1
|
Yang P, Li Y, Qian K, Zhou L, Cheng Y, Wu J, Xu M, Wang T, Yang X, Mu Y, Liu X, Zhang Q. Precise Modulation of Pericyte Dysfunction by a Multifunctional Nanoprodrug to Ameliorate Alzheimer's Disease. ACS NANO 2024; 18:14348-14366. [PMID: 38768086 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c00480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Pericyte dysfunction severely undermines cerebrovascular integrity and exacerbates neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, pericyte-targeted therapy is a yet-untapped frontier for AD. Inspired by the elevation of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in pericyte lesions, we fabricated a multifunctional nanoprodrug by conjugating the hybrid peptide VLC, a fusion of the VCAM-1 high-affinity peptide VHS and the neuroprotective apolipoprotein mimetic peptide COG1410, to curcumin (Cur) through phenylboronic ester bond (VLC@Cur-NPs) to alleviate complex pericyte-related pathological changes. Importantly, VLC@Cur-NPs effectively homed to pericyte lesions via VLC and released their contents upon ROS stimulation to maximize their regulatory effects. Consequently, VLC@Cur-NPs markedly increased pericyte regeneration to form a positive feedback loop and thus improved neurovascular function and ultimately alleviated memory defects in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. We present a promising therapeutic strategy for AD that can precisely modulate pericytes and has the potential to treat other cerebrovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Yixian Li
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Kang Qian
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingling Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunlong Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Wu
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Minjun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianying Wang
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiyu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongkang Mu
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Qizhi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Eisenmenger LB, Peret A, Famakin BM, Spahic A, Roberts GS, Bockholt JH, Johnson KM, Paulsen JS. Vascular contributions to Alzheimer's disease. Transl Res 2023; 254:41-53. [PMID: 36529160 PMCID: PMC10481451 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia and is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Understanding the pathophysiology underlying AD is paramount for the management of individuals at risk of and suffering from AD. The vascular hypothesis stipulates a relationship between cardiovascular disease and AD-related changes although the nature of this relationship remains unknown. In this review, we discuss several potential pathological pathways of vascular involvement in AD that have been described including dysregulation of neurovascular coupling, disruption of the blood brain barrier, and reduced clearance of metabolite waste such as beta-amyloid, a toxic peptide considered the hallmark of AD. We will also discuss the two-hit hypothesis which proposes a 2-step positive feedback loop in which microvascular insults precede the accumulation of Aß and are thought to be at the origin of the disease development. At neuroimaging, signs of vascular dysfunction such as chronic cerebral hypoperfusion have been demonstrated, appearing early in AD, even before cognitive decline and alteration of traditional biomarkers. Cerebral small vessel disease such as cerebral amyloid angiopathy, characterized by the aggregation of Aß in the vessel wall, is highly prevalent in vascular dementia and AD patients. Current data is unclear whether cardiovascular disease causes, precipitates, amplifies, precedes, or simply coincides with AD. Targeted imaging tools to quantitatively evaluate the intracranial vasculature and longitudinal studies in individuals at risk for or in the early stages of the AD continuum could be critical in disentangling this complex relationship between vascular disease and AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura B Eisenmenger
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Anthony Peret
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Bolanle M Famakin
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Alma Spahic
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Grant S Roberts
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jeremy H Bockholt
- Tri-Institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science (TReNDS), Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kevin M Johnson
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jane S Paulsen
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Central Nervous System Pericytes Contribute to Health and Disease. Cells 2022; 11:cells11101707. [PMID: 35626743 PMCID: PMC9139243 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful neuroprotection is only possible with contemporary microvascular protection. The prevention of disease-induced vascular modifications that accelerate brain damage remains largely elusive. An improved understanding of pericyte (PC) signalling could provide important insight into the function of the neurovascular unit (NVU), and into the injury-provoked responses that modify cell–cell interactions and crosstalk. Due to sharing the same basement membrane with endothelial cells, PCs have a crucial role in the control of endothelial, astrocyte, and oligodendrocyte precursor functions and hence blood–brain barrier stability. Both cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative diseases impair oxygen delivery and functionally impair the NVU. In this review, the role of PCs in central nervous system health and disease is discussed, considering their origin, multipotency, functions and also dysfunction, focusing on new possible avenues to modulate neuroprotection. Dysfunctional PC signalling could also be considered as a potential biomarker of NVU pathology, allowing us to individualize therapeutic interventions, monitor responses, or predict outcomes.
