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Islam A, Ronco A, Becker SM, Blackburn J, Schittny JC, Kim K, Stein-Wexler R, Wexler AS. Can lung airway geometry be used to predict autism? A preliminary machine learning-based study. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2024; 307:457-469. [PMID: 37771211 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
The goal of this study is to assess the feasibility of airway geometry as a biomarker for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Chest computed tomography images of children with a documented diagnosis of ASD as well as healthy controls were identified retrospectively. Fifty-four scans were obtained for analysis, including 31 ASD cases and 23 controls. A feature selection and classification procedure using principal component analysis and support vector machine achieved a peak cross validation accuracy of nearly 89% using a feature set of eight airway branching angles. Sensitivity was 94%, but specificity was only 78%. The results suggest a measurable difference in airway branching angles between children with ASD and the control population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asef Islam
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Anthony Ronco
- Department of Radiology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Stephen M Becker
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Jeremiah Blackburn
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Johannes C Schittny
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Kyoungmi Kim
- Department of Public Health Science, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | | | - Anthony S Wexler
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Land, Air and Water Resources, University of California, Davis, California, USA
- Air Quality Research Center, University of California, Davis, California, USA
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2
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Mehta R, Kuhad A, Bhandari R. Nitric oxide pathway as a plausible therapeutic target in autism spectrum disorders. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:659-679. [DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2100252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rishab Mehta
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh – 160 014 India
| | - Anurag Kuhad
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh – 160 014 India
| | - Ranjana Bhandari
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh – 160 014 India
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3
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Sánchez-Luquez KY, Carpena MX, Karam SM, Tovo-Rodrigues L. The contribution of whole-exome sequencing to intellectual disability diagnosis and knowledge of underlying molecular mechanisms: A systematic review and meta-analysis. MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2022; 790:108428. [PMID: 35905832 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2022.108428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Whole-exome sequencing (WES) is useful for molecular diagnosis, family genetic counseling, and prognosis of intellectual disability (ID). However, ID molecular diagnosis ascertainment based on WES is highly dependent on de novo mutations (DNMs) and variants of uncertain significance (VUS). The quantification of DNM frequency in ID molecular diagnosis ascertainment and the biological mechanisms common to genes with VUS may provide objective information about WES use in ID diagnosis and etiology. We aimed to investigate and estimate the rate of ID molecular diagnostic assessment by WES, quantify the contribution of DNMs to this rate, and biologically and functionally characterize the genes whose mutations were identified through WES. A PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, BIREME, and PsycINFO systematic review and meta-analysis was performed, including studies published between 2010 and 2022. Thirty-seven articles with data on ID molecular diagnostic yield using the WES approach were included in the review. WES testing accounted for an overall diagnostic rate of 42% (Confidence interval (CI): 35-50%), while the estimate restricted to DNMs was 11% (CI: 6-18%). Genetic information on mutations and genes was extracted and split into two groups: (1) genes whose mutation was used for positive molecular diagnosis, and (2) genes whose mutation led to uncertain molecular diagnosis. After functional enrichment analysis, in addition to their expected roles in neurodevelopment, genes from the first group were enriched in epigenetic regulatory mechanisms, immune system regulation, and circadian rhythm control. Genes from uncertain diagnosis cases were enriched in the renin angiotensin pathway. Taken together, our results support WES as an important approach to the molecular diagnosis of ID. The results also indicated relevant pathways that may underlie the pathogenesis of ID with the renin-angiotensin pathway being suggested to be a potential pathway underlying the pathogenesis of ID.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina Xavier Carpena
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil.
| | - Simone M Karam
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil.
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4
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“Silicon-On-Insulator”-Based Nanosensor for the Revelation of MicroRNA Markers of Autism. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13020199. [PMID: 35205244 PMCID: PMC8872218 DOI: 10.3390/genes13020199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs), which represent short (20 to 22 nt) non-coding RNAs, were found to play a direct role in the development of autism in children. Herein, a highly sensitive “silicon-on-insulator”-based nanosensor (SOI-NS) has been developed for the revelation of autism-associated miRNAs. This SOI-NS comprises an array of nanowire sensor structures fabricated by complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible technology, gas-phase etching, and nanolithography. In our experiments described herein, we demonstrate the revelation of ASD-associated miRNAs in human plasma with the SOI-NS, whose sensor elements were sensitized with oligonucleotide probes. In order to determine the concentration sensitivity of the SOI-NS, experiments on the detection of synthetic DNA analogues of autism-associated miRNAs in purified buffer were performed. The lower limit of miRNA detection attained in our experiments amounted to 10−17 M.
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5
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Shafik AM, Zhang F, Guo Z, Dai Q, Pajdzik K, Li Y, Kang Y, Yao B, Wu H, He C, Allen EG, Duan R, Jin P. N6-methyladenosine dynamics in neurodevelopment and aging, and its potential role in Alzheimer's disease. Genome Biol 2021; 22:17. [PMID: 33402207 PMCID: PMC7786910 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-020-02249-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is known to impact many aspects of RNA metabolism, including mRNA stability and translation, and is highly prevalent in the brain. RESULTS We show that m6A modification displays temporal and spatial dynamics during neurodevelopment and aging. Genes that are temporally differentially methylated are more prone to have mRNA expression changes and affect many pathways associated with nervous system development. Furthermore, m6A shows a distinct tissue-specific methylation profile, which is most pronounced in the hypothalamus. Tissue-specific methylation is associated with an increase in mRNA expression and is associated with tissue-specific developmental processes. During the aging process, we observe significantly more m6A sites as age increases, in both mouse and human. We show a high level of overlap between mouse and human; however, humans at both young and old ages consistently show more m6A sites compared to mice. Differential m6A sites are found to be enriched in alternative untranslated regions of genes that affect aging-related pathways. These m6A sites are associated with a strong negative effect on mRNA expression. We also show that many Alzheimer-related transcripts exhibit decreased m6A methylation in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, which is correlated with reduced protein levels. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that m6A exerts a critical function in both early and late brain development in a spatio-temporal fashion. Furthermore, m6A controls protein levels of key genes involved in Alzheimer's disease-associated pathways, suggesting that m6A plays an important role in aging and neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Shafik
- Department of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Feiran Zhang
- Department of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Zhenxing Guo
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Qing Dai
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Kinga Pajdzik
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Yangping Li
- Department of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Yunhee Kang
- Department of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Bing Yao
- Department of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Chuan He
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Emily G Allen
- Department of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Ranhui Duan
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Peng Jin
- Department of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
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6
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Jiang YG, Wang YH, Zhang H, Wang ZY, Liu YQ. Effects of early-life zinc deficiency on learning and memory in offspring and the changes in DNA methylation patterns. Nutr Neurosci 2020; 25:1001-1010. [PMID: 33078688 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2020.1831259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of maternal zinc deficiency on learning and memory in offspring and the changes in DNA methylation patterns. METHODS Pregnant rats were divided into zinc adequate (ZA), zinc deficient (ZD), and paired fed (PF) groups. Serum zinc contents and AKP activity in mother rats and offspring at P21 (end of lactation) and P60 (weaned, adult) were detected. Cognitive ability of offspring at P21 and P60 were determined by Morris water maze. The expression of proteins including DNMT3a, DNMT1, GADD45β, MeCP2 and BDNF in the offspring hippocampus were detected by Western-blot. The methylation status of BDNF promoter region in hippocampus of offspring rats was detected by MS-qPCR. RESULTS Compared with the ZA and PF groups, pups in the ZD group had lower zinc levels and AKP activity in the serum, spent more time finding the platform and spent less time going through the platform area. Protein expression of DNMT1 and GADD45b were downregulated in the ZD group during P0 and P21 but not P60 compared with the ZA and PF group, these results were consistent with a reduction in BDNF protein at P0 (neonate), P21. However, when pups of rats in the ZD group were supplemented with zinc ion from P21 to P60, MeCP2 and GADD45b expression were significantly downregulated compared with the ZA and PF group. CONCLUSION Post-weaning zinc supplementation may improve cognitive impairment induced by early life zinc deficiency, whereas it may not completely reverse the abnormal expression of particular genes that are involved in DNA methylation, binding to methylated DNA and neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Gang Jiang
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong-Hui Wang
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China.,College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zi-Yu Wang
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Qiang Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Nan Kai University, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
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7
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Wu X, Li W, Zheng Y. Recent Progress on Relevant microRNAs in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165904. [PMID: 32824515 PMCID: PMC7460584 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder whose pathogenesis is unclear and is affected by both genetic and environmental factors. The microRNAs (miRNAs) are a kind of single-stranded non-coding RNA with 20-22 nucleotides, which normally inhibit their target mRNAs at a post-transcriptional level. miRNAs are involved in almost all biological processes and are closely related to ASD and many other diseases. In this review, we summarize relevant miRNAs in ASD, and analyze dysregulated miRNAs in brain tissues and body fluids of ASD patients, which may contribute to the pathogenesis and diagnosis of ASD.
