1
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Ferrer I. Alzheimer's Disease Neuropathological Change in Aged Non-Primate Mammals. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8118. [PMID: 39125687 PMCID: PMC11311584 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Human brain aging is characterized by the production and deposition of β-amyloid (Aβ) in the form of senile plaques and cerebral amyloid angiopathy and the intracellular accumulation of hyper-phosphorylated tau (Hp-tau) to form neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and dystrophic neurites of senile plaques. The process progresses for years and eventually manifests as cognitive impairment and dementia in a subgroup of aged individuals. Aβ is produced and deposited first in the neocortex in most aged mammals, including humans; it is usually not accompanied by altered behavior and cognitive impairment. Hp-tau is less frequent than Aβ pathology, and NFTs are rare in most mammals. In contrast, NFTs are familiar from middle age onward in humans; NFTs first appear in the paleocortex and selected brain stem nuclei. NFTs precede for decades or years Aβ deposition and correlate with dementia in about 5% of individuals at the age of 65 and 25% at the age of 85. Based on these comparative data, (a) Aβ deposition is the most common Alzheimer's disease neuropathological change (ADNC) in the brain of aged mammals; (b) Hp-tau is less common, and NFTs are rare in most aged mammals; however, NFTs are the principal cytoskeletal pathology in aged humans; (c) NFT in aged humans starts in selected nuclei of the brain stem and paleocortical brain regions progressing to the most parts of the neocortex and other regions of the telencephalon; (d) human brain aging is unique among mammalian species due to the early appearance and dramatic progression of NFTs from middle age onward, matching with cognitive impairment and dementia in advanced cases; (e) neither mammalian nor human brain aging supports the concept of the amyloid cascade hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isidro Ferrer
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Barcelona, carrer Feixa Llarga sn, 08907 Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain;
- Reial Acadèmia de Medicina de Catalunya, carrer del Carme 47, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
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2
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Kutzsche J, Schemmert S, Bujnicki T, Zafiu C, Halbgebauer S, Kraemer-Schulien V, Pils M, Blömeke L, Post J, Kulawik A, Jürgens D, Rossberg WM, Hümpel M, Bannach O, Otto M, Araujo JA, Willuweit A, Willbold D. Oral treatment with the all-d-peptide RD2 enhances cognition in aged beagle dogs - A model of sporadic Alzheimer's disease. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18443. [PMID: 37609390 PMCID: PMC10440458 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Disease-modifying therapies to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD) are of fundamental interest for aging humans, societies, and health care systems. Predictable disease progression in transgenic AD models favors preclinical studies employing a preventive study design with an early pre-symptomatic treatment start, instead of assessing a truly curative approach with treatment starting after diagnosed disease onset. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetic profile and efficacy of RD2 to enhance short-term memory and cognition in cognitively impaired aged Beagle dogs - a non-transgenic model of truly sporadic AD. RD2 has previously demonstrated pharmacodynamic efficacy in three different transgenic AD mouse models in three different laboratories. Here, we demonstrate that oral treatment with RD2 significantly reduced cognitive deficits in cognitively impaired aged Beagle dogs even beyond the treatment end, which suggests in combination with the treatment dependent CSF tau oligomer decrease a disease-modifying effect of RD2 treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Kutzsche
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Sarah Schemmert
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Tuyen Bujnicki
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Christian Zafiu
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | | | - Victoria Kraemer-Schulien
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Marlene Pils
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- attyloid GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Lara Blömeke
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Julia Post
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Andreas Kulawik
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Dagmar Jürgens
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | | | | | - Oliver Bannach
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- attyloid GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Markus Otto
- Institute of Experimental Neurology, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Antje Willuweit
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Medical Imaging Physics (INM-4), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Dieter Willbold
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Structural Biochemistry (IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
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3
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Akhtar A, Gupta SM, Dwivedi S, Kumar D, Shaikh MF, Negi A. Preclinical Models for Alzheimer's Disease: Past, Present, and Future Approaches. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:47504-47517. [PMID: 36591205 PMCID: PMC9798399 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c05609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
A robust preclinical disease model is a primary requirement to understand the underlying mechanisms, signaling pathways, and drug screening for human diseases. Although various preclinical models are available for several diseases, clinical models for Alzheimer's disease (AD) remain underdeveloped and inaccurate. The pathophysiology of AD mainly includes the presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFT). Furthermore, neuroinflammation and free radical generation also contribute to AD. Currently, there is a wide gap in scientific approaches to preventing AD progression. Most of the available drugs are limited to symptomatic relief and improve deteriorating cognitive functions. To mimic the pathogenesis of human AD, animal models like 3XTg-AD and 5XFAD are the primarily used mice models in AD therapeutics. Animal models for AD include intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin (ICV-STZ), amyloid beta-induced, colchicine-induced, etc., focusing on parameters such as cognitive decline and dementia. Unfortunately, the translational rate of the potential drug candidates in clinical trials is poor due to limitations in imitating human AD pathology in animal models. Therefore, the available preclinical models possess a gap in AD modeling. This paper presents an outline that critically assesses the applicability and limitations of the current approaches in disease modeling for AD. Also, we attempted to provide key suggestions for the best-fit model to evaluate potential therapies, which might improve therapy translation from preclinical studies to patients with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ansab Akhtar
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Dehradun 248007, India
| | - Shraddha M. Gupta
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Dehradun 248007, India
| | - Shubham Dwivedi
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Dehradun 248007, India
| | - Devendra Kumar
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, DIT University, Uttarakhand, Dehradun 248009, India
| | - Mohd. Farooq Shaikh
- Neuropharmacology
Research Strength, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor 47500, Malaysia
| | - Arvind Negi
- Department
of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, FI-00076 Espoo, Finland
- E-mail:
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4
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Evaluation of the response to a food-searching task in older dogs with and without cognitive impairment. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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5
