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gijsje J L J Snijders
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paul R Ormel
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Amber Berdenis van Berlekom
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Annemarie M J Wensing
- Translational Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lot D de Witte
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Monique Nijhuis
- Translational Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Giacomelli E, Vahsen BF, Calder EL, Xu Y, Scaber J, Gray E, Dafinca R, Talbot K, Studer L. Human stem cell models of neurodegeneration: From basic science of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis to clinical translation. Cell Stem Cell 2022; 29:11-35. [PMID: 34995492 PMCID: PMC8785905 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2021.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by progressive cell loss leading to disruption of the structure and function of the central nervous system. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) was among the first of these disorders modeled in patient-specific iPSCs, and recent findings have translated into some of the earliest iPSC-inspired clinical trials. Focusing on ALS as an example, we evaluate the status of modeling neurodegenerative diseases using iPSCs, including methods for deriving and using disease-relevant neuronal and glial lineages. We further highlight the remaining challenges in exploiting the full potential of iPSC technology for understanding and potentially treating neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Giacomelli
- The Center for Stem Cell Biology, Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, New York, NY, USA
| | - Björn F Vahsen
- Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Elizabeth L Calder
- The Center for Stem Cell Biology, Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yinyan Xu
- Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS), CAMS Oxford Institute (COI), Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, UK
| | - Jakub Scaber
- Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Elizabeth Gray
- Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Ruxandra Dafinca
- Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Kevin Talbot
- Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
| | - Lorenz Studer
- The Center for Stem Cell Biology, Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Liu E, Karpf L, Bohl D. Neuroinflammation in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia and the Interest of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Study Immune Cells Interactions With Neurons. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:767041. [PMID: 34970118 PMCID: PMC8712677 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.767041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a shared hallmark between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). For long, studies were conducted on tissues of post-mortem patients and neuroinflammation was thought to be only bystander result of the disease with the immune system reacting to dying neurons. In the last two decades, thanks to improving technologies, the identification of causal genes and the development of new tools and models, the involvement of inflammation has emerged as a potential driver of the diseases and evolved as a new area of intense research. In this review, we present the current knowledge about neuroinflammation in ALS, ALS-FTD, and FTD patients and animal models and we discuss reasons of failures linked to therapeutic trials with immunomodulator drugs. Then we present the induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology and its interest as a new tool to have a better immunopathological comprehension of both diseases in a human context. The iPSC technology giving the unique opportunity to study cells across differentiation and maturation times, brings the hope to shed light on the different mechanisms linking neurodegeneration and activation of the immune system. Protocols available to differentiate iPSC into different immune cell types are presented. Finally, we discuss the interest in studying monocultures of iPS-derived immune cells, co-cultures with neurons and 3D cultures with different cell types, as more integrated cellular approaches. The hope is that the future work with human iPS-derived cells helps not only to identify disease-specific defects in the different cell types but also to decipher the synergistic effects between neurons and immune cells. These new cellular tools could help to find new therapeutic approaches for all patients with ALS, ALS-FTD, and FTD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elise Liu
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Léa Karpf
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Delphine Bohl
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kühn R, Mahajan A, Canoll P, Hargus G. Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Models of Frontotemporal Dementia With Tau Pathology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:766773. [PMID: 34858989 PMCID: PMC8631302 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.766773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative dementias are the most common group of neurodegenerative diseases affecting more than 40 million people worldwide. One of these diseases is frontotemporal dementia (FTD), an early onset dementia and one of the leading causes of dementia in people under the age of 60. FTD is a heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders with pathological accumulation of particular proteins in neurons and glial cells including the microtubule-associated protein tau, which is deposited in its hyperphosphorylated form in about half of all patients with FTD. As for other patients with dementia, there is currently no cure for patients with FTD and thus several lines of research focus on the characterization of underlying pathogenic mechanisms with the goal to identify therapeutic targets. In this review, we provide an overview of reported disease phenotypes in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons and glial cells from patients with tau-associated FTD with the aim to highlight recent progress in this fast-moving field of iPSC disease modeling. We put a particular focus on genetic forms of the disease that are linked to mutations in the gene encoding tau and summarize mutation-associated changes in FTD patient cells related to tau splicing and tau phosphorylation, microtubule function and cell metabolism as well as calcium homeostasis and cellular stress. In addition, we discuss challenges and limitations but also opportunities using differentiated patient-derived iPSCs for disease modeling and biomedical research on neurodegenerative diseases including FTD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka Kühn
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Aayushi Mahajan
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Peter Canoll
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Gunnar Hargus
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