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8
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Aggernæs B. Suggestion of a dynamic model of the development of neurodevelopmental disorders and the phenomenon of autism. AIMS MOLECULAR SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.3934/molsci.2020008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
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Bhandari R, Paliwal JK, Kuhad A. Neuropsychopathology of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Complex Interplay of Genetic, Epigenetic, and Environmental Factors. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:97-141. [PMID: 32006358 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex heterogeneous consortium of pervasive development disorders (PDD) which ranges from atypical autism, autism, and Asperger syndrome affecting brain in the developmental stage. This debilitating neurodevelopmental disorder results in both core as well as associated symptoms. Core symptoms observed in autistic patients are lack of social interaction, pervasive, stereotyped, and restricted behavior while the associated symptoms include irritability, anxiety, aggression, and several comorbid disorders.ASD is a polygenic disorder and is multifactorial in origin. Copy number variations (CNVs) of several genes that regulate the synaptogenesis and signaling pathways are one of the major factors responsible for the pathogenesis of autism. The complex integration of various CNVs cause mutations in the genes which code for molecules involved in cell adhesion, voltage-gated ion-channels, scaffolding proteins as well as signaling pathways (PTEN and mTOR pathways). These mutated genes are responsible for affecting synaptic transmission by causing plasticity dysfunction responsible, in turn, for the expression of ASD.Epigenetic modifications affecting DNA transcription and various pre-natal and post-natal exposure to a variety of environmental factors are also precipitating factors for the occurrence of ASD. All of these together cause dysregulation of glutamatergic signaling as well as imbalance in excitatory: inhibitory pathways resulting in glial cell activation and release of inflammatory mediators responsible for the aberrant social behavior which is observed in autistic patients.In this chapter we review and provide insight into the intricate integration of various genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors which play a major role in the pathogenesis of this disorder and the mechanistic approach behind this integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjana Bhandari
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Jyoti K Paliwal
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Anurag Kuhad
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
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10
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Autism Spectrum Disorder and miRNA: An Overview of Experimental Models. Brain Sci 2019; 9:brainsci9100265. [PMID: 31623367 PMCID: PMC6827020 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9100265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by deficits in social interactions, communication, language, and in a limited repertoire of activities and interests. The etiology of ASD is very complex. Genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors contribute to the onset of ASD. Researchers have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) could be one of the possible causes associated with ASD. miRNAs are small noncoding mRNAs that regulate gene expression, and they are often linked to biological processes and implicated in neurodevelopment. This review aims to provide an overview of the animal models and the role of the different miRNAs involved in ASD. Therefore, the use of animal models that reproduce the ASD and the identification of miRNAs could be a useful predictive tool to study this disorder.
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11
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Adenosine A2A receptor as potential therapeutic target in neuropsychiatric disorders. Pharmacol Res 2019; 147:104338. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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12
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Esposito G, Azhari A, Borelli JL. Gene × Environment Interaction in Developmental Disorders: Where Do We Stand and What's Next? Front Psychol 2018; 9:2036. [PMID: 30416467 PMCID: PMC6212589 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the field of psychiatry has witnessed the proliferation of studies on Gene × Environment (G×E) interactions, still limited is the knowledge we possess of G×E interactions regarding developmental disorders. In this perspective paper, we discuss why G×E interaction studies are needed to broaden our knowledge of developmental disorders. We also discuss the different roles of hazardous versus self-generated environmental factors and how these types of factors may differentially engage with an individual's genetic background in predicting a resulting phenotype. Then, we present examplar studies that highlight the role of G×E in predicting atypical developmental trajectories as well as provide insight regarding treatment outcomes. Supported by these examples, we explore the need to move beyond merely examining statistical interactions between genes and the environment, and the motivation to investigate specific genetic susceptibility and environmental contexts that drive developmental disorders. We propose that further parsing of genetic and environmental components is required to fully understand the unique contribution of each factor to the etiology of developmental disorders. Finally, with a greater appreciation of the complexities of G×E interaction, this discussion will converge upon the potential implications for clinical and translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Esposito
- Psychology Program, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Atiqah Azhari
- Psychology Program, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jessica L. Borelli
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
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13
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Psychiatry in a Dish: Stem Cells and Brain Organoids Modeling Autism Spectrum Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2018; 83:558-568. [PMID: 29295738 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2017.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders are a group of pervasive neurodevelopmental conditions with heterogeneous etiology, characterized by deficits in social cognition, communication, and behavioral flexibility. Despite an increasing scientific effort to find the pathophysiological explanations for the disease, the neurobiological links remain unclear. A large amount of evidence suggests that pathological processes taking place in early embryonic neurodevelopment might be responsible for later manifestation of autistic symptoms. This dysfunctional development includes altered maturation/differentiation processes, disturbances in cell-cell communication, and an unbalanced ratio between certain neuronal populations. All those processes are highly dependent on the interconnectivity and three-dimensional organizations of the brain. Moreover, in order to gain a deeper understanding of the complex neurobiology of autism spectrum disorders, valid disease models are pivotal. Induced pluripotent stem cells could potentially help to elucidate the complex mechanisms of the disease and lead to the development of more effective individualized treatment. The induced pluripotent stem cells approach allows comparison between the development of various cellular phenotypes generated from cell lines of patients and healthy individuals. A newly advanced organoid technology makes it possible to create three-dimensional in vitro models of brain development and structural interconnectivity, based on induced pluripotent stem cells derived from the respective individuals. The biggest challenge for modeling psychiatric diseases in vitro is finding and establishing the link between cellular and molecular findings with the clinical symptoms, and this review aims to give an overview over the feasibility and applicability of this new tissue engineering tool in psychiatry.
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14
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Baldassarre A, Felli C, Prantera G, Masotti A. Circulating microRNAs and Bioinformatics Tools to Discover Novel Diagnostic Biomarkers of Pediatric Diseases. Genes (Basel) 2017; 8:genes8090234. [PMID: 28925938 PMCID: PMC5615367 DOI: 10.3390/genes8090234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Current studies have shown that miRNAs are also present in extracellular spaces, packaged into various membrane-bound vesicles, or associated with RNA-binding proteins. Circulating miRNAs are highly stable and can act as intercellular messengers to affect many physiological processes. MicroRNAs circulating in body fluids have generated strong interest in their potential use as clinical biomarkers. In fact, their remarkable stability and the relative ease of detection make circulating miRNAs ideal tools for rapid and non-invasive diagnosis. This review summarizes recent insights about the origin, functions and diagnostic potential of extracellular miRNAs by especially focusing on pediatric diseases in order to explore the feasibility of alternative sampling sources for the development of non-invasive pediatric diagnostics. We will also discuss specific bioinformatics tools and databases for circulating miRNAs focused on the identification and discovery of novel diagnostic biomarkers of pediatric diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cristina Felli
- Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Research Laboratories, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Prantera
- Department of Ecology and Biology, Università della Tuscia, 01100 Viterbo, Italy.
| | - Andrea Masotti
- Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Research Laboratories, 00146 Rome, Italy.
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15
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He CC, Wang ZY, Tian K, Liu W, Li YB, Hong Y, Yu LX, Pang W, Jiang YG, Liu YQ. DNA methylation mechanism of intracellular zinc deficiency-induced injury in primary hippocampal neurons in the rat brain. Nutr Neurosci 2017; 21:478-486. [DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2017.1312090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cong-cong He
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Health and Environmental Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Zi-yu Wang
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Health and Environmental Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Kun Tian
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Health and Environmental Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Yi-bo Li
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Health and Environmental Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Yan Hong
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Health and Environmental Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Li-xia Yu
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Health and Environmental Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Wei Pang
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Health and Environmental Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Yu-gang Jiang
- Department of Nutrition, Tianjin Institute of Health and Environmental Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Yan-qiang Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
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16
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Hicks SD, Middleton FA. A Comparative Review of microRNA Expression Patterns in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2016; 7:176. [PMID: 27867363 PMCID: PMC5095455 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2016.00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a wide spectrum of deficits in social interaction, communication, and behavior. There is a significant genetic component to ASD, yet no single gene variant accounts for >1% of incidence. Posttranscriptional mechanisms such as microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression without altering the genetic code. They are abundant in the developing brain and are dysregulated in children with ASD. Patterns of miRNA expression are altered in the brain, blood, saliva, and olfactory precursor cells of ASD subjects. The ability of miRNAs to regulate broad molecular pathways in response to environmental stimuli makes them an intriguing player in ASD, a disorder characterized by genetic predisposition with ill-defined environmental triggers. In addition, the availability and extracellular stability of miRNAs make them an ideal candidate for biomarker discovery. Here, we discuss 27 miRNAs with overlap across ASD studies, including 3 miRNAs identified in 3 or more studies (miR-23a, miR-146a, and miR-106b). Together, these 27 miRNAs have 1245 high-confidence mRNA targets, a significant number of which are expressed in the brain. Furthermore, these mRNA targets demonstrate over-representation of autism-related genes with enrichment of neurotrophic signaling molecules. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a molecule involved in hippocampal neurogenesis and altered in ASD, is targeted by 6 of the 27 miRNAs of interest. This neurotrophic pathway represents one intriguing mechanism by which perturbations in miRNA signaling might influence central nervous system development in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D. Hicks
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Frank A. Middleton
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
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17
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Abstract
Research on autism and environmental risk factors has expanded substantially in recent years. My analysis draws attention to the regimes of perceptibility that shape how the environment is materialized in post-genomic science. I focus on how more complex narratives of autism's causes and social anxieties surrounding child development have helped situate autism risk in women's bodies before and during pregnancy. This has resulted in what I call the maternal body as environment in autism science. I show that this figure involves three characteristics: the molecularization of the environment, an individualization of risk, and the internalization of responsibility. I argue that these three features point to a new spatial and temporal politics of risk and responsibility that may heighten social and medical surveillance of women's bodies and decisions, eclipsing larger questions about the uneven distribution of exposures in society and more holistic understandings of health that include neurodiversity. I conclude by considering what the maternal body as environment signals for women, social justice, and the politics of environmental health in the post-genomic era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martine Lappé
- Center for Research on Ethical, Legal and Social Implications of Psychiatric, Neurologic and Behavioral Genetics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Bakroon A, Lakshminarayanan V. Visual function in autism spectrum disorders: a critical review. Clin Exp Optom 2016; 99:297-308. [PMID: 27161596 DOI: 10.1111/cxo.12383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Revised: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies have shown considerable evidence of visual dysfunction in autism spectrum disorders. Anomalies in visual information processing can have a major effect on the life quality of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. We summarise the hypotheses and theories underlying neural aetiologies and genetic factors that cause these disorders, as well as the possible influences of unusual sensory processing on the communications and behaviour characterised by the autistics. In particular, we review the impact of these dysfunctions on visual performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Bakroon
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Vasudevan Lakshminarayanan
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.,Departments of Physics, Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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El Aidy S, Stilling R, Dinan TG, Cryan JF. Microbiome to Brain: Unravelling the Multidirectional Axes of Communication. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 874:301-36. [PMID: 26589226 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-20215-0_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in host physiology. Disruption of its community structure and function can have wide-ranging effects making it critical to understand exactly how the interactive dialogue between the host and its microbiota is regulated to maintain homeostasis. An array of multidirectional signalling molecules is clearly involved in the host-microbiome communication. This interactive signalling not only impacts the gastrointestinal tract, where the majority of microbiota resides, but also extends to affect other host systems including the brain and liver as well as the microbiome itself. Understanding the mechanistic principles of this inter-kingdom signalling is fundamental to unravelling how our supraorganism function to maintain wellbeing, subsequently opening up new avenues for microbiome manipulation to favour desirable mental health outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar El Aidy
- Microbial Physiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Roman Stilling
- Laboratory of Neurogastroenterology, Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Timothy G Dinan
- Laboratory of Neurogastroenterology, Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Psychiatry, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John F Cryan
- Laboratory of Neurogastroenterology, Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland. .,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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20
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Trivedi MS, Hodgson NW, Walker SJ, Trooskens G, Nair V, Deth RC. Epigenetic effects of casein-derived opioid peptides in SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2015; 12:54. [PMID: 26664459 PMCID: PMC4673759 DOI: 10.1186/s12986-015-0050-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Casein-free, gluten-free diets have been reported to mitigate some of the inflammatory gastrointestinal and behavioral traits associated with autism, but the mechanism for this palliative effect has not been elucidated. We recently showed that the opioid peptide beta-casomorphin-7, derived from bovine (bBCM7) milk, decreases cysteine uptake, lowers levels of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) and decreases the methyl donor S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) in both Caco-2 human GI epithelial cells and SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. While human breast milk can also release a similar peptide (hBCM-7), the bBCM7 and hBCM-7 vary greatly in potency; as the bBCM-7 is highly potent and similar to morphine in it's effects. Since SAM is required for DNA methylation, we wanted to further investigate the epigenetic effects of these food-derived opioid peptides. In the current study the main objective was to characterize functional pathways and key genes responding to DNA methylation effects of food-derived opioid peptides. Methods SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells were treated with 1 μM hBCM7 and bBCM7 and RNA and DNA were isolated after 4 h with or without treatment. Transcriptional changes were assessed using a microarray approach and CpG methylation status was analyzed at 450,000 CpG sites. Functional implications from both endpoints were evaluated via Ingenuity Pathway Analysis 4.0 and KEGG pathway analysis was performed to identify biological interactions between transcripts that were significantly altered at DNA methylation or transcriptional levels (p < 0.05, FDR <0.1). Results Here we show that hBCM7 and bBCM7, as well as morphine, cause epigenetic changes affecting gene pathways related to gastrointestinal disease and inflammation. These epigenetic consequences exhibited the same potency order as opiate inhibition of cysteine uptake insofar as hBCM7 was less potent than bBCM7, which was less potent than morphine. Conclusion Our findings indicate that epigenetic effects of milk-derived opiate peptides may contribute to GI dysfunction and inflammation in sensitive individuals. While the current study was performed using SH-SY5Y neuronal cellular models, similar actions on other cells types might combine to cause symptoms of intolerance. These actions may provide a potential contributing mechanism for the beneficial effects of a casein-free diet in alleviating gastrointestinal symptoms in neurological conditions including autism and other conditions. Lastly, our study also contributes to the evolving awareness of a “gut-brain connection”. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12986-015-0050-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malav S Trivedi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Rm # 3103, HPD building, Fort Lauderdale, FL USA
| | - Nathaniel W Hodgson
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Stephen J Walker
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston Salem, NC USA
| | - Geert Trooskens
- Department of Mathematical Modelling, Statistics and Bioinformatics, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vineeth Nair
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Rm # 3103, HPD building, Fort Lauderdale, FL USA
| | - Richard C Deth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Rm # 3103, HPD building, Fort Lauderdale, FL USA
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21
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Boyce WT, Kobor MS. Development and the epigenome: the 'synapse' of gene-environment interplay. Dev Sci 2015; 18:1-23. [PMID: 25546559 DOI: 10.1111/desc.12282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This paper argues that there is a revolution afoot in the developmental science of gene-environment interplay. We summarize, for an audience of developmental researchers and clinicians, how epigenetic processes - chromatin structural modifications that regulate gene expression without changing DNA sequences - may offer a strong, parsimonious account for the convergence of genetic and contextual variation in the genesis of adaptive and maladaptive development. Epigenetic processes may play a plausible explanatory role in understanding: divergent trajectories and sexual dimorphisms in brain development; statistical interactions between genes and environments; the biological embedding of early psychosocial adversities; the linkages of such adversities to disorders of mental health; the striking individual variation in the strength of those linkages; the molecular origins of critical and sensitive periods; and the transgenerational inheritance of risk and protection. Taken together, these arguments converge in a claim that epigenetic processes constitute a promising and illuminating point of connection - a 'synapse' - between genes and environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Thomas Boyce
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, USA; Child and Brain Development Program, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, Canada
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22
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Claycombe KJ, Brissette CA, Ghribi O. Epigenetics of inflammation, maternal infection, and nutrition. J Nutr 2015; 145:1109S-1115S. [PMID: 25833887 PMCID: PMC4410493 DOI: 10.3945/jn.114.194639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have demonstrated that epigenetic changes such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and chromatin remodeling are linked to an increased inflammatory response as well as increased risk of chronic disease development. A few studies have begun to investigate whether dietary nutrients play a beneficial role by modifying or reversing epigenetically induced inflammation. Results of these studies show that nutrients modify epigenetic pathways. However, little is known about how nutrients modulate inflammation by regulating immune cell function and/or immune cell differentiation via epigenetic pathways. This overview will provide information about the current understanding of the role of nutrients in the epigenetic control mechanisms of immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate J Claycombe
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center, Grand Forks, ND; and
| | - Catherine A Brissette
- Department of Basic Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND
| | - Othman Ghribi
- Department of Basic Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND
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23
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Kiser DP, Rivero O, Lesch KP. Annual research review: The (epi)genetics of neurodevelopmental disorders in the era of whole-genome sequencing--unveiling the dark matter. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2015; 56:278-95. [PMID: 25677560 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.12392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND SCOPE Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are defined by a wide variety of behavioural phenotypes, psychopathology and clinically informed categorical classifications. Diagnostic entities include intellectual disability (ID), the autism spectrum (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The aetiopathogenesis of these conditions and disorders involves an interaction between both genetic and environmental risk factors on the developmental trajectory. Despite their remarkable genetic heterogeneity and complexity of pathophysiological mechanisms, NDDs display an overlap in their phenotypic features, a considerable degree of comorbidity as well as sharing of genetic and environmental risk factors. This review aims to provide an overview of the genetics and epigenetic of NDDs. FINDINGS Recent evidence suggests a critical role of defined and tightly regulated neurodevelopmental programs running out of control in NDDs, most notably neuronal proliferation and migration, synapse formation and remodelling, as well as neural network configuration resulting in compromised systems connectivity and function. Moreover, the machinery of epigenetic programming, interacting with genetic liability, impacts many of those processes and pathways, thus modifying vulnerability of, and resilience to, NDDs. Consequently, the categorically defined entities of ID, ADHD and ASD are increasingly viewed as disorders on a multidimensional continuum of molecular and cellular deficiencies in neurodevelopment. As such, this range of NDDs displays a broad phenotypic diversity, which may be explained by a combination and interplay of underlying loss- and potential gain-of-function traits. CONCLUSION In this overview, we discuss a backbone continuum concept of NDDs by summarizing pertinent findings in genetics and epigenetics. We also provide an appraisal of the genetic overlap versus differences, with a focus on genome-wide screening approaches for (epi)genetic variation. Finally, we conclude with insights from evolutionary psychobiology suggesting positive selection for discrete NDD-associated traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik P Kiser
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
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24
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Abstract
Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficiencies in social interaction and communication, and by repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. According to a recent report, the prevalence of this pervasive developmental disorder has risen to 1 in 88. This will have enormous public health implications in the future, and has necessitated the need to discover predictive biomarkers that could index for autism before the onset of symptoms. microRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. They have recently emerged as prominent epigenetic regulators of various cellular processes including neurodevelopment. They are abundantly present in the brain, and their dysfunction has been implicated in an array of neuropathological conditions including autism. miRNAs, previously known to be expressed only in cells and tissues, have also been detected in extracellular body fluids such as serum, plasma, saliva, and urine. Altered expression of cellular and circulating miRNAs have been observed in autistic individuals compared to healthy controls. miRNAs are now being considered as potential targets for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for autism.
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Sevoflurane-induced down-regulation of hippocampal oxytocin and arginine vasopressin impairs juvenile social behavioral abilities. J Mol Neurosci 2014; 56:70-7. [PMID: 25417719 PMCID: PMC4382529 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-014-0468-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cumulative evidence indicates that early childhood anesthesia can alter a child's future behavioral performance. Animal researchers have found that sevoflurane, the most commonly used anesthetic for children, can produce damage in the neonatal brains of rodents. To further investigate this phenomenon, we focused on the influence of sevoflurane anesthesia on the development of juvenile social behavioral abilities and the pro-social proteins oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) in the neonatal hippocampus. A single 6-h sevoflurane exposure for postnatal day 5 mice resulted in decreased OT and AVP messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels in the hippocampus. OT and AVP proteins became sparsely distributed in the dorsal hippocampus after the exposure to sevoflurane. Compared with the air-treated group, mice in the sevoflurane-treated group showed signs of impairment in social recognition memory formation and social discrimination ability. Sevoflurane anesthesia reduces OT and AVP activities in the neonatal hippocampus and impairs social recognition memory formation and social discrimination ability in juvenile mice.
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Cerebellar oxidative DNA damage and altered DNA methylation in the BTBR T+tf/J mouse model of autism and similarities with human post mortem cerebellum. PLoS One 2014; 9:e113712. [PMID: 25423485 PMCID: PMC4244134 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0113712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular pathogenesis of autism is complex and involves numerous genomic, epigenomic, proteomic, metabolic, and physiological alterations. Elucidating and understanding the molecular processes underlying the pathogenesis of autism is critical for effective clinical management and prevention of this disorder. The goal of this study is to investigate key molecular alterations postulated to play a role in autism and their role in the pathophysiology of autism. In this study we demonstrate that DNA isolated from the cerebellum of BTBR T+tf/J mice, a relevant mouse model of autism, and from human post-mortem cerebellum of individuals with autism, are both characterized by an increased levels of 8-oxo-7-hydrodeoxyguanosine (8-oxodG), 5-methylcytosine (5mC), and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC). The increase in 8-oxodG and 5mC content was associated with a markedly reduced expression of the 8-oxoguanine DNA-glycosylase 1 (Ogg1) and increased expression of de novo DNA methyltransferases 3a and 3b (Dnmt3a and Dnmt3b). Interestingly, a rise in the level of 5hmC occurred without changes in the expression of ten-eleven translocation expression 1 (Tet1) and Tet2 genes, but significantly correlated with the presence of 8-oxodG in DNA. This finding and similar elevation in 8-oxodG in cerebellum of individuals with autism and in the BTBR T+tf/J mouse model warrant future large-scale studies to specifically address the role of OGG1 alterations in pathogenesis of autism.
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Mundalil Vasu M, Anitha A, Thanseem I, Suzuki K, Yamada K, Takahashi T, Wakuda T, Iwata K, Tsujii M, Sugiyama T, Mori N. Serum microRNA profiles in children with autism. Mol Autism 2014; 5:40. [PMID: 25126405 PMCID: PMC4132421 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-5-40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 07/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As regulators of gene expression, microRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in the transcriptional networks of the developing human brain. Circulating miRNAs in the serum and plasma are remarkably stable and are suggested to have promise as noninvasive biomarkers for neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders. We examined the serum expression profiles of neurologically relevant miRNAs in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by multiple deficits in communication, social interaction and behavior. Methods Total RNA, including miRNA, was extracted from the serum samples of 55 individuals with ASD and 55 age- and sex-matched control subjects, and the mature miRNAs were selectively converted into cDNA. Initially, the expression of 125 mature miRNAs was compared between pooled control and ASD samples. The differential expression of 14 miRNAs was further validated by SYBR Green quantitative PCR of individual samples. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of miRNAs. The target genes and pathways of miRNAs were predicted using DIANA mirPath software. Results Thirteen miRNAs were differentially expressed in ASD individuals compared to the controls. MiR-151a-3p, miR-181b-5p, miR-320a, miR-328, miR-433, miR-489, miR-572, and miR-663a were downregulated, while miR-101-3p, miR-106b-5p, miR-130a-3p, miR-195-5p, and miR-19b-3p were upregulated. Five miRNAs showed good predictive power for distinguishing individuals with ASD. The target genes of these miRNAs were enriched in several crucial neurological pathways. Conclusions This is the first study of serum miRNAs in ASD individuals. The results suggest that a set of serum miRNAs might serve as a possible noninvasive biomarker for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh Mundalil Vasu
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan
| | - Ayyappan Anitha
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan
| | - Ismail Thanseem
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan
| | - Katsuaki Suzuki
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan
| | - Kohei Yamada
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan
| | - Taro Takahashi
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Wakuda
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan
| | - Keiko Iwata
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuokashimoaizuki, Eiheiji, Fukui 910-1193, Japan
| | - Masatsugu Tsujii
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan ; Faculty of Sociology, Chukyo University, 101 Tokodachi, Kaizu-cho, Toyota 470-0393, Japan
| | - Toshirou Sugiyama
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan
| | - Norio Mori
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan ; Research Center for Child Mental Development, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan
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Becerra TA, von Ehrenstein OS, Heck JE, Olsen J, Arah OA, Jeste SS, Rodriguez M, Ritz B. Autism spectrum disorders and race, ethnicity, and nativity: a population-based study. Pediatrics 2014; 134:e63-71. [PMID: 24958588 PMCID: PMC4067639 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2013-3928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our understanding of the influence of maternal race/ethnicity and nativity and childhood autistic disorder (AD) in African Americans/blacks, Asians, and Hispanics in the United States is limited. Phenotypic differences in the presentation of childhood AD in minority groups may indicate etiologic heterogeneity or different thresholds for diagnosis. We investigated whether the risk of developing AD and AD phenotypes differed according to maternal race/ethnicity and nativity. METHODS Children born in Los Angeles County with a primary AD diagnosis at ages 3 to 5 years during 1998-2009 were identified and linked to 1995-2006 California birth certificates (7540 children with AD from a cohort of 1,626,354 births). We identified a subgroup of children with AD and a secondary diagnosis of mental retardation and investigated heterogeneity in language and behavior. RESULTS We found increased risks of being diagnosed with AD overall and specifically with comorbid mental retardation in children of foreign-born mothers who were black, Central/South American, Filipino, and Vietnamese, as well as among US-born Hispanic and African American/black mothers, compared with US-born whites. Children of US African American/black and foreign-born black, foreign-born Central/South American, and US-born Hispanic mothers were at higher risk of exhibiting an AD phenotype with both severe emotional outbursts and impaired expressive language than children of US-born whites. CONCLUSIONS Maternal race/ethnicity and nativity are associated with offspring's AD diagnosis and severity. Future studies need to examine factors related to nativity and migration that may play a role in the etiology as well as identification and diagnosis of AD in children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ondine S. von Ehrenstein
- Community Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; and
| | | | | | | | | | - Michael Rodriguez
- Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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29
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Emberti Gialloreti L, Benvenuto A, Benassi F, Curatolo P. Are caesarean sections, induced labor and oxytocin regulation linked to Autism Spectrum Disorders? Med Hypotheses 2014; 82:713-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2014.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Revised: 02/21/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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30
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Berko ER, Suzuki M, Beren F, Lemetre C, Alaimo CM, Calder RB, Ballaban-Gil K, Gounder B, Kampf K, Kirschen J, Maqbool SB, Momin Z, Reynolds DM, Russo N, Shulman L, Stasiek E, Tozour J, Valicenti-McDermott M, Wang S, Abrahams BS, Hargitai J, Inbar D, Zhang Z, Buxbaum JD, Molholm S, Foxe JJ, Marion RW, Auton A, Greally JM. Mosaic epigenetic dysregulation of ectodermal cells in autism spectrum disorder. PLoS Genet 2014; 10:e1004402. [PMID: 24875834 PMCID: PMC4038484 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1004402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA mutational events are increasingly being identified in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but the potential additional role of dysregulation of the epigenome in the pathogenesis of the condition remains unclear. The epigenome is of interest as a possible mediator of environmental effects during development, encoding a cellular memory reflected by altered function of progeny cells. Advanced maternal age (AMA) is associated with an increased risk of having a child with ASD for reasons that are not understood. To explore whether AMA involves covert aneuploidy or epigenetic dysregulation leading to ASD in the offspring, we tested a homogeneous ectodermal cell type from 47 individuals with ASD compared with 48 typically developing (TD) controls born to mothers of ≥35 years, using a quantitative genome-wide DNA methylation assay. We show that DNA methylation patterns are dysregulated in ectodermal cells in these individuals, having accounted for confounding effects due to subject age, sex and ancestral haplotype. We did not find mosaic aneuploidy or copy number variability to occur at differentially-methylated regions in these subjects. Of note, the loci with distinctive DNA methylation were found at genes expressed in the brain and encoding protein products significantly enriched for interactions with those produced by known ASD-causing genes, representing a perturbation by epigenomic dysregulation of the same networks compromised by DNA mutational mechanisms. The results indicate the presence of a mosaic subpopulation of epigenetically-dysregulated, ectodermally-derived cells in subjects with ASD. The epigenetic dysregulation observed in these ASD subjects born to older mothers may be associated with aging parental gametes, environmental influences during embryogenesis or could be the consequence of mutations of the chromatin regulatory genes increasingly implicated in ASD. The results indicate that epigenetic dysregulatory mechanisms may complement and interact with DNA mutations in the pathogenesis of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther R. Berko
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Masako Suzuki
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Faygel Beren
- Stern College for Women, Yeshiva University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Christophe Lemetre
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Christine M. Alaimo
- The Sheryl and Daniel R. Tishman Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, and Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - R. Brent Calder
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Karen Ballaban-Gil
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Batya Gounder
- Stern College for Women, Yeshiva University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Kaylee Kampf
- Stern College for Women, Yeshiva University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Jill Kirschen
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Shahina B. Maqbool
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Zeineen Momin
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - David M. Reynolds
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Natalie Russo
- The Sheryl and Daniel R. Tishman Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, and Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- Department of Psychology, The College of Arts and Sciences, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Lisa Shulman
- Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Edyta Stasiek
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Jessica Tozour
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Maria Valicenti-McDermott
- Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Shenglong Wang
- Information Technology Services, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Brett S. Abrahams
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Joseph Hargitai
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Dov Inbar
- Child Development and Rehabilitation Institute, Schneider Children's Medical Center, Petach Tikvah, Israel
| | - Zhengdong Zhang
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Joseph D. Buxbaum
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Departments of Psychiatry, Neuroscience, and Genetics and Genomic Sciences, and the Friedman Brain Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Sophie Molholm
- The Sheryl and Daniel R. Tishman Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, and Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - John J. Foxe
- The Sheryl and Daniel R. Tishman Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, and Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Robert W. Marion
- Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Adam Auton
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - John M. Greally
- Center for Epigenomics and Department of Genetics (Division of Computational Genetics), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Mazzio EA, Soliman KFA. Epigenetics and nutritional environmental signals. Integr Comp Biol 2014; 54:21-30. [PMID: 24861811 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icu049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
All terrestrial life is influenced by multi-directional flows of information about its environment, enabling malleable phenotypic change through signals, chemical processes, or various forms of energy that facilitate acclimatization. Billions of biological co-inhabitants of the earth, including all plants and animals, collectively make up a genetic/epigenetic ecosystem by which adaptation/survival (inputs and outputs) are highly interdependent on one another. As an ecosystem, the solar system, rotation of the planets, changes in sunlight, and gravitational pull influence cyclic epigenetic transitions and chromatin remodeling that constitute biological circadian rhythms controlling senescence. In humans, adverse environmental conditions such as poverty, stress, alcohol, malnutrition, exposure to pollutants generated from industrialization, man-made chemicals, and use of synthetic drugs can lead to maladaptive epigenetic-related illnesses with disease-specific genes being atypically activated or silenced. Nutrition and dietary practices are one of the largest facets in epigenetic-related metabolism, where specific "epi-nutrients" can stabilize the genome, given established roles in DNA methylation, histone modification, and chromatin remodeling. Moreover, food-based "epi-bioactive" constituents may reverse maladaptive epigenetic patterns, not only prior to conception and during fetal/early postnatal development but also through adulthood. In summary, in contrast to a static genomic DNA structure, epigenetic changes are potentially reversible, raising the hope for therapeutic and/or dietary interventions that can reverse deleterious epigenetic programing as a means to prevent or treat major illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Mazzio
- Florida A&M University, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, 1520 S MLK Jr. Blvd Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Karam F A Soliman
- Florida A&M University, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, 1520 S MLK Jr. Blvd Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
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Gandhi RP, Klein U. Autism spectrum disorders: an update on oral health management. J Evid Based Dent Pract 2014; 14 Suppl:115-26. [PMID: 24929596 DOI: 10.1016/j.jebdp.2014.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Dental professionals caring for patients with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) will need to provide oral health care based on a family-centered approach that involves a comprehensive understanding of parental concerns and preferences, as well as the unique medical management, behaviors, and needs of the individual patient. BACKGROUND With the rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), oral health providers will find themselves increasingly likely to care for these patients in their daily practice. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive update on the medical and oral health management of patients with autism spectrum disorders. METHODS The authors conducted a literature review by searching for relevant articles written in English in the PubMed database pertaining to the medical and oral health management of autism, including caries status, preventive, behavioral, trauma, and restorative considerations. CONCLUSIONS A detailed family centered approach based on parental preferences and concerns, the patient's challenging behaviors, and related comorbidities can serve to improve the treatment planning and oral health management of dental patients with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roopa P Gandhi
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Children's Hospital Colorado and University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - Ulrich Klein
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Children's Hospital Colorado and University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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Marrale M, Albanese NN, Calì F, Romano V. Assessing the impact of copy number variants on miRNA genes in autism by Monte Carlo simulation. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90947. [PMID: 24667286 PMCID: PMC3965395 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are childhood neurodevelopmental disorders with complex genetic origins. Previous studies have investigated the role of de novo Copy Number Variants (CNVs) and microRNAs as important but distinct etiological factors in ASD. We developed a novel computational procedure to assess the potential pathogenic role of microRNA genes overlapping de novo CNVs in ASD patients. Here we show that for chromosomes # 1, 2 and 22 the actual number of miRNA loci affected by de novo CNVs in patients was found significantly higher than that estimated by Monte Carlo simulation of random CNV events. Out of 24 miRNA genes over-represented in CNVs from these three chromosomes only hsa-mir-4436b-1 and hsa-mir-4436b-2 have not been detected in CNVs from non-autistic subjects as reported in the Database of Genomic Variants. Altogether the results reported in this study represent a first step towards a full understanding of how a dysregulated expression of the 24 miRNAs genes affect neurodevelopment in autism. We also propose that the procedure used in this study can be effectively applied to CNVs/miRNA genes association data in other genomic disorders beyond autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Marrale
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Chimica, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Calì
- U.O.C. di Genetica Medica Laboratorio di Genetica Molecolare, Associazione Oasi Maria SS. (I.R.C.C.S.), Troina, Italy
| | - Valentino Romano
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Chimica, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- U.O.C. di Genetica Medica Laboratorio di Genetica Molecolare, Associazione Oasi Maria SS. (I.R.C.C.S.), Troina, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Banerjee S, Riordan M, Bhat MA. Genetic aspects of autism spectrum disorders: insights from animal models. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:58. [PMID: 24605088 PMCID: PMC3932417 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that display a triad of core behavioral deficits including restricted interests, often accompanied by repetitive behavior, deficits in language and communication, and an inability to engage in reciprocal social interactions. ASD is among the most heritable disorders but is not a simple disorder with a singular pathology and has a rather complex etiology. It is interesting to note that perturbations in synaptic growth, development, and stability underlie a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, including ASD, schizophrenia, epilepsy, and intellectual disability. Biological characterization of an increasing repertoire of synaptic mutants in various model organisms indicates synaptic dysfunction as causal in the pathophysiology of ASD. Our understanding of the genes and genetic pathways that contribute toward the formation, stabilization, and maintenance of functional synapses coupled with an in-depth phenotypic analysis of the cellular and behavioral characteristics is therefore essential to unraveling the pathogenesis of these disorders. In this review, we discuss the genetic aspects of ASD emphasizing on the well conserved set of genes and genetic pathways implicated in this disorder, many of which contribute to synapse assembly and maintenance across species. We also review how fundamental research using animal models is providing key insights into the various facets of human ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Banerjee
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Maeveen Riordan
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Manzoor A Bhat
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, TX, USA
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35
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Damiano CR, Mazefsky CA, White SW, Dichter GS. Future directions for research in autism spectrum disorders. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2014; 43:828-43. [PMID: 25216048 PMCID: PMC4163956 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2014.945214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This article suggests future directions for research aimed at improving our understanding of the etiology and pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as well as pharmacologic and psychosocial interventions for ASD across the lifespan. The past few years have witnessed unprecedented transformations in the understanding of ASD neurobiology, genetics, early identification, and early intervention. However, recent increases in ASD prevalence estimates highlight the urgent need for continued efforts to translate novel ASD discoveries into effective interventions for all individuals with ASD. In this article we highlight promising areas for ongoing and new research expected to quicken the pace of scientific discovery and ultimately the translation of research findings into accessible and empirically supported interventions for those with ASD. We highlight emerging research in the following domains as particularly promising and pressing: (a) preclinical models, (b) experimental therapeutics, (c) early identification and intervention, (d) psychiatric comorbidities and the Research Domain Criteria initiative, (e) ecological momentary assessment, (f) neurotechnologies, and (g) the needs of adults with ASD. Increased research emphasis in these areas has the potential to hasten the translation of knowledge on the etiological mechanisms of ASD to psychosocial and biological interventions to reduce the burden of ASD on affected individuals and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara R. Damiano
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Carla A. Mazefsky
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Susan W. White
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Gabriel S. Dichter
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
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Erythrocyte shape abnormalities, membrane oxidative damage, and β-actin alterations: an unrecognized triad in classical autism. Mediators Inflamm 2013; 2013:432616. [PMID: 24453417 PMCID: PMC3880759 DOI: 10.1155/2013/432616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a complex group of neurodevelopment disorders steadily rising in frequency and treatment refractory, where the search for biological markers is of paramount importance. Although red blood cells (RBCs) membrane lipidomics and rheological variables have been reported to be altered, with some suggestions indicating an increased lipid peroxidation in the erythrocyte membrane, to date no information exists on how the oxidative membrane damage may affect cytoskeletal membrane proteins and, ultimately, RBCs shape in autism. Here, we investigated RBC morphology by scanning electron microscopy in patients with classical autism, that is, the predominant ASDs phenotype (age range: 6–26 years), nonautistic neurodevelopmental disorders (i.e., “positive controls”), and healthy controls (i.e., “negative controls”). A high percentage of altered RBCs shapes, predominantly elliptocytes, was observed in autistic patients, but not in both control groups. The RBCs altered morphology in autistic subjects was related to increased erythrocyte membrane F2-isoprostanes and 4-hydroxynonenal protein adducts. In addition, an oxidative damage of the erythrocyte membrane β-actin protein was evidenced. Therefore, the combination of erythrocyte shape abnormalities, erythrocyte membrane oxidative damage, and β-actin alterations constitutes a previously unrecognized triad in classical autism and provides new biological markers in the diagnostic workup of ASDs.
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37
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Stoccoro A, Karlsson HL, Coppedè F, Migliore L. Epigenetic effects of nano-sized materials. Toxicology 2013; 313:3-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2012.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2012] [Revised: 11/12/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Abstract
Autism and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are complex neurodevelopmental disorders. ASDs are clinically defined by deficits in communication, social skills, and repetitive and/or restrictive interests and behaviours. With the prevalence rates for ASDs rapidly increasing, the need for effective therapies for autism is a priority for biomedical research. Currently available medications do not target the core symptoms, can have markedly adverse side-effects, and are mainly palliative for negative behaviours. The development of molecular and regenerative interventions is progressing rapidly, and medicine holds great expectations for stem cell therapies. Cells could be designed to target the observed molecular mechanisms of ASDs, that is, abnormal neurotransmitter regulation, activated microglia, mitochondrial dysfunction, blood-brain barrier disruptions, and chronic intestinal inflammation. Presently, the paracrine, secretome, and immunomodulatory effects of stem cells would appear to be the likely mechanisms of application for ASD therapeutics. This review will focus on the potential use of the various types of stem cells: embryonic, induced pluripotential, fetal, and adult stem cells as targets for ASD therapeutics.
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39
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Perspectives on the use of stem cells for autism treatment. Stem Cells Int 2013; 2013:262438. [PMID: 24222772 PMCID: PMC3810518 DOI: 10.1155/2013/262438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2013] [Revised: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are complex neurodevelopmental disorders. ASDs are clinically defined by deficits in communication, social skills, and repetitive and/or restrictive interests and behaviours. With the prevalence rates for ASDs rapidly increasing, the need for effective therapies for autism is a priority for biomedical research. Currently available medications do not target the core symptoms, can have markedly adverse side-effects, and are mainly palliative for negative behaviours. The development of molecular and regenerative interventions is progressing rapidly, and medicine holds great expectations for stem cell therapies. Cells could be designed to target the observed molecular mechanisms of ASDs, that is, abnormal neurotransmitter regulation, activated microglia, mitochondrial dysfunction, blood-brain barrier disruptions, and chronic intestinal inflammation. Presently, the paracrine, secretome, and immunomodulatory effects of stem cells would appear to be the likely mechanisms of application for ASD therapeutics. This review will focus on the potential use of the various types of stem cells: embryonic, induced pluripotential, fetal, and adult stem cells as targets for ASD therapeutics.
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40
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Simmons RK, Stringfellow SA, Glover ME, Wagle AA, Clinton SM. DNA methylation markers in the postnatal developing rat brain. Brain Res 2013; 1533:26-36. [PMID: 23954679 PMCID: PMC3838910 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2013.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2013] [Revised: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 08/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In spite of intense interest in how altered epigenetic processes including DNA methylation may contribute to psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders, there is a limited understanding of how methylation processes change during early postnatal brain development. The present study used in situ hybridization to assess mRNA expression for the three major DNA methyltranserases (DNMTs)--DNMT1, DNMT3a and DNMT3b--in the developing rat brain at seven developmental timepoints: postnatal days (P) 1, 4, 7, 10, 14, 21, and 75. We also assessed 5-methylcytosine levels (an indicator of global DNA methylation) in selected brain regions during the first three postnatal weeks. DNMT1, DNMT3a and DNMT3b mRNAs are widely expressed throughout the adult and postnatal developing rat brain. Overall, DNMT mRNA levels reached their highest point in the first week of life and gradually decreased over the first three postnatal weeks within the hippocampus, amygdala, striatum, cingulate and lateral septum. Global DNA methylation levels did not follow this developmental pattern; methylation levels gradually increased over the first three postnatal weeks in the hippocampus, and remained stable in the developing amygdala and prefrontal cortex. Our results contribute to a growing understanding of how DNA methylation markers unfold in the developing brain, and highlight how these developmental processes may differ within distinct brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca K. Simmons
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Sara A. Stringfellow
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Matthew E. Glover
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Anjali A. Wagle
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Sarah M. Clinton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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41
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Siniscalco D, Cirillo A, Bradstreet JJ, Antonucci N. Epigenetic findings in autism: new perspectives for therapy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 10:4261-73. [PMID: 24030655 PMCID: PMC3799534 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph10094261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2013] [Revised: 08/14/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Autism and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are complex neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by dysfunctions in social interactions, communications, restricted interests, and repetitive stereotypic behaviors. Despite extensive genetic and biological research, significant controversy surrounds our understanding of the specific mechanisms of their pathogenesis. However, accumulating evidence points to the involvement of epigenetic modifications as foundational in creating ASD pathophysiology. Epigenetic modifications or the alteration of DNA transcription via variations in DNA methylation and histone modifications but without alterations in the DNA sequence, affect gene regulation. These alterations in gene expression, obtained through DNA methylation and/or histone modifications, result from transcriptional regulatory influences of environmental factors, such as nutritional deficiencies, various toxicants, immunological effects, and pharmaceuticals. As such these effects are epigenetic regulators which determine the final biochemistry and physiology of the individual. In contrast to psychopharmacological interventions, bettering our understanding of how these gene-environmental interactions create autistic symptoms should facilitate the development of therapeutic targeting of gene expression for ASD biomedical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Siniscalco
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples; via S. Maria di Costantinopoli, Napoli 16-80138, Italy
- Centre for Autism—La Forza del Silenzio, Caserta 81036, Italy
- Cancellautismo—Non-Profit Association for Autism Care, Florence 50132, Italy
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +39-0-81-566-5880; Fax: +39-0-81-566-7503
| | - Alessandra Cirillo
- Institute of Protein Biochemistry, National Research Council of Italy; Naples 80128, Italy; E-Mail:
| | | | - Nicola Antonucci
- Biomedical Centre for Autism Research and Treatment, Bari 70126, Italy; E-Mail:
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El-Sayed AM, Koenen KC, Galea S. Putting the 'epi' into epigenetics research in psychiatry. J Epidemiol Community Health 2013; 67:610-6. [PMID: 23572534 DOI: 10.1136/jech-2013-202430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
During the past two decades, research concerned with the aetiology of psychopathology has generally progressed along two separate paths: investigations that have characterised the roles played by environmental determinants such as childhood adversity in the development of psychopathology, and those that have focused on neurobiological processes involving genetic and intracellular pathways. Epigenetic modifications, functionally relevant changes to gene expression that do not reflect changes in gene sequence, may explain how environmental exposures 'get under the skin' to modify the expression of genes and produce phenotypic variability. The potential of epigenetic research to unify two disparate strands of inquiry has contributed to substantial, and growing, interest in epigenetics in mental health research. However, there are several challenges with which investigators must contend in studies considering the role of epigenetic modifications in psychopathology. These include the development of causal models in study design, considerations about sample size and generalisability, and robust measurement of epigenetic modification. We employ an epidemiological lens to discuss these challenges and to provide recommendations for future studies in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulrahman M El-Sayed
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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Singh M. Dysregulated A to I RNA editing and non-coding RNAs in neurodegeneration. Front Genet 2013; 3:326. [PMID: 23346095 PMCID: PMC3551214 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2012.00326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA editing is an alteration in the primary nucleotide sequences resulting from a chemical change in the base. RNA editing is observed in eukaryotic mRNA, transfer RNA, ribosomal RNA, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNA). The most common RNA editing in the mammalian central nervous system is a base modification, where the adenosine residue is base-modified to inosine (A to I). Studies from ADAR (adenosine deaminase that act on RNA) mutants in Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila, and mice clearly show that the RNA editing process is an absolute requirement for nervous system homeostasis and normal physiology of the animal. Understanding the mechanisms of editing and findings of edited substrates has provided a better knowledge of the phenotype due to defective and hyperactive RNA editing. A to I RNA editing is catalyzed by a family of enzymes knows as ADARs. ADARs modify duplex RNAs and editing of duplex RNAs formed by ncRNAs can impact RNA functions, leading to an altered regulatory gene network. Such altered functions by A to I editing is observed in mRNAs, microRNAs (miRNA) but other editing of small and long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) has yet to be identified. Thus, ncRNA and RNA editing may provide key links between neural development, nervous system function, and neurological diseases. This review includes a summary of seminal findings regarding the impact of ncRNAs on biological and pathological processes, which may be further modified by RNA editing. NcRNAs are non-translated RNAs classified by size and function. Known ncRNAs like miRNAs, smallRNAs (smRNAs), PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), and lncRNAs play important roles in splicing, DNA methylation, imprinting, and RNA interference. Of note, miRNAs are involved in development and function of the nervous system that is heavily dependent on both RNA editing and the intricate spatiotemporal expression of ncRNAs. This review focuses on the impact of dysregulated A to I editing and ncRNAs in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minati Singh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Iowa City, IA, USA
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44
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Oddi D, Crusio WE, D'Amato FR, Pietropaolo S. Monogenic mouse models of social dysfunction: implications for autism. Behav Brain Res 2013; 251:75-84. [PMID: 23327738 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2012] [Revised: 12/14/2012] [Accepted: 01/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Autism is a pervasive disorder characterized by a complex symptomatology, based principally on social dysfunction. The disorder has a highly complex, largely genetic etiology, involving an impressive variety of genes, the precise contributions of which still remain to be determined. For this reason, a reductionist approach to the study of autism has been proposed, employing monogenic animal models of social dysfunction, either by targeting a candidate gene, or by mimicking a single-gene disorder characterized by autistic symptoms. In the present review, we discuss this monogenic approach by comparing examples of each strategy: the mu opioid receptor knock-out (KO) mouse line, which targets the opioid system (known to be involved in the control of social behaviors); and the Fmr1-KO mouse, a model for Fragile X syndrome (a neurodevelopmental syndrome that includes autistic symptoms). The autistic-relevant behavioral phenotypes of the mu-opioid and Fmr1-KO mouse lines are described here, summarizing previous work by our research group and others, but also providing novel experimental evidence. Relevant factors influencing the validity of the two models, such as sex differences and age at testing, are also addressed, permitting an extensive evaluation of the advantages and limits of monogenic mouse models for autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Oddi
- CNR, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Institute, Rome, Italy; IRCCS, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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45
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Kim P, Park JH, Choi CS, Choi I, Joo SH, Kim MK, Kim SY, Kim KC, Park SH, Kwon KJ, Lee J, Han SH, Ryu JH, Cheong JH, Han JY, Ko KN, Shin CY. Effects of ethanol exposure during early pregnancy in hyperactive, inattentive and impulsive behaviors and MeCP2 expression in rodent offspring. Neurochem Res 2013; 38:620-31. [PMID: 23283698 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-012-0960-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2012] [Revised: 11/22/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to alcohol has consistently been associated with adverse effects on neurodevelopment, which is collectively called fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Increasing evidence suggest that prenatal exposure to alcohol increases the risk of developing attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder-like behavior in human. In this study, we investigated the behavioral effects of prenatal exposure to EtOH in offspring mice and rats focusing on hyperactivity and impulsivity. We also examined changes in dopamine transporter and MeCP2 expression, which may underlie as a key neurobiological and epigenetic determinant in FASD and hyperactive, inattentive and impulsive behaviors. Mouse or rat offspring born from dam exposed to alcohol during pregnancy (EtOH group) showed hyper locomotive activity, attention deficit and impulsivity. EtOH group also showed increased dopamine transporter and norepinephrine transporter level compared to control group in the prefrontal cortex and striatum. Prenatal exposure to EtOH also significantly decreased the expression of MeCP2 in both prefrontal cortex and striatum. These results suggest that prenatal exposure to EtOH induces hyperactive, inattentive and impulsive behaviors in rodent offspring that might be related to global epigenetic changes as well as aberration in catecholamine neurotransmitter transporter system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pitna Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Neuroscience Research Center, Institute SMART-IABS, Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Korea
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Millan MJ. An epigenetic framework for neurodevelopmental disorders: from pathogenesis to potential therapy. Neuropharmacology 2012; 68:2-82. [PMID: 23246909 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2012.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2012] [Revised: 11/11/2012] [Accepted: 11/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are characterized by aberrant and delayed early-life development of the brain, leading to deficits in language, cognition, motor behaviour and other functional domains, often accompanied by somatic symptoms. Environmental factors like perinatal infection, malnutrition and trauma can increase the risk of the heterogeneous, multifactorial and polygenic disorders, autism and schizophrenia. Conversely, discrete genetic anomalies are involved in Down, Rett and Fragile X syndromes, tuberous sclerosis and neurofibromatosis, the less familiar Phelan-McDermid, Sotos, Kleefstra, Coffin-Lowry and "ATRX" syndromes, and the disorders of imprinting, Angelman and Prader-Willi syndromes. NDDs have been termed "synaptopathies" in reference to structural and functional disturbance of synaptic plasticity, several involve abnormal Ras-Kinase signalling ("rasopathies"), and many are characterized by disrupted cerebral connectivity and an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory transmission. However, at a different level of integration, NDDs are accompanied by aberrant "epigenetic" regulation of processes critical for normal and orderly development of the brain. Epigenetics refers to potentially-heritable (by mitosis and/or meiosis) mechanisms controlling gene expression without changes in DNA sequence. In certain NDDs, prototypical epigenetic processes of DNA methylation and covalent histone marking are impacted. Conversely, others involve anomalies in chromatin-modelling, mRNA splicing/editing, mRNA translation, ribosome biogenesis and/or the regulatory actions of small nucleolar RNAs and micro-RNAs. Since epigenetic mechanisms are modifiable, this raises the hope of novel therapy, though questions remain concerning efficacy and safety. The above issues are critically surveyed in this review, which advocates a broad-based epigenetic framework for understanding and ultimately treating a diverse assemblage of NDDs ("epigenopathies") lying at the interface of genetic, developmental and environmental processes. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Neurodevelopmental Disorders'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Millan
- Unit for Research and Discovery in Neuroscience, IDR Servier, 125 chemin de ronde, 78290 Croissy sur Seine, Paris, France.
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Kotagal S, Broomall E. Sleep in children with autism spectrum disorder. Pediatr Neurol 2012; 47:242-51. [PMID: 22964437 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2012.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2012] [Accepted: 05/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorder demonstrate an increased prevalence of difficulties with sleep initiation and maintenance. The consequences may include alterations in daytime behavior, memory, and learning in patients, and significant stress in caretakers. The dysregulation of melatonin synthesis, sensitization to environmental stimuli, behavioral insomnia syndromes, delayed sleep phase syndrome, rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, and comorbid anxiety, depression, and epilepsy comprise common etiologic factors. The clinical assessment of sleep problems in this population and a management algorithm are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Kotagal
- Division of Child Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55902, USA.
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