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Habiba U, Ozawa M, Chambers JK, Uchida K, Descallar J, Nakayama H, Summers BA, Morley JW, Tayebi M. Neuronal Deposition of Amyloid-β Oligomers and Hyperphosphorylated Tau Is Closely Connected with Cognitive Dysfunction in Aged Dogs. J Alzheimers Dis Rep 2021; 5:749-760. [PMID: 34870101 PMCID: PMC8609497 DOI: 10.3233/adr-210035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is a progressive syndrome recognized in mature to aged dogs with a variety of neuropathological changes similar to human Alzheimer's disease (AD), for which it is thought to be a good natural model. However, the presence of hyperphosphorylated tau protein (p-Tau) in dogs with CCD has only been demonstrated infrequently. Objective The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence of p-Tau and amyloid-β oligomer (Aβo) in cerebral cortex and hippocampus of dogs with CCD, with focus on an epitope retrieval protocol to unmask p-Tau. Methods Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analysis of the cortical and hippocampal regions of five CCD-affected and two nondemented aged dogs using 4G8 anti-Aβp, anti-Aβ1 - 42 nanobody (PrioAD13) and AT8 anti-p-Tau (Ser202, Thr205) antibody were used to demonstrate the presence of Aβ plaques (Aβp) and Aβ1 - 42 oligomers and p-Tau deposits, respectively. Results The extracellular Aβ senile plaques were of the diffuse type which lack the dense core normally seen in human AD. While p-Tau deposits displayed a widespread pattern and closely resembled the typical human neuropathology, they did not co-localize with the Aβp. Of considerable interest, however, widespread intraneuronal deposition of Aβ1 - 42 oligomers were exhibited in the frontal cortex and hippocampal region that co-localized with p-Tau. Conclusion Taken together, these findings reveal further shared neuropathologic features of AD and CCD, supporting the case that aged dogs afflicted with CCD offer a relevant model for investigating human AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umma Habiba
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Makiko Ozawa
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, the University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - James K Chambers
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, the University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Uchida
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, the University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Joseph Descallar
- Ingham Institute of Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Brian A Summers
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Melbourne University, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - John W Morley
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Mourad Tayebi
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
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6
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Thomsen BB, Madsen C, Krohn KT, Thygesen C, Schütt T, Metaxas A, Darvesh S, Agerholm JS, Wirenfeldt M, Berendt M, Finsen B. Mild Microglial Responses in the Cortex and Perivascular Macrophage Infiltration in Subcortical White Matter in Dogs with Age-Related Dementia Modelling Prodromal Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 82:575-592. [PMID: 34057083 PMCID: PMC8385501 DOI: 10.3233/jad-210040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Microglia contribute to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis by clearing amyloid-β (Aβ) and driving neuroinflammation. Domestic dogs with age-related dementia (canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD)) develop cerebral amyloidosis like humans developing AD, and studying such dogs can provide novel information about microglial response in prodromal AD. Objective: The aim was to investigate the microglial response in the cortical grey and the subcortical white matter in dogs with CCD versus age-matched cognitively normal dogs. Methods: Brains from aged dogs with CCD and age-matched controls without dementia were studied. Cases were defined by dementia rating score. Brain sections were stained for Aβ, thioflavin S, hyperphosphorylated tau, and the microglial-macrophage ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1). Results were correlated to dementia rating score and tissue levels of Aβ. Results: Microglial numbers were higher in the Aβ plaque-loaded deep cortical layers in CCD versus control dogs, while the coverage by microglial processes were comparable. Aβ plaques were of the diffuse type and without microglial aggregation. However, a correlation was found between the %Iba1 area and insoluble Aβ 42 and N-terminal pyroglutamate modified Aβ(N3pE)-42. The %Iba1 area was higher in white matter, showing phosphorylation of S396 tau, versus grey matter. Perivascular macrophage infiltrates were abundant in the white matter particularly in CDD dogs. Conclusion: The results from this study of the microglial-macrophage response in dogs with CCD are suggestive of relatively mild microglial responses in the Aβ plaque-loaded deep cortical layers and perivascular macrophage infiltrates in the subcortical white matter, in prodromal AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Blicher Thomsen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cecilie Madsen
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,BRIDGE: Brain Research-Inter-Disciplinary Guided Excellence, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Katrine Tækker Krohn
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,BRIDGE: Brain Research-Inter-Disciplinary Guided Excellence, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Camilla Thygesen
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,BRIDGE: Brain Research-Inter-Disciplinary Guided Excellence, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Trine Schütt
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Athanasios Metaxas
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,BRIDGE: Brain Research-Inter-Disciplinary Guided Excellence, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,School of Science, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Sultan Darvesh
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Division of Neurology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jørgen Steen Agerholm
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin Wirenfeldt
- BRIDGE: Brain Research-Inter-Disciplinary Guided Excellence, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Pathology, Institute of Clinical Science, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Mette Berendt
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bente Finsen
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,BRIDGE: Brain Research-Inter-Disciplinary Guided Excellence, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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7
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Panek WK, Murdoch DM, Gruen ME, Mowat FM, Marek RD, Olby NJ. Plasma Amyloid Beta Concentrations in Aged and Cognitively Impaired Pet Dogs. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:483-489. [PMID: 32970242 PMCID: PMC7855498 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02140-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Longevity-associated neurological disorders have been observed across human and canine aging populations. Alzheimer's disease (AD) and canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) represent comparable diseases affecting both species as they age. Translational diagnostic and therapeutic research is needed for these incurable diseases. The amyloid β (Aβ) peptide family are AD-associated peptides with identical amino acid sequences between dogs and humans. Plasma Aβ42 concentration increases with age and decreases with AD in humans, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentration decreases in AD and correlates inversely with the amyloid load within the brain. Similarly, CSF Aβ42 concentrations decrease in dogs with CDS but there is limited and conflicting information on plasma Aβ42 concentrations in aging dogs and dogs with CDS. We measured plasma concentrations of Aβ42 and Aβ40 with an ultrasensitive single-molecule array assay (SIMOA) in a population of healthy aging dogs of different life stages (n = 36) and dogs affected with CDS (n = 11). In addition, the ratio of Aβ42/β40 was calculated. The mean plasma concentrations of Aβ42 and Aβ40 increased significantly with age (r2 = 0.27, p = 0.001; and r2 = 0.42, p < 0.001, respectively) and with life stage: puppy/junior group (0.43-2 years): 1.23 ± 0.95 and 38.26 ± 49.43 pg/mL; adult/mature group (2.1-9 years): 10.99 ± 5.45 and 131.05 ± 80.17 pg/mL; geriatric/senior group (9.3-14.5 years): 18.65 ± 16.65 and 192.88 ± 146.38 pg/mL, respectively. Concentrations of Aβ42 and Aβ40 in dogs with CDS (11.0-15.6 years) were significantly lower than age-matched healthy dogs at 11.61 ± 6.39 and 150.23 ± 98.2 pg/mL (p = 0.0048 and p = 0.001), respectively. Our findings suggest the dynamics of canine plasma amyloid concentrations are analogous to that found in aging humans with and without AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech K Panek
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr, Raleigh, NC, 27607, USA
| | - David M Murdoch
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Margaret E Gruen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr, Raleigh, NC, 27607, USA
| | - Freya M Mowat
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr, Raleigh, NC, 27607, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Robert D Marek
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Natasha J Olby
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr, Raleigh, NC, 27607, USA.
