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Dematteis G, Tapella L, Lim D. Probing the endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria interaction in Alzheimer's disease: searching far and wide. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2103-2104. [PMID: 38488539 PMCID: PMC11034600 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.392880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Dematteis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, Novara, Italy
| | - Laura Tapella
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, Novara, Italy
| | - Dmitry Lim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, Novara, Italy
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Schröder S, Fuchs U, Gisa V, Pena T, Krüger DM, Hempel N, Burkhardt S, Salinas G, Schütz AL, Delalle I, Sananbenesi F, Fischer A. PRDM16-DT is a novel lncRNA that regulates astrocyte function in Alzheimer's disease. Acta Neuropathol 2024; 148:32. [PMID: 39207536 PMCID: PMC11362476 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-024-02787-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Astrocytes provide crucial support for neurons, contributing to synaptogenesis, synaptic maintenance, and neurotransmitter recycling. Under pathological conditions, deregulation of astrocytes contributes to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). While most research in this field has focused on protein-coding genes, non-coding RNAs, particularly long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), have emerged as significant regulatory molecules. In this study, we identified the lncRNA PRDM16-DT as highly enriched in the human brain, where it is almost exclusively expressed in astrocytes. PRDM16-DT and its murine homolog, Prdm16os, are downregulated in the brains of AD patients and in AD models. In line with this, knockdown of PRDM16-DT and Prdm16os revealed its critical role in maintaining astrocyte homeostasis and supporting neuronal function by regulating genes essential for glutamate uptake, lactate release, and neuronal spine density through interactions with the RE1-Silencing Transcription factor (Rest) and Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2). Notably, CRISPR-mediated overexpression of Prdm16os mitigated functional deficits in astrocytes induced by stimuli linked to AD pathogenesis. These findings underscore the importance of PRDM16-DT in astrocyte function and its potential as a novel therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disorders characterized by astrocyte dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Schröder
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Fuchs
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Verena Gisa
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tonatiuh Pena
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
- Bioinformatics Unit, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dennis M Krüger
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
- Bioinformatics Unit, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Nina Hempel
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Burkhardt
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gabriela Salinas
- NGS- Integrative Genomics Core Unit, Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Schütz
- Research Group for Genome Dynamics in Brain Diseases, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ivana Delalle
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, 670 Albany Street, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Farahnaz Sananbenesi
- Research Group for Genome Dynamics in Brain Diseases, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andre Fischer
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
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3
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Schröder S, Fuchs U, Gisa V, Pena T, Krüger DM, Hempel N, Burkhardt S, Salinas G, Schütz AL, Delalle I, Sananbenesi F, Fischer A. PRDM16-DT: A Brain and Astrocyte-Specific lncRNA Implicated in Alzheimer's Disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.27.600964. [PMID: 39005272 PMCID: PMC11244882 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.27.600964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Astrocytes provide crucial support for neurons, contributing to synaptogenesis, synaptic maintenance, and neurotransmitter recycling. Under pathological conditions, deregulation of astrocytes contributes to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), highlighting the growing interest in targeting astrocyte function to address early phases of AD pathogenesis. While most research in this field has focused on protein-coding genes, non-coding RNAs, particularly long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), have emerged as significant regulatory molecules. In this study, we identified the lncRNA PRDM16-DT as highly enriched in the human brain, where it is almost exclusively expressed in astrocytes. PRDM16-DT and its murine homolog, Prdm16os, are downregulated in the brains of AD patients and in AD models. In line with this, knockdown of PRDM16-DT and Prdm16os revealed its critical role in maintaining astrocyte homeostasis and supporting neuronal function by regulating genes essential for glutamate uptake, lactate release, and neuronal spine density through interactions with the RE1-Silencing Transcription factor (Rest) and Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2). Notably, CRISPR-mediated overexpression of Prdm16os mitigated functional deficits in astrocytes induced by stimuli linked to AD pathogenesis. These findings underscore the importance of PRDM16-DT in astrocyte function and its potential as a novel therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disorders characterized by astrocyte dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Schröder
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Fuchs
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Verena Gisa
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tonatiuh Pena
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
- Bioinformatics Unit, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dennis M Krüger
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
- Bioinformatics Unit, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Nina Hempel
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Burkhardt
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gabriela Salinas
- NGS- Integrative Genomics Core Unit, Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Schütz
- Research Group for Genome Dynamics in Brain Diseases, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ivana Delalle
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, 670 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Farahnaz Sananbenesi
- Research Group for Genome Dynamics in Brain Diseases, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andre Fischer
- Department for Systems Medicine and Epigenetics, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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Tapella L, Dematteis G, La Vitola P, Leva S, Tonelli E, Raddi M, Delconti M, Dacomo L, La Macchia A, Murari E, Talmon M, Malecka J, Chrostek G, Grilli M, Colombo L, Salmona M, Forloni G, Genazzani AA, Balducci C, Lim D. Genetic deletion of astrocytic calcineurin B1 prevents cognitive impairment and neuropathology development in acute and chronic mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. Glia 2024; 72:899-915. [PMID: 38288580 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) represents an urgent yet unmet challenge for modern society, calling for exploration of innovative targets and therapeutic approaches. Astrocytes, main homeostatic cells in the CNS, represent promising cell-target. Our aim was to investigate if deletion of the regulatory CaNB1 subunit of calcineurin in astrocytes could mitigate AD-related memory deficits, neuropathology, and neuroinflammation. We have generated two, acute and chronic, AD mouse models with astrocytic CaNB1 ablation (ACN-KO). In the former, we evaluated the ability of β-amyloid oligomers (AβOs) to impair memory and activate glial cells once injected in the cerebral ventricle of conditional ACN-KO mice. Next, we generated a tamoxifen-inducible astrocyte-specific CaNB1 knock-out in 3xTg-AD mice (indACNKO-AD). CaNB1 was deleted, by tamoxifen injection, in 11.7-month-old 3xTg-AD mice for 4.4 months. Spatial memory was evaluated using the Barnes maze; β-amyloid plaques burden, neurofibrillary tangle deposition, reactive gliosis, and neuroinflammation were also assessed. The acute model showed that ICV injected AβOs in 2-month-old wild type mice impaired recognition memory and fostered a pro-inflammatory microglia phenotype, whereas in ACN-KO mice, AβOs were inactive. In indACNKO-AD mice, 4.4 months after CaNB1 depletion, we found preservation of spatial memory and cognitive flexibility, abolishment of amyloidosis, and reduction of neurofibrillary tangles, gliosis, and neuroinflammation. Our results suggest that ACN is crucial for the development of cognitive impairment, AD neuropathology, and neuroinflammation. Astrocyte-specific CaNB1 deletion is beneficial for both the abolishment of AβO-mediated detrimental effects and treatment of ongoing AD-related pathology, hence representing an intriguing target for AD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Tapella
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Giulia Dematteis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Pietro La Vitola
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Susanna Leva
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Elisa Tonelli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Marco Raddi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Marta Delconti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Letizia Dacomo
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Alberto La Macchia
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Elisa Murari
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Maria Talmon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Justyna Malecka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Gabriela Chrostek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Mariagrazia Grilli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Laura Colombo
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Mario Salmona
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Forloni
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Armando A Genazzani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Claudia Balducci
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Dmitry Lim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
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Liu ZL, Hua FF, Qu L, Yan N, Zhang HF. Evaluating serum CXCL12, sCD22, Lp-PLA2 levels and ratios as biomarkers for diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. World J Psychiatry 2024; 14:380-387. [PMID: 38617987 PMCID: PMC11008386 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v14.i3.380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Grasping the underlying mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is still a work in progress, and existing diagnostic techniques encounter various obstacles. Therefore, the discovery of dependable biomarkers is essential for early detection, tracking the disease's advancement, and steering treatment strategies. AIM To explore the diagnostic potential of serum CXCL12, sCD22, Lp-PLA2, and their ratios in AD, aiming to enhance early detection and inform targeted treatment strategies. METHODS The study was conducted in Dongying people's Hospital from January 2021 to December 2022. Participants included 60 AD patients (AD group) and 60 healthy people (control group). Using a prospective case-control design, the levels of CXCL12, sCD22 and Lp-PLA2 and their ratios were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit in the diagnosis of AD. The differences between the two groups were analyzed by statistical methods, and the corresponding ratio was constructed to improve the specificity and sensitivity of diagnosis. RESULTS Serum CXCL12 levels were higher in the AD group (47.2 ± 8.5 ng/mL) than the control group (32.8 ± 5.7 ng/mL, P < 0.001), while sCD22 levels were lower (14.3 ± 2.1 ng/mL vs 18.9 ± 3.4 ng/mL, P < 0.01). Lp-PLA2 levels were also higher in the AD group (112.5 ± 20.6 ng/mL vs 89.7 ± 15.2 ng/mL, P < 0.05). Significant differences were noted in CXCL12/sCD22 (3.3 vs 1.7, P < 0.001) and Lp-PLA2/sCD22 ratios (8.0 vs 5.2, P < 0.05) between the groups. Receiver operating characteristic analysis confirmed high sensitivity and specificity of these markers and their ratios in distinguishing AD, with area under the curves ranging from 0.568 to 0.787. CONCLUSION Serum CXCL12 and Lp-PLA2 levels were significantly increased, while sCD22 were significantly decreased, as well as increases in the ratios of CXCL12/sCD22 and Lp-PLA2/sCD22, are closely related to the onset of AD. These biomarkers and their ratios can be used as potential diagnostic indicators for AD, providing an important clinical reference for early intervention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeng-Ling Liu
- Department of Neurology, Dongying People's Hospital, Dongying 257000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Fei-Fei Hua
- Department of Neurology, Dongying People's Hospital, Dongying 257000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lei Qu
- Department of Neurology, Dongying People's Hospital, Dongying 257000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Na Yan
- Department of Neurology, Dongying People's Hospital, Dongying 257000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hui-Fang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Dongying People's Hospital, Dongying 257000, Shandong Province, China
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6
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Ifediora N, Canoll P, Hargus G. Human stem cell transplantation models of Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1354164. [PMID: 38450383 PMCID: PMC10915253 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1354164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most frequent form of dementia. It is characterized by pronounced neuronal degeneration with formation of neurofibrillary tangles and deposition of amyloid β throughout the central nervous system. Animal models have provided important insights into the pathogenesis of AD and they have shown that different brain cell types including neurons, astrocytes and microglia have important functions in the pathogenesis of AD. However, there are difficulties in translating promising therapeutic observations in mice into clinical application in patients. Alternative models using human cells such as human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) may provide significant advantages, since they have successfully been used to model disease mechanisms in neurons and in glial cells in neurodegenerative diseases in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we summarize recent studies that describe the transplantation of human iPSC-derived neurons, astrocytes and microglial cells into the forebrain of mice to generate chimeric transplantation models of AD. We also discuss opportunities, challenges and limitations in using differentiated human iPSCs for in vivo disease modeling and their application for biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nkechime Ifediora
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Peter Canoll
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Gunnar Hargus
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