McQuade A, Blurton-Jones M. Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Microglia (hiPSC-Microglia). METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2021; 2454:473-482. [PMID: 34773245 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2021_429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Microglia are crucial mediators of brain development and homeostasis. In recent years, it has been additionally suggested that modulation of microglial function may prove to be a useful therapeutic technique in many neurological contexts. However, before we can develop therapeutics, we need to better understand homeostatic microglial processes at the cellular and molecular level. For this reason, it has become crucial to develop better models to study human microglia which are known to be quite distinct from murine models. Here we provide a detailed method to differentiate homeostatic microglia from human pluripotent cells. Additionally, due to the innate sensitivity of these immune cells, we have provided detailed notes for best practices of handling cultured microglia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda McQuade
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Mathew Blurton-Jones
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Nikovics K, Favier AL. Macrophage Identification In Situ. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101393. [PMID: 34680510 PMCID: PMC8533306 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the processes of inflammation and tissue regeneration after injury is of great importance. For a long time, macrophages have been known to play a central role during different stages of inflammation and tissue regeneration. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which they exert their effects are as yet mostly unknown. While in vitro macrophages have been characterized, recent progress in macrophage biology studies revealed that macrophages in vivo exhibited distinctive features. Actually, the precise characterization of the macrophages in vivo is essential to develop new healing treatments and can be approached via in situ analyses. Nowadays, the characterization of macrophages in situ has improved significantly using antigen surface markers and cytokine secretion identification resulting in specific patterns. This review aims for a comprehensive overview of different tools used for in situ macrophage identification, reporter genes, immunolabeling and in situ hybridization, discussing their advantages and limitations.
Collapse
|
15
|
Current tools to interrogate microglial biology. Neuron 2021; 109:2805-2819. [PMID: 34390649 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Microglial cells perform a plethora of functions in the central nervous system (CNS), involving them in brain development, maintenance of homeostasis in adulthood, and CNS diseases. Significant technical advancements have prompted the development of novel systems adapted to analyze microglia with increasing specificity and intricacy. The advent of single-cell technologies combined with targeted mouse models has been decisive in deciphering microglia heterogeneity and dissecting microglial functions. However sophisticated these tools have become, clear limitations remain. Understanding their pitfalls and advantages ensures their correct application. Therefore, we provide a guide to the cutting-edge methods currently available to dissect microglial biology.
Collapse
|
16
|
Chen Y, Colonna M. Microglia in Alzheimer's disease at single-cell level. Are there common patterns in humans and mice? J Exp Med 2021; 218:212499. [PMID: 34292312 PMCID: PMC8302448 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20202717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by extracellular aggregates of amyloid β peptides, intraneuronal tau aggregates, and neuronal death. This pathology triggers activation of microglia. Because variants of genes expressed in microglia correlate with AD risk, microglial response to pathology plausibly impacts disease course. In mouse AD models, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analyses delineated this response as progressive conversion of homeostatic microglia into disease-associated microglia (DAM); additional reactive microglial populations have been reported in other models of neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. We review all of these microglial signatures, highlighting four fundamental patterns: DAM, IFN–microglia, MHC-II microglia, and proliferating microglia. We propose that all reported microglia populations are either just one or a combination, depending on the clustering strategy applied and the disease model. We further review single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) data from human AD specimens and discuss reasons for parallels and discrepancies between human and mouse transcriptional profiles. Finally, we outline future directions for delineating the microglial impact in AD pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO.,Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| | - Marco Colonna
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
The Potential of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Treat and Model Alzheimer's Disease. Stem Cells Int 2021; 2021:5511630. [PMID: 34122554 PMCID: PMC8172295 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5511630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
An estimated 6.2 million Americans aged 65 or older are currently living with Alzheimer's disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disease that disrupts an individual's ability to function independently through the degeneration of key regions in the brain, including but not limited to the hippocampus, the prefrontal cortex, and the motor cortex. The cause of this degeneration is not known, but research has found two proteins that undergo posttranslational modifications: tau, a protein concentrated in the axons of neurons, and amyloid precursor protein (APP), a protein concentrated near the synapse. Through mechanisms that have yet to be elucidated, the accumulation of these two proteins in their abnormal aggregate forms leads to the neurodegeneration that is characteristic of AD. Until the invention of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in 2006, the bulk of research was carried out using transgenic animal models that offered little promise in their ability to translate well from benchtop to bedside, creating a bottleneck in the development of therapeutics. However, with iPSC, patient-specific cell cultures can be utilized to create models based on human cells. These human cells have the potential to avoid issues in translatability that have plagued animal models by providing researchers with a model that closely resembles and mimics the neurons found in humans. By using human iPSC technology, researchers can create more accurate models of AD ex vivo while also focusing on regenerative medicine using iPSC in vivo. The following review focuses on the current uses of iPSC and how they have the potential to regenerate damaged neuronal tissue, in the hopes that these technologies can assist in getting through the bottleneck of AD therapeutic research.
Collapse
|
18
|
Tafaleng EN, Malizio MR, Fox IJ, Soto-Gutierrez A. Synthetic human livers for modeling metabolic diseases. Curr Opin Gastroenterol 2021; 37:224-230. [PMID: 33769378 PMCID: PMC8223234 DOI: 10.1097/mog.0000000000000726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In this review, we will explore recent advances in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based modeling of metabolic liver disease and biofabrication of synthetic human liver tissue while also discussing the emerging concept of synthetic biology to generate more physiologically relevant liver disease models. RECENT FINDING iPSC-based platforms have facilitated the study of underlying cellular mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies for a number of metabolic liver diseases. Concurrently, rapid progress in biofabrication and gene editing technologies have led to the generation of human hepatic tissue that more closely mimic the complexity of the liver. SUMMARY iPSC-based liver tissue is rapidly becoming available for modeling liver physiology due to its ability to recapitulate the complex three-dimensional architecture of the liver and recapitulate interactions between the different cell types and their surroundings. These mini livers have also been used to recapitulate liver disease pathways using the tools of synthetic biology, such as gene editing, to control gene circuits. Further development in this field will undoubtedly bolster future investigations not only in disease modeling and basic research, but also in personalized medicine and autologous transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edgar N. Tafaleng
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michelle R. Malizio
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ira J. Fox
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Alejandro Soto-Gutierrez
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lanjewar SN, Sloan SA. Growing Glia: Cultivating Human Stem Cell Models of Gliogenesis in Health and Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:649538. [PMID: 33842475 PMCID: PMC8027322 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.649538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Glia are present in all organisms with a central nervous system but considerably differ in their diversity, functions, and numbers. Coordinated efforts across many model systems have contributed to our understanding of glial-glial and neuron-glial interactions during nervous system development and disease, but human glia exhibit prominent species-specific attributes. Limited access to primary samples at critical developmental timepoints constrains our ability to assess glial contributions in human tissues. This challenge has been addressed throughout the past decade via advancements in human stem cell differentiation protocols that now offer the ability to model human astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia. Here, we review the use of novel 2D cell culture protocols, 3D organoid models, and bioengineered systems derived from human stem cells to study human glial development and the role of glia in neurodevelopmental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Steven A. Sloan
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wu J, Gao G, Shi F, Xie H, Yang Q, Liu D, Qu S, Qin H, Zhang C, Xu GT, Liu F, Zhang J. Activated microglia-induced neuroinflammatory cytokines lead to photoreceptor apoptosis in Aβ-injected mice. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 99:713-728. [PMID: 33575853 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02046-6] [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: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is mainly characterized by the progressive accumulation of drusen deposits and loss of photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Because amyloid β (Aβ) is the main component of drusen, Aβ-induced activated microglia most likely lead to neuroinflammation and play a critical role in the pathogenesis of AMD. However, the relationship between activated microglia-mediated neuroinflammatory cytokines and photoreceptor death has not been clarified. By subretinal injection of Aβ42 in mice, we mimicked an inflammatory milieu of AMD to better understand how activated microglia-induced neuroinflammatory cytokines lead to photoreceptor apoptosis in the AMD progression. We demonstrated that subretinal injection of Aβ42 induces microglial activation and increases inflammatory cytokine release, which gives rise to photoreceptor apoptosis in mice. Our results were verified in vitro by co-culture of Aβ42 activated primary microglia and the photoreceptor cell line 661W. We also demonstrated that the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway was involved in Aβ42-induced microglial activation and inflammatory cytokine release. Overall, our findings indicate that activated microglia-derived neuroinflammatory cytokines could contribute to photoreceptor apoptosis under the stimulation of Aβ42. Moreover, this study may provide a potential therapeutic approach for AMD. KEY MESSAGES: Further explore the association between activated microglia-derived neuroinflammatory cytokine secretion and photoreceptor apoptosis under the stimulation of Aβ42. Subretinal injection of Aβ42 induces the activation of microglia and increases proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and COX-2 expression in the retina, which could give rise to the deterioration of visual function and aggravate photoreceptor apoptosis in mice. Primary microglial are activated and the levels of proinflammatory cytokines are increased by Aβ42 stimulation, which could increase the apoptosis of photoreceptor cell line 661W in vitro. The p38 MAPK signaling pathway is involved in microglial activation and photoreceptor apoptosis under Aβ42 treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ge Gao
- Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fanjun Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hai Xie
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dandan Liu
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Sichang Qu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haifeng Qin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaoyang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Tong Xu
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jingfa Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China. .,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fattorelli N, Martinez-Muriana A, Wolfs L, Geric I, De Strooper B, Mancuso R. Stem-cell-derived human microglia transplanted into mouse brain to study human disease. Nat Protoc 2021; 16:1013-1033. [PMID: 33424025 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-020-00447-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Microglia are critically involved in complex neurological disorders with a strong genetic component, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and frontotemporal dementia. Although mouse microglia can recapitulate aspects of human microglia physiology, they do not fully capture the human genetic aspects of disease and do not reproduce all human cell states. Primary cultures of human microglia or microglia derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are difficult to maintain in brain-relevant cell states in vitro. Here we describe MIGRATE (microglia in vitro generation refined for advanced transplantation experiments, which provides a combined in vitro differentiation and in vivo xenotransplantation protocol to study human microglia in the context of the mouse brain. This article details an accurate, step-by-step workflow that includes in vitro microglia differentiation from human PSCs, transplantation into the mouse brain and quantitative analysis of engraftment. Compared to current differentiation and xenotransplantation protocols, we present an optimized, faster and more efficient approach that yields up to 80% chimerism. To quantitatively assess engraftment efficiency by flow cytometry, access to specialized flow cytometry is required. Alternatively, the percentage of chimerism can be estimated by standard immunohistochemical analysis. The MIGRATE protocol takes ~40 d to complete, from culturing PSCs to engraftment efficiency assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Fattorelli
- Centre for Brain and Disease Research, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB), Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anna Martinez-Muriana
- Centre for Brain and Disease Research, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB), Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leen Wolfs
- Centre for Brain and Disease Research, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB), Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ivana Geric
- Centre for Brain and Disease Research, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB), Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart De Strooper
- Centre for Brain and Disease Research, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB), Leuven, Belgium. .,Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. .,UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Renzo Mancuso
- Centre for Brain and Disease Research, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB), Leuven, Belgium. .,Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. .,Microglia and Inflammation in Neurological Disorders (MIND) Lab, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Antwerp, Belgium. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
In recent years, it has been revealed that Parkinson's disease pathology may begin to manifest in the gastrointestinal track at a much earlier time point than in the brain. This paradigm shift has been suggested following evidence in humans that has been reproduced in animal models. Since rodent models cannot recapitulate many of the human disease features, human induced pluripotent stem cells derived from Parkinson's patients have been used to generate brain organoids, greatly contributing to our understanding of the disease pathophysiology. To understand the multifaced aspects of Parkinson's disease, it may be desirable to expand the complexity of these models, to include different brain regions, vasculature, immune cells as well as additional diverse organ-specific organoids such as gut and intestine. Furthermore, the contribution of gut microbiota to disease progression cannot be underestimated. Recent biotechnological advances propose that such combinations may be feasible. Here we discuss how this need can be met and propose that additional brain diseases can benefit from this approach.
Collapse
|
23
|
Franklin H, Clarke BE, Patani R. Astrocytes and microglia in neurodegenerative diseases: Lessons from human in vitro models. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 200:101973. [PMID: 33309801 PMCID: PMC8052192 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2020.101973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes and microglia key fulfil homeostatic and immune functions in the CNS. Dysfunction of these cell types is implicated in neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding cellular autonomy and early pathogenic changes is a key goal. New human iPSC models will inform on disease mechanisms and therapy development.
Both astrocytes and microglia fulfil homeostatic and immune functions in the healthy CNS. Dysfunction of these cell types have been implicated in the pathomechanisms of several neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the cellular autonomy and early pathological changes in these cell types may inform drug screening and therapy development. While animal models and post-mortem tissue have been invaluable in understanding disease processes, the advent of human in vitro models provides a unique insight into disease biology as a manipulable model system obtained directly from patients. Here, we discuss the different human in vitro models of astrocytes and microglia and outline the phenotypes that have been recapitulated in these systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Franklin
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Benjamin E Clarke
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Rickie Patani
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hedegaard A, Stodolak S, James WS, Cowley SA. Honing the Double-Edged Sword: Improving Human iPSC-Microglia Models. Front Immunol 2020; 11:614972. [PMID: 33363548 PMCID: PMC7753623 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.614972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (hiPSC) models are a valuable new tool for research into neurodegenerative diseases. Neuroinflammation is now recognized as a key process in neurodegenerative disease and aging, and microglia are central players in this. A plethora of hiPSC-derived microglial models have been published recently to explore neuroinflammation, ranging from monoculture through to xenotransplantation. However, combining physiological relevance, reproducibility, and scalability into one model is still a challenge. We examine key features of the in vitro microglial environment, especially media composition, extracellular matrix, and co-culture, to identify areas for improvement in current hiPSC-microglia models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sally A. Cowley
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Nolta JA. The age of immunotherapy-Celebrating STEM CELLS' contribution to understanding mechanisms of immune system development and modulation. Stem Cells 2020; 38:4-5. [PMID: 31851396 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jan A Nolta
- Stem Cell Program, Sacramento, University of California Davis Health System, Sacramento, CA, 95820
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kathuria A, Lopez-Lengowski K, Watmuff B, Karmacharya R. Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis of Cerebral Organoids and Cortical Neuron Cultures Derived from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Stem Cells Dev 2020; 29:1370-1381. [PMID: 32862797 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2020.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be differentiated along various neuronal lineages to generate two-dimensional neuronal cultures as well as three-dimensional brain organoids. Such iPSC-derived cellular models are being utilized to study the basic biology of human neuronal function and to interrogate the molecular underpinnings of disease biology. The different cellular models generated from iPSCs have varying properties in terms of the diversity and organization of the cells as well as the cellular functions that are present. To understand transcriptomic differences in iPSC-derived monolayer neuronal cultures and three-dimensional brain organoids, we differentiated eight human iPSC lines from healthy control subjects to generate cerebral organoids and cortical neuron monolayer cultures from the same set of iPSC lines. We undertook RNA-seq experiments in these model systems and analyzed the gene expression data to identify genes that are differentially expressed in cerebral organoids and two-dimensional cortical neuron cultures. In cerebral organoids, gene ontology analysis showed enrichment of genes involved in tissue development, response to stimuli, and the interferon-γ pathway, while two-dimensional cortical neuron cultures showed enrichment of genes involved in nervous system development and neurogenesis. We also undertook comparative analysis of these gene expression profiles with transcriptomic data from the human fetal prefrontal cortex (PFC). This analysis showed greater overlap of the fetal PFC transcriptome with cerebral organoid gene expression profiles compared to monolayer cortical neuron culture profiles. Our studies delineate the transcriptomic differences between cortical neuron monolayer cultures and three-dimensional cerebral organoids and can help inform the appropriate use of these model systems to address specific scientific questions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annie Kathuria
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Chemical Biology Program, Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kara Lopez-Lengowski
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Chemical Biology Program, Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bradley Watmuff
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Chemical Biology Program, Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rakesh Karmacharya
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Chemical Biology Program, Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA.,Program in Neuroscience, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Program in Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Hanger B, Couch A, Rajendran L, Srivastava DP, Vernon AC. Emerging Developments in Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Microglia: Implications for Modelling Psychiatric Disorders With a Neurodevelopmental Origin. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:789. [PMID: 32848951 PMCID: PMC7433763 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia, the resident tissue macrophages of the brain, are increasingly implicated in the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders with a neurodevelopmental origin, including schizophrenia. To date, however, our understanding of the potential role for these cells in schizophrenia has been informed by studies of aged post-mortem samples, low resolution in vivo neuroimaging and rodent models. Whilst these have provided important insights, including signs of the heterogeneous nature of microglia, we currently lack a validated human in vitro system to characterize microglia in the context of brain health and disease during neurodevelopment. Primarily, this reflects a lack of access to human primary tissue during developmental stages. In this review, we first describe microglia, including their ontogeny and heterogeneity and consider their role in brain development. We then provide an evaluation of the potential for differentiating microglia from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) as a robust in vitro human model system to study these cells. We find the majority of protocols for hiPSC-derived microglia generate cells characteristically similar to foetal stage microglia when exposed to neuronal environment-like cues. This may represent a robust and relevant model for the study of cellular and molecular mechanisms in schizophrenia. Each protocol however, provides unique benefits as well as shortcomings, highlighting the need for context-dependent protocol choice and cross-lab collaboration and communication to identify the most robust and translatable microglia model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bjørn Hanger
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amalie Couch
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lawrence Rajendran
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Deepak P. Srivastava
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony C. Vernon
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Li Q, Haney MS. The role of glia in protein aggregation. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 143:105015. [PMID: 32663608 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.105015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein aggregation diseases involve intracellular accumulation or extracellular deposition of certain protein species in neuronal or glial cells, leading to neurodegeneration and shortened lifespan. Prime examples include Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington's disease (HD), which are affected by overlapping or specific aggregation-prone proteins. Mounting evidence suggests that dysfunctional glial cells may be major drivers for some diseases, and when they are not causal factors, they could still significantly exacerbate or alleviate disease progression by playing a plethora of detrimental or beneficial roles. Here we review the diverse functions performed by glial cells in a variety of protein aggregation diseases, highlighting the complexity of the issue and the interconnected relationships between these multifaceted effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingyun Li
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| | - Michael S Haney
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC)-Based Neurodegenerative Disease Models for Phenotype Recapitulation and Drug Screening. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25082000. [PMID: 32344649 PMCID: PMC7221979 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25082000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases represent a significant unmet medical need in our aging society. There are no effective treatments for most of these diseases, and we know comparatively little regarding pathogenic mechanisms. Among the challenges faced by those involved in developing therapeutic drugs for neurodegenerative diseases, the syndromes are often complex, and small animal models do not fully recapitulate the unique features of the human nervous system. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a novel technology that ideally would permit us to generate neuronal cells from individual patients, thereby eliminating the problem of species-specificity inherent when using animal models. Specific phenotypes of iPSC-derived cells may permit researchers to identify sub-types and to distinguish among unique clusters and groups. Recently, iPSCs were used for drug screening and testing for neurologic disorders including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), spinocerebellar atrophy (SCA), and Zika virus infection. However, there remain many challenges still ahead, including how one might effectively recapitulate sporadic disease phenotypes and the selection of ideal phenotypes and for large-scale drug screening. Fortunately, quite a few novel strategies have been developed that might be combined with an iPSC-based model to solve these challenges, including organoid technology, single-cell RNA sequencing, genome editing, and deep learning artificial intelligence. Here, we will review current applications and potential future directions for iPSC-based neurodegenerative disease models for critical drug screening.
Collapse
|
30
|
Hasselmann J, Blurton-Jones M. Human iPSC-derived microglia: A growing toolset to study the brain's innate immune cells. Glia 2020; 68:721-739. [PMID: 31926038 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in the generation of microglia from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have provided exciting new approaches to examine and decipher the biology of microglia. As these techniques continue to evolve to encompass more complex in situ and in vivo paradigms, so too have they begun to yield novel scientific insight into the genetics and function of human microglia. As such, researchers now have access to a toolset comprised of three unique "flavors" of iPSC-derived microglia: in vitro microglia (iMGs), organoid microglia (oMGs), and xenotransplanted microglia (xMGs). The goal of this review is to discuss the variety of research applications that each of these techniques enables and to highlight recent discoveries that these methods have begun to uncover. By presenting the research paradigms in which each model has been successful, as well as the key benefits and limitations of each approach, it is our hope that this review will help interested researchers to incorporate these techniques into their studies, collectively advancing our understanding of human microglia biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Hasselmann
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California.,Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California.,Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Mathew Blurton-Jones
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California.,Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California.,Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Naphade S, Tshilenge KT, Ellerby LM. Modeling Polyglutamine Expansion Diseases with Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Neurotherapeutics 2019; 16:979-998. [PMID: 31792895 PMCID: PMC6985408 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-019-00810-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyglutamine expansion disorders, which include Huntington's disease, have expanded CAG repeats that result in polyglutamine expansions in affected proteins. How this specific feature leads to distinct neuropathies in 11 different diseases is a fascinating area of investigation. Most proteins affected by polyglutamine expansions are ubiquitously expressed, yet their mechanisms of selective neurotoxicity are unknown. Induced pluripotent stem cells have emerged as a valuable tool to model diseases, understand molecular mechanisms, and generate relevant human neural and glia subtypes, cocultures, and organoids. Ideally, this tool will generate specific neuronal populations that faithfully recapitulate specific polyglutamine expansion disorder phenotypes and mimic the selective vulnerability of a given disease. Here, we review how induced pluripotent technology is used to understand the effects of the disease-causing polyglutamine protein on cell function, identify new therapeutic targets, and determine how polyglutamine expansion affects human neurodevelopment and disease. We will discuss ongoing challenges and limitations in our use of induced pluripotent stem cells to model polyglutamine expansion diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Swati Naphade
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 8001 Redwood Blvd, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | | | - Lisa M Ellerby
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 8001 Redwood Blvd, Novato, CA, 94945, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lue LF, Beach TG, Walker DG. Alzheimer's Disease Research Using Human Microglia. Cells 2019; 8:cells8080838. [PMID: 31387311 PMCID: PMC6721636 DOI: 10.3390/cells8080838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Experimental studies of neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease (AD) have mostly investigated microglia, the brain-resident macrophages. This review focused on human microglia obtained at rapid autopsies. Studies employing methods to isolate and culture human brain microglia in high purity for experimental studies were discussed. These methods were employed to isolate human microglia for investigation of a number of features of neuroinflammation, including activation phenotypes, neurotoxicity, responses to abnormal aggregated proteins such as amyloid beta, phagocytosis, and the effects of aging and disease on microglia cellular properties. In recent years, interest in human microglia and neuroinflammation has been renewed due to the identification of inflammation-related AD genetic risk factors, in particular the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells (TREM)-2. Because of the difficulties in developing effective treatments for AD, there has been a general need for greater understanding of the functions of microglia in normal and AD brains. While most experimental studies on neuroinflammation have employed rodent microglia, this review considered the role of human microglia in experimental studies. This review focused on the development of in vitro methodology for the culture of postmortem human microglia and the key findings obtained from experimental studies with these cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lih-Fen Lue
- Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ, 85351, USA.
- Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center and School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 84027, USA.
| | - Thomas G Beach
- Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ, 85351, USA
| | - Douglas G Walker
- Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center and School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 84027, USA
- Molecular Neuroscience Research Center, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
de Leeuw S, Tackenberg C. Alzheimer's in a dish - induced pluripotent stem cell-based disease modeling. Transl Neurodegener 2019; 8:21. [PMID: 31338163 PMCID: PMC6624934 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-019-0161-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Since the discovery of the induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technique more than a decade ago, extensive progress has been made to develop clinically relevant cell culture systems. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease, accounting for approximately two thirds of all cases of dementia. The massively increasing number of affected individuals explains the major interest of research in this disease as well as the strong need for better understanding of disease mechanisms. Main body IPSC-derived neural cells have been widely used to recapitulating key aspects of AD. In this Review we highlight the progress made in studying AD pathophysiology and address the currently available techniques, such as specific differentiation techniques for AD-relevant cell types as well as 2D and 3D cultures. Finally, we critically discuss the key challenges and future directions of this field and how some of the major limitations of the iPSC technique may be overcome. Conclusion Stem cell-based disease models have the potential to induce a paradigm shift in biomedical research. In particular, the combination of the iPSC technology with recent advances in gene editing or 3D cell cultures represents a breakthrough for in vitro disease modeling and provides a platform for a better understanding of disease mechanisms in human cells and the discovery of novel therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sherida de Leeuw
- 1Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland.,2Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Tackenberg
- 1Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland.,2Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|