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Vikartovska Z, Farbakova J, Smolek T, Hanes J, Zilka N, Hornakova L, Humenik F, Maloveska M, Hudakova N, Cizkova D. Novel Diagnostic Tools for Identifying Cognitive Impairment in Dogs: Behavior, Biomarkers, and Pathology. Front Vet Sci 2021; 7:551895. [PMID: 33521072 PMCID: PMC7843503 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.551895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder in senior dogs that is mainly associated with decreased ability to learn and respond to stimuli. It is commonly under-diagnosed because behavioral changes are often attributed to the natural process of aging. In the present study, we used for the first time a comprehensive approach enabling early diagnosis of canine patients with mild cognitive disorders (MiCI). We included CAnine DEmentia Scale (CADES) questionnaires, biochemical parameters, and biomarkers in blood serum, and correlated them with post-mortem histopathological changes. The CADES questionnaires enabled us to identify MiCI dogs developing changes mainly in domains corresponding to social interaction and spatial orientation, which seems to be crucial for delineating early cognitive disorders. Biochemical analyses in these dogs showed slightly elevated liver enzyme parameters (AST and ALT) and significantly decreased sodium and chloride levels in blood serum. Furthermore, we describe for the first time a significant increase of neurofilament light chain (NFL) in blood serum of MiCI dogs, compared to normal aging seniors and young controls, but no changes in TAU protein and amyloid-β (Aβ42) peptide levels. In canine brains with cognitive impairment, amyloid plaques of mainly diffuse and dense types were detected. Furthermore, activated microglia with amoeboid body and dystrophic processes occurred, in some cases with spheroidal and bulbous swellings. On the other hand, no TAU pathology or neurofibrillary tangles were detected. These results suggest that a combination of CADES questionnaire mainly with CNS injury biomarker (NFL) and with biochemical parameters (ALT, AST, Na, and Cl) in blood serum may predict CCDS in senior dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Vikartovska
- Center for Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Jana Farbakova
- Center for Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Tomas Smolek
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.,Neuroimunology Institute, n.p.o., Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jozef Hanes
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Norbert Zilka
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Lubica Hornakova
- Center for Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Filip Humenik
- Center for Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Marcela Maloveska
- Center for Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Nikola Hudakova
- Center for Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Dasa Cizkova
- Center for Experimental and Clinical Regenerative Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia.,Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
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9
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Vitek MP, Araujo JA, Fossel M, Greenberg BD, Howell GR, Rizzo SJS, Seyfried NT, Tenner AJ, Territo PR, Windisch M, Bain LJ, Ross A, Carrillo MC, Lamb BT, Edelmayer RM. Translational animal models for Alzheimer's disease: An Alzheimer's Association Business Consortium Think Tank. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2021; 6:e12114. [PMID: 33457489 PMCID: PMC7798310 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over 5 million Americans and 50 million individuals worldwide are living with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The progressive dementia associated with AD currently has no cure. Although clinical trials in patients are ultimately required to find safe and effective drugs, animal models of AD permit the integration of brain pathologies with learning and memory deficits that are the first step in developing these new drugs. The purpose of the Alzheimer's Association Business Consortium Think Tank meeting was to address the unmet need to improve the discovery and successful development of Alzheimer's therapies. We hypothesize that positive responses to new therapies observed in validated models of AD will provide predictive evidence for positive responses to these same therapies in AD patients. To achieve this goal, we convened a meeting of experts to explore the current state of AD animal models, identify knowledge gaps, and recommend actions for development of next-generation models with better predictability. Among our findings, we all recognize that models reflecting only single aspects of AD pathogenesis do not mimic AD. Models or combinations of new models are needed that incorporate genetics with environmental interactions, timing of disease development, heterogeneous mechanisms and pathways, comorbidities, and other pathologies that lead to AD and related dementias. Selection of the best models requires us to address the following: (1) which animal species, strains, and genetic backgrounds are most appropriate; (2) which models permit efficient use throughout the drug development pipeline; (3) the translatability of behavioral-cognitive assays from animals to patients; and (4) how to match potential AD therapeutics with particular models. Best practice guidelines to improve reproducibility also need to be developed for consistent use of these models in different research settings. To enhance translational predictability, we discuss a multi-model evaluation strategy to de-risk the successful transition of pre-clinical drug assets to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Nicholas T. Seyfried
- Departments of Biochemistry and NeurologyEmory School of MedicineAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Andrea J. Tenner
- Department of Molecular Biology and BiochemistryUniversity of CaliforniaIrvineCaliforniaUSA
| | | | | | - Lisa J. Bain
- Independent Science and Medical WriterElversonPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - April Ross
- Former Alzheimer's Association EmployeeChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | | | - Bruce T. Lamb
- Indiana University School of MedicineStark Neurosciences Research InstituteIndianapolisIndianaUSA
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10
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Prpar Mihevc S, Zakošek Pipan M, Štrbenc M, Rogelj B, Majdič G. Nitrosative Stress in the Frontal Cortex From Dogs With Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:573155. [PMID: 33330694 PMCID: PMC7717931 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.573155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is an age-related disorder similar to human Alzheimer's disease (AD) that occurs in elderly dogs. Nitrosative stress has been implicated as one of the causes leading to neurodegenerative diseases, particularly AD. Its involvement in the development of CCD has not been studied so far. In the present study, immunohistochemical staining detected all three isoforms of nitric oxide synthases (nNOS, eNOS, and iNOS) and 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT) in brains from CCD-affected dogs and non-demented control dogs in all layers of the canine frontal cortex. In CCD-affected and non-demented brains, nNOS was highly expressed in pyramidal-like neurons in the upper cortical layers. nNOS has also been observed in astrocytes in the CCD frontal cortex. The nNOS immunohistochemical staining was statistically significantly elevated in dogs with CCD in comparison to non-demented dogs. Blood vessel wall cells were positive for eNOS, which was also expressed in astrocytes and neurons. Intense 3-NT immunoreactivity was observed in the upper cortical layers, where amyloid-beta deposits spread in the last stage of CCD. Brain cells in the same area were highly immunoreactive for iNOS. This infers that neuroinflammation and nitrosative stress might exacerbate the neurodegenerative process in CCD-affected brains, ultimately leading to cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Prpar Mihevc
- Veterinary Faculty, Institute of Preclinical Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Zakošek Pipan
- Veterinary Faculty, Clinic for Reproduction and Large Animals, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Malan Štrbenc
- Veterinary Faculty, Institute of Preclinical Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Boris Rogelj
- Department of Biotechnology, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Biomedical Research Institute (BRIS), Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Majdič
- Veterinary Faculty, Institute of Preclinical Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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11