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Saternos H, Hamlett ED, Guzman S, Head E, Granholm AC, Ledreux A. Unique Pathology in the Locus Coeruleus of Individuals with Down Syndrome. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 101:541-561. [PMID: 39213062 DOI: 10.3233/jad-240043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Background Down syndrome (DS) is one of the most commonly occurring chromosomal conditions. Most individuals with DS develop Alzheimer's disease (AD) by 50 years of age. Recent evidence suggests that AD pathology in the locus coeruleus (LC) is an early event in sporadic AD. It is likely that the widespread axonal network of LC neurons contributes to the spread of tau pathology in the AD brain, although this has not been investigated in DS-AD. Objective The main purpose of this study was to profile AD pathology and neuroinflammation in the LC, comparing AD and DS-AD in postmortem human tissues. Methods We utilized immunofluorescence and semi-quantitative analyses of pTau (4 different forms), amyloid-β (Aβ), glial, and neuronal markers in the LC across 36 cases (control, DS-AD, and AD) to compare the different pathological profiles. Results Oligomeric tau was highly elevated in DS-AD cases compared to LOAD or EOAD cases. The distribution of staining for pT231 was elevated in DS-AD and EOAD compared to the LOAD group. The DS-AD group exhibited increased Aβ immunostaining compared to AD cases. The number of tau-bearing neurons was also significantly different between the EOAD and DS-AD cases compared to the LOAD cases. Conclusions While inflammation, pTau, and Aβ are all involved in AD pathology, their contribution to disease progression may differ depending on the diagnosis. Our results suggest that DS-AD and EOAD may be more similar in pathology than LOAD. Our study highlights unique avenues to further our understanding of the mechanisms governing AD neuropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Saternos
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Eric D Hamlett
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Samuel Guzman
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ann-Charlotte Granholm
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Aurélie Ledreux
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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Awogbindin I, Wanklin M, Verkhratsky A, Tremblay MÈ. Microglia in Neurodegenerative Diseases. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 37:497-512. [PMID: 39207709 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-55529-9_27] [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: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are manifested by a progressive death of neural cells, resulting in the deterioration of central nervous system (CNS) functions, ultimately leading to specific behavioural and cognitive symptoms associated with affected brain regions. Several neurodegenerative disorders are caused by genetic variants or mutations, although the majority of cases are sporadic and linked to various environmental risk factors, with yet an unknown aetiology. Neuroglial changes are fundamental and often lead to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, microglial cells, which are essential for maintaining CNS health, become compromised in their physiological functions with the exposure to environmental risk factors, genetic variants or mutations, as well as disease pathology. In this chapter, we cover the contribution of neuroglia, especially microglia, to several neurodegenerative diseases, including Nasu-Hakola disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, infectious disease-associated neurodegeneration, and metal-precipitated neurodegeneration. Future research perspectives for the field pertaining to the therapeutic targeting of microglia across these disease conditions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifeoluwa Awogbindin
- Department of Biochemistry, Neuroimmunology Group, Molecular Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Laboratory, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Division of Medical Sciences, Medical Sciences Building, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Institute on Aging and Lifelong Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Michael Wanklin
- Division of Medical Sciences, Medical Sciences Building, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania.
- Department of Forensic Analytical Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
- Axe neurosciences, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain.
| | - Marie-Ève Tremblay
- Division of Medical Sciences, Medical Sciences Building, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
- Institute on Aging and Lifelong Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
- Axe neurosciences, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Université Laval, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, Québec City, QC, Canada.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of British Columbia, Life Sciences Center, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Ramezani M, Fernando M, Eslick S, Asih PR, Shadfar S, Bandara EMS, Hillebrandt H, Meghwar S, Shahriari M, Chatterjee P, Thota R, Dias CB, Garg ML, Martins RN. Ketone bodies mediate alterations in brain energy metabolism and biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1297984. [PMID: 38033541 PMCID: PMC10687427 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1297984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. AD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive dysfunction, including learning and memory deficits, and behavioral changes. Neuropathology hallmarks of AD such as amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles containing the neuron-specific protein tau is associated with changes in fluid biomarkers including Aβ, phosphorylated tau (p-tau)-181, p-tau 231, p-tau 217, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and neurofilament light (NFL). Another pathological feature of AD is neural damage and hyperactivation of astrocytes, that can cause increased pro-inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress. In addition, reduced brain glucose metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction appears up to 15 years before the onset of clinical AD symptoms. As glucose utilization is compromised in the brain of patients with AD, ketone bodies (KBs) may serve as an alternative source of energy. KBs are generated from the β-oxidation of fatty acids, which are enhanced following consumption of ketogenic diets with high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrate. KBs have been shown to cross the blood brain barrier to improve brain energy metabolism. This review comprehensively summarizes the current literature on how increasing KBs support brain energy metabolism. In addition, for the first time, this review discusses the effects of ketogenic diet on the putative AD biomarkers such as Aβ, tau (mainly p-tau 181), GFAP, and NFL, and discusses the role of KBs on neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matin Ramezani
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
| | - Malika Fernando
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
| | - Shaun Eslick
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
| | - Prita R. Asih
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Sina Shadfar
- Motor Neuron Disease Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Heidi Hillebrandt
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
| | - Silochna Meghwar
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
| | - Maryam Shahriari
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
| | - Pratishtha Chatterjee
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
| | - Rohith Thota
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
| | - Cintia B. Dias
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
| | - Manohar L. Garg
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
| | - Ralph N. Martins
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
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Pradhan AK, Neumüller T, Klug C, Fuchs S, Schlegel M, Ballmann M, Tartler KJ, Pianos A, Garcia MS, Liere P, Schumacher M, Kreuzer M, Rupprecht R, Rammes G. Chronic administration of XBD173 ameliorates cognitive deficits and neuropathology via 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:332. [PMID: 37891168 PMCID: PMC10611770 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02630-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of β-amyloid peptide (Aβ). It affects cognition and leads to memory impairment. The mitochondrial translocator protein (TSPO) plays an essential role in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and has been implicated in several neuronal disorders or neuronal injuries. Ligands targeting the mitochondrial translocator protein (18 kDa), promote neurosteroidogenesis and may be neuroprotective. To study whether the TSPO ligand XBD173 may exert early neuroprotective effects in AD pathology we investigated the impact of XBD173 on amyloid toxicity and neuroplasticity in mouse models of AD. We show that XBD173 (emapunil), via neurosteroid-mediated signaling and delta subunit-containing GABAA receptors, prevents the neurotoxic effect of Aβ on long-term potentiation (CA1-LTP) in the hippocampus and prevents the loss of spines. Chronic but not acute administration of XBD173 ameliorates spatial learning deficits in transgenic AD mice with arctic mutation (ArcAβ). The heterozygous TSPO-knockout crossed with the transgenic arctic mutation model of AD mice (het TSPOKO X ArcAβ) treated with XBD173 does not show this improvement in spatial learning suggesting TSPO is needed for procognitive effects of XBD173. The neuroprotective profile of XBD173 in AD pathology is further supported by a reduction in plaques and soluble Aβ levels in the cortex, increased synthesis of neurosteroids, rescued spine density, reduction of complement protein C1q deposits, and reduced astrocytic phagocytosis of functional synapses both in the hippocampus and cortex. Our findings suggest that XBD173 may exert therapeutic effects via TSPO in a mouse model of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpit Kumar Pradhan
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany.
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Tatjana Neumüller
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia Klug
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Severin Fuchs
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Schlegel
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Ballmann
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Johanna Tartler
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Antoine Pianos
- U1195 Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, 94276, France
| | - Maria Sanchez Garcia
- U1195 Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, 94276, France
| | - Philippe Liere
- U1195 Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, 94276, France
| | - Michael Schumacher
- U1195 Inserm and University Paris-Saclay, 80 rue du Général Leclerc, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, 94276, France
| | - Matthias Kreuzer
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Rainer Rupprecht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gerhard Rammes
- Klinik für Anaesthesiologie und Intensivmedizin der Technischen Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
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11
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Pauwels EK, Boer GJ. Friends and Foes in Alzheimer's Disease. Med Princ Pract 2023; 32:313-322. [PMID: 37788649 PMCID: PMC10727688 DOI: 10.1159/000534400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a disabling neurodegenerative disease. The prognosis is poor, and currently there are no proven effective therapies. Most likely, the etiology is related to cerebral inflammatory processes that cause neuronal damage, resulting in dysfunction and apoptosis of nerve cells. Pathogens that evoke a neuroinflammatory response, collectively activate astrocytes and microglia, which contributes to the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This leads to the deposit of clustered fragments of beta-amyloid and misfolded tau proteins which do not elicit an adequate immune reaction. Apart from the function of astrocytes and microglia, molecular entities such as TREM2, SYK, C22, and C33 play a role in the physiopathology of AD. Furthermore, bacteria and viruses may trigger an overactive inflammatory response in the brain. Pathogens like Helicobacter pylori, Chlamydia pneumonia, and Porphyromonas gingivalis (known for low-grade infection in the oral cavity) can release gingipains, which are enzymes that can damage and destroy neurons. Chronic infection with Borrelia burgdorferi (the causative agent of Lyme disease) can co-localize with tau tangles and amyloid deposits. As for viral infections, herpes simplex virus 1, cytomegalovirus, and Epstein-Barr virus can play a role in the pathogenesis of AD. Present investigations have resulted in the development of antibodies that can clear the brain of beta-amyloid plaques. Trials with humanized aducanumab, lecanemab, and donanemab revealed limited success in AD patients. However, AD should be considered as a continuum in which the initial preclinical phase may take 10 or even 20 years. It is generally thought that this phase offers a window for efficacious treatment. Therefore, research is also focused on the identification of biomarkers for early AD detection. In this respect, the plasma measurement of neurofilament light chain in patients treated with hydromethylthionine mesylate may well open a new way to prevent the formation of tau tangles and represents the first treatment for AD at its roots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest K.J. Pauwels
- Leiden University and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard J. Boer
- Netherlands Institute for Brain Research, Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Yoon EJ, Ahn JW, Kim HS, Choi Y, Jeong J, Joo SS, Park D. Improvement of Cognitive Function by Fermented Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer Berries Extracts in an AF64A-Induced Memory Deficit Model. Nutrients 2023; 15:3389. [PMID: 37571326 PMCID: PMC10421307 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the potential therapeutic properties of fermented ginseng berry extract (GBE) for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Fermented GBE was examined for its ginsenoside content and physiological properties, which have been suggested to have neuroprotective effects and improve cognitive function. The results showed that fermented GBE contains high levels of major active ginsenosides and exhibits antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities. Post-fermented GBE demonstrated therapeutic potential in AF64A-induced damaged neural stem cells and an animal model of AD. These findings suggest that fermented GBE may hold promise as a candidate for developing new therapeutic interventions for memory deficits and cognitive disorders associated with AD and other neurodegenerative conditions. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of fermented GBE in human subjects and to determine its clinical applications. In conclusion, our study provides evidence that fermented GBE has potential as a natural product for the prevention and treatment of AD. The high levels of active ginsenosides and antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities of fermented GBE suggest that it may be a promising therapeutic agent for improving cognitive function and reducing neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Jung Yoon
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Medicine, Department of Biology Education, Republic of Korea National University of Education, Cheongju 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea; (E.-J.Y.); (J.J.)
| | - Jeong-Won Ahn
- College of Life Science, Gangneung-Wonju National University, 7 Jukheon-gil, Gangneung 25457, Gangwon, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.A.); (H.-S.K.)
| | - Hyun-Soo Kim
- College of Life Science, Gangneung-Wonju National University, 7 Jukheon-gil, Gangneung 25457, Gangwon, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.A.); (H.-S.K.)
| | - Yunseo Choi
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Medicine, Department of Biology Education, Republic of Korea National University of Education, Cheongju 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea; (E.-J.Y.); (J.J.)
| | - Jiwon Jeong
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Medicine, Department of Biology Education, Republic of Korea National University of Education, Cheongju 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea; (E.-J.Y.); (J.J.)
| | - Seong-Soo Joo
- College of Life Science, Gangneung-Wonju National University, 7 Jukheon-gil, Gangneung 25457, Gangwon, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.A.); (H.-S.K.)
- Huscion MAJIC R&D Center, 331 Pangyo-ro, Seongnam 13488, Gyeonggi, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongsun Park
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Medicine, Department of Biology Education, Republic of Korea National University of Education, Cheongju 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea; (E.-J.Y.); (J.J.)
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13
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Moccia F, Fiorio Pla A, Lim D, Lodola F, Gerbino A. Intracellular Ca 2+ signalling: unexpected new roles for the usual suspect. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1210085. [PMID: 37576340 PMCID: PMC10413985 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1210085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytosolic Ca2+ signals are organized in complex spatial and temporal patterns that underlie their unique ability to regulate multiple cellular functions. Changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) are finely tuned by the concerted interaction of membrane receptors and ion channels that introduce Ca2+ into the cytosol, Ca2+-dependent sensors and effectors that translate the elevation in [Ca2+]i into a biological output, and Ca2+-clearing mechanisms that return the [Ca2+]i to pre-stimulation levels and prevent cytotoxic Ca2+ overload. The assortment of the Ca2+ handling machinery varies among different cell types to generate intracellular Ca2+ signals that are selectively tailored to subserve specific functions. The advent of novel high-speed, 2D and 3D time-lapse imaging techniques, single-wavelength and genetic Ca2+ indicators, as well as the development of novel genetic engineering tools to manipulate single cells and whole animals, has shed novel light on the regulation of cellular activity by the Ca2+ handling machinery. A symposium organized within the framework of the 72nd Annual Meeting of the Italian Society of Physiology, held in Bari on 14-16th September 2022, has recently addressed many of the unexpected mechanisms whereby intracellular Ca2+ signalling regulates cellular fate in healthy and disease states. Herein, we present a report of this symposium, in which the following emerging topics were discussed: 1) Regulation of water reabsorption in the kidney by lysosomal Ca2+ release through Transient Receptor Potential Mucolipin 1 (TRPML1); 2) Endoplasmic reticulum-to-mitochondria Ca2+ transfer in Alzheimer's disease-related astroglial dysfunction; 3) The non-canonical role of TRP Melastatin 8 (TRPM8) as a Rap1A inhibitor in the definition of some cancer hallmarks; and 4) Non-genetic optical stimulation of Ca2+ signals in the cardiovascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Moccia
- Laboratory of General Physiology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Dmitry Lim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, Novara, Italy
| | - Francesco Lodola
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Center for Nano Science and Technology @PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Gerbino
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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14
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Balietti M, Casoli T, Giorgetti B, Colangeli R, Nicoletti C, Solazzi M, Pugliese A, Conti F. Generation and Characterization of the First Murine Model of Alzheimer's Disease with Mutated AβPP Inserted in a BALB/c Background (C.B6/J-APPswe). J Alzheimers Dis 2023:JAD230195. [PMID: 37182890 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are available, but all suffer from certain limitations, thus prompting further attempts. To date, no one model exists with amyloidopathy in a BALB/c strain. OBJECTIVE To generate and characterize the C.B6/J-APPswe mouse, a model of AD with a mutated human gene for the amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP) inserted in a BALB/c background. METHODS We analyzed five groups at different ages (3, 6, 9, 12, and 16-18 months) of C.B6/J-APPswe and wild-type mice (50% males and 50% females) for the main hallmarks of AD by western blotting, amyloid-β (Aβ) ELISA, immunocytochemistry, electrophysiology, and behavioral tests. RESULTS The C.B6/J-APPswe mouse displays early AβPP and Aβ production, late amyloid plaques formation, high level of tau phosphorylation, synaptic deficits (reduced density and functional impairment due to a reduced post-synaptic responsiveness), neurodegeneration caused by apoptosis and necroptosis/necrosis, microgliosis, astrocytic abnormalities, and sex-related differences in explorative behavior, anxiety-like behavior, and spatial long-term and working memories. Social housing is feasible despite the intra-cage aggressiveness of male animals. CONCLUSION C.B6/J-APPswe mice develop most of the distinctive features of AD and is a suitable model for the study of brain atrophy mechanisms and of the differences between males and females in the onset of cognitive/non-cognitive deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Balietti
- Center for Neurobiology of Aging, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - Tiziana Casoli
- Center for Neurobiology of Aging, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Colangeli
- Section of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Cristina Nicoletti
- Section of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Moreno Solazzi
- Center for Neurobiology of Aging, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - Arianna Pugliese
- Section of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Fiorenzo Conti
- Center for Neurobiology of Aging, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
- Section of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
- Fondazione di Medicina Molecolare e Terapia Cellulare, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
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15
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Balusu S, Praschberger R, Lauwers E, De Strooper B, Verstreken P. Neurodegeneration cell per cell. Neuron 2023; 111:767-786. [PMID: 36787752 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
The clinical definition of neurodegenerative diseases is based on symptoms that reflect terminal damage of specific brain regions. This is misleading as it tells little about the initial disease processes. Circuitry failures that underlie the clinical symptomatology are themselves preceded by clinically mostly silent, slowly progressing multicellular processes that trigger or are triggered by the accumulation of abnormally folded proteins such as Aβ, Tau, TDP-43, and α-synuclein, among others. Methodological advances in single-cell omics, combined with complex genetics and novel ways to model complex cellular interactions using induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, make it possible to analyze the early cellular phase of neurodegenerative disorders. This will revolutionize the way we study those diseases and will translate into novel diagnostics and cell-specific therapeutic targets, stopping these disorders in their early track before they cause difficult-to-reverse damage to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriram Balusu
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Roman Praschberger
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Elsa Lauwers
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart De Strooper
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, Leuven, Belgium; UK Dementia Research Institute, London, UK.
| | - Patrik Verstreken
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, Leuven, Belgium.
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16
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Wijesinghe P, Whitmore CA, Campbell M, Li C, Tsuyuki M, To E, Haynes J, Pham W, Matsubara JA. Ergothioneine, a dietary antioxidant improves amyloid beta clearance in the neuroretina of a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1107436. [PMID: 36998724 PMCID: PMC10043244 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1107436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionErgothioneine (Ergo) is a naturally occurring dietary antioxidant. Ergo uptake is dependent on the transporter, organic cation transporter novel-type 1 (OCTN1) distribution. OCTN1 is highly expressed in blood cells (myeloid lineage cells), brain and ocular tissues that are likely predisposed to oxidative stress. Ergo may protect the brain and eye against oxidative damage and inflammation, however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Amyloid beta (Aβ) clearance is a complex process mediated by various systems and cell types including vascular transport across the blood–brain barrier, glymphatic drainage, and engulfment and degradation by resident microglia and infiltrating innate immune cells. Impaired Aβ clearance is a major cause for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here we investigated neuroretinas to explore the neuroprotective effect of Ergo in a transgenic AD mouse model.MethodsAge-matched groups of Ergo-treated 5XFAD, non-treated 5XFAD, and C57BL/6J wildtype (WT controls) were used to assess Ergo transporter OCTN1 expression and Aβ load along with microglia/macrophage (IBA1) and astrocyte (GFAP) markers in wholemount neuroretinas (n = 26) and eye cross-sections (n = 18). Immunoreactivity was quantified by fluorescence or by semi-quantitative assessments.Results and discussionOCTN1 immunoreactivity was significantly low in the eye cross-sections of Ergo-treated and non-treated 5XFAD vs. WT controls. Strong Aβ labeling, detected in the superficial layers in the wholemounts of Ergo-treated 5XFAD vs. non-treated 5XFAD reflects the existence of an effective Aβ clearance system. This was supported by imaging of cross-sections where Aβ immunoreactivity was significantly low in the neuroretina of Ergo-treated 5XFAD vs. non-treated 5XFAD. Moreover, semi-quantitative analysis in wholemounts identified a significantly reduced number of large Aβ deposits or plaques, and a significantly increased number of IBA1(+)ve blood-derived phagocytic macrophages in Ergo-treated 5XFAD vs. non-treated 5XFAD. In sum, enhanced Aβ clearance in Ergo-treated 5XFAD suggests that Ergo uptake may promote Aβ clearance possibly by blood-derived phagocytic macrophages and via perivascular drainage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Printha Wijesinghe
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Eye Care Centre, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Clayton A. Whitmore
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Matthew Campbell
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Eye Care Centre, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Charles Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Eye Care Centre, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Miranda Tsuyuki
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Eye Care Centre, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Eleanor To
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Eye Care Centre, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Justin Haynes
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Wellington Pham
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Joanne A. Matsubara
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Eye Care Centre, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Joanne A. Matsubara,
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Mitroshina EV, Pakhomov AM, Krivonosov MI, Yarkov RS, Gavrish MS, Shkirin AV, Ivanchenko MV, Vedunova MV. Novel Algorithm of Network Calcium Dynamics Analysis for Studying the Role of Astrocytes in Neuronal Activity in Alzheimer's Disease Models. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415928. [PMID: 36555569 PMCID: PMC9781291 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulated experimental data strongly suggest that astrocytes play an important role in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). The effect of astrocytes on the calcium activity of neuron-astroglia networks in AD modelling was the object of the present study. We have expanded and improved our approach's capabilities to analyze calcium activity. We have developed a novel algorithm to construct dynamic directed graphs of both astrocytic and neuronal networks. The proposed algorithm allows us not only to identify functional relationships between cells and determine the presence of network activity, but also to characterize the spread of the calcium signal from cell to cell. Our study showed that Alzheimer's astrocytes can change the functional pattern of the calcium activity of healthy nerve cells. When healthy nerve cells were cocultivated with astrocytes treated with Aβ42, activation of calcium signaling was found. When healthy nerve cells were cocultivated with 5xFAD astrocytes, inhibition of calcium signaling was observed. In this regard, it seems relevant to further study astrocytic-neuronal interactions as an important factor in the regulation of the functional activity of brain cells during neurodegenerative processes. The approach to the analysis of streaming imaging data developed by the authors is a promising tool for studying the collective calcium dynamics of nerve cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena V. Mitroshina
- Department of Neurotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603022, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-950-604-5137
| | - Alexander M. Pakhomov
- Department of Neurotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603022, Russia
- Institute of Applied Physics RAS, 46 Ulyanov Street, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
| | - Mikhail I. Krivonosov
- Department of Neurotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603022, Russia
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603022, Russia
| | - Roman S. Yarkov
- Department of Neurotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603022, Russia
| | - Maria S. Gavrish
- Department of Neurotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603022, Russia
| | - Alexey V. Shkirin
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova St. 38, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Laser Physics Department, National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, Kashirskoe Sh. 31, Moscow 115409, Russia
| | - Mikhail V. Ivanchenko
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603022, Russia
| | - Maria V. Vedunova
- Department of Neurotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603022, Russia
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18
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Bi W, Lei T, Cai S, Zhang X, Yang Y, Xiao Z, Wang L, Du H. Potential of astrocytes in targeting therapy for Alzheimer’s disease. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 113:109368. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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19
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Zhang X, Wolfinger A, Wu X, Alnafisah R, Imami A, Hamoud AR, Lundh A, Parpura V, McCullumsmith RE, Shukla R, O’Donovan SM. Gene Enrichment Analysis of Astrocyte Subtypes in Psychiatric Disorders and Psychotropic Medication Datasets. Cells 2022; 11:3315. [PMID: 36291180 PMCID: PMC9600295 DOI: 10.3390/cells11203315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes have many important functions in the brain, but their roles in psychiatric disorders and their responses to psychotropic medications are still being elucidated. Here, we used gene enrichment analysis to assess the relationships between different astrocyte subtypes, psychiatric diseases, and psychotropic medications (antipsychotics, antidepressants and mood stabilizers). We also carried out qPCR analyses and "look-up" studies to assess the chronic effects of these drugs on astrocyte marker gene expression. Our bioinformatic analysis identified gene enrichment of different astrocyte subtypes in psychiatric disorders. The highest level of enrichment was found in schizophrenia, supporting a role for astrocytes in this disorder. We also found differential enrichment of astrocyte subtypes associated with specific biological processes, highlighting the complex responses of astrocytes under pathological conditions. Enrichment of protein phosphorylation in astrocytes and disease was confirmed by biochemical analysis. Analysis of LINCS chemical perturbagen gene signatures also found that kinase inhibitors were highly discordant with astrocyte-SCZ associated gene signatures. However, we found that common gene enrichment of different psychotropic medications and astrocyte subtypes was limited. These results were confirmed by "look-up" studies and qPCR analysis, which also reported little effect of psychotropic medications on common astrocyte marker gene expression, suggesting that astrocytes are not a primary target of these medications. Conversely, antipsychotic medication does affect astrocyte gene marker expression in postmortem schizophrenia brain tissue, supporting specific astrocyte responses in different pathological conditions. Overall, this study provides a unique view of astrocyte subtypes and the effect of medications on astrocytes in disease, which will contribute to our understanding of their role in psychiatric disorders and offers insights into targeting astrocytes therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolu Zhang
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Alyssa Wolfinger
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Xiaojun Wu
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Rawan Alnafisah
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Ali Imami
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Abdul-rizaq Hamoud
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Anna Lundh
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Vladimir Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Robert E. McCullumsmith
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
- Promedica Neurosciences Institute, Toledo, OH 43606, USA
| | - Rammohan Shukla
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
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20
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Chen Z, Yuan Z, Yang S, Zhu Y, Xue M, Zhang J, Leng L. Brain Energy Metabolism: Astrocytes in Neurodegenerative Diseases. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 29:24-36. [PMID: 36193573 PMCID: PMC9804080 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are the most abundant cells in the brain. They have many important functions in the central nervous system (CNS), including the maintenance of glutamate and ion homeostasis, the elimination of oxidative stress, energy storage in glycogen, tissue repair, regulating synaptic activity by releasing neurotransmitters, and participating in synaptic formation. Astrocytes have special highly ramified structure. Their branches contact with synapses of neurons inwardly, with fine structure and wrapping synapses; their feet contact with blood vessels of brain parenchyma outward, almost wrapping the whole brain. The adjacent astrocytes rarely overlap and communicate with each other through gap junction channels. The ideal location of astrocytes enables them to sense the weak changes of their surroundings and provide the structural basis for the energy supply of neurons. Neurons and astrocytes are closely coupled units of energy metabolism in the brain. Neurons consume a lot of ATPs in the process of neurotransmission. Astrocytes provide metabolic substrates for neurons, maintain high activity of neuron, and facilitate information transmission of neurons. This article reviews the characteristics of glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism of astrocytes. The metabolic interactions between astrocytes and neurons, astrocytes and microglia were also detailed discussed. Finally, we classified analyzed the role of metabolic disorder of astrocytes in the occurrence and development of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenlei Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging ResearchInstitute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Xiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Ziqi Yuan
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging ResearchInstitute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Xiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Shangchen Yang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging ResearchInstitute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Xiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Yufei Zhu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging ResearchInstitute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Xiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Maoqiang Xue
- Department of Basic Medical Science, School of MedicineXiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Jie Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging ResearchInstitute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Xiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Lige Leng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging ResearchInstitute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Xiamen UniversityXiamenChina
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21
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Mishchenko TA, Yarkov RS, Saviuk MO, Krivonosov MI, Perenkov AD, Gudkov SV, Vedunova MV. Unravelling Contributions of Astrocytic Connexin 43 to the Functional Activity of Brain Neuron-Glial Networks under Hypoxic State In Vitro. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:948. [PMID: 36295708 PMCID: PMC9609249 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12100948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Brain hypoxia remains an Achilles' heel for public health that must be urgently addressed. Hypoxic damage affects both neurons and glial cells, particularly astrocytes, which are in close dynamic bi-directional communication, and are organized in plastic and tightly regulated networks. However, astroglial networks have received limited attention regarding their influence on the adaptive functional rearrangements of neural networks to oxygen deficiency. Herein, against the background of astrocytic Cx43 gap junction blockade by the selective blocker Gap19, we evaluated the features of spontaneous calcium activity and network characteristics of cells in primary cultures of the cerebral cortex, as well as the expression levels of metabotropic glutamate receptors 2 (mGluR2) and 5 (mGluR5) in the early and late periods after simulated hypoxia in vitro. We showed that, under normoxic conditions, blockade of Cx43 leads to an increase in the expression of metabotropic glutamate receptors mGluR2 and mGluR5 and long-term modulation of spontaneous calcium activity in primary cortical cultures, primarily expressed in the restructuring of the functional architectonics of neuron-glial networks through reducing the level of correlation between cells in the network and the percentage of existing correlated connections between cells. Blocking Cx43 during hypoxic injury has a pronounced neuroprotective effect. Together with the increased expression of mGluR5 receptors, a decrease in mGluR2 expression to the physiological level was found, which suggests the triggering of alternative molecular mechanisms of cell adaptation to hypoxia. Importantly, the blockade of Cx43 in hypoxic damage contributed to the maintenance of both the main parameters of the spontaneous calcium activity of primary cortical cultures and the functional architectonics of neuron-glial networks while maintaining the profile of calcium oscillations and calcium signal communications between cells at a highly correlated level. Our results demonstrate the crucial importance of astrocytic networks in functional brain adaptation to hypoxic damage and could be a promising target for the development of rational anti-hypoxic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana A. Mishchenko
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Ave., 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Roman S. Yarkov
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Ave., 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Mariia O. Saviuk
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Ave., 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Mikhail I. Krivonosov
- Institute of Information, Technology, Mathematics and Mechanics, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Ave., 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Alexey D. Perenkov
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Ave., 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Sergey V. Gudkov
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Ave., 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Maria V. Vedunova
- Prokhorov General Physics Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Ave., 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
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22
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Effect of cx-DHED on Abnormal Glucose Transporter Expression Induced by AD Pathologies in the 5xFAD Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810602. [PMID: 36142509 PMCID: PMC9505457 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810602] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a form of dementia associated with abnormal glucose metabolism resulting from amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tau protein tangles. In a previous study, we confirmed that carboxy-dehydroevodiamine∙HCl (cx-DHED), a derivative of DHED, was effective at improving cognitive impairment and reducing phosphorylated tau levels and synaptic loss in an AD mouse model. However, the specific mechanism of action of cx-DHED is unclear. In this study, we investigated how the cx-DHED attenuates AD pathologies in the 5xFAD mouse model, focusing particularly on abnormal glucose metabolism. We analyzed behavioral changes and AD pathologies in mice after intraperitoneal injection of cx-DHED for 2 months. As expected, cx-DHED reversed memory impairment and reduced Aβ plaques and astrocyte overexpression in the brains of 5xFAD mice. Interestingly, cx-DHED reversed the abnormal expression of glucose transporters in the brains of 5xFAD mice. In addition, otherwise low O-GlcNac levels increased, and the overactivity of phosphorylated GSK-3β decreased in the brains of cx-DHED-treated 5xFAD mice. Finally, the reduction in synaptic proteins was found to also improve by treatment with cx-DHED. Therefore, we specifically demonstrated the protective effects of cx-DHED against AD pathologies and suggest that cx-DHED may be a potential therapeutic drug for AD.
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23
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Emerging Role of Neuron-Glia in Neurological Disorders: At a Glance. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:3201644. [PMID: 36046684 PMCID: PMC9423989 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3201644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Based on the diverse physiological influence, the impact of glial cells has become much more evident on neurological illnesses, resulting in the origins of many diseases appearing to be more convoluted than previously happened. Since neurological disorders are often random and unknown, hence the construction of animal models is difficult to build, representing a small fraction of people with a gene mutation. As a result, an immediate necessity is grown to work within in vitro techniques for examining these illnesses. As the scientific community recognizes cell-autonomous contributions to a variety of central nervous system illnesses, therapeutic techniques involving stem cells for treating neurological diseases are gaining traction. The use of stem cells derived from a variety of sources is increasingly being used to replace both neuronal and glial tissue. The brain's energy demands necessitate the reliance of neurons on glial cells in order for it to function properly. Furthermore, glial cells have diverse functions in terms of regulating their own metabolic activities, as well as collaborating with neurons via secreted signaling or guidance molecules, forming a complex network of neuron-glial connections in health and sickness. Emerging data reveals that metabolic changes in glial cells can cause morphological and functional changes in conjunction with neuronal dysfunction under disease situations, highlighting the importance of neuron-glia interactions in the pathophysiology of neurological illnesses. In this context, it is required to improve our understanding of disease mechanisms and create potential novel therapeutics. According to research, synaptic malfunction is one of the features of various mental diseases, and glial cells are acting as key ingredients not only in synapse formation, growth, and plasticity but also in neuroinflammation and synaptic homeostasis which creates critical physiological capacity in the focused sensory system. The goal of this review article is to elaborate state-of-the-art information on a few glial cell types situated in the central nervous system (CNS) and highlight their role in the onset and progression of neurological disorders.
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24
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Andersen JV, Schousboe A, Verkhratsky A. Astrocyte energy and neurotransmitter metabolism in Alzheimer's disease: integration of the glutamate/GABA-glutamine cycle. Prog Neurobiol 2022; 217:102331. [PMID: 35872221 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2022.102331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes contribute to the complex cellular pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Neurons and astrocytes function in close collaboration through neurotransmitter recycling, collectively known as the glutamate/GABA-glutamine cycle, which is essential to sustain neurotransmission. Neurotransmitter recycling is intimately linked to astrocyte energy metabolism. In the course of AD, astrocytes undergo extensive metabolic remodeling, which may profoundly affect the glutamate/GABA-glutamine cycle. The consequences of altered astrocyte function and metabolism in relation to neurotransmitter recycling are yet to be comprehended. Metabolic alterations of astrocytes in AD deprive neurons of metabolic support, thereby contributing to synaptic dysfunction and neurodegeneration. In addition, several astrocyte-specific components of the glutamate/GABA-glutamine cycle, including glutamine synthesis and synaptic neurotransmitter uptake, are perturbed in AD. Integration of the complex astrocyte biology within the context of AD is essential for understanding the fundamental mechanisms of the disease, while restoring astrocyte metabolism may serve as an approach to arrest or even revert clinical progression of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens V Andersen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Arne Schousboe
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, 48011 Bilbao, Spain; Department of Stem Cell Biology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, LT-01102 Vilnius, Lithuania.
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25
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Gargas J, Janowska J, Ziabska K, Ziemka-Nalecz M, Sypecka J. Neonatal Rat Glia Cultured in Physiological Normoxia for Modeling Neuropathological Conditions In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116000. [PMID: 35682683 PMCID: PMC9180927 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell culture conditions were proven to highly affect crucial biological processes like proliferation, differentiation, intercellular crosstalk, and senescence. Oxygen tension is one of the major factors influencing cell metabolism and thus, modulating cellular response to pathophysiological conditions. In this context, the presented study aimed at the development of a protocol for efficient culture of rat neonatal glial cells (microglia, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes) in oxygen concentrations relevant to the nervous tissue. The protocol allows for obtaining three major cell populations, which play crucial roles in sustaining tissue homeostasis and are known to be activated in response to a wide spectrum of external stimuli. The cells are cultured in media without supplement addition to avoid potential modulation of cell processes. The application of active biomolecules for coating culturing surfaces might be useful for mirroring physiological cell interactions with extracellular matrix components. The cell fractions can be assembled as cocultures to further evaluate investigated mechanisms, intercellular crosstalk, or cell response to tested pharmacological compounds. Applying additional procedures, like transient oxygen and glucose deprivation, allows to mimic in vitro the selected pathophysiological conditions. The presented culture system for neonatal rat glial cells is a highly useful tool for in vitro modeling selected neuropathological conditions.
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26
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Luo J. TGF-β as a Key Modulator of Astrocyte Reactivity: Disease Relevance and Therapeutic Implications. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1206. [PMID: 35625943 PMCID: PMC9138510 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are essential for normal brain development and functioning. They respond to brain injury and disease through a process referred to as reactive astrogliosis, where the reactivity is highly heterogenous and context-dependent. Reactive astrocytes are active contributors to brain pathology and can exert beneficial, detrimental, or mixed effects following brain insults. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has been identified as one of the key factors regulating astrocyte reactivity. The genetic and pharmacological manipulation of the TGF-β signaling pathway in animal models of central nervous system (CNS) injury and disease alters pathological and functional outcomes. This review aims to provide recent understanding regarding astrocyte reactivity and TGF-β signaling in brain injury, aging, and neurodegeneration. Further, it explores how TGF-β signaling modulates astrocyte reactivity and function in the context of CNS disease and injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Luo
- Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research, VAPAHCS, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
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27
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Dolotov OV, Inozemtseva LS, Myasoedov NF, Grivennikov IA. Stress-Induced Depression and Alzheimer's Disease: Focus on Astrocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:4999. [PMID: 35563389 PMCID: PMC9104432 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases and depression are multifactorial disorders with a complex and poorly understood physiopathology. Astrocytes play a key role in the functioning of neurons in norm and pathology. Stress is an important factor for the development of brain disorders. Here, we review data on the effects of stress on astrocyte function and evidence of the involvement of astrocyte dysfunction in depression and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Stressful life events are an important risk factor for depression; meanwhile, depression is an important risk factor for AD. Clinical data indicate atrophic changes in the same areas of the brain, the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC), in both pathologies. These brain regions play a key role in regulating the stress response and are most vulnerable to the action of glucocorticoids. PFC astrocytes are critically involved in the development of depression. Stress alters astrocyte function and can result in pyroptotic death of not only neurons, but also astrocytes. BDNF-TrkB system not only plays a key role in depression and in normalizing the stress response, but also appears to be an important factor in the functioning of astrocytes. Astrocytes, being a target for stress and glucocorticoids, are a promising target for the treatment of stress-dependent depression and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleg V. Dolotov
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, 123182 Moscow, Russia; (O.V.D.); (L.S.I.); (N.F.M.)
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ludmila S. Inozemtseva
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, 123182 Moscow, Russia; (O.V.D.); (L.S.I.); (N.F.M.)
| | - Nikolay F. Myasoedov
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, 123182 Moscow, Russia; (O.V.D.); (L.S.I.); (N.F.M.)
| | - Igor A. Grivennikov
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, 123182 Moscow, Russia; (O.V.D.); (L.S.I.); (N.F.M.)
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28
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Cvetkovic C, Patel R, Shetty A, Hogan MK, Anderson M, Basu N, Aghlara-Fotovat S, Ramesh S, Sardar D, Veiseh O, Ward ME, Deneen B, Horner PJ, Krencik R. Assessing Gq-GPCR-induced human astrocyte reactivity using bioengineered neural organoids. J Cell Biol 2022; 221:212997. [PMID: 35139144 PMCID: PMC8842185 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202107135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocyte reactivity can directly modulate nervous system function and immune responses during disease and injury. However, the consequence of human astrocyte reactivity in response to specific contexts and within neural networks is obscure. Here, we devised a straightforward bioengineered neural organoid culture approach entailing transcription factor-driven direct differentiation of neurons and astrocytes from human pluripotent stem cells combined with genetically encoded tools for dual cell-selective activation. This strategy revealed that Gq-GPCR activation via chemogenetics in astrocytes promotes a rise in intracellular calcium followed by induction of immediate early genes and thrombospondin 1. However, astrocytes also undergo NF-κB nuclear translocation and secretion of inflammatory proteins, correlating with a decreased evoked firing rate of cocultured optogenetic neurons in suboptimal conditions, without overt neurotoxicity. Altogether, this study clarifies the intrinsic reactivity of human astrocytes in response to targeting GPCRs and delivers a bioengineered approach for organoid-based disease modeling and preclinical drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Cvetkovic
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX
| | | | - Arya Shetty
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX
| | - Matthew K Hogan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX
| | - Morgan Anderson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX
| | - Nupur Basu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX
| | - Samira Aghlara-Fotovat
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX.,Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX
| | | | | | - Omid Veiseh
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX
| | - Michael E Ward
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | | | - Philip J Horner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX
| | - Robert Krencik
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX
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29
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Rudnitskaya EA, Burnyasheva AO, Kozlova TA, Peunov DA, Kolosova NG, Stefanova NA. Changes in Glial Support of the Hippocampus during the Development of an Alzheimer's Disease-like Pathology and Their Correction by Mitochondria-Targeted Antioxidant SkQ1. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031134. [PMID: 35163053 PMCID: PMC8834695 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes and microglia are the first cells to react to neurodegeneration, e.g., in Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, the data on changes in glial support during the most common (sporadic) type of the disease are sparse. Using senescence-accelerated OXYS rats, which simulate key characteristics of sporadic AD, and Wistar rats (parental normal strain, control), we investigated hippocampal neurogenesis and glial changes during AD-like pathology. Using immunohistochemistry, we showed that the early stage of the pathology is accompanied by a lower intensity of neurogenesis and decreased astrocyte density in the dentate gyrus. The progressive stage is concurrent with reactive astrogliosis and microglia activation, as confirmed by increased cell densities and by the acquisition of cell-specific gene expression profiles, according to transcriptome sequencing data. Besides, here, we continued to analyze the anti-AD effects of prolonged supplementation with mitochondria-targeted antioxidant SkQ1. The antioxidant did not affect neurogenesis, partly normalized the gene expression profile of astrocytes and microglia, and shifted the resting/activated microglia ratio toward a decrease in the activated-cell density. In summary, both astrocytes and microglia are more vulnerable to AD-associated neurodegeneration in the CA3 area than in other hippocampal areas; SkQ1 had an anti-inflammatory effect and is a promising modality for AD prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina A. Rudnitskaya
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (ICG SB RAS), 10 Lavrentyeva Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (A.O.B.); (T.A.K.); (D.A.P.); (N.G.K.); (N.A.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Alena O. Burnyasheva
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (ICG SB RAS), 10 Lavrentyeva Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (A.O.B.); (T.A.K.); (D.A.P.); (N.G.K.); (N.A.S.)
| | - Tatiana A. Kozlova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (ICG SB RAS), 10 Lavrentyeva Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (A.O.B.); (T.A.K.); (D.A.P.); (N.G.K.); (N.A.S.)
| | - Daniil A. Peunov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (ICG SB RAS), 10 Lavrentyeva Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (A.O.B.); (T.A.K.); (D.A.P.); (N.G.K.); (N.A.S.)
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, 2 Pirogova St., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Nataliya G. Kolosova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (ICG SB RAS), 10 Lavrentyeva Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (A.O.B.); (T.A.K.); (D.A.P.); (N.G.K.); (N.A.S.)
| | - Natalia A. Stefanova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (ICG SB RAS), 10 Lavrentyeva Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (A.O.B.); (T.A.K.); (D.A.P.); (N.G.K.); (N.A.S.)
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30
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Pelucchi S, Gardoni F, Di Luca M, Marcello E. Synaptic dysfunction in early phases of Alzheimer's Disease. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2022; 184:417-438. [PMID: 35034752 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819410-2.00022-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The synapse is the locus of plasticity where short-term alterations in synaptic strength are converted to long-lasting memories. In addition to the presynaptic terminal and the postsynaptic compartment, a more holistic view of the synapse includes the astrocytes and the extracellular matrix to form a tetrapartite synapse. All these four elements contribute to synapse health and are crucial for synaptic plasticity events and, thereby, for learning and memory processes. Synaptic dysfunction is a common pathogenic trait of several brain disorders. In Alzheimer's Disease, the degeneration of synapses can be detected at the early stages of pathology progression before neuronal degeneration, supporting the hypothesis that synaptic failure is a major determinant of the disease. The synapse is the place where amyloid-β peptides are generated and is the target of the toxic amyloid-β oligomers. All the elements constituting the tetrapartite synapse are altered in Alzheimer's Disease and can synergistically contribute to synaptic dysfunction. Moreover, the two main hallmarks of Alzheimer's Disease, i.e., amyloid-β and tau, act in concert to cause synaptic deficits. Deciphering the mechanisms underlying synaptic dysfunction is relevant for the development of the next-generation therapeutic strategies aimed at modifying the disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pelucchi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Gardoni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Di Luca
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Marcello
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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Kumagawa T, Moro N, Maeda T, Kobayashi M, Furukawa Y, Shijo K, Yoshino A. Anti-inflammatory effect of P2Y1 receptor blocker MRS2179 in a rat model of traumatic brain injury. Brain Res Bull 2022; 181:46-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2022.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Chen T, Shou L, Guo X, Wei M, Zheng H, Tao T. Magnolol attenuates the locomotor impairment, cognitive deficit, and neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease mice with brain insulin resistance via up-regulating miR-200c. Bioengineered 2022; 13:531-543. [PMID: 34968163 PMCID: PMC8805894 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.2009975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of Magnolol on Alzheimer's disease (AD). After the model of streptozotocin-induced AD mice with brain insulin resistance was established, the mice were treated with Magnolol or miR-200c antagomiR. The abilities of ambulations, rearings, discrimination, spatial learning, and memory were evaluated by open-field test (OFT), novel object recognition (NOR), and morris water maze (MWM) tests. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and miR-200c in the mice hippocampus were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Western blot, or Quantitative real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction. In AD mice model, streptozotocin induced the locomotor impairment and cognitive deficit, up-regulated levels of MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, and CRP, while down-regulated levels of GSH, SOD, and miR-200c. Magnolol increased the rearings numbers and discrimination index of AD mice in OFT and NOR tests. Magnolol increased the number of entries in the target quadrant and time spent in the target quadrant and decreased the escape latency of AD mice in the MWM test. Magnolol also down-regulated the levels of MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, and CRP, and up-regulated the levels of GSH, SOD, and miR-200c in the hippocampus tissues of AD mice. However, miR-200c antagomiR did the opposite and further offset the effects of the Magnolol on AD mice. Magnolol attenuated the locomotor impairment, cognitive deficit, and neuroinflammatory in AD mice with brain insulin resistance via up-regulating miR-200c.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Chen
- Department of Ultrasonography, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine)
| | - Lan Shou
- Department of Endocrinology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University
| | - Xiaowen Guo
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine)
| | - Mingyang Wei
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine)
| | - Hui Zheng
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine)
| | - Tao Tao
- Department of Anesthesia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine)
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Disrupted expression of mitochondrial NCLX sensitizes neuroglial networks to excitotoxic stimuli and renders synaptic activity toxic. J Biol Chem 2021; 298:101508. [PMID: 34942149 PMCID: PMC8808183 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The mitochondrial sodium/calcium/lithium exchanger (NCLX) is an important mediator of calcium extrusion from mitochondria. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that physiological expression levels of NCLX are essential for maintaining neuronal resilience in the face of excitotoxic challenge. Using a short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-mediated approach, we showed that reduced NCLX expression exacerbates neuronal mitochondrial calcium dysregulation, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) breakdown, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation during excitotoxic stimulation of primary hippocampal cultures. Moreover, NCLX knockdown-which affected both neurons and glia-resulted not only in enhanced neurodegeneration following an excitotoxic insult, but also in neuronal and astrocytic cell death under basal conditions. Our data also revealed that synaptic activity, which promotes neuroprotective signaling, can become lethal upon NCLX depletion; expression of NCLX-targeted shRNA impaired the clearance of mitochondrial calcium following action potential bursts and was associated both with ΔΨmbreakdown and substantial neurodegeneration in hippocampal cultures undergoing synaptic activity. Finally, we showed that NCLX knockdown within the hippocampal cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) region in vivo causes substantial neuro- and astrodegeneration. In summary, we demonstrated that dysregulated NCLX expression not only sensitizes neuroglial networks to excitotoxic stimuli but notably also renders otherwise neuroprotective synaptic activity toxic. These findings may explain the emergence of neuro- and astrodegeneration in patients with disorders characterized by disrupted NCLX expression or function, and suggest that treatments aimed at enhancing or restoring NCLX function may prevent central nervous system damage in these disease states.
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Van Camp N, Lavisse S, Roost P, Gubinelli F, Hillmer A, Boutin H. TSPO imaging in animal models of brain diseases. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2021; 49:77-109. [PMID: 34245328 PMCID: PMC8712305 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-021-05379-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Over the last 30 years, the 18-kDa TSPO protein has been considered as the PET imaging biomarker of reference to measure increased neuroinflammation. Generally assumed to image activated microglia, TSPO has also been detected in endothelial cells and activated astrocytes. Here, we provide an exhaustive overview of the recent literature on the TSPO-PET imaging (i) in the search and development of new TSPO tracers and (ii) in the understanding of acute and chronic neuroinflammation in animal models of neurological disorders. Generally, studies testing new TSPO radiotracers against the prototypic [11C]-R-PK11195 or more recent competitors use models of acute focal neuroinflammation (e.g. stroke or lipopolysaccharide injection). These studies have led to the development of over 60 new tracers during the last 15 years. These studies highlighted that interpretation of TSPO-PET is easier in acute models of focal lesions, whereas in chronic models with lower or diffuse microglial activation, such as models of Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease, TSPO quantification for detection of neuroinflammation is more challenging, mirroring what is observed in clinic. Moreover, technical limitations of preclinical scanners provide a drawback when studying modest neuroinflammation in small brains (e.g. in mice). Overall, this review underlines the value of TSPO imaging to study the time course or response to treatment of neuroinflammation in acute or chronic models of diseases. As such, TSPO remains the gold standard biomarker reference for neuroinflammation, waiting for new radioligands for other, more specific targets for neuroinflammatory processes and/or immune cells to emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Van Camp
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, MIRCen, Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives, 92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Sonia Lavisse
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, MIRCen, Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives, 92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Pauline Roost
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, MIRCen, Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives, 92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Francesco Gubinelli
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, MIRCen, Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives, 92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Ansel Hillmer
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Engineering & Applied Science, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hervé Boutin
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Brain and Mental Health, University of Manchester, M13 9PL, Manchester, UK.
- Wolfson Molecular Imaging Centre, University of Manchester, 27 Palatine Road, M20 3LJ, Manchester, UK.
- Geoffrey Jefferson Brain Research Centre, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Northern Care Alliance & University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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Abstract
Astrocytes are an abundant subgroup of cells in the central nervous system (CNS) that play a critical role in controlling neuronal circuits involved in emotion, learning, and memory. In clinical cases, multiple chronic brain diseases may cause psychosocial and cognitive impairment, such as depression and Alzheimer's disease (AD). For years, complex pathological conditions driven by depression and AD have been widely perceived to contribute to a high risk of disability, resulting in gradual loss of self-care ability, lower life qualities, and vast burden on human society. Interestingly, correlational research on depression and AD has shown that depression might be a prodrome of progressive degenerative neurological disease. As a kind of multifunctional glial cell in the CNS, astrocytes maintain physiological function via supporting neuronal cells, modulating pathologic niche, and regulating energy metabolism. Mounting evidence has shown that astrocytic dysfunction is involved in the progression of depression and AD. We herein review the current findings on the roles and mechanisms of astrocytes in the development of depression and AD, with an implication of potential therapeutic avenue for these diseases by targeting astrocytes.
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Irwin AB, Bahabry R, Lubin FD. A putative role for lncRNAs in epigenetic regulation of memory. Neurochem Int 2021; 150:105184. [PMID: 34530054 PMCID: PMC8552959 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The central dogma of molecular genetics is defined as encoded genetic information within DNA, transcribed into messenger RNA, which contain the instructions for protein synthesis, thus imparting cellular functionality and ultimately life. This molecular genetic theory has given birth to the field of neuroepigenetics, and it is now well established that epigenetic regulation of gene transcription is critical to the learning and memory process. In this review, we address a potential role for a relatively new player in the field of epigenetic crosstalk - long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). First, we briefly summarize epigenetic mechanisms in memory formation and examine what little is known about the emerging role of lncRNAs during this process. We then focus discussions on how lncRNAs interact with epigenetic mechanisms to control transcriptional programs under various conditions in the brain, and how this may be applied to regulation of gene expression necessary for memory formation. Next, we explore how epigenetic crosstalk in turn serves to regulate expression of various individual lncRNAs themselves. To highlight the importance of further exploring the role of lncRNA in epigenetic regulation of gene expression, we consider the significant relationship between lncRNA dysregulation and declining memory reserve with aging, Alzheimer's disease, and epilepsy, as well as the promise of novel therapeutic interventions. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of the critical questions that remain to be answered regarding a role for lncRNA in memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashleigh B Irwin
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Rudhab Bahabry
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Farah D Lubin
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
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Lee YJ, Yeo IJ, Choi DY, Yun J, Son DJ, Han SB, Hong JT. Amyloidogenic, neuroinflammatory and memory dysfunction effects of HIV-1 gp120. Arch Pharm Res 2021; 44:689-701. [PMID: 34302237 PMCID: PMC8300079 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-021-01340-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) infection can cause several HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders a variety of neurological impairments characterized by the loss of cortical and subcortical neurons and decreased cognitive and motor function. HIV-1 gp120, the major envelope glycoprotein on viral particles, acts as a binding protein for viral entry and is known to be an agent of neuronal cell death. To determine the mechanism of HIV-1 gp120-induced memory dysfunction, we performed mouse intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) infusion with HIV-1 gp120 protein (300 ng per mouse) and investigated memory impairment and amyloidogenesis. Infusion of the HIV-1 gp120 protein induced memory dysfunction, which was evaluated using passive avoidance and water maze tests. Infusion of HIV-1 gp120 induced neuroinflammation, such as the release of iNOS and COX-2 and the activation of astrocytes and microglia and increased the mRNA and protein levels of IL-6, ICAM-1, M-CSF, TIM, and IL-2. In particular, we found that the infusion of HIV-1 gp120 induced the accumulation of amyloid plaques and signs of elevated amyloidogenesis, such as increased expression of amyloid precursor protein and BACE1 and increased β-secretase activity. Therefore, these studies suggest that HIV-1 gp120 may induce memory impairment through Aβ accumulation and neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Jung Lee
- Department of Equine Resources Science, School of Equine and Horticultural, Cheju Halla University, 38 Halladaehak-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, 63092, Republic of Korea
| | - In Jun Yeo
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Osongsaengmyeong 1-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Young Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak Road, Gyeonsan, Gyeongbuk, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaesuk Yun
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Osongsaengmyeong 1-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Ju Son
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Osongsaengmyeong 1-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Bae Han
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Osongsaengmyeong 1-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Tae Hong
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Osongsaengmyeong 1-ro, Osong-eup, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28160, Republic of Korea.
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Price BR, Johnson LA, Norris CM. Reactive astrocytes: The nexus of pathological and clinical hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 68:101335. [PMID: 33812051 PMCID: PMC8168445 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Astrocyte reactivity is a hallmark of neuroinflammation that arises with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and nearly every other neurodegenerative condition. While astrocytes certainly contribute to classic inflammatory processes (e.g. cytokine release, waste clearance, and tissue repair), newly emerging technologies for measuring and targeting cell specific activities in the brain have uncovered essential roles for astrocytes in synapse function, brain metabolism, neurovascular coupling, and sleep/wake patterns. In this review, we use a holistic approach to incorporate, and expand upon, classic neuroinflammatory concepts to consider how astrocyte dysfunction/reactivity modulates multiple pathological and clinical hallmarks of AD. Our ever-evolving understanding of astrocyte signaling in neurodegeneration is not only revealing new drug targets and treatments for dementia but is suggesting we reimagine AD pathophysiological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittani R Price
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Lance A Johnson
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, 800 S. Limestone St., Lexington, KY, 40356, USA; Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, UK Medical Center MN 150, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Christopher M Norris
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, 800 S. Limestone St., Lexington, KY, 40356, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, UK Medical Center MN 150, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
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Alternative Targets to Fight Alzheimer's Disease: Focus on Astrocytes. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11040600. [PMID: 33921556 PMCID: PMC8073475 DOI: 10.3390/biom11040600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The available treatments for patients affected by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are not curative. Numerous clinical trials have failed during the past decades. Therefore, scientists need to explore new avenues to tackle this disease. In the present review, we briefly summarize the pathological mechanisms of AD known so far, based on which different therapeutic tools have been designed. Then, we focus on a specific approach that is targeting astrocytes. Indeed, these non-neuronal brain cells respond to any insult, injury, or disease of the brain, including AD. The study of astrocytes is complicated by the fact that they exert a plethora of homeostatic functions, and their disease-induced changes could be context-, time-, and disease specific. However, this complex but fervent area of research has produced a large amount of data targeting different astrocytic functions using pharmacological approaches. Here, we review the most recent literature findings that have been published in the last five years to stimulate new hypotheses and ideas to work on, highlighting the peculiar ability of palmitoylethanolamide to modulate astrocytes according to their morpho-functional state, which ultimately suggests a possible potential disease-modifying therapeutic approach for AD.
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Rienecker KDA, Paladini MS, Grue K, Krukowski K, Rosi S. Microglia: Ally and Enemy in Deep Space. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 126:509-514. [PMID: 33862064 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In 2024 the first female astronaut will land on the moon, advancing our preparations for human missions to Mars. While on Earth we are protected from space radiation by our planet's magnetic field, on such deep space voyages astronauts will be exposed to high energy particles from solar flares and galactic cosmic rays (GCR). This exposure carries risks to the central nervous system (CNS) that could jeopardize the mission and astronaut health. Earth-bound studies have employed a variety of single-beam and sequential radiation exposures to simulate the effects of GCR exposure in rodents. Multiple studies have shown that GCR simulation induces a maladaptive activation of microglia - the brain-resident immune cells. GCR simulation also induced synaptic changes resulting in lasting cognitive and behavioral defects. Female and male mice show different susceptibilities to GCR exposure, and evidence suggests this sexually dimorphic response is linked to microglia. Manipulating microglia can prevent the development of cognitive deficits in male mice exposed to components of GCR. This discovery may provide clues towards how to protect astronauts' cognitive and behavioral health both during deep space missions and upon return to Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira D A Rienecker
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Brain and Spinal Injury Center, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Maria Serena Paladini
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Brain and Spinal Injury Center, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Katherine Grue
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Brain and Spinal Injury Center, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Karen Krukowski
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Brain and Spinal Injury Center, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Susanna Rosi
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Brain and Spinal Injury Center, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Kavli Institute of Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Tavčar P, Potokar M, Kolenc M, Korva M, Avšič-Županc T, Zorec R, Jorgačevski J. Neurotropic Viruses, Astrocytes, and COVID-19. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:662578. [PMID: 33897376 PMCID: PMC8062881 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.662578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
At the end of 2019, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was discovered in China, causing a new coronavirus disease, termed COVID-19 by the WHO on February 11, 2020. At the time of this paper (January 31, 2021), more than 100 million cases have been recorded, which have claimed over 2 million lives worldwide. The most important clinical presentation of COVID-19 is severe pneumonia; however, many patients present various neurological symptoms, ranging from loss of olfaction, nausea, dizziness, and headache to encephalopathy and stroke, with a high prevalence of inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) syndromes. SARS-CoV-2 may also target the respiratory center in the brainstem and cause silent hypoxemia. However, the neurotropic mechanism(s) by which SARS-CoV-2 affects the CNS remain(s) unclear. In this paper, we first address the involvement of astrocytes in COVID-19 and then elucidate the present knowledge on SARS-CoV-2 as a neurotropic virus as well as several other neurotropic flaviviruses (with a particular emphasis on the West Nile virus, tick-borne encephalitis virus, and Zika virus) to highlight the neurotropic mechanisms that target astroglial cells in the CNS. These key homeostasis-providing cells in the CNS exhibit many functions that act as a favorable milieu for virus replication and possibly a favorable environment for SARS-CoV-2 as well. The role of astrocytes in COVID-19 pathology, related to aging and neurodegenerative disorders, and environmental factors, is discussed. Understanding these mechanisms is key to better understanding the pathophysiology of COVID-19 and for developing new strategies to mitigate the neurotropic manifestations of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Tavčar
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Potokar
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica Biomedical, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marko Kolenc
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Miša Korva
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tatjana Avšič-Županc
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Robert Zorec
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica Biomedical, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jernej Jorgačevski
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica Biomedical, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Roles of astrocytes in response to aging, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis. Brain Res 2021; 1764:147464. [PMID: 33812850 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2021.147464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are traditionally recognized for their multiple roles in support of brain function. However, additional changes in these roles are evident in response to brain diseases. In this review, we highlight positive and negative effects of astrocytes in response to aging, Alzheimer's disease and Multiple Sclerosis. We summarize data suggesting that reactive astrocytes may perform critical functions that might be relevant to the etiology of these conditions. In particular, we relate astrocytes effects to actions on synaptic transmission, cognition, and myelination. We suggest that a better understanding of astrocyte functions and how these become altered in response to aging or disease will lead to the appreciation of these cells as useful therapeutic targets.
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Rocha NKR, Themoteo R, Brentani H, Forlenza OV, De Paula VDJR. Neuronal-Glial Interaction in a Triple-Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease: Gene Ontology and Lithium Pathways. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:579984. [PMID: 33335468 PMCID: PMC7737403 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.579984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal-glial interactions are critical for brain homeostasis, and disruption of this process may lead to excessive glial activation and inadequate pro-inflammatory responses. Abnormalities in neuronal-glial interactions have been reported in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), where lithium has been shown to exert neuroprotective effects, including the up-regulation of cytoprotective proteins. In the present study, we characterize by Gene Ontology (GO) the signaling pathways related to neuronal-glial interactions in response to lithium in a triple-transgenic mouse model of AD (3×-TgAD). Mice were treated for 8 months with lithium carbonate (Li) supplemented to chow, using two dose ranges to yield subtherapeutic working concentrations (Li1, 1.0 g/kg; and Li2, 2.0 g/kg of chow), or with standard chow (Li0). The hippocampi were removed and analyzed by proteomics. A neuronal-glial interaction network was created by a systematic literature search, and the selected genes were submitted to STRING, a functional network to analyze protein interactions. Proteomics data and neuronal-glial interactomes were compared by GO using ClueGo (Cytoscape plugin) with p ≤ 0.05. The proportional effects of neuron-glia interactions were determined on three GO domains: (i) biological process; (ii) cellular component; and (iii) molecular function. The gene ontology of this enriched network of genes was further stratified according to lithium treatments, with statistically significant effects observed in the Li2 group (as compared to controls) for the GO domains biological process and cellular component. In the former, there was an even distribution of the interactions occurring at the following functions: “positive regulation of protein localization to membrane,” “regulation of protein localization to cell periphery,” “oligodendrocyte differentiation,” and “regulation of protein localization to plasma membrane.” In cellular component, interactions were also balanced for “myelin sheath” and “rough endoplasmic reticulum.” We conclude that neuronal-glial interactions are implicated in the neuroprotective response mediated by lithium in the hippocampus of AD-transgenic mice. The effect of lithium on homeostatic pathways mediated by the interaction between neurons and glial cells are implicated in membrane permeability, protein synthesis and DNA repair, which may be relevant for the survival of nerve cells amidst AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Kemberly R Rocha
- Laboratório de Psicobiologia (LIM23), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafael Themoteo
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias (LIM27), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Helena Brentani
- Laboratório de Psicobiologia (LIM23), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Orestes V Forlenza
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias (LIM27), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vanessa De Jesus Rodrigues De Paula
- Laboratório de Psicobiologia (LIM23), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Laboratorio de Neurociencias (LIM27), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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D’Mello SR, Kindy MC. Overdosing on iron: Elevated iron and degenerative brain disorders. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 245:1444-1473. [PMID: 32878460 PMCID: PMC7553095 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220953065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Brain degenerative disorders, which include some neurodevelopmental disorders and age-associated diseases, cause debilitating neurological deficits and are generally fatal. A large body of emerging evidence indicates that iron accumulation in neurons within specific regions of the brain plays an important role in the pathogenesis of many of these disorders. Iron homeostasis is a highly complex and incompletely understood process involving a large number of regulatory molecules. Our review provides a description of what is known about how iron is obtained by the body and brain and how defects in the homeostatic processes could contribute to the development of brain diseases, focusing on Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease as well as four other disorders belonging to a class of inherited conditions referred to as neurodegeneration based on iron accumulation (NBIA) disorders. A description of potential therapeutic approaches being tested for each of these different disorders is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark C Kindy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- James A. Haley Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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R-Ras GTPases Signaling Role in Myelin Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165911. [PMID: 32824627 PMCID: PMC7460555 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelination is required for fast and efficient synaptic transmission in vertebrates. In the central nervous system, oligodendrocytes are responsible for creating myelin sheaths that isolate and protect axons, even throughout adulthood. However, when myelin is lost, the failure of remyelination mechanisms can cause neurodegenerative myelin-associated pathologies. From oligodendrocyte progenitor cells to mature myelinating oligodendrocytes, myelination is a highly complex process that involves many elements of cellular signaling, yet many of the mechanisms that coordinate it, remain unknown. In this review, we will focus on the three major pathways involved in myelination (PI3K/Akt/mTOR, ERK1/2-MAPK, and Wnt/β-catenin) and recent advances describing the crosstalk elements which help to regulate them. In addition, we will review the tight relation between Ras GTPases and myelination processes and discuss its potential as novel elements of crosstalk between the pathways. A better understanding of the crosstalk elements orchestrating myelination mechanisms is essential to identify new potential targets to mitigate neurodegeneration.
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46
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Magi S, Piccirillo S, Maiolino M, Lariccia V, Amoroso S. NCX1 and EAAC1 transporters are involved in the protective action of glutamate in an in vitro Alzheimer's disease-like model. Cell Calcium 2020; 91:102268. [PMID: 32827867 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2020.102268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that metabolic dysfunctions are at the roots of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). In particular, defects in cerebral glucose metabolism, which have been often noted even before the occurrence of clinical symptoms and histopathological lesions, are now regarded as critical contributors to the pathogenesis of AD. Hence, the stimulation of energy metabolism, by enhancing the availability of specific metabolites, might be an alternative way to improve ATP synthesis and to positively affect AD progression. For instance, glutamate may serve as an intermediary metabolite for ATP synthesis through the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and the oxidative phosphorylation. We have recently shown that two transporters are critical for the anaplerotic use of glutamate: the Na+-dependent Excitatory Amino Acids Carrier 1 (EAAC1) and the Na+-Ca2+ exchanger 1 (NCX1). Therefore, in the present study, we established an AD-like phenotype by perturbing glucose metabolism in both primary rat cortical neurons and retinoic acid (RA)-differentiated SH-SY5Y cells, and we explored the potential of glutamate to halt cell damage by monitoring neurotoxicity, AD markers, ATP synthesis, cytosolic Ca2+ levels and EAAC1/NCX1 functional activities. We found that glutamate significantly increased ATP production and cell survival, reduced the increase of AD biomarkers (amyloid β protein and the hyperphosphorylated form of tau protein), and recovered the increase of NCX reverse-mode activity. The RNA silencing of either EAAC1 or NCX1 caused the loss of the beneficial effects of glutamate, suggesting the requirement of a functional interplay between these transporters for glutamate-induced protection. Remarkably, our results indicate, as proof-of-principle, that facilitating the use of alternative fuels, like glutamate, may be an effective approach to overcome deficits in glucose utilization and significantly slow down neuronal degenerative process in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Magi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, School of Medicine, University "Politecnica delle Marche", Via Tronto 10/A, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Silvia Piccirillo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, School of Medicine, University "Politecnica delle Marche", Via Tronto 10/A, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Marta Maiolino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, School of Medicine, University "Politecnica delle Marche", Via Tronto 10/A, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Lariccia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, School of Medicine, University "Politecnica delle Marche", Via Tronto 10/A, 60126, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Amoroso
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, School of Medicine, University "Politecnica delle Marche", Via Tronto 10/A, 60126, Ancona, Italy
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Ibrahim AM, Pottoo FH, Dahiya ES, Khan FA, Kumar JBS. Neuron‐glia interactions: Molecular basis of alzheimer’s disease and applications of neuroproteomics. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 52:2931-2943. [DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abdallah Mohammad Ibrahim
- Fundamentals of Nursing Department College of Nursing Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University Dammam Saudi Arabia
| | - Faheem Hyder Pottoo
- Department of Pharmacology College of Clinical Pharmacy Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University Dammam Saudi Arabia
| | - Ekta Singh Dahiya
- National Institute of Stroke and Applied Neurosciences (NISAN) Auckland University of Technology Auckland New‐Zealand
| | - Firdos Alam Khan
- Department of Stem Cell Research Institute for Research and Medical Consultations Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University Dammam Saudi Arabia
| | - J. B. Senthil Kumar
- Special centre for Molecular Medicine Jawaharlal Nehru University New‐Delhi India
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Takahashi S. Metabolic compartmentalization between astroglia and neurons in physiological and pathophysiological conditions of the neurovascular unit. Neuropathology 2020; 40:121-137. [PMID: 32037635 PMCID: PMC7187297 DOI: 10.1111/neup.12639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Astroglia or astrocytes, the most abundant cells in the brain, are interposed between neuronal synapses and microvasculature in the brain gray matter. They play a pivotal role in brain metabolism as well as in the regulation of cerebral blood flow, taking advantage of their unique anatomical location. In particular, the astroglial cellular metabolic compartment exerts supportive roles in dedicating neurons to the generation of action potentials and protects them against oxidative stress associated with their high energy consumption. An impairment of normal astroglial function, therefore, can lead to numerous neurological disorders including stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, and neuroimmunological diseases, in which metabolic derangements accelerate neuronal damage. The neurovascular unit (NVU), the major components of which include neurons, microvessels, and astroglia, is a conceptual framework that was originally used to better understand the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia. At present, the NVU is a tool for understanding normal brain physiology as well as the pathophysiology of numerous neurological disorders. The metabolic responses of astroglia in the NVU can be either protective or deleterious. This review focuses on three major metabolic compartments: (i) glucose and lactate; (ii) fatty acid and ketone bodies; and (iii) D- and L-serine. Both the beneficial and the detrimental roles of compartmentalization between neurons and astroglia will be discussed. A better understanding of the astroglial metabolic response in the NVU is expected to lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for diverse neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinichi Takahashi
- Department of Neurology and StrokeSaitama Medical University International Medical CenterSaitamaJapan
- Department of PhysiologyKeio University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
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NDRG2 Expression Correlates with Neurofibrillary Tangles and Microglial Pathology in the Ageing Brain. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21010340. [PMID: 31947996 PMCID: PMC6982267 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes play a major role in the pathogenesis of a range of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), undergoing dramatic morphological and molecular changes that can cause potentially both beneficial and detrimental effects. They comprise a heterogeneous population, requiring a panel of specific phenotype markers to identify astrocyte subtypes, changes in function and their relation to pathology. This study aimed to characterise expression of the astrocyte marker N-myc downstream regulated gene 2 (NDRG2) in the ageing brain, investigate the relationship between NDRG2 and a panel of astrocyte markers, and relate NDRG2 expression to pathology. NDRG2 specifically immunolabelled the cell body and radiating processes of astrocytes in the temporal cortex of the Cognitive Function and Ageing Study (CFAS) neuropathology cohort. Expression of NDRG2 did not correlate with other astrocyte markers, including glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (EAAT2) and glutamine synthetase (GS). NDRG2 showed a relationship to AT8+ neurofibrillary tangles (p = 0.001) and CD68+ microglia (p = 0.047), but not β-amyloid plaques or astrocyte nuclear γH2AX immunoreactivity, a marker of DNA damage response. These findings provide new insight into the astrocyte response to pathology in the ageing brain, and suggest NDRG2 may be a potential target to modulate this response.
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