Collapse
|
4
|
Gliovascular Mechanisms and White Matter Injury in Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Dementia. Stroke 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-69424-7.00013-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
5
|
Wang HL, Zhang CL, Qiu YM, Chen AQ, Li YN, Hu B. Dysfunction of the Blood-brain Barrier in Cerebral Microbleeds: from Bedside to Bench. Aging Dis 2021; 12:1898-1919. [PMID: 34881076 PMCID: PMC8612614 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2021.0514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are a disorder of cerebral microvessels that are characterized as small (<10 mm), hypointense, round or ovoid lesions seen on T2*-weighted gradient echo MRI. There is a high prevalence of CMBs in community-dwelling healthy older people. An increasing number of studies have demonstrated the significance of CMBs in stroke, dementia, Parkinson's disease, gait disturbances and late-life depression. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction is considered to be the event that initializes CMBs development. However, the pathogenesis of CMBs has not yet been clearly elucidated. In this review, we introduce the pathogenesis of CMBs, hypertensive vasculopathy and cerebral amyloid angiopathy, and review recent research that has advanced our understanding of the mechanisms underlying BBB dysfunction and CMBs presence. CMBs-associated risk factors can exacerbate BBB breakdown through the vulnerability of BBB anatomical and functional changes. Finally, we discuss potential pharmacological approaches to target the BBB as therapy for CMBs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - An-qi Chen
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Ya-nan Li
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Bo Hu
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Salmina AB, Komleva YK, Malinovskaya NA, Morgun AV, Teplyashina EA, Lopatina OL, Gorina YV, Kharitonova EV, Khilazheva ED, Shuvaev AN. Blood-Brain Barrier Breakdown in Stress and Neurodegeneration: Biochemical Mechanisms and New Models for Translational Research. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2021; 86:746-760. [PMID: 34225598 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297921060122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a structural and functional element of the neurovascular unit (NVU), which includes cells of neuronal, glial, and endothelial nature. The main functions of NVU include maintenance of the control of metabolism and chemical homeostasis in the brain tissue, ensuring adequate blood flow in active regions, regulation of neuroplasticity processes, which is realized through intercellular interactions under normal conditions, under stress, in neurodegeneration, neuroinfection, and neurodevelopmental diseases. Current versions of the BBB and NVU models, static and dynamic, have significantly expanded research capabilities, but a number of issues remain unresolved, in particular, personification of the models for a patient. In addition, application of both static and dynamic models has an important problem associated with the difficulty in reproducing pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the damage of the structural and functional integrity of the barrier in the diseases of the central nervous system. More knowledge on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of BBB and NVU damage in pathology is required to solve this problem. This review discusses current state of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that control BBB permeability, pathobiochemical mechanisms and manifestations of BBB breakdown in stress and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as the problems and prospects of creating in vitro BBB and NVU models for translational studies in neurology and neuropharmacology. Deciphering BBB (patho)physiology will open up new opportunities for further development in the related areas of medicine such as regenerative medicine, neuropharmacology, and neurorehabilitation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alla B Salmina
- Division of Brain Sciences, Research Center of Neurology, Moscow, 125367, Russia. .,Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| | - Yuliya K Komleva
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| | - Nataliya A Malinovskaya
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| | - Andrey V Morgun
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| | - Elena A Teplyashina
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| | - Olga L Lopatina
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| | - Yana V Gorina
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| | - Ekaterina V Kharitonova
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| | - Elena D Khilazheva
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| | - Anton N Shuvaev
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Salmina AB, Kharitonova EV, Gorina YV, Teplyashina EA, Malinovskaya NA, Khilazheva ED, Mosyagina AI, Morgun AV, Shuvaev AN, Salmin VV, Lopatina OL, Komleva YK. Blood-Brain Barrier and Neurovascular Unit In Vitro Models for Studying Mitochondria-Driven Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4661. [PMID: 33925080 PMCID: PMC8125678 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathophysiology of chronic neurodegeneration is mainly based on complex mechanisms related to aberrant signal transduction, excitation/inhibition imbalance, excitotoxicity, synaptic dysfunction, oxidative stress, proteotoxicity and protein misfolding, local insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction, excessive cell death, development of glia-supported neuroinflammation, and failure of neurogenesis. These mechanisms tightly associate with dramatic alterations in the structure and activity of the neurovascular unit (NVU) and the blood-brain barrier (BBB). NVU is an ensemble of brain cells (brain microvessel endothelial cells (BMECs), astrocytes, pericytes, neurons, and microglia) serving for the adjustment of cell-to-cell interactions, metabolic coupling, local microcirculation, and neuronal excitability to the actual needs of the brain. The part of the NVU known as a BBB controls selective access of endogenous and exogenous molecules to the brain tissue and efflux of metabolites to the blood, thereby providing maintenance of brain chemical homeostasis critical for efficient signal transduction and brain plasticity. In Alzheimer's disease, mitochondria are the target organelles for amyloid-induced neurodegeneration and alterations in NVU metabolic coupling or BBB breakdown. In this review we discuss understandings on mitochondria-driven NVU and BBB dysfunction, and how it might be studied in current and prospective NVU/BBB in vitro models for finding new approaches for the efficient pharmacotherapy of Alzheimer's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alla B. Salmina
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
- Research Center of Neurology, 125367 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina V. Kharitonova
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| | - Yana V. Gorina
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| | - Elena A. Teplyashina
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| | - Natalia A. Malinovskaya
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| | - Elena D. Khilazheva
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| | - Angelina I. Mosyagina
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| | - Andrey V. Morgun
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| | - Anton N. Shuvaev
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| | - Vladimir V. Salmin
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| | - Olga L. Lopatina
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| | - Yulia K. Komleva
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (E.V.K.); (Y.V.G.); (E.A.T.); (N.A.M.); (E.D.K.); (A.I.M.); (A.V.M.); (A.N.S.); (V.V.S.); (O.L.L.); (Y.K.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Girolamo F, de Trizio I, Errede M, Longo G, d'Amati A, Virgintino D. Neural crest cell-derived pericytes act as pro-angiogenic cells in human neocortex development and gliomas. Fluids Barriers CNS 2021; 18:14. [PMID: 33743764 PMCID: PMC7980348 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-021-00242-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system diseases involving the parenchymal microvessels are frequently associated with a ‘microvasculopathy’, which includes different levels of neurovascular unit (NVU) dysfunction, including blood–brain barrier alterations. To contribute to the understanding of NVU responses to pathological noxae, we have focused on one of its cellular components, the microvascular pericytes, highlighting unique features of brain pericytes with the aid of the analyses carried out during vascularization of human developing neocortex and in human gliomas. Thanks to their position, centred within the endothelial/glial partition of the vessel basal lamina and therefore inserted between endothelial cells and the perivascular and vessel-associated components (astrocytes, oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs)/NG2-glia, microglia, macrophages, nerve terminals), pericytes fulfil a central role within the microvessel NVU. Indeed, at this critical site, pericytes have a number of direct and extracellular matrix molecule- and soluble factor-mediated functions, displaying marked phenotypical and functional heterogeneity and carrying out multitasking services. This pericytes heterogeneity is primarily linked to their position in specific tissue and organ microenvironments and, most importantly, to their ontogeny. During ontogenesis, pericyte subtypes belong to two main embryonic germ layers, mesoderm and (neuro)ectoderm, and are therefore expected to be found in organs ontogenetically different, nonetheless, pericytes of different origin may converge and colonize neighbouring areas of the same organ/apparatus. Here, we provide a brief overview of the unusual roles played by forebrain pericytes in the processes of angiogenesis and barriergenesis by virtue of their origin from midbrain neural crest stem cells. A better knowledge of the ontogenetic subpopulations may support the understanding of specific interactions and mechanisms involved in pericyte function/dysfunction, including normal and pathological angiogenesis, thereby offering an alternative perspective on cell subtype-specific therapeutic approaches. ![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Girolamo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, Human Anatomy and Histology Unit, University of Bari School of Medicine, Bari, Italy.
| | - Ignazio de Trizio
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, Human Anatomy and Histology Unit, University of Bari School of Medicine, Bari, Italy.,Intensive Care Unit, Department of Intensive Care, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Mariella Errede
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, Human Anatomy and Histology Unit, University of Bari School of Medicine, Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanna Longo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, Molecular Biology Unit, University of Bari School of Medicine, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio d'Amati
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, Human Anatomy and Histology Unit, University of Bari School of Medicine, Bari, Italy.,Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Pathology Section, University of Bari School of Medicine, Bari, Italy
| | - Daniela Virgintino
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, Human Anatomy and Histology Unit, University of Bari School of Medicine, Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Girolamo F, de Trizio I, Errede M, Longo G, d’Amati A, Virgintino D. Neural crest cell-derived pericytes act as pro-angiogenic cells in human neocortex development and gliomas. Fluids Barriers CNS 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s12987-021-00242-7 union select null--] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractCentral nervous system diseases involving the parenchymal microvessels are frequently associated with a ‘microvasculopathy’, which includes different levels of neurovascular unit (NVU) dysfunction, including blood–brain barrier alterations. To contribute to the understanding of NVU responses to pathological noxae, we have focused on one of its cellular components, the microvascular pericytes, highlighting unique features of brain pericytes with the aid of the analyses carried out during vascularization of human developing neocortex and in human gliomas. Thanks to their position, centred within the endothelial/glial partition of the vessel basal lamina and therefore inserted between endothelial cells and the perivascular and vessel-associated components (astrocytes, oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs)/NG2-glia, microglia, macrophages, nerve terminals), pericytes fulfil a central role within the microvessel NVU. Indeed, at this critical site, pericytes have a number of direct and extracellular matrix molecule- and soluble factor-mediated functions, displaying marked phenotypical and functional heterogeneity and carrying out multitasking services. This pericytes heterogeneity is primarily linked to their position in specific tissue and organ microenvironments and, most importantly, to their ontogeny. During ontogenesis, pericyte subtypes belong to two main embryonic germ layers, mesoderm and (neuro)ectoderm, and are therefore expected to be found in organs ontogenetically different, nonetheless, pericytes of different origin may converge and colonize neighbouring areas of the same organ/apparatus. Here, we provide a brief overview of the unusual roles played by forebrain pericytes in the processes of angiogenesis and barriergenesis by virtue of their origin from midbrain neural crest stem cells. A better knowledge of the ontogenetic subpopulations may support the understanding of specific interactions and mechanisms involved in pericyte function/dysfunction, including normal and pathological angiogenesis, thereby offering an alternative perspective on cell subtype-specific therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
|
10
|
Alzheimer's Disease Mouse as a Model of Testis Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165726. [PMID: 32785075 PMCID: PMC7460847 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide with protective functions in the central nervous system and various peripheral organs. PACAP has the highest expression level in the testes, among the peripheral organs, and has a positive regulative role in spermatogenesis and in sperm motility. In the present study, we explored testicular degenerative alterations in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) (B6C3-Tg(APPswe,PSEN1dE9)85Dbo/J) and demonstrated changes in PACAP-regulated signaling pathways. In addition, the effects of increased physical activity of AD (trained AD (TAD)) mice on testis were also followed. Reduced cell number and decreased thickness of basement membrane were detected in AD samples. These changes were compensated by physical activity. Expression of PACAP receptors and canonical signaling elements such as PKA, P-PKA, PP2A significantly decreased in AD mice, and altered Sox transcription factor expression was also detected. Via this signaling mechanism, physical activity compensated the negative effects of AD on the expression of type IV collagen. Our findings suggest that the testes of AD mice can be a good model of testis degeneration. Moreover, it can be an appropriate organ to follow the effects of various interventions such as physical activity on tissue regeneration and signaling alterations.
Collapse
|
11
|
Perrot CY, Herrera JL, Fournier-Goss AE, Komatsu M. Prostaglandin E2 breaks down pericyte-endothelial cell interaction via EP1 and EP4-dependent downregulation of pericyte N-cadherin, connexin-43, and R-Ras. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11186. [PMID: 32636414 PMCID: PMC7341885 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68019-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A close association between pericytes and endothelial cells (ECs) is crucial to the stability and function of capillary blood vessels and microvessels. The loss or dysfunction of pericytes results in significant disruption of these blood vessels as observed in pathological conditions, including cancer, diabetes, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a lipid mediator of inflammation, and its tissue concentration is elevated in cancer and neurological disorders. Here, we show that the exposure to PGE2 switches pericytes to a fast-migrating, loosely adhered phenotype that fails to intimately interact with ECs. N-cadherin and connexin-43 in adherens junction and gap junction between pericytes and ECs are downregulated by EP-4 and EP-1-dependent mechanisms, leading to breakdown of the pericyte–EC interaction. Furthermore, R-Ras, a small GTPase important for vascular normalization and vessel stability, is transcriptionally repressed by PGE2 in an EP4-dependent manner. Mouse dermal capillary vessels lose pericyte coverage substantially upon PGE2 injection into the skin. Our results suggest that EP-mediated direct disruption of pericytes by PGE2 is a key process for vascular destabilization. Restoring pericyte–EC interaction using inhibitors of PGE2 signaling may offer a therapeutic strategy in cancer and neurological disorders, in which pericyte dysfunction contributes to the disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carole Y Perrot
- Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute and Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Jose L Herrera
- Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute and Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Ashley E Fournier-Goss
- Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute and Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Masanobu Komatsu
- Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute and Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701, USA. .,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Interactions between Amyloid-Β Proteins and Human Brain Pericytes: Implications for the Pathobiology of Alzheimer's Disease. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9051490. [PMID: 32429102 PMCID: PMC7290583 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that is the most common cause of dementia, especially among aging populations. Despite advances in AD research, the underlying cause and the discovery of disease-modifying treatments have remained elusive. Two key features of AD pathology are the aberrant deposition of amyloid beta (amyloid-β or Aβ) proteins in the brain parenchyma and Aβ toxicity in brain pericytes of the neurovascular unit/blood–brain barrier (NVU/BBB). This toxicity induces oxidative stress in pericytes and leads to capillary constriction. The interaction between pericytes and Aβ proteins results in the release of endothelin-1 in the pericytes. Endothelin-1 interacts with ETA receptors to cause pericyte contraction. This pericyte-mediated constriction of brain capillaries can cause chronic hypoperfusion of the brain microvasculature, subsequently leading to the neurodegeneration and cognitive decline observed in AD patients. The interaction between Aβ proteins and brain pericytes is largely unknown and requires further investigation. This review provides an updated overview of the interaction between Aβ proteins with pericytes, one the most significant and often forgotten cellular components of the BBB and the inner blood–retinal barrier (IBRB). The IBRB has been shown to be a window into the central nervous system (CNS) that could allow the early diagnosis of AD pathology in the brain and the BBB using modern photonic imaging systems such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and two-photon microscopy. In this review, I explore the regulation of Aβ proteins in the brain parenchyma, their role in AD pathobiology, and their association with pericyte function. This review discusses Aβ proteins and pericytes in the ocular compartment of AD patients as well as strategies to rescue or protect pericytes from the effects of Aβ proteins, or to replace them with healthy cells.
Collapse
|
13
|
Uemura MT, Maki T, Ihara M, Lee VMY, Trojanowski JQ. Brain Microvascular Pericytes in Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Dementia. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:80. [PMID: 32317958 PMCID: PMC7171590 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pericytes are unique, multi-functional mural cells localized at the abluminal side of the perivascular space in microvessels. Originally discovered in 19th century, pericytes had drawn less attention until decades ago mainly due to lack of specific markers. Recently, however, a growing body of evidence has revealed that pericytes play various important roles: development and maintenance of blood–brain barrier (BBB), regulation of the neurovascular system (e.g., vascular stability, vessel formation, cerebral blood flow, etc.), trafficking of inflammatory cells, clearance of toxic waste products from the brain, and acquisition of stem cell-like properties. In the neurovascular unit, pericytes perform these functions through coordinated crosstalk with neighboring cells including endothelial, glial, and neuronal cells. Dysfunction of pericytes contribute to a wide variety of diseases that lead to cognitive impairments such as cerebral small vessel disease (SVD), acute stroke, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and other neurological disorders. For instance, in SVDs, pericyte degeneration leads to microvessel instability and demyelination while in stroke, pericyte constriction after ischemia causes a no-reflow phenomenon in brain capillaries. In AD, which shares some common risk factors with vascular dementia, reduction in pericyte coverage and subsequent microvascular impairments are observed in association with white matter attenuation and contribute to impaired cognition. Pericyte loss causes BBB-breakdown, which stagnates amyloid β clearance and the leakage of neurotoxic molecules into the brain parenchyma. In this review, we first summarize the characteristics of brain microvessel pericytes, and their roles in the central nervous system. Then, we focus on how dysfunctional pericytes contribute to the pathogenesis of vascular cognitive impairment including cerebral ‘small vessel’ and ‘large vessel’ diseases, as well as AD. Finally, we discuss therapeutic implications for these disorders by targeting pericytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maiko T Uemura
- Institute on Aging and Center for Neurodegenerative Disease Research, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,JSPS Overseas Research Fellowship Program, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takakuni Maki
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masafumi Ihara
- Department of Neurology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Virginia M Y Lee
- Institute on Aging and Center for Neurodegenerative Disease Research, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - John Q Trojanowski
- Institute on Aging and Center for Neurodegenerative Disease Research, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Andreotti JP, Silva WN, Costa AC, Picoli CC, Bitencourt FCO, Coimbra-Campos LMC, Resende RR, Magno LAV, Romano-Silva MA, Mintz A, Birbrair A. Neural stem cell niche heterogeneity. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2019; 95:42-53. [PMID: 30639325 PMCID: PMC6710163 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, new neurons can be generated from neural stem cells in specific regions of the adult brain. Neural stem cells are characterized by their abilities to differentiate into all neural lineages and to self-renew. The specific microenvironments regulating neural stem cells, commonly referred to as neurogenic niches, comprise multiple cell populations whose precise contributions are under active current exploration. Understanding the cross-talk between neural stem cells and their niche components is essential for the development of therapies against neurological disorders in which neural stem cells function is altered. In this review, we describe and discuss recent studies that identified novel components in the neural stem cell niche. These discoveries bring new concepts to the field. Here, we evaluate these recent advances that change our understanding of the neural stem cell niche heterogeneity and its influence on neural stem cell function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia P Andreotti
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Walison N Silva
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Alinne C Costa
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Caroline C Picoli
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Flávia C O Bitencourt
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Rodrigo R Resende
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Luiz A V Magno
- Department of Mental Health, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marco A Romano-Silva
- Department of Mental Health, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Akiva Mintz
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander Birbrair
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|