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Abey A, Davies D, Goldsbury C, Buckland M, Valenzuela M, Duncan T. Distribution of tau hyperphosphorylation in canine dementia resembles early Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies. Brain Pathol 2020; 31:144-162. [PMID: 32810333 PMCID: PMC8018065 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Some aged community dogs acquire a degenerative syndrome termed Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) that resembles human dementia because of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), with comparable cognitive and behavioral deficits. Dogs also have similar neuroanatomy, share our domestic environment and develop amyloid‐β plaques, making them likely a valuable ecological model of AD. However, prior investigations have demonstrated a lack of neurofibrillary tau pathology in aged dogs, an important hallmark of AD, though elevated phosphorylated tau (p‐tau) at the Serine 396 (S396) epitope has been reported in CCD. Here using enhanced immunohistochemical methods, we investigated p‐tau in six CCD brains and six controls using the AT8 antibody (later stage neurofibrillary pathology), and an antibody against S396 p‐tau (earlier stage tau dysfunction). For the first time, we systematically assessed the Papez circuit and regions associated with Braak staging and found that all CCD dogs displayed elevated S396 p‐tau labeling throughout the circuit. The limbic thalamus was particularly implicated, with a similar labeling pattern to that reported for AD neurofibrillary pathology, especially the anterior nuclei, while the hippocampus exhibited dysfunction confined to synaptic layers and efferent pathways. The cingulate and temporal lobes displayed significantly greater tauopathy than the frontal and occipital cortices, also reflective of early Braak staging patterns in AD. Immunofluorescence confirmed that S396 was accumulating within neuronal axons, somata and oligodendrocytes. We also observed AT8 labeling in one CCD brain, near the transentorhinal cortex in layer II neurons, one of the first regions to be affected in AD. Together, these data demonstrate a concordance in regional distribution of tauopathy between CCD and AD, most evident in the limbic thalamus, an important step in further validating CCD as a translational model for human AD and understanding early AD pathogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajantha Abey
- Regenerative Neuroscience Group, The Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Danielle Davies
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Alzheimer's Disease Cell Biology Research Lab, The Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Claire Goldsbury
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Alzheimer's Disease Cell Biology Research Lab, The Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Buckland
- Department of Neuropathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Valenzuela
- Regenerative Neuroscience Group, The Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Psychiatry, Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Thomas Duncan
- Regenerative Neuroscience Group, The Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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12
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Cisternas P, Zolezzi JM, Lindsay C, Rivera DS, Martinez A, Bozinovic F, Inestrosa NC. New Insights into the Spontaneous Human Alzheimer's Disease-Like Model Octodon degus: Unraveling Amyloid-β Peptide Aggregation and Age-Related Amyloid Pathology. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 66:1145-1163. [PMID: 30412496 DOI: 10.3233/jad-180729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia worldwide. Despite advances in our understanding of the molecular milieu driving AD pathophysiology, no effective therapy is currently available. Moreover, various clinical trials have continued to fail, suggesting that our approach to AD must be revised. Accordingly, the development and validation of new models are highly desirable. Over the last decade, we have been working with Octodon degus (degu), a Chilean rodent, which spontaneously develops AD-like neuropathology, including increased amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregates, tau hyperphosphorylation, and postsynaptic dysfunction. However, for proper validation of degu as an AD model, the aggregation properties of its Aβ peptide must be analyzed. Thus, in this study, we examined the capacity of the degu Aβ peptide to aggregate in vitro. Then, we analyzed the age-dependent variation in soluble Aβ levels in the hippocampus and cortex of third- to fifth-generation captive-born degu. We also assessed the appearance and spatial distribution of amyloid plaques in O. degus and compared them with the plaques in two AD transgenic mouse models. In agreement with our previous studies, degu Aβ was able to aggregate, forming fibrillar species in vitro. Furthermore, amyloid plaques appeared in the anterior brain structures of O. degus at approximately 32 months of age and in the whole brain at 56 months, along with concomitant increases in Aβ levels and the Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio, indicating that O. degus spontaneously develops AD-like pathology earlier than other spontaneous models. Based on these results, we can confirm that O. degus constitutes a valuable model to improve AD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Cisternas
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan M Zolezzi
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carolina Lindsay
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Daniela S Rivera
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Centro de Ecología Aplicada y Sustentabilidad (CAPES), Departamento de Ecología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alexis Martinez
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisco Bozinovic
- Centro de Ecología Aplicada y Sustentabilidad (CAPES), Departamento de Ecología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Centro UC-Síndrome de Down, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Nibaldo C Inestrosa
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
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13
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Prpar Mihevc S, Majdič G. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction and Alzheimer's Disease - Two Facets of the Same Disease? Front Neurosci 2019; 13:604. [PMID: 31249505 PMCID: PMC6582309 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases present a major and increasing burden in the societies worldwide. With aging populations, the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases is increasing, yet there are no effective cures and very few treatment options are available. Alzheimer's disease is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative conditions and although the pathology is well studied, the pathogenesis of this debilitating illness is still poorly understood. This is, among other reasons, also due to the lack of good animal models as laboratory rodents do not develop spontaneous neurodegenerative diseases and human Alzheimer's disease is only partially mimicked by transgenic rodent models. On the other hand, older dogs commonly develop canine cognitive dysfunction, a disease that is similar to Alzheimer's disease in many aspects. Dogs show cognitive deficits that could be paralleled to human symptoms such as disorientation, memory loss, changes in behavior, and in their brains, beta amyloid plaques are commonly detected both in extracellular space as senile plaques and around the blood vessels. Dogs could be therefore potentially a very good model for studying pathological process and novel treatment options for Alzheimer's disease. In the present article, we will review the current knowledge about the pathogenesis of canine cognitive dysfunction, its similarities and dissimilarities with Alzheimer's disease, and developments of novel treatments for these two diseases with a focus on canine cognitive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Prpar Mihevc
- Veterinary Faculty, Institute for Preclinical Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Majdič
- Veterinary Faculty, Institute for Preclinical Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Medical Faculty, Institute for Physiology, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
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14
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Stylianaki I, Komnenou AT, Posantzis D, Nikolaou K, Papaioannou N. Alzheimer’s disease‐like pathological lesions in an aged bottlenose dolphin (
Tursiops truncatus
). VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2018-000700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Stylianaki
- Department of PathologyAristotle University of ThessalonikiThessalonikiGreece
| | - Anastasia T Komnenou
- Department of Comparative Ophthalmology‐Exotic and Wildlife MedicineAristotle University of ThessalonikiThessalonikiGreece
| | | | - Konstantina Nikolaou
- Laboratory of Productive AgricultureDivision of Crop ProductionDepartment of Agricultural TechnologyTechnological Educational Institute of EpirusArtaGreece
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15
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Zhou FQ, Jiang J, Griffith CM, Patrylo PR, Cai H, Chu Y, Yan XX. Lack of human-like extracellular sortilin neuropathology in transgenic Alzheimer's disease model mice and macaques. Alzheimers Res Ther 2018; 10:40. [PMID: 29690919 PMCID: PMC5978992 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-018-0370-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder bearing multiple pathological hallmarks suggestive of complex cellular/molecular interplay during pathogenesis. Transgenic mice and nonhuman primates are used as disease models for mechanistic and translational research into AD; the extent to which these animal models recapitulate AD-type neuropathology is an issue of importance. Putative C-terminal fragments from sortilin, a member of the vacuolar protein sorting 10 protein (Vps10p) family, have recently been shown to deposit in the neuritic β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques in the human brain. METHODS We set out to explore if extracellular sortilin neuropathology exists in AD-related transgenic mice and nonhuman primates. Brains from different transgenic strains and ages developed overt cerebral Aβ deposition, including the β-amyloid precursor protein and presenilin 1 double-transgenic (APP/PS1) mice at ~ 14 months of age, the five familial Alzheimer's disease mutations transgenic (5×FAD) mice at ~ 8 months, the triple-transgenic Alzheimer's disease (3×Tg-AD) mice at ~ 22 months, and aged monkeys (Macaca mulatta and Macaca fascicularis) were examined. Brain samples from young transgenic mice, middle-aged/aged monkeys, and AD humans were used as negative and positive pathological controls. RESULTS The C-terminal sortilin antibody, which labeled senile plaques in the AD human cerebral sections, did not display extracellular immunolabeling in the transgenic mouse or aged monkey brain sections with Aβ deposition. In Western blot analysis, sortilin fragments ~ 15 kDa were not detectable in transgenic mouse cortical lysates, but they occurred in control AD lysates. CONCLUSIONS In reference to their human brain counterparts, neuritic plaques seen in transgenic AD model mouse brains represent an incomplete form of this AD pathological hallmark. The species difference in neuritic plaque constituents also indicates more complex secondary proteopathies in the human brain relative to rodents and nonhuman primates during aging and in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Qin Zhou
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University School of Basic Medical Science, Changsha, 410013 Hunan China
| | - Juan Jiang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University School of Basic Medical Science, Changsha, 410013 Hunan China
| | - Chelsea M. Griffith
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL 62901 USA
| | - Peter R. Patrylo
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL 62901 USA
| | - Huaibin Cai
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Yaping Chu
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Xiao-Xin Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University School of Basic Medical Science, Changsha, 410013 Hunan China
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, Hunan China
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16
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Schütt T, Helboe L, Pedersen LØ, Waldemar G, Berendt M, Pedersen JT. Dogs with Cognitive Dysfunction as a Spontaneous Model for Early Alzheimer's Disease: A Translational Study of Neuropathological and Inflammatory Markers. J Alzheimers Dis 2017; 52:433-49. [PMID: 27003213 DOI: 10.3233/jad-151085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Aged companion dogs with canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) spontaneously develop varying degrees of progressive cognitive decline and particular neuropathological features correspondent to the changes associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) in humans. The aim of the present study was to characterize certain aspects of neuropathology and inflammatory markers related to aging and CCD in dogs in comparison with human AD. Fifteen brains from aged dogs with normal cognitive function, mild cognitive impairment, or CCD were investigated and compared with two control brains from young dogs and brain sections from human AD subjects. The neuropathological investigations included evaluation of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque deposition (N-terminally truncated and pyroglutamyl-modified Aβ included), tau pathology, and inflammatory markers in prefrontal cortex. Cortical Aβ deposition was found to be only of the diffuse subtype as no dense-core or neuritic plaques were found. The Aβ deposition followed a progressive pattern in four maturation stages. Accumulation of the Aβ peptide was also observed in the vessel walls. Both immunohistochemically and biochemically measured levels of Aβ pathology in prefrontal cortex showed a consistent positive correlation to age but not to cognitive deficit severity. No evidence of neurofibrillary tau pathology was found. The level of pro-inflammatory cytokines was generally low and showed no significant association to cognitive status. The findings of the present study support the senescent dog with spontaneous cognitive dysfunction as a valuable non-transgenic model for further investigations of the molecular events involved in the neurodegenerative processes associated with aging and early stage AD, especially the Aβ-related pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trine Schütt
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Neurodegeneration, H. Lundbeck A/S, Valby, Denmark
| | - Lone Helboe
- Department of Neurodegeneration, H. Lundbeck A/S, Valby, Denmark
| | | | - Gunhild Waldemar
- Danish Dementia Research Centre, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mette Berendt
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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17
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Abstract
Abstract
There are numerous biomarkers of central and peripheral nervous system damage described in human and veterinary medicine. Many of these are already used as tools in the diagnosis of human neurological disorders, and many are investigated in regard to their use in small and large animal veterinary medicine. The following review presents the current knowledge about the application of cell-type (glial fibrillary acidic protein, neurofilament subunit NF-H, myelin basic protein) and central nervous system specific proteins (S100B, neuron specific enolase, tau protein, alpha II spectrin, ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1, creatine kinase BB) present in the cerebrospinal fluid and/or serum of animals in the diagnosis of central or peripheral nervous system damage in veterinary medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Płonek
- Department of Internal Diseases with Clinic for Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-375 Wroclaw
| | - Marcin Wrzosek
- Department of Internal Diseases with Clinic for Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-375 Wroclaw
| | - Józef Nicpoń
- Department of Internal Diseases with Clinic for Diseases of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-375 Wroclaw
- Centre for Experimental Diagnostics and Biomedical Innovations, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-375 Wroclaw
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18
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Li X, Bao X, Wang R. Experimental models of Alzheimer's disease for deciphering the pathogenesis and therapeutic screening (Review). Int J Mol Med 2015; 37:271-83. [PMID: 26676932 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2015.2428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of laboratory and clinical research, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is still the leading cause of dementia in adults and there are no curative therapies currently available for this disease. This may be due to the pathological features of AD, which include extensive extracellular amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles, as well as subsequent neuronal and synaptic loss, which begin to appear several years prior to memory loss and the damge is already irreversible and extensive at the time of clinical diagnosis. The poor therapeutic effects of current treatments necessitate the introduction of experimental models able to replicate AD pathology, particularly in the pre-symptomatic stage, and then to explore preventive and therapeutic strategies. In response to this necessity, various experimental models reproducing human AD pathology have been developed, which are also useful tools for therapeutic screening. Although none of these models fully reproduce the key features of human AD, the experimental models do provide important insight into the pathological changes which occur in AD. This review summarizes the commonly used experimental models of AD and also discusses how the models may be used to decipher the pathogenesis underlying AD and to screen novel therapies for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyuan Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongdan, Dong Cheng, Beijing 100005, P.R. China
| | - Xinjie Bao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongdan, Dong Cheng, Beijing 100005, P.R. China
| | - Renzhi Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongdan, Dong Cheng, Beijing 100005, P.R. China
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19
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Detection and Quantification of β-Amyloid, Pyroglutamyl Aβ, and Tau in Aged Canines. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2015; 74:912-23. [PMID: 26247394 DOI: 10.1097/nen.0000000000000230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome is an age-associated disorder that resembles many aspects of human Alzheimer disease. The characterization of canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome has been restricted to selected laboratory dogs and mongrels, thereby limiting our knowledge of potential breed-related and age-related differences. We examined the brains of 24 dogs from various breeds. The frontal cortex, hippocampus, and entorhinal cortex were investigated. Deposits of β-amyloid (Aβ) and tau were analyzed phenotypically and quantified stereologically. In all dogs aged 10 years or older, plaques containing pyroglutamyl Aβ and Aβ8-17 were detected. Within the ventral hippocampus, significantly more pyroglutamyl Aβ plaques were deposited in small and medium dogs than in large dogs. Hyperphosphorylated tau with formation of neurofibrillary tangles was observed in 3 animals aged 13 to 15 years. This study provides the first investigation of pyroglutamyl Aβ in comparison with total Aβ (as shown by Aβ8-17 immunoreactivity) in dogs of different breeds, sizes, and ages. Our results indicate that canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome is relatively common among aged canines, thereby emphasizing the relevance of such populations to translational Alzheimer disease research.
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20
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Smolek T, Madari A, Farbakova J, Kandrac O, Jadhav S, Cente M, Brezovakova V, Novak M, Zilka N. Tau hyperphosphorylation in synaptosomes and neuroinflammation are associated with canine cognitive impairment. J Comp Neurol 2015; 524:874-95. [PMID: 26239295 DOI: 10.1002/cne.23877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Revised: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Canine cognitive impairment syndrome (CDS) represents a group of symptoms related to the aging of the canine brain. These changes ultimately lead to a decline of memory function and learning abilities, alteration of social interaction, impairment of normal housetraining, and changes in sleep-wake cycle and general activity. We have clinically examined 215 dogs, 28 of which underwent autopsy. With canine brains, we performed extensive analysis of pathological abnormalities characteristic of human Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal lobar degeneration, including β-amyloid senile plaques, tau neurofibrillary tangles, and fused in sarcoma (FUS) and TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP43) inclusions. Most demented dogs displayed senile plaques, mainly in the frontal and temporal cortex. Tau neurofibrillary inclusions were found in only one dog. They were identified with antibodies used to detect tau neurofibrillary lesions in the human brain. The inclusions were also positive for Gallyas silver staining. As in humans, they were distributed mainly in the entorhinal cortex, hippocampus, and temporal cortex. On the other hand, FUS and TDP43 aggregates were not present in any of the examined brain samples. We also found that CDS was characterized by the presence of reactive and senescent microglial cells in the frontal cortex. Our transcriptomic study revealed a significant dysregulation of genes involved in neuroinflammation. Finally, we analyzed tau phosphoproteome in the synaptosomes. Proteomic studies revealed a significant increase of hyperphosphorylated tau in synaptosomes of demented dogs compared with nondemented dogs. This study suggests that cognitive decline in dogs is related to the tau synaptic impairment and neuroinflammation. J. Comp. Neurol. 524:874-895, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Smolek
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Aladar Madari
- University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 040 01, Kosice, Slovak Republic
| | - Jana Farbakova
- University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 040 01, Kosice, Slovak Republic
| | - Ondrej Kandrac
- University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 040 01, Kosice, Slovak Republic
| | - Santosh Jadhav
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Martin Cente
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.,Axon Neuroscience SE, 811 02, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Veronika Brezovakova
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Michal Novak
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.,Axon Neuroscience SE, 811 02, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Norbert Zilka
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.,Axon Neuroscience SE, 811 02, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.,Institute of Neuroimmunology, n.o., 811 02, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
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21
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Oxidative Stress and Protein Quality Control Systems in the Aged Canine Brain as a Model for Human Neurodegenerative Disorders. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2015; 2015:940131. [PMID: 26078824 PMCID: PMC4442305 DOI: 10.1155/2015/940131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Aged dogs are considered the most suitable spontaneous animal model for studying normal aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Elderly canines naturally develop cognitive dysfunction and neuropathological hallmarks similar to those seen in humans, especially Alzheimer's disease-like pathology. Pet dogs also share similar living conditions and diets to humans. Oxidative damage accumulates in the canine brain during aging, making dogs a valid model for translational antioxidant treatment/prevention studies. Evidence suggests the presence of detective protein quality control systems, involving ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) and Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs), in the aged canine brain. Further studies on the canine model are needed to clarify the role of age-related changes in UPS activity and HSP expression in neurodegeneration in order to design novel treatment strategies, such as HSP-based therapies, aimed at improving chaperone defences against proteotoxic stress affecting brain during aging.
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22
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Neus Bosch M, Pugliese M, Andrade C, Gimeno-Bay�n J, Mahy N, Rodriguez MJ. Amyloid-� Immunotherapy Reduces Amyloid Plaques and Astroglial Reaction in Aged Domestic Dogs. NEURODEGENER DIS 2014; 15:24-37. [DOI: 10.1159/000368672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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23
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Abstract
Aging dogs and cats show neurodegenerative features that are similar to human aging and Alzheimer disease. Neuropathologic changes with age may be linked to signs of cognitive dysfunction both in the laboratory and in a clinic setting. Less is known about cat brain aging and cognition and this represents an area for further study. Neurodegenerative diseases such as lysosomal storage diseases in dogs and cats also show similar features of human aging, suggesting some common underlying pathogenic mechanisms and also suggesting pathways that can be modified to promote healthy brain aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles H Vite
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Section of Neurology & Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Studies - Philadelphia, 3900 Delancey Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Department of Pharmacology & Nutritional Sciences, Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, 800 South Limestone Street, 203 Sanders Brown Building, Lexington, KY 40515, USA.
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24
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Davis PR, Head E. Prevention approaches in a preclinical canine model of Alzheimer's disease: benefits and challenges. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:47. [PMID: 24711794 PMCID: PMC3968758 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aged dogs spontaneously develop many features of human aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD) including cognitive decline and neuropathology. In this review, we discuss age-dependent learning tasks, memory tasks, and functional measures that can be used in aged dogs for sensitive treatment outcome measures. Neuropathology that is linked to cognitive decline is described along with examples of treatment studies that show reduced neuropathology in aging dogs (dietary manipulations, behavioral enrichment, immunotherapy, and statins). Studies in canine show that multi-targeted approaches may be more beneficial than single pathway manipulations (e.g., antioxidants combined with behavioral enrichment). Aging canine studies show good predictive validity for human clinical trials outcomes (e.g., immunotherapy) and several interventions tested in dogs strongly support a prevention approach (e.g., immunotherapy and statins). Further, dogs are ideally suited for prevention studies as they the age because onset of cognitive decline and neuropathology strongly support longitudinal interventions that can be completed within a 3-5 year period. Disadvantages to using the canine model are that they lengthy, use labor-intensive comprehensive cognitive testing, and involve costly housing (almost as high as that of non-human primates). However, overall, using the dog as a preclinical model for testing preventive approaches for AD may complement work in rodents and non-human primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina R Davis
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky Lexington, KY, USA ; Department of Molecular and Biomedical Pharmacology, University of Kentucky Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky Lexington, KY, USA ; Department of Molecular and Biomedical Pharmacology, University of Kentucky Lexington, KY, USA
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Fast R, Rodell A, Gjedde A, Mouridsen K, Alstrup AK, Bjarkam CR, West MJ, Berendt M, Møller A. PiB Fails to Map Amyloid Deposits in Cerebral Cortex of Aged Dogs with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Front Aging Neurosci 2013; 5:99. [PMID: 24416017 PMCID: PMC3874561 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2013.00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Dogs with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) accumulate amyloid beta (Aβ) in the brain. As the cognitive decline and neuropathology of these old dogs share features with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the relation between Aβ and cognitive decline in animal models of cognitive decline is of interest to the understanding of AD. However, the sensitivity of the biomarker Pittsburgh Compound B (PiB) to the presence of Aβ in humans and in other mammalian species is in doubt. To test the sensitivity and assess the distribution of Aβ in dog brain, we mapped the brains of dogs with signs of CCD (n = 16) and a control group (n = 4) of healthy dogs with radioactively labeled PiB ([11C]PiB). Structural magnetic resonance imaging brain scans were obtained from each dog. Tracer washout analysis yielded parametric maps of PiB retention in brain. In the CCD group, dogs had significant retention of [11C]PiB in the cerebellum, compared to the cerebral cortex. Retention in the cerebellum is at variance with evidence from brains of humans with AD. To confirm the lack of sensitivity, we stained two dog brains with the immunohistochemical marker 6E10, which is sensitive to the presence of both Aβ and Aβ precursor protein (AβPP). The 6E10 stain revealed intracellular material positive for Aβ or AβPP, or both, in Purkinje cells. The brains of the two groups of dogs did not have significantly different patterns of [11C]PiB binding, suggesting that the material detected with 6E10 is AβPP rather than Aβ. As the comparison with the histological images revealed no correlation between the [11C]PiB and Aβ and AβPP deposits in post-mortem brain, the marked intracellular staining implies intracellular involvement of amyloid processing in the dog brain. We conclude that PET maps of [11C]PiB retention in brain of dogs with CCD fundamentally differ from the images obtained in most humans with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Fast
- Department of Clinical Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Frederiksberg , Denmark
| | - Anders Rodell
- Centre of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (CFIN), Aarhus University , Aarhus , Denmark ; Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University Hospital , Aarhus , Denmark
| | - Albert Gjedde
- Centre of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (CFIN), Aarhus University , Aarhus , Denmark ; Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University Hospital , Aarhus , Denmark ; Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Kim Mouridsen
- Centre of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (CFIN), Aarhus University , Aarhus , Denmark
| | - Aage K Alstrup
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University Hospital , Aarhus , Denmark
| | - Carsten R Bjarkam
- Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health, University of Aarhus , Aarhus , Denmark ; Department of Neurosurgery, Aarhus University Hospital , Aarhus , Denmark
| | - Mark J West
- Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health, University of Aarhus , Aarhus , Denmark
| | - Mette Berendt
- Department of Clinical Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Frederiksberg , Denmark
| | - Arne Møller
- Centre of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (CFIN), Aarhus University , Aarhus , Denmark ; Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, Aarhus University Hospital , Aarhus , Denmark
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Roerig A, Carlson R, Tipold A, Stein V. Cerebrospinal fluid tau protein as a biomarker for severity of spinal cord injury in dogs with intervertebral disc herniation. Vet J 2013; 197:253-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2013.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2012] [Revised: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Platt TL, Reeves VL, Murphy MP. Transgenic models of Alzheimer's disease: better utilization of existing models through viral transgenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2013; 1832:1437-48. [PMID: 23619198 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2013.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 04/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Animal models have been used for decades in the Alzheimer's disease (AD) research field and have been crucial for the advancement of our understanding of the disease. Most models are based on familial AD mutations of genes involved in the amyloidogenic process, such as the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and presenilin 1 (PS1). Some models also incorporate mutations in tau (MAPT) known to cause frontotemporal dementia, a neurodegenerative disease that shares some elements of neuropathology with AD. While these models are complex, they fail to display pathology that perfectly recapitulates that of the human disease. Unfortunately, this level of pre-existing complexity creates a barrier to the further modification and improvement of these models. However, as the efficacy and safety of viral vectors improves, their use as an alternative to germline genetic modification is becoming a widely used research tool. In this review we discuss how this approach can be used to better utilize common mouse models in AD research. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Animal Models of Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas L Platt
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
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Bennett S. Cognitive dysfunction in dogs: Pathologic neurodegeneration or just growing older? Vet J 2012; 194:141-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2012.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/15/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Araujo JA, Greig NH, Ingram DK, Sandin J, de Rivera C, Milgram NW. Cholinesterase inhibitors improve both memory and complex learning in aged beagle dogs. J Alzheimers Dis 2012; 26:143-55. [PMID: 21593569 DOI: 10.3233/jad-2011-110005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Similar to patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), dogs exhibit age-dependent cognitive decline, amyloid-β (Aβ) pathology, and evidence of cholinergic hypofunction. The present study sought to further investigate the role of cholinergic hypofunction in the canine model by examining the effect of the cholinesterase inhibitors phenserine and donepezil on performance of two tasks, a delayed non-matching-to-position task (DNMP) designed to assess working memory, and an oddity discrimination learning task designed to assess complex learning, in aged dogs. Phenserine (0.5 mg/kg; PO) significantly improved performance on the DNMP at the longest delay compared to wash-out and partially attenuated scopolamine-induced deficits (15 μg/kg; SC). Phenserine also improved learning on a difficult version of an oddity discrimination task compared to placebo, but had no effect on an easier version. We also examined the effects of three doses of donepezil (0.75, 1.5, and 6 mg/kg; PO) on performance of the DNMP. Similar to the results with phenserine, 1.5 mg/kg of donepezil improved performance at the longest delay compared to baseline and wash-out, indicative of memory enhancement. These results further extend the findings of cholinergic hypofunction in aged dogs and provide pharmacological validation of the canine model with a cholinesterase inhibitor approved for use in AD. Collectively, these studies support utilizing the aged dog in future screening of therapeutics for AD, as well as for investigating the links among cholinergic function, Aβ pathology, and cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Araujo
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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30
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Recent rodent models for Alzheimer's disease: clinical implications and basic research. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2011; 119:173-95. [PMID: 22086139 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-011-0731-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/24/2011] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common origin of dementia in the elderly. Although the cause of AD remains unknown, several factors have been identified that appear to play a critical role in the development of this debilitating disorder. In particular, amyloid precursor protein (APP), tau hyperphosphorylation, and the secretase enzymes, have become the focal point of recent research. Over the last two decades, several transgenic and non-transgenic animal models have been developed to elucidate the mechanistic aspects of AD and to validate potential therapeutic targets. Transgenic rodent models over-expressing human β-amyloid precursor protein (β-APP) and mutant forms of tau have become precious tools to study and understand the pathogenesis of AD at the molecular, cellular and behavioural levels, and to test new therapeutic agents. Nevertheless, none of the transgenic models of AD recapitulate fully all of the pathological features of the disease. Octodon degu, a South American rodent has been recently found to spontaneously develop neuropathological signs of AD in old age. This review aims to address the limitations and clinical relevance of transgenic rodent models in AD, and to highlight the potential for O. degu as a natural model for the study of AD neuropathology.
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Serizawa S, Chambers JK, Une Y. Beta amyloid deposition and neurofibrillary tangles spontaneously occur in the brains of captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). Vet Pathol 2011; 49:304-12. [PMID: 21712514 DOI: 10.1177/0300985811410719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer disease is a dementing disorder characterized pathologically by Aβ deposition, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal loss. Although aged animals of many species spontaneously develop Aβ deposits, only 2 species (chimpanzee and wolverine) have been reported to develop Aβ deposits and neurofibrillary tangles in the same individual. Here, the authors demonstrate the spontaneous occurrence of Aβ deposits and neurofibrillary tangles in captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). Among 22 cheetahs examined in this study, Aβ deposits were observed in 13. Immunostaining (AT8) revealed abnormal intracellular tau immunoreactivity in 10 of the cheetahs with Aβ deposits, and they were mainly distributed in the parahippocampal cortex and CA1 in a fashion similar to that in human patients with Alzheimer disease. Ultrastructurally, bundles of straight filaments filled the neuronal somata and axons, consistent with tangles. Interestingly, 2 of the cheetahs with the most severe abnormal tau immunoreactivity showed clinical cognitive dysfunction. The authors conclude that cheetahs spontaneously develop age-related neurodegenerative disease with pathologic changes similar to Alzheimer disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Serizawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, 1-17-71, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-5201, Japan
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Chambers JK, Mutsuga M, Uchida K, Nakayama H. Characterization of AβpN3 deposition in the brains of dogs of various ages and other animal species. Amyloid 2011; 18:63-71. [PMID: 21557687 DOI: 10.3109/13506129.2011.570385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Senile plaques (SP) are characteristic histopathological manifestations of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but are also found in normal aging (NA). Recent studies have demonstrated that beta amyloid (Aβ) proteins that have been truncated at the N-terminal position 3 (AβpN3) are the predominant component of SP in AD, but not in NA. The present study revealed that AβpN3 was deposited in an age-dependent manner in canine brains. Moreover, AβpN3 was the main component of the SP that developed in very old dogs. The deposition of AβpN3 increased in accordance with the number of SP, but that of N-terminally intact Aβ (AβN1) did not. In addition, AβpN3 was also deposited in the SP of a Japanese macaque and an American black bear, but not in a feline brain. Focal microvascular cerebral amyloid angiopathy was also observed in the deep cortices and the white matter of the dogs and a woodpecker. Those were always composed of both AβpN3 and AβN1. In conclusion, though non-human animals do not develop full pathology of AD of the human type, AβpN3 is widely deposited in the brains of senescent vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- James K Chambers
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
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Araujo JA, Nobrega JN, Raymond R, Milgram NW. Aged dogs demonstrate both increased sensitivity to scopolamine impairment and decreased muscarinic receptor density. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2011; 98:203-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2011.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2010] [Revised: 12/22/2010] [Accepted: 01/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Magnetic resonance imaging of cerebral involutional changes in dogs as markers of aging: An innovative tool adapted from a human visual rating scale. Vet J 2010; 186:166-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2009.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2009] [Revised: 08/04/2009] [Accepted: 08/04/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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35
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Landsberg GM, Denenberg S, Araujo JA. Cognitive dysfunction in cats: a syndrome we used to dismiss as 'old age'. J Feline Med Surg 2010; 12:837-48. [PMID: 20974401 PMCID: PMC11220932 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfms.2010.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a widely accepted diagnosis in dogs, with established treatment options. In cats, however, our understanding of cognitive dysfunction is still being shaped by ongoing research in the field, and limited treatment options are available. Recent clinical studies indicate that old age in the cat is accompanied by increased behavioural signs such as wandering, vocalization and night-time activity that are not attributable to identifiable medical problems. It is essential, therefore, that veterinarians include behavioural well-being in the routine care of senior cats. PATIENT GROUP While the exact age of onset is not established, studies suggest that age-related behavioural changes consistent with cognitive dysfunction are prevalent in cats as early as 10 years of age and that prevalence increases significantly in older cats. CLINICAL CHALLENGES The diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction requires the identification of geriatric behavioural changes that are not caused by other medical problems, although the two may not be mutually exclusive. Therefore, the practitioner must rely heavily on owner reports and history to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment. The absence of any approved dietary or pharmaceutical interventions for cognitive dysfunction adds a further challenge, although several possibilities exist. EVIDENCE BASE This article draws on recent research that has produced neuropathological, cognitive and behavioural evidence for cognitive dysfunction in aging cats. As an impetus to further our understanding of this disease and potential treatment options, the authors propose a behavioural checklist that might aid in the clinical diagnosis of feline CDS and discuss treatment options that have proven successful in the canine counterpart of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary M Landsberg
- North Toronto Animal Clinic, Thornhill, Ontario L3T 2K9, Canada.
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36
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Alzheimer-type tau pathology in advanced aged nonhuman primate brains harboring substantial amyloid deposition. Brain Res 2010; 1315:137-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2009.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2009] [Revised: 11/26/2009] [Accepted: 12/01/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Christie LA, Opii WO, Head E. Strategies for improving cognition with aging: insights from a longitudinal study of antioxidant and behavioral enrichment in canines. AGE (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2009; 31:211-220. [PMID: 19714491 PMCID: PMC2734239 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-008-9063-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2008] [Accepted: 05/17/2008] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Studies in humans suggest that lifestyle factors can have a beneficial impact on the risk for developing cognitive decline and dementia with age. There is growing evidence that maintaining a physically and intellectually active lifestyle can positively impact cognitive ability in older individuals. Dietary factors, such as the intake of antioxidants, may also prevent age-related cognitive decline. However, studies in humans are challenging; many variables cannot be controlled, making it difficult for researchers to determine the exact types and quantities of enrichment and dietary factors necessary for positive effects on cognition. Studies in animal models of human aging allow researchers to precisely control such variables, and can be used to assess the mechanisms and molecular pathways underlying any positive effects. Here we review the results of an intervention study using a canine model of human aging. The study was unique in that it compared the effects of dietary antioxidant supplementation alone and in combination with behavioral enrichment. We found that both interventions lead to improvements in cognitive ability in aged dogs; however, combining the treatments preserved cognition to a greater extent than either treatment alone. Overall, the results suggest that antioxidant supplementation and behavioral enrichment target separate yet complementary molecular pathways to improve cognition, and support the idea that combinations of treatments to improve cognition and slow brain aging will produce greater benefits than single interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori-Ann Christie
- Institute for Brain Aging & Dementia, University of California, 1259 Gillespie NRF, Irvine, CA 92697-4540 USA
| | - Wycliffe O. Opii
- Institute for Brain Aging & Dementia, University of California, 1259 Gillespie NRF, Irvine, CA 92697-4540 USA
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Institute for Brain Aging & Dementia, University of California, 1259 Gillespie NRF, Irvine, CA 92697-4540 USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California, 1259 Gillespie NRF, Irvine, CA 92697-4540 USA
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Abstract
The most common animal models currently used for Alzheimer disease (AD) research are transgenic mice that express a mutant form of human Aβ precursor protein (APP) and/or some of the enzymes implicated in their metabolic processing. However, these transgenic mice carry their own APP and APP-processing enzymes, which may interfere in the production of different amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptides encoded by the human transgenes. Additionally, the genetic backgrounds of the different transgenic mice are a possible confounding factor with regard to crucial aspects of AD that they may (or may not) reproduce. Thus, although the usefulness of transgenic mice is undisputed, we hypothesized that additional relevant information on the physiopathology of AD could be obtained from other natural non-transgenic models. We have analyzed the chick embryo and the dog, which may be better experimental models because their enzymatic machinery for processing APP is almost identical to that of humans. The chick embryo is extremely easy to access and manipulate. It could be an advantageous natural model in which to study the cell biology and developmental function of APP and a potential assay system for drugs that regulate APP processing. The dog suffers from an age-related syndrome of cognitive dysfunction that naturally reproduces key aspects of AD including Aβ cortical pathology, neuronal degeneration and learning and memory disabilities. However, dense core neuritic plaques and neurofibrillary tangles have not been consistently demonstrated in the dog. Thus, these species may be natural models with which to study the biology of AD, and could also serve as assay systems for Aβ-targeted drugs or new therapeutic strategies against this devastating disease.
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Golini L, Colangeli R, Tranquillo V, Mariscoli M. Association between neurologic and cognitive dysfunction signs in a sample of aging dogs. J Vet Behav 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2008.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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40
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Insua D, Suárez ML, Santamarina G, Sarasa M, Pesini P. Dogs with canine counterpart of Alzheimer's disease lose noradrenergic neurons. Neurobiol Aging 2008; 31:625-35. [PMID: 18573571 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2008.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2007] [Revised: 03/25/2008] [Accepted: 05/18/2008] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Degeneration of noradrenergic neurons in the locus ceruleus is a well-described feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In spite of extensive utilization of the dog as a model for human degenerative diseases, there is no data on the response to aging of the noradrenergic system in dogs. We have used modern unbiased stereology to estimate the total number of A6-A7 noradrenergic neurons in normal, aged dogs and dogs with the canine counterpart of AD. In small-breed dogs with no cognitive impairