1
|
Gamit N, Dharmarajan A, Sethi G, Warrier S. Want of Wnt in Parkinson's disease: Could sFRP disrupt interplay between Nurr1 and Wnt signaling? Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 212:115566. [PMID: 37088155 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear receptor related 1 (Nurr1) is a transcription factor known to regulate the development and maintenance of midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) neurons. Reports have confirmed that defect or obliteration of Nurr1 results in neurodegeneration and motor function impairment leading to Parkinson's disease (PD). Studies have also indicated that Nurr1 regulates the expression of alpha-synuclein (α-SYN) and mutations in Nurr1 cause α-SYN overexpression, thereby increasing the risk of PD. Nurr1 is modulated via various pathways including Wnt signaling pathway which is known to play an important role in neurogenesis and deregulation of it contributes to PD pathogenesis. Both Wnt/β-catenin dependent and independent pathways are implicated in the activation of Nurr1 and subsequent downregulation of α-SYN. This review highlights the interaction between Nurr1 and Wnt signaling pathways in mDA neuronal development. We further hypothesize how modulation of Wnt signaling pathway by its antagonist, secreted frizzled related proteins (sFRPs) could be a potential route to treat PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naisarg Gamit
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600 116, India; School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia; Curtin Health and Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia; School of Human Sciences, Faculty of Life and Physical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore 117 600, Singapore
| | - Sudha Warrier
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India; Cuor Stem Cellutions Pvt Ltd, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Willems S, Merk D. Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology of Nurr1 Modulators: An Emerging Strategy in Neurodegeneration. J Med Chem 2022; 65:9548-9563. [PMID: 35797147 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear receptor related 1 (Nurr1) is a transcription factor with neuroprotective and antineuroinflammatory properties. Observations from genetic studies and human patients support potential of Nurr1 as a therapeutic target in neurodegeneration, but due to a lack of high-quality chemical tools for pharmacological control of Nurr1, its target validation is pending. Nevertheless, considerable progress has recently been made in elucidating structural and functional characteristics of Nurr1, and several ligand scaffolds have been discovered. Here, we analyze Nurr1's structure and mechanisms compared to other nuclear receptors, summarize the known small molecule Nurr1 ligands, and discuss the available evidence for the therapeutic potential of Nurr1 in neurodegeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Willems
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany.,Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Daniel Merk
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany.,Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu J, Yang L, Li H, Cai Y, Feng J, Hu Z. Conditional ablation of protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor U in midbrain dopaminergic neurons results in reduced neuronal size. J Chem Neuroanat 2022; 124:102135. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2022.102135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
4
|
Optimizing maturity and dose of iPSC-derived dopamine progenitor cell therapy for Parkinson's disease. NPJ Regen Med 2022; 7:24. [PMID: 35449132 PMCID: PMC9023503 DOI: 10.1038/s41536-022-00221-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In pursuit of treating Parkinson’s disease with cell replacement therapy, differentiated induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) are an ideal source of midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) cells. We previously established a protocol for differentiating iPSC-derived post-mitotic mDA neurons capable of reversing 6-hydroxydopamine-induced hemiparkinsonism in rats. In the present study, we transitioned the iPSC starting material and defined an adapted differentiation protocol for further translation into a clinical cell transplantation therapy. We examined the effects of cellular maturity on survival and efficacy of the transplants by engrafting mDA progenitors (cryopreserved at 17 days of differentiation, D17), immature neurons (D24), and post-mitotic neurons (D37) into immunocompromised hemiparkinsonian rats. We found that D17 progenitors were markedly superior to immature D24 or mature D37 neurons in terms of survival, fiber outgrowth and effects on motor deficits. Intranigral engraftment to the ventral midbrain demonstrated that D17 cells had a greater capacity than D24 cells to innervate over long distance to forebrain structures, including the striatum. When D17 cells were assessed across a wide dose range (7,500-450,000 injected cells per striatum), there was a clear dose response with regards to numbers of surviving neurons, innervation, and functional recovery. Importantly, although these grafts were derived from iPSCs, we did not observe teratoma formation or significant outgrowth of other cells in any animal. These data support the concept that human iPSC-derived D17 mDA progenitors are suitable for clinical development with the aim of transplantation trials in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Collapse
|
5
|
Fang C, Wang H, Naumann RK. Developmental Patterning and Neurogenetic Gradients of Nurr1 Positive Neurons in the Rat Claustrum and Lateral Cortex. Front Neuroanat 2021; 15:786329. [PMID: 34924965 PMCID: PMC8675902 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2021.786329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The claustrum is an enigmatic brain structure thought to be important for conscious sensations. Recent studies have focused on gene expression patterns, connectivity, and function of the claustrum, but relatively little is known about its development. Interestingly, claustrum-enriched genes, including the previously identified marker Nurr1, are not only expressed in the classical claustrum complex, but also embedded within lateral neocortical regions in rodents. Recent studies suggest that Nurr1 positive neurons in the lateral cortex share a highly conserved genetic expression pattern with claustrum neurons. Thus, we focus on the developmental progression and birth dating pattern of the claustrum and Nurr1 positive neurons in the lateral cortex. We comprehensively investigate the expression of Nurr1 at various stages of development in the rat and find that Nurr1 expression first appears as an elongated line along the anterior-posterior axis on embryonic day 13.5 (E13.5) and then gradually differentiates into multiple sub-regions during prenatal development. Previous birth dating studies of the claustrum have led to conflicting results, therefore, we combine 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) labeling with in situ hybridization for Nurr1 to study birth dating patterns. We find that most dorsal endopiriform (DEn) neurons are born on E13.5 to E14.5. Ventral claustrum (vCL) and dorsal claustrum (dCL) are mainly born on E14.5 to E15.5. Nurr1 positive cortical deep layer neurons (dLn) and superficial layer neurons (sLn) are mainly born on E14.5 to E15.5 and E15.5 to E17.5, respectively. Finally, we identify ventral to dorsal and posterior to anterior neurogenetic gradients within vCL and DEn. Thus, our findings suggest that claustrum and Nurr1 positive neurons in the lateral cortex are born sequentially over several days of embryonic development and contribute toward charting the complex developmental pattern of the claustrum in rodents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Robert Konrad Naumann
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Willems S, Zaienne D, Merk D. Targeting Nuclear Receptors in Neurodegeneration and Neuroinflammation. J Med Chem 2021; 64:9592-9638. [PMID: 34251209 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors, also known as ligand-activated transcription factors, regulate gene expression upon ligand signals and present as attractive therapeutic targets especially in chronic diseases. Despite the therapeutic relevance of some nuclear receptors in various pathologies, their potential in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation is insufficiently established. This perspective gathers preclinical and clinical data for a potential role of individual nuclear receptors as future targets in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis, and concomitantly evaluates the level of medicinal chemistry targeting these proteins. Considerable evidence suggests the high promise of ligand-activated transcription factors to counteract neurodegenerative diseases with a particularly high potential of several orphan nuclear receptors. However, potent tools are lacking for orphan receptors, and limited central nervous system exposure or insufficient selectivity also compromises the suitability of well-studied nuclear receptor ligands for functional studies. Medicinal chemistry efforts are needed to develop dedicated high-quality tool compounds for the therapeutic validation of nuclear receptors in neurodegenerative pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Willems
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Daniel Zaienne
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Daniel Merk
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Marie A, Darricau M, Touyarot K, Parr-Brownlie LC, Bosch-Bouju C. Role and Mechanism of Vitamin A Metabolism in the Pathophysiology of Parkinson's Disease. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2021; 11:949-970. [PMID: 34120916 PMCID: PMC8461657 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-212671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Evidence shows that altered retinoic acid signaling may contribute to the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD). Retinoic acid is the bioactive derivative of the lipophilic vitamin A. Vitamin A is involved in several important homeostatic processes, such as cell differentiation, antioxidant activity, inflammation and neuronal plasticity. The role of vitamin A and its derivatives in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, and their potential as therapeutics, has drawn attention for more than 10 years. However, the literature sits in disparate fields. Vitamin A could act at the crossroad of multiple environmental and genetic factors of PD. The purpose of this review is to outline what is known about the role of vitamin A metabolism in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of PD. We examine key biological systems and mechanisms that are under the control of vitamin A and its derivatives, which are (or could be) exploited for therapeutic potential in PD: the survival of dopaminergic neurons, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, circadian rhythms, homeostasis of the enteric nervous system, and hormonal systems. We focus on the pivotal role of ALDH1A1, an enzyme expressed by dopaminergic neurons for the detoxification of these neurons, which is under the control of retinoic acid. By providing an integrated summary, this review will guide future studies on the potential role of vitamin A in the management of symptoms, health and wellbeing for PD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anaıs Marie
- University Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
| | - Morgane Darricau
- University Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
- University Bordeaux, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France
| | - Katia Touyarot
- University Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
| | - Louise C. Parr-Brownlie
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Brain Research New Zealand (Center of Research Excellence), Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kim SM, Cho SY, Kim MW, Roh SR, Shin HS, Suh YH, Geum D, Lee MA. Genome-Wide Analysis Identifies NURR1-Controlled Network of New Synapse Formation and Cell Cycle Arrest in Human Neural Stem Cells. Mol Cells 2020; 43:551-571. [PMID: 32522891 PMCID: PMC7332357 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2020.0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear receptor-related 1 (Nurr1) protein has been identified as an obligatory transcription factor in midbrain dopaminergic neurogenesis, but the global set of human NURR1 target genes remains unexplored. Here, we identified direct gene targets of NURR1 by analyzing genome-wide differential expression of NURR1 together with NURR1 consensus sites in three human neural stem cell (hNSC) lines. Microarray data were validated by quantitative PCR in hNSCs and mouse embryonic brains and through comparison to published human data, including genome-wide association study hits and the BioGPS gene expression atlas. Our analysis identified ~40 NURR1 direct target genes, many of them involved in essential protein modules such as synapse formation, neuronal cell migration during brain development, and cell cycle progression and DNA replication. Specifically, expression of genes related to synapse formation and neuronal cell migration correlated tightly with NURR1 expression, whereas cell cycle progression correlated negatively with it, precisely recapitulating midbrain dopaminergic development. Overall, this systematic examination of NURR1-controlled regulatory networks provides important insights into this protein's biological functions in dopamine-based neurogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soo Min Kim
- Department of Brain Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 6499, Korea
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | | | - Min Woong Kim
- Department of Brain Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 6499, Korea
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | - Seung Ryul Roh
- Department of Brain Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 6499, Korea
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | - Hee Sun Shin
- Department of Brain Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 6499, Korea
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | - Young Ho Suh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Dongho Geum
- Department of Medical Science, Korea University Medical School, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Myung Ae Lee
- Department of Brain Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 6499, Korea
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Development and Differentiation of Midbrain Dopaminergic Neuron: From Bench to Bedside. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061489. [PMID: 32570916 PMCID: PMC7349799 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting the motor system. It is primarily due to substantial loss of midbrain dopamine (mDA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and to decreased innervation to the striatum. Although existing drug therapy available can relieve the symptoms in early-stage PD patients, it cannot reverse the pathogenic progression of PD. Thus, regenerating functional mDA neurons in PD patients may be a cure to the disease. The proof-of-principle clinical trials showed that human fetal graft-derived mDA neurons could restore the release of dopamine neurotransmitters, could reinnervate the striatum, and could alleviate clinical symptoms in PD patients. The invention of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), autologous source of neural progenitors with less ethical consideration, and risk of graft rejection can now be generated in vitro. This advancement also prompts extensive research to decipher important developmental signaling in differentiation, which is key to successful in vitro production of functional mDA neurons and the enabler of mass manufacturing of the cells required for clinical applications. In this review, we summarize the biology and signaling involved in the development of mDA neurons and the current progress and methodology in driving efficient mDA neuron differentiation from pluripotent stem cells.
Collapse
|
10
|
Retinoids and developmental neurotoxicity: Utilizing toxicogenomics to enhance adverse outcome pathways and testing strategies. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 96:102-113. [PMID: 32544423 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The use of genomic approaches in toxicological studies has greatly increased our ability to define the molecular profiles of environmental chemicals associated with developmental neurotoxicity (DNT). Integration of these approaches with adverse outcome pathways (AOPs), a framework that translates environmental exposures to adverse developmental phenotypes, can potentially inform DNT testing strategies. Here, using retinoic acid (RA) as a case example, we demonstrate that the integration of toxicogenomic profiles into the AOP framework can be used to establish a paradigm for chemical testing. RA is a critical regulatory signaling molecule involved in multiple aspects of mammalian central nervous system (CNS) development, including hindbrain formation/patterning and neuronal differentiation, and imbalances in RA signaling pathways are linked with DNT. While the mechanisms remain unresolved, environmental chemicals can cause DNT by disrupting the RA signaling pathway. First, we reviewed literature evidence of RA and other retinoid exposures and DNT to define a provisional AOP related to imbalances in RA embryonic bioavailability and hindbrain development. Next, by integrating toxicogenomic datasets, we defined a relevant transcriptomic signature associated with RA-induced developmental neurotoxicity (RA-DNT) in human and rodent models that was tested against zebrafish model data, demonstrating potential for integration into an AOP framework. Finally, we demonstrated how these approaches may be systematically utilized to identify chemical hazards by testing the RA-DNT signature against azoles, a proposed class of compounds that alters RA-signaling. The provisional AOP from this study can be expanded in the future to better define DNT biomarkers relevant to RA signaling and toxicity.
Collapse
|
11
|
Poulin JF, Gaertner Z, Moreno-Ramos OA, Awatramani R. Classification of Midbrain Dopamine Neurons Using Single-Cell Gene Expression Profiling Approaches. Trends Neurosci 2020; 43:155-169. [PMID: 32101709 PMCID: PMC7285906 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2020.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Dysfunctional dopamine (DA) signaling has been associated with a broad spectrum of neuropsychiatric disorders, prompting investigations into how midbrain DA neuron heterogeneity may underpin this variety of behavioral symptoms. Emerging literature indeed points to functional heterogeneity even within anatomically defined DA clusters. Recognizing the need for a systematic classification scheme, several groups have used single-cell profiling to catalog DA neurons based on their gene expression profiles. We aim here not only to synthesize points of congruence but also to highlight key differences between the molecular classification schemes derived from these studies. In doing so, we hope to provide a common framework that will facilitate investigations into the functions of DA neuron subtypes in the healthy and diseased brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Francois Poulin
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Zachary Gaertner
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Rajeshwar Awatramani
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Dumas S, Wallén-Mackenzie Å. Developmental Co-expression of Vglut2 and Nurr1 in a Mes-Di-Encephalic Continuum Preceeds Dopamine and Glutamate Neuron Specification. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:307. [PMID: 31850343 PMCID: PMC6892754 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons exist as several subtypes and are found in a heterogeneous environment including GABAergic and glutamatergic neurons as well as various types of co-releasing neurons. Developmental programs underlying this heterogeneity have remained elusive. In this study, combinatorial mRNA analysis was performed at stages when neuronal phenotypes are first specified. Vesicular transporters for dopamine and other monoamines (VMAT2), GABA (VIAAT), and glutamate (VGLUT2) were assessed by systematically applying fluorescent in situ hybridization through the mes-di-encephalon of the mouse embryo at embryonal days (E) 9.5–14.5. The results show that early differentiating dopamine neurons express the gene encoding VGLUT2 before onset of any dopaminergic markers. Prior to its down-regulation in maturing dopamine neurons, Vglut2 mRNA co-localizes extensively with Tyrosine hydroxylase (Th) and Nurr1, commonly used as markers for DA neurons. Further, Vglut2 and Nurr1 mRNAs are shown to overlap substantially in diencephalic neurons that maintain a glutamatergic phenotype. The results suggest that Vglut2/Nurr1-double positive cells give rise both to dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurons within the mes-di-encephalic area. Finally, analysis of markers representing subtypes of dopamine neurons, including the newly described NeuroD6 subtype, shows that certain subtype specifications arise early. Histological findings are outlined in the context of neuroanatomical concepts and the prosomeric model of brain development. The study contributes to the current decoding of the recently discovered heterogeneity among neurons residing along the cephalic flexure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Åsa Wallén-Mackenzie
- Department of Organismal Biology, Unit of Comparative Physiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
NURR1 Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194858. [PMID: 31574937 PMCID: PMC6801584 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor NURR1 is a constitutively active orphan receptor belonging to the steroid hormone receptor class NR4A. Although a genetic association between NURR1 and autoimmune inflammatory diseases has never emerged from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), alterations in the expression of NURR1 have been observed in various autoimmune diseases. Specifically, its role in autoimmune inflammatory diseases is mainly related to its capability to counteract inflammation. In fact, NURR1 exerts anti-inflammatory functions inhibiting the transcription of the molecules involved in proinflammatory pathways, not only in the peripheral blood compartment, but also in the cerebral parenchyma acting in microglial cells and astrocytes. In parallel, NURR1 has been also linked to dopamine-associated brain disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD) and schizophrenia, since it is involved in the development and in the maintenance of midbrain dopaminergic neurons (mDA). Considering its role in neuro- and systemic inflammatory processes, here we review the evidences supporting its contribution to multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (CNS). To date, the specific role of NURR1 in MS is still debated and few authors have studied this topic. Here, we plan to clarify this issue analyzing the reported association between NURR1 and MS in human and murine model studies.
Collapse
|
14
|
NURR1 deficiency is associated to ADHD-like phenotypes in mice. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:207. [PMID: 31455763 PMCID: PMC6712038 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-019-0544-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor NURR1 regulates the dopamine (DA) signaling pathway and exerts a critical role in the development of midbrain dopaminergic neurons (mDA). NURR1 alterations have been linked to DA-associated brain disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. However, the association between NURR1 defects and the attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a DA-associated brain disease characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention, has never been demonstrated. To date, a comprehensive murine model of ADHD truly reflecting the whole complex human psychiatric disorder still does not exist. NURR1-knockout (NURR1-KO) mice have been reported to exhibit increased spontaneous locomotor activity, but their complete characterization is still lacking. In the present study a wide-ranging test battery was used to perform a comprehensive analysis of the behavioral phenotype of the male NURR1-KO mice. As a result, their hyperactive phenotype was confirmed, while their impulsive behavior was reported for the first time. On the other hand, no anxiety and alterations in motor coordination, sociability and memory were observed. Also, the number of mDA expressing tyrosine hydroxylase, a rate-limiting enzyme of catecholamines biosynthesis, and DA level in brain were not impaired in NURR1-KO mice. Finally, hyperactivity has been shown to be recovered by treatment with methylphenidate, the first line psychostimulant drug used for ADHD. Overall, our study suggests that the NURR1 deficient male mouse may be a satisfactory model to study some ADHD behavioral phenotypes and to test the clinical efficacy of potential therapeutic agents.
Collapse
|
15
|
Poulin JF, Caronia G, Hofer C, Cui Q, Helm B, Ramakrishnan C, Chan CS, Dombeck DA, Deisseroth K, Awatramani R. Mapping projections of molecularly defined dopamine neuron subtypes using intersectional genetic approaches. Nat Neurosci 2018; 21:1260-1271. [PMID: 30104732 PMCID: PMC6342021 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-018-0203-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 224] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons have diverse functions that can in part be explained by their heterogeneity. Although molecularly distinct subtypes of DA neurons have been identified by single-cell gene expression profiling, fundamental features such as their projection patterns have not been elucidated. Progress in this regard has been hindered by the lack of genetic tools for studying DA neuron subtypes. Here we develop intersectional genetic labeling strategies, based on combinatorial gene expression, to map the projections of molecularly defined DA neuron subtypes. We reveal distinct genetically defined dopaminergic pathways arising from the substantia nigra pars compacta and from the ventral tegmental area that innervate specific regions of the caudate putamen, nucleus accumbens and amygdala. Together, the genetic toolbox and DA neuron subtype projections presented here constitute a resource that will accelerate the investigation of this clinically significant neurotransmitter system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Francois Poulin
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Giuliana Caronia
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Caitlyn Hofer
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Qiaoling Cui
- Department of Physiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brandon Helm
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Charu Ramakrishnan
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - C Savio Chan
- Department of Physiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Daniel A Dombeck
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Karl Deisseroth
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Rajeshwar Awatramani
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Frasch MG, Lobmaier SM, Stampalija T, Desplats P, Pallarés ME, Pastor V, Brocco MA, Wu HT, Schulkin J, Herry CL, Seely AJE, Metz GAS, Louzoun Y, Antonelli MC. Non-invasive biomarkers of fetal brain development reflecting prenatal stress: An integrative multi-scale multi-species perspective on data collection and analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 117:165-183. [PMID: 29859198 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal stress (PS) impacts early postnatal behavioural and cognitive development. This process of 'fetal programming' is mediated by the effects of the prenatal experience on the developing hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and autonomic nervous system (ANS). We derive a multi-scale multi-species approach to devising preclinical and clinical studies to identify early non-invasively available pre- and postnatal biomarkers of PS. The multiple scales include brain epigenome, metabolome, microbiome and the ANS activity gauged via an array of advanced non-invasively obtainable properties of fetal heart rate fluctuations. The proposed framework has the potential to reveal mechanistic links between maternal stress during pregnancy and changes across these physiological scales. Such biomarkers may hence be useful as early and non-invasive predictors of neurodevelopmental trajectories influenced by the PS as well as follow-up indicators of success of therapeutic interventions to correct such altered neurodevelopmental trajectories. PS studies must be conducted on multiple scales derived from concerted observations in multiple animal models and human cohorts performed in an interactive and iterative manner and deploying machine learning for data synthesis, identification and validation of the best non-invasive detection and follow-up biomarkers, a prerequisite for designing effective therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin G Frasch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
| | - Silvia M Lobmaier
- Frauenklinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tamara Stampalija
- Unit of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, Institute for Mother and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Paula Desplats
- University of California, Departments of Neurosciences and Pathology, San Diego, USA
| | - María Eugenia Pallarés
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia "Prof. Eduardo De Robertis", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Verónica Pastor
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia "Prof. Eduardo De Robertis", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marcela A Brocco
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas - Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (IIB-INTECH), Universidad Nacional de San Martín - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (UNSAM-CONICET), San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Hau-Tieng Wu
- Department of Mathematics and Department of Statistical Science, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Mathematics Division, National Center for Theoretical Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jay Schulkin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | | | | | - Gerlinde A S Metz
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Yoram Louzoun
- Bar-Ilan University, Department of Applied Mathematics, Israel
| | - Marta C Antonelli
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia "Prof. Eduardo De Robertis", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Scheepstra M, Andrei SA, de Vries RMJM, Meijer FA, Ma JN, Burstein ES, Olsson R, Ottmann C, Milroy LG, Brunsveld L. Ligand Dependent Switch from RXR Homo- to RXR-NURR1 Heterodimerization. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:2065-2077. [PMID: 28691794 PMCID: PMC5609127 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
![]()
Retinoid
X receptors (RXRs) play key roles in many physiological
processes in both the periphery and central nervous system. In addition,
RXRs form heterodimers with other nuclear receptors to exert their
physiological effects. The nuclear receptor related 1 protein (NURR1)
is particularly interesting because of its role in promoting differentiation
and survival of dopamine neurons. However, only a small number of
RXR-heterodimer selective modulators are available, with limited chemical
diversity. This work describes the synthesis, biochemical evaluation,
and structural elucidation of a novel series of RXR ligands with strongly
biased interactions with RXRα–NURR1 heterodimers. Targeted
modifications to the small molecule biaryl scaffold caused local RXRα
side-chain disturbances and displacement of secondary structural elements
upon ligand binding. This resulted in the repositioning of protein
helices in the heterodimer interface of RXRα, alterations in
homo- versus heterodimer formation, and modulation of activation function
2 (AF2). The data provide a rationale for the design of RXR ligands
consisting of a highly conserved hydrophilic region, strongly contributing
to the ligand affinity, and a variable hydrophobic region, which efficiently
probes the effects of structural changes at the level of the ligand
on co-regulator recruitment or the RXRα–NURR1 dimerization
interface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Scheepstra
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Sebastian A. Andrei
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Rens M. J. M. de Vries
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Femke A. Meijer
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jian-Nong Ma
- ACADIA Pharmaceuticals
Inc., San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Ethan S. Burstein
- ACADIA Pharmaceuticals
Inc., San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Roger Olsson
- Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Christian Ottmann
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Lech-Gustav Milroy
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Luc Brunsveld
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Green AL, Zhan L, Eid A, Zarbl H, Guo GL, Richardson JR. Valproate increases dopamine transporter expression through histone acetylation and enhanced promoter binding of Nurr1. Neuropharmacology 2017; 125:189-196. [PMID: 28743636 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The dopamine transporter (DAT) is the key regulator of dopaminergic transmission and is a target of several xenobiotics, including pesticides and pharmacological agents. Previously, we identified a prominent role for histone deacetylases in the regulation of DAT expression. Here, we utilized a rat dopaminergic cell line (N27) to probe the responsiveness of DAT mRNA expression to inhibitors of histone acetylation. Inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs) by valproate, butyrate and Trichostatin A led to a 3-10-fold increase in DAT mRNA expression, a 50% increase in protein levels, which were accompanied by increased H3 acetylation levels. To confirm the mechanism of valproate-mediated increase in DAT mRNA, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were used and demonstrated a significant increase in enrichment of acetylation of histone 3 on lysines 9 and 14 (H3K9/K14ac) in the DAT promoter. Expression of Nurr1 and Pitx3, key regulators of DAT expression, were increased following valproate treatment and Nurr1 binding was enriched in the DAT promoter. Together, these results indicate that histone acetylation and subsequent enhancement of transcription factor binding are plausible mechanisms for DAT regulation by valproate and, perhaps, by other xenobiotics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley L Green
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Le Zhan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Aseel Eid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
| | - Helmut Zarbl
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Grace L Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Jason R Richardson
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Engel M, Do-Ha D, Muñoz SS, Ooi L. Common pitfalls of stem cell differentiation: a guide to improving protocols for neurodegenerative disease models and research. Cell Mol Life Sci 2016; 73:3693-709. [PMID: 27154043 PMCID: PMC5002043 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2265-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells have revolutionized cellular neuroscience, providing the opportunity to model neurological diseases and test potential therapeutics in a pre-clinical setting. The power of these models has been widely discussed, but the potential pitfalls of stem cell differentiation in this research are less well described. We have analyzed the literature that describes differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into three neural cell types that are commonly used to study diseases, including forebrain cholinergic neurons for Alzheimer's disease, midbrain dopaminergic neurons for Parkinson's disease and cortical astrocytes for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. Published protocols for differentiation vary widely in the reported efficiency of target cell generation. Additionally, characterization of the cells by expression profile and functionality differs between studies and is often insufficient, leading to highly variable protocol outcomes. We have synthesized this information into a simple methodology that can be followed when performing or assessing differentiation techniques. Finally we propose three considerations for future research, including the use of physiological O2 conditions, three-dimensional co-culture systems and microfluidics to control feeding cycles and growth factor gradients. Following these guidelines will help researchers to ensure that robust and meaningful data is generated, enabling the full potential of stem cell differentiation for disease modeling and regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Engel
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Dzung Do-Ha
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Sonia Sanz Muñoz
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Lezanne Ooi
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Arlotta P, Hobert O. Homeotic Transformations of Neuronal Cell Identities. Trends Neurosci 2016; 38:751-762. [PMID: 26596501 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Revised: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Homeosis is classically defined as the transformation of one body part into something that resembles another body part. We propose here to broaden the concept of homeosis to the many neuronal cell identity transformations that have been uncovered over the past few years upon removal of specific regulatory factors in organisms from Caenorhabditis elegans to Drosophila, zebrafish, and mice. The concept of homeosis provides a framework for the evolution of cell type diversity in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Arlotta
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
| | - Oliver Hobert
- Department of Biology and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
The substantia nigra and ventral tegmental dopaminergic neurons from development to degeneration. J Chem Neuroanat 2016; 76:98-107. [PMID: 26859066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The pathology of Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterised by the loss of neurons in the substantia nigra parcompacta (A9), which results in the insufficient release of dopamine, and the appearance of motor symptoms. Not all neurons in the A9 subregions degenerate in PD, and the dopaminergic (DA) neurons located in the neighboring ventral tegmental area (A10) are relatively resistant to PD pathogenesis. An increasing number of quantitative studies using human tissue samples of these brain regions have revealed important biological differences. In this review, we first describe current knowledge on the multi-segmental neuromere origin of these DA neurons. We then compare the continued transcription factor and protein expression profile and morphological differences distinguishing subregions within the A9 substantia nigra, and between A9 and A10 DA neurons. We conclude that the expression of three types of factors and proteins contributes to the diversity observed in these DA neurons and potentially to their differential vulnerability to PD. In particular, the specific axonal structure of A9 neurons and the way A9 neurons maintain their DA usage makes them easily exposed to energy deficits, calcium overload and oxidative stress, all contributing to their decreased survival in PD. We highlight knowledge gaps in our understanding of the cellular biomarkers for and their different functions in DA neurons, knowledge which may assist to identify underpinning disease mechansims that could be targeted for the treatment of any subregional dysfunction and loss of these DA neurons.
Collapse
|
22
|
Sundén H, Schäfer A, Scheepstra M, Leysen S, Malo M, Ma JN, Burstein ES, Ottmann C, Brunsveld L, Olsson R. Chiral Dihydrobenzofuran Acids Show Potent Retinoid X Receptor–Nuclear Receptor Related 1 Protein Dimer Activation. J Med Chem 2016; 59:1232-8. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b01702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Henrik Sundén
- Department
of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, Medicinal Chemistry, University of Gothenburg, SE-41296 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anja Schäfer
- Department
of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, Medicinal Chemistry, University of Gothenburg, SE-41296 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute of Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel Scheepstra
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute of Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Seppe Leysen
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute of Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Marcus Malo
- Department
of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, Medicinal Chemistry, University of Gothenburg, SE-41296 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jian-Nong Ma
- ACADIA Pharmaceuticals Inc., San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Ethan S. Burstein
- ACADIA Pharmaceuticals Inc., San Diego, California 92130, United States
| | - Christian Ottmann
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute of Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Luc Brunsveld
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering and Institute of Complex Molecular Systems,
Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Den Dolech 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Roger Olsson
- Department
of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, Medicinal Chemistry, University of Gothenburg, SE-41296 Gothenburg, Sweden
- ACADIA Pharmaceuticals Inc., San Diego, California 92130, United States
- Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Sölvegatan 19, BMC DIO, SE-221 84 Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Oh SM, Chang MY, Song JJ, Rhee YH, Joe EH, Lee HS, Yi SH, Lee SH. Combined Nurr1 and Foxa2 roles in the therapy of Parkinson's disease. EMBO Mol Med 2016; 7:510-25. [PMID: 25759364 PMCID: PMC4492814 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201404610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Use of the physiological mechanisms promoting midbrain DA (mDA) neuron survival seems an appropriate option for developing treatments for Parkinson's disease (PD). mDA neurons are specifically marked by expression of the transcription factors Nurr1 and Foxa2. We show herein that Nurr1 and Foxa2 interact to protect mDA neurons against various toxic insults, but their expression is lost during aging and degenerative processes. In addition to their proposed cell-autonomous actions in mDA neurons, forced expression of these factors in neighboring glia synergistically protects degenerating mDA neurons in a paracrine mode. As a consequence of these bimodal actions, adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene delivery of Nurr1 and Foxa2 in a PD mouse model markedly protected mDA neurons and motor behaviors associated with nigrostriatal DA neurotransmission. The effects of the combined gene delivery were dramatic, highly reproducible, and sustained for at least 1 year, suggesting that expression of these factors is a promising approach in PD therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Min Oh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea Hanyang Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mi-Yoon Chang
- Hanyang Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae-Jin Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea Hanyang Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong-Hee Rhee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea Hanyang Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun-Hye Joe
- Department of Phamacology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Hyun-Seob Lee
- Department of Applied Bioscience, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang-Hoon Yi
- Hanyang Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang-Hun Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea Hanyang Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Klafke R, Prem Anand AA, Wurst W, Prakash N, Wizenmann A. Differences in the spatiotemporal expression and epistatic gene regulation of the mesodiencephalic dopaminergic precursor marker PITX3 during chicken and mouse development. Development 2016; 143:691-702. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.126748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Mesodiencephalic dopaminergic (mdDA) neurons are located in the ventral mesencephalon and caudal diencephalon of all tetrapod species studied so far. They are the most prominent DA neuronal population and are implicated in control and modulation of motor, cognitive and rewarding/affective behaviors. Their degeneration or dysfunction is intimately linked to several neurological and neuropsychiatric human diseases. To gain further insights into their generation, we studied spatiotemporal expression patterns and epistatic interactions in chick embryos of selected marker genes and signaling pathways associated with mdDA neuron development in mouse. We detected striking differences in the expression patterns of the chick orthologs of the mouse mdDA marker genes Pitx3 and Aldh1a1, which suggests important differences between the species in the generation/generating of these cells. We also discovered that the Sonic hedgehog signaling pathway is both, necessary and sufficient for the induction of ectopic PITX3 expression in chick mesencephalon downstream of WNT9A induced LMX1a transcription. These aspects of early chicken development resemble the ontogeny of zebrafish diencephalic DA neuronal populations, and suggest a divergence between birds and mammals during evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Klafke
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - A. Alwin Prem Anand
- Institute of Clinical Anatomy and Cell Analysis, University of Tübingen, Oesterbergstrasse 3, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wurst
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- Technische Universität München-Weihenstephan, Lehrstuhl für Entwicklungsgenetik c/o Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE) Standort München, Schillerstr. 44, 80336 München, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Adolf-Butenandt-Institut, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Schillerstrasse 44, 80336 München, Germany
| | - Nilima Prakash
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- Technische Universität München-Weihenstephan, Lehrstuhl für Entwicklungsgenetik c/o Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Andrea Wizenmann
- Institute of Clinical Anatomy and Cell Analysis, University of Tübingen, Oesterbergstrasse 3, 72074 Tuebingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Bissonette GB, Roesch MR. Development and function of the midbrain dopamine system: what we know and what we need to. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2015; 15:62-73. [PMID: 26548362 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Revised: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The past two decades have seen an explosion in our understanding of the origin and development of the midbrain dopamine system. Much of this work has been focused on the aspects of dopamine neuron development related to the onset of movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease, with the intent of hopefully delaying, preventing or fixing symptoms. While midbrain dopamine degeneration is a major focus for treatment and research, many other human disorders are impacted by abnormal dopamine, including drug addiction, autism and schizophrenia. Understanding dopamine neuron ontogeny and how dopamine connections and circuitry develops may provide us with key insights into potentially important avenues of research for other dopamine-related disorders. This review will provide a brief overview of the major molecular and genetic players throughout the development of midbrain dopamine neurons and what we know about the behavioral- and disease-related implications associated with perturbations to midbrain dopamine neuron development. We intend to combine the knowledge of two broad fields of neuroscience, both developmental and behavioral, with the intent on fostering greater discussion between branches of neuroscience in the service of addressing complex cognitive questions from a developmental perspective and identifying important gaps in our knowledge for future study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G B Bissonette
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA.,Program in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - M R Roesch
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA.,Program in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Bodea GO, Blaess S. Establishing diversity in the dopaminergic system. FEBS Lett 2015; 589:3773-85. [PMID: 26431946 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2015.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2015] [Revised: 09/13/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Midbrain dopaminergic neurons (MbDNs) modulate cognitive processes, regulate voluntary movement, and encode reward prediction errors and aversive stimuli. While the degeneration of MbDNs underlies the motor defects in Parkinson's disease, imbalances in dopamine levels are associated with neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression, schizophrenia and substance abuse. In recent years, progress has been made in understanding how MbDNs, which constitute a relatively small neuronal population in the brain, can contribute to such diverse functions and dysfunctions. In particular, important insights have been gained regarding the distinct molecular, neurochemical and network properties of MbDNs. How this diversity of MbDNs is established during brain development is only starting to be unraveled. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the diversity in MbDN progenitors and differentiated MbDNs in the developing rodent brain. We discuss the signaling pathways, transcription factors and transmembrane receptors that contribute to setting up these diverse MbDN subpopulations. A better insight into the processes that establish diversity in MbDNs will ultimately improve the understanding of the architecture and function of the dopaminergic system in the adult brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela O Bodea
- Mater Research Institute - University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Sandra Blaess
- Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, Life and Brain Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Mitochondria: A Therapeutic Target for Parkinson's Disease? Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:20704-30. [PMID: 26340618 PMCID: PMC4613227 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160920704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Revised: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders. The exact causes of neuronal damage are unknown, but mounting evidence indicates that mitochondrial-mediated pathways contribute to the underlying mechanisms of dopaminergic neuronal cell death both in PD patients and in PD animal models. Mitochondria are organized in a highly dynamic tubular network that is continuously reshaped by opposing processes of fusion and fission. Defects in either fusion or fission, leading to mitochondrial fragmentation, limit mitochondrial motility, decrease energy production and increase oxidative stress, thereby promoting cell dysfunction and death. Thus, the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics processes, such as fusion, fission and mitophagy, represents important mechanisms controlling neuronal cell fate. In this review, we summarize some of the recent evidence supporting that impairment of mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy and mitochondrial import occurs in cellular and animal PD models and disruption of these processes is a contributing mechanism to cell death in dopaminergic neurons. We also summarize mitochondria-targeting therapeutics in models of PD, proposing that modulation of mitochondrial impairment might be beneficial for drug development toward treatment of PD.
Collapse
|
28
|
Tian C, Li Y, Huang Y, Wang Y, Chen D, Liu J, Deng X, Sun L, Anderson K, Qi X, Li Y, Lee Mosley R, Chen X, Huang J, Zheng JC. Selective Generation of Dopaminergic Precursors from Mouse Fibroblasts by Direct Lineage Conversion. Sci Rep 2015. [PMID: 26224135 PMCID: PMC4519786 DOI: 10.1038/srep12622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Degeneration of midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons is a key pathological event of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Limited adult dopaminergic neurogenesis has led to novel therapeutic strategies such as transplantation of dopaminergic precursors (DPs). However, this strategy is currently restrained by a lack of cell source, the tendency for the DPs to become a glial-restricted state, and the tumor formation after transplantation. Here, we demonstrate the direct conversion of mouse fibroblasts into induced DPs (iDPs) by ectopic expression of Brn2, Sox2 and Foxa2. Besides expression with neural progenitor markers and midbrain genes including Corin, Otx2 and Lmx1a, the iDPs were restricted to dopaminergic neuronal lineage upon differentiation. After transplantation into MPTP-lesioned mice, iDPs differentiated into DA neurons, functionally alleviated the motor deficits, and reduced the loss of striatal DA neuronal axonal termini. Importantly, no iDPs-derived astroctyes and neoplasia were detected in mouse brains after transplantation. We propose that the iDPs from direct reprogramming provides a safe and efficient cell source for PD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Changhai Tian
- Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China.,Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience.,University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Yuju Li
- Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China.,Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience.,University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Yunlong Huang
- Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China.,Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience.,University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Yongxiang Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience.,University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Dapeng Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P. R. China
| | - Jinxu Liu
- Department of Emergency Medicine.,University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Xiaobei Deng
- Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Lijun Sun
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology.,University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Kristi Anderson
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience.,University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Xinrui Qi
- Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yulong Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine.,University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - R Lee Mosley
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience.,University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Xiangmei Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P. R. China
| | - Jian Huang
- Chinese National Human Genome Center at Shanghai, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Jialin C Zheng
- Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China.,Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience.,Department of Pathology and Microbiology.,University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rusanescu G, Mao J. Immature spinal cord neurons are dynamic regulators of adult nociceptive sensitivity. J Cell Mol Med 2015. [PMID: 26223362 PMCID: PMC4594677 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a debilitating condition with unknown mechanism. Nociceptive sensitivity may be regulated by genetic factors, some of which have been separately linked to neuronal progenitor cells and neuronal differentiation. This suggests that genetic factors that interfere with neuronal differentiation may contribute to a chronic increase in nociceptive sensitivity, by extending the immature, hyperexcitable stage of spinal cord neurons. Although adult rodent spinal cord neurogenesis was previously demonstrated, the fate of these progenitor cells is unknown. Here, we show that peripheral nerve injury in adult rats induces extensive spinal cord neurogenesis and a long-term increase in the number of spinal cord laminae I–II neurons ipsilateral to injury. The production and maturation of these new neurons correlates with the time course and modulation of nociceptive behaviour, and transiently mimics the cellular and behavioural conditions present in genetically modified animal models of chronic pain. This suggests that the number of immature neurons present at any time in the spinal cord dorsal horns contributes to the regulation of nociceptive sensitivity. The continuous turnover of these neurons, which can fluctuate between normal and injured states, is a dynamic regulator of nociceptive sensitivity. In support of this hypothesis, we find that promoters of neuronal differentiation inhibit, while promoters of neurogenesis increase long-term nociception. TrkB agonists, well-known promoters of nociception in the short-term, significantly inhibit long-term nociception by promoting the differentiation of newly produced immature neurons. These findings suggest that promoters of neuronal differentiation may be used to alleviate chronic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Rusanescu
- MGH Center for Translational Pain Research, Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jianren Mao
- MGH Center for Translational Pain Research, Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Clinicopathological significance of orphan nuclear receptor Nurr1 expression in gastric cancer. Clin Transl Oncol 2015; 17:788-94. [PMID: 26022133 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-015-1305-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer is the fourth most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Gastric cancer is characterized by high levels of invasion and metastasis. Increasing attention is being focused on discovering molecular markers for the diagnosis of gastric cancer and for predicting its prognosis. The objective of the present study was to evaluate Nurr1 expression in gastric cancer and to assess its correlation with clinicopathological parameters and prognosis in gastric cancer patients. METHODS Tissue samples were obtained from 120 gastric cancer patients. We investigated Nurr1 expression in human normal and gastric cancer tissues using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. We determined the association between Nurr1 and recurrence, prognosis and patient clinicopathological parameters. Univariate and multivariate survival analyses with a Cox's proportional hazards regression model were used to identify independent factors related to recurrence and prognosis. RESULTS The immunohistochemical, qRT-PCR and western blot analyses revealed that Nurr1 expression was increased in gastric cancer tissues compared with normal gastric tissue (P < 0.05). Nurr1 expression was significantly correlated with the tumor size, depth of tumor invasion, lymph node metastasis, recurrence, and distant metastasis of gastric cancer (P < 0.05). Moreover, Nurr1-high patients also exhibited poorer overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival compared with Nurr1-low patients (P < 0.01). The univariate and multivariate survival analyses suggested that Nurr1 expression (P = 0.011), histology (P = 0.018), depth of tumor invasion (P = 0.037), and presence of lymph node metastasis (P = 0.031) were independent prognostic factors for recurrence. In addition, Nurr1 expression (P = 0.007), depth of tumor invasion (P = 0.014), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.044), distant metastasis (P = 0.023), and recurrence (P = 0.011) were independent prognostic factors of OS in gastric cancer patients. CONCLUSIONS The Nurr1 protein may be useful as a marker of recurrence, metastasis, and poor prognosis following curative resection in patients with gastric cancer.
Collapse
|
31
|
Blaess S, Ang SL. Genetic control of midbrain dopaminergic neuron development. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2015; 4:113-34. [PMID: 25565353 DOI: 10.1002/wdev.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Revised: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 11/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Midbrain dopaminergic neurons are involved in regulating motor control, reward behavior, and cognition. Degeneration or dysfunction of midbrain dopaminergic neurons is implicated in several neuropsychiatric disorders such as Parkinson's disease, substance use disorders, depression, and schizophrenia. Understanding the developmental processes that generate midbrain dopaminergic neurons will facilitate the generation of dopaminergic neurons from stem cells for cell replacement therapies to substitute degenerating cells in Parkinson's disease patients and will forward our understanding on how functional diversity of dopaminergic neurons in the adult brain is established. Midbrain dopaminergic neurons develop in a multistep process. Following the induction of the ventral midbrain, a distinct dopaminergic progenitor domain is specified and dopaminergic progenitors undergo proliferation, neurogenesis, and differentiation. Subsequently, midbrain dopaminergic neurons acquire a mature dopaminergic phenotype, migrate to their final position and establish projections and connections to their forebrain targets. This review will discuss insights gained on the signaling network of secreted molecules, cell surface receptors, and transcription factors that regulate specification and differentiation of midbrain dopaminergic progenitors and neurons, from the induction of the ventral midbrain to the migration of dopaminergic neurons. For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website. CONFLICT OF INTEREST The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Blaess
- Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, Life and Brain Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Pallarés ME, Antonelli MC. Hormonal modulation of catecholaminergic neurotransmission in a prenatal stress model. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2015; 10:45-59. [PMID: 25287535 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-1372-5_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Our laboratory has a long-standing interest in the effects of prenatal stress (PS) on various neurotransmitter pathways and the morphology of the developing brain as well as in behavioural aspects of the offspring. Employing a commonly used PS paradigm in which the dams were subjected to restraint stress during the last week of gestation, we observed that several of these pathways were altered in the offspring brain. In this chapter, we will summarize and discuss the results obtained with the main catecholaminergic pathways, namely dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE). In our hands, PS produces an increase in dopamine D2-type receptors in limbic areas, a decreased DA release after amphetamine stimulation in prefrontal cortex (PFC) and an increase in NE release in the same area of the adult offspring brain. In addition, DA uptake is altered at prepubertal stages that persist through adulthood. However, the expression of the step-limiting enzyme of the DA synthesis, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), is only impaired at early stages of development after PS in the neuronal bodies. At the nuclear regulation level, dopaminergic transcription factors Nurr1 and Ptx3 showed a high vulnerability to PS showing changes along the lifespan. It was striking to observe that many impairments observed in most of these pathways differed depending on whether they were tested before or after puberty indicating a particular sensitivity of the systems to variations in gonadal hormones peaks. In fact, we observed that PS induced long-term effects on the male offspring reproductive system and spermatogenesis development, particularly by inducing a long-term imbalance of circulating sexual hormone levels. Our findings suggest that PS exerts long-term effects on various neurotransmitter pathways altering the normal connectivity between brain areas. Since the developing forebrain was shown to be influenced by androgen exposure, and PS was shown to disrupt prenatal testosterone surges, our results suggest that prenatal insults might be affecting the organizational role of androgens during brain development and differentially modulating their activational role during pubertal brain maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Eugenia Pallarés
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Veenvliet JV, Smidt MP. Molecular mechanisms of dopaminergic subset specification: fundamental aspects and clinical perspectives. Cell Mol Life Sci 2014; 71:4703-27. [PMID: 25064061 PMCID: PMC11113784 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-014-1681-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Revised: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the ventral mesodiencephalon control locomotion and emotion and are affected in psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD). A clinical hallmark of PD is the specific degeneration of DA neurons located within the substantia nigra (SNc), whereas neurons in the ventral tegmental area remain unaffected. Recent advances have highlighted that the selective vulnerability of the SNc may originate in subset-specific molecular programming during DA neuron development, and significantly increased our understanding of the molecular code that drives specific SNc development. We here present an up-to-date overview of molecular mechanisms that direct DA subset specification, integrating our current knowledge about subset-specific roles of transcription factors, signaling pathways and morphogenes. We discuss strategies to further unravel subset-specific gene-regulatory networks, and the clinical promise of fundamental knowledge about subset specification of DA neurons, with regards to cell replacement therapy and cell-type-specific vulnerability in PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesse V. Veenvliet
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marten P. Smidt
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Poulin JF, Zou J, Drouin-Ouellet J, Kim KYA, Cicchetti F, Awatramani RB. Defining midbrain dopaminergic neuron diversity by single-cell gene expression profiling. Cell Rep 2014; 9:930-43. [PMID: 25437550 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Revised: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective approaches to neuropsychiatric disorders require detailed understanding of the cellular composition and circuitry of the complex mammalian brain. Here, we present a paradigm for deconstructing the diversity of neurons defined by a specific neurotransmitter using a microfluidic dynamic array to simultaneously evaluate the expression of 96 genes in single neurons. With this approach, we successfully identified multiple molecularly distinct dopamine neuron subtypes and localized them in the adult mouse brain. To validate the anatomical and functional correlates of molecular diversity, we provide evidence that one Vip+ subtype, located in the periaqueductal region, has a discrete projection field within the extended amygdala. Another Aldh1a1+ subtype, located in the substantia nigra, is especially vulnerable in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) model of Parkinson's disease. Overall, this rapid, cost-effective approach enables the identification and classification of multiple dopamine neuron subtypes, with distinct molecular, anatomical, and functional properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Francois Poulin
- Department of Neurology and the Center for Genetic Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jian Zou
- Department of Neurology and the Center for Genetic Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | | | - Kwang-Youn A Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Francesca Cicchetti
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Axe Neurosciences and Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Rajeshwar B Awatramani
- Department of Neurology and the Center for Genetic Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Effects of isoxazolo-pyridinone 7e, a potent activator of the Nurr1 signaling pathway, on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108791. [PMID: 25265488 PMCID: PMC4181297 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune chronic disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by immune-mediated inflammation, demyelination and subsequent axonal damage. Gene expression profiling showed that Nurr1, an orphan nuclear receptor, is down-regulated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of MS patients. Nurr1 exerts an anti-inflammatory role repressing the activity of the pro-inflammatory transcription factor NF-kB. Here, we report that the preventive treatment with isoxazolo-pyridinone 7e, an activator of Nurr1 signaling pathway, reduces the incidence and the severity of a MS murine model, i.e. experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The compound is able to attenuate inflammation and neurodegeneration in spinal cords of EAE mice by an NF-kB pathway-dependent process.
Collapse
|
36
|
Allodi I, Hedlund E. Directed midbrain and spinal cord neurogenesis from pluripotent stem cells to model development and disease in a dish. Front Neurosci 2014; 8:109. [PMID: 24904255 PMCID: PMC4033221 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2014.00109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Induction of specific neuronal fates is restricted in time and space in the developing CNS through integration of extrinsic morphogen signals and intrinsic determinants. Morphogens impose regional characteristics on neural progenitors and establish distinct progenitor domains. Such domains are defined by unique expression patterns of fate determining transcription factors. These processes of neuronal fate specification can be recapitulated in vitro using pluripotent stem cells. In this review, we focus on the generation of dopamine neurons and motor neurons, which are induced at ventral positions of the neural tube through Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling, and defined at anteroposterior positions by fibroblast growth factor (Fgf) 8, Wnt1, and retinoic acid (RA). In vitro utilization of these morphogenic signals typically results in the generation of multiple neuronal cell types, which are defined at the intersection of these signals. If the purpose of in vitro neurogenesis is to generate one cell type only, further lineage restriction can be accomplished by forced expression of specific transcription factors in a permissive environment. Alternatively, cell-sorting strategies allow for selection of neuronal progenitors or mature neurons. However, modeling development, disease and prospective therapies in a dish could benefit from structured heterogeneity, where desired neurons are appropriately synaptically connected and thus better reflect the three-dimensional structure of that region. By modulating the extrinsic environment to direct sequential generation of neural progenitors within a domain, followed by self-organization and synaptic establishment, a reductionist model of that brain region could be created. Here we review recent advances in neuronal fate induction in vitro, with a focus on the interplay between cell intrinsic and extrinsic factors, and discuss the implications for studying development and disease in a dish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilary Allodi
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Hedlund
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
The lifelong maintenance of mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons by Nurr1 and engrailed. J Biomed Sci 2014; 21:27. [PMID: 24685177 PMCID: PMC3998737 DOI: 10.1186/1423-0127-21-27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Specific vulnerability and degeneration of the dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta of the midbrain is the pathological hallmark of Parkinson’s disease. A number of transcription factors regulate the birth and development of this set of neurons and some remain constitutively expressed throughout life. These maintenance transcription factors are closely associated with essential neurophysiological functions and are required ultimately for the long-term survival of the midbrain dopaminergic neurons. The current review describes the role of two such factors, Nurr1 and engrailed, in differentiation, maturation, and in normal physiological functions including acquisition of neurotransmitter identity. The review will also elucidate the relationship of these factors with life, vulnerability, degeneration and death of mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons in the context of Parkinson’s disease.
Collapse
|
38
|
The proteome of the differentiating mesencephalic progenitor cell line CSM14.1 in vitro. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:351821. [PMID: 24592386 PMCID: PMC3925624 DOI: 10.1155/2014/351821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The treatment of Parkinson's disease by transplantation of dopaminergic (DA) neurons from human embryonic mesencephalic tissue is a promising approach. However, the origin of these cells causes major problems: availability and standardization of the graft. Therefore, the generation of unlimited numbers of DA neurons from various types of stem or progenitor cells has been brought into focus. A source for DA neurons might be conditionally immortalized progenitor cells. The temperature-sensitive immortalized cell line CSM14.1 derived from the mesencephalon of an embryonic rat has been used successfully for transplantation experiments. This cell line was analyzed by unbiased stereology of cell type specific marker proteins and 2D-gel electrophoresis followed by mass spectrometry to characterize the differentially expressed proteome. Undifferentiated CSM14.1 cells only expressed the stem cell marker nestin, whereas differentiated cells expressed GFAP or NeuN and tyrosine hydroxylase. An increase of the latter cells during differentiation could be shown. By using proteomics an explanation on the protein level was found for the observed changes in cell morphology during differentiation, when CSM14.1 cells possessed the morphology of multipolar neurons. The results obtained in this study confirm the suitability of CSM14.1 cells as an in vitro model for the study of neuronal and dopaminergic differentiation in rats.
Collapse
|
39
|
Alwin Prem Anand A, Gowri Sankar S, Kokila Vani V. Immortalization of neuronal progenitors using SV40 large T antigen and differentiation towards dopaminergic neurons. J Cell Mol Med 2014; 16:2592-610. [PMID: 22863662 PMCID: PMC4118228 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2012.01607.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Transplantation is common in clinical practice where there is availability of the tissue and organ. In the case of neurodegenerative disease such as Parkinson's disease (PD), transplantation is not possible as a result of the non-availability of tissue or organ and therefore, cell therapy is an innovation in clinical practice. However, the availability of neuronal cells for transplantation is very limited. Alternatively, immortalized neuronal progenitors could be used in treating PD. The neuronal progenitor cells can be differentiated into dopaminergic phenotype. Here in this article, the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the differentiation of dopaminergic phenotype from the neuronal progenitors immortalized with SV40 LT antigen is discussed. In addition, the methods of generating dopaminergic neurons from progenitor cells and the factors that govern their differentiation are elaborated. Recent advances in cell-therapy based transplantation in PD patients and future prospects are discussed.
Collapse
|
40
|
Wurst W, Prakash N. Wnt1-regulated genetic networks in midbrain dopaminergic neuron development. J Mol Cell Biol 2013; 6:34-41. [DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjt046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
41
|
Smits SM, von Oerthel L, Hoekstra EJ, Burbach JPH, Smidt MP. Molecular marker differences relate to developmental position and subsets of mesodiencephalic dopaminergic neurons. PLoS One 2013; 8:e76037. [PMID: 24116087 PMCID: PMC3792114 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0076037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of mesodiencephalic dopaminergic (mdDA) neurons located in the substantia nigra compacta (SNc) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) follow a number of stages marked by distinct events. After preparation of the region by signals that provide induction and patterning, several transcription factors have been identified, which are involved in specifying the neuronal fate of these cells. The specific vulnerability of SNc neurons is thought to root in these specific developmental programs. The present study examines the positions of young postmitotic mdDA neurons to relate developmental position to mdDA subset specific markers. MdDA neurons were mapped relative to the neuromeric domains (prosomeres 1-3 (P1-3), midbrain, and hindbrain) as well as the longitudinal subdivisions (floor plate, basal plate, alar plate), as proposed by the prosomeric model. We found that postmitotic mdDA neurons are located mainly in the floorplate domain and very few in slightly more lateral domains. Moreover, mdDA neurons are present along a large proportion of the anterior/posterior axis extending from the midbrain to P3 in the diencephalon. The specific positions relate to some extent to the presence of specific subset markers as Ahd2. In the adult stage more of such subsets specific expressed genes are present and may represent a molecular map defining molecularly distinct groups of mdDA neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone M. Smits
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lars von Oerthel
- Molecular Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Elisa J. Hoekstra
- Molecular Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J. Peter H Burbach
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marten P. Smidt
- Molecular Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Garcia-Reitboeck P, Anichtchik O, Dalley JW, Ninkina N, Tofaris GK, Buchman VL, Spillantini MG. Endogenous alpha-synuclein influences the number of dopaminergic neurons in mouse substantia nigra. Exp Neurol 2013; 248:541-5. [PMID: 23933574 PMCID: PMC4104299 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2013.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2013] [Revised: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The presynaptic protein α-synuclein is central to the pathogenesis of α-synucleinopathies. We show that the presence of endogenous mouse α-synuclein leads to higher number of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of wild-type C57Bl/6J mice compared with C57Bl/6S mice with a spontaneous deletion of the α-synuclein gene or C57Bl/6J mice with a targeted deletion of the α-synuclein gene. This effect of α-synuclein on dopaminergic neuron occurs during development between E10.5 and E13.5 and persists in adult life supporting the involvement of α-synuclein in the development of a subset of dopaminergic neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Oleg Anichtchik
- Centre for Brain Repair, Dept. of Clinical Neurosciences, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jeffrey W. Dalley
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute and Dept. of Psychology, Cambridge, UK
- Dept. of Psychiatry, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - George K. Tofaris
- Centre for Brain Repair, Dept. of Clinical Neurosciences, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Veenvliet JV, Dos Santos MTMA, Kouwenhoven WM, von Oerthel L, Lim JL, van der Linden AJA, Koerkamp MJAG, Holstege FCP, Smidt MP. Specification of dopaminergic subsets involves interplay of En1 and Pitx3. Development 2013; 140:3373-84. [PMID: 23863478 DOI: 10.1242/dev.094565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mesodiencephalic dopaminergic (mdDA) neurons control locomotion and emotion and are affected in multiple psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease (PD). The homeodomain transcription factor Pitx3 is pivotal in mdDA neuron development and loss of Pitx3 results in programming deficits in a rostrolateral subpopulation of mdDA neurons destined to form the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc), reminiscent of the specific cell loss observed in PD. We show here that in adult mice in which the gene encoding a second homeoprotein, engrailed 1 (En1), has been deleted, dramatic loss of mdDA neurons and striatal innervation defects were observed, partially reminiscent of defects observed in Pitx3(-/-) mice. We then continue to reveal developmental crosstalk between En1 and Pitx3 through genome-wide expression analysis. During development, both En1 and Pitx3 are required to induce expression of mdDA genes in the rostrolateral subset destined to form the SNc. By contrast, Pitx3 and En1 reciprocally regulate a separate gene cluster, which includes Cck, demarcating a caudal mdDA subset in wild-type embryos. Whereas En1 is crucial for induction of this caudal phenotype, Pitx3 antagonizes it rostrolaterally. The combinatorial action of En1 and Pitx3 is potentially realized through at least three levels of molecular interaction: (1) influencing each other's expression level, (2) releasing histone deacetylase-mediated repression of Nurr1 target genes and (3) modulating En1 activity through Pitx3-driven activation of En1 modulatory proteins. These findings show how two crucial mediators of mdDA neuronal development, En1 and Pitx3, interact in dopaminergic subset specification, the importance of which is exemplified by the specific vulnerability of the SNc found in PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesse V Veenvliet
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 3511 PG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Kesby JP, Cui X, Burne THJ, Eyles DW. Altered dopamine ontogeny in the developmentally vitamin D deficient rat and its relevance to schizophrenia. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:111. [PMID: 23882183 PMCID: PMC3713405 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a heterogeneous group of disorders with unknown etiology. Although abnormalities in multiple neurotransmitter systems have been linked to schizophrenia, alterations in dopamine (DA) neurotransmission remain central to the treatment of this disorder. Given that schizophrenia is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder we have hypothesized that abnormal DA signaling in the adult patient may result from altered DA signaling during fetal brain development. Environmental and genetic risk factors can be modeled in rodents to allow for the investigation of early neurodevelopmental pathogenesis that may lead to clues into the etiology of schizophrenia. To address this we created an animal model of one such risk factor, developmental vitamin D (DVD) deficiency. DVD-deficient adult rats display an altered behavioral profile in response to DA releasing and blocking agents that are reminiscent of that seen in schizophrenia patients. Furthermore, developmental studies revealed that DVD deficiency also altered cell proliferation, apoptosis, and neurotransmission across the embryonic brain. In particular, DVD deficiency reduces the expression of crucial dopaminergic specification factors and alters DA metabolism in the developing brain. We speculate such alterations in fetal brain development may change the trajectory of DA neuron ontogeny to induce the behavioral abnormalities observed in adult offspring. The widespread evidence that both dopaminergic and structural changes are present in people who develop schizophrenia prior to onset also suggest that early alterations in development are central to the disease. Taken together, early alterations in DA ontogeny may represent a core feature in the pathology of schizophrenia. Such a mechanism could bring together evidence from multiple risk factors and genetic vulnerabilities to form a convergent pathway in disease pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James P. Kesby
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San DiegoLa Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Xiaoying Cui
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of QueenslandBrisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Thomas H. J. Burne
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of QueenslandBrisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental HealthWacol, QLD, Australia
| | - Darryl W. Eyles
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of QueenslandBrisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental HealthWacol, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Midbrain dopaminergic neurons: a review of the molecular circuitry that regulates their development. Dev Biol 2013; 379:123-38. [PMID: 23603197 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2013.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2013] [Revised: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Dopaminergic (DA) neurons of the ventral midbrain (VM) play vital roles in the regulation of voluntary movement, emotion and reward. They are divided into the A8, A9 and A10 subgroups. The development of the A9 group of DA neurons is an area of intense investigation to aid the generation of these neurons from stem cell sources for cell transplantation approaches to Parkinson's disease (PD). This review discusses the molecular processes that are involved in the identity, specification, maturation, target innervation and survival of VM DA neurons during development. The complex molecular interactions of a number of genetic pathways are outlined, as well as recent advances in the mechanisms that regulate subset identity within the VM DA neuronal pool. A thorough understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the development of VM DA neurons will greatly facilitate the use of cell replacement therapy for the treatment of PD.
Collapse
|
46
|
van der Heide LP, Smidt MP. The BCL2 code to dopaminergic development and Parkinson's disease. Trends Mol Med 2013; 19:211-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2013.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2012] [Revised: 02/12/2013] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
47
|
The N-terminal region of Nurr1 (a.a 1-31) is essential for its efficient degradation by the ubiquitin proteasome pathway. PLoS One 2013; 8:e55999. [PMID: 23409108 PMCID: PMC3567022 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0055999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 01/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
NURR1/NR4A2 is an orphan nuclear receptor that is critical for the development and maintenance of mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons and regulates transcription of genes involved in the function of dopaminergic neurons directly via specific NGFI-B response elements (NBRE).and substantial data support a possible role of Nurr1 in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). Here we show that Nurr1 is degraded by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway and determined that N-terminal region (a.a 1–31) of Nurr1 is essential for an efficient targeting of Nurr1 to degradation in the cell. Nurr1 Δ1–31 has a much longer half-life, and as a consequence its steady-state protein levels were higher, than full-length Nurr1 in the cell. Nurr1 Δ1–31 was as potent as Nurr1 full length in transcriptional luciferase reporter assays after normalization with the corresponding steady-state protein expression levels, either in trans-activation of NBRE or trans-repression of iNOS (inducible NO synthase) reporters. These results suggest that Nurr1 Δ1–31, because of longer persistence in the cell, can be a good candidate for gene and cell therapies in the treatment of PD.
Collapse
|
48
|
Neurochemical profiling of dopaminergic neurons in the forebrain of a cichlid fish, Astatotilapia burtoni. J Chem Neuroanat 2013; 47:106-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2012.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2012] [Revised: 12/27/2012] [Accepted: 12/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
49
|
Restriction of neural precursor ability to respond to Nurr1 by early regional specification. PLoS One 2012; 7:e51798. [PMID: 23240065 PMCID: PMC3519900 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0051798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 11/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During neural development, spatially regulated expression of specific transcription factors is crucial for central nervous system (CNS) regionalization, generation of neural precursors (NPs) and subsequent differentiation of specific cell types within defined regions. A critical role in dopaminergic differentiation in the midbrain (MB) has been assigned to the transcription factor Nurr1. Nurr1 controls the expression of key genes involved in dopamine (DA) neurotransmission, e.g. tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and the DA transporter (DAT), and promotes the dopaminergic phenotype in embryonic stem cells. We investigated whether cells derived from different areas of the mouse CNS could be directed to differentiate into dopaminergic neurons in vitro by forced expression of the transcription factor Nurr1. We show that Nurr1 overexpression can promote dopaminergic cell fate specification only in NPs obtained from E13.5 ganglionic eminence (GE) and MB, but not in NPs isolated from E13.5 cortex (CTX) and spinal cord (SC) or from the adult subventricular zone (SVZ). Confirming previous studies, we also show that Nurr1 overexpression can increase the generation of TH-positive neurons in mouse embryonic stem cells. These data show that Nurr1 ability to induce a dopaminergic phenotype becomes restricted during CNS development and is critically dependent on the region of NPs derivation. Our results suggest that the plasticity of NPs and their ability to activate a dopaminergic differentiation program in response to Nurr1 is regulated during early stages of neurogenesis, possibly through mechanisms controlling CNS regionalization.
Collapse
|
50
|
Arata S, Nakamachi T, Onimaru H, Hashimoto H, Shioda S. Impaired response to hypoxia in the respiratory center is a major cause of neonatal death of the PACAP-knockout mouse. Eur J Neurosci 2012; 37:407-16. [PMID: 23136967 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2012] [Revised: 10/09/2012] [Accepted: 10/10/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide expressed widely in nervous tissues. PACAP-knockout ((-/-)) mice display a sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)-like phenotype, although the underlying physiological mechanism to explain this remains unclear. Here, we report on the presence of abnormal respiratory activity in PACAP(-/-) mice under hypoxic conditions, which provides a basis for the SIDS-like phenotype. PACAP(-/-) mice display a lowered baseline respiratory activity compared with wild-type animals, and an abnormal response to hypoxia. More specifically, PACAP(-/-) mice at postnatal day 7 showed respiratory arrest in response to hypoxia. In contrast, their response to hypercapnic conditions was the same as that of wild-type mice. Histological and real-time PCR analyses indicated that the catecholaminergic system in the medulla oblongata was impaired in PACAP(-/-) mice, suggesting that endogenous PACAP affects respiratory centers in the medulla oblongata via its action on the catecholaminergic system. We propose that disruption of this system is involved in the SIDS-like phenotype of PACAP(-/-) mice. Thus, disorders of the catecholaminergic system involved with O(2) sensing could be implicated in underlying neuronal mechanisms responsible for SIDS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satoru Arata
- Center for Biotechnology, Showa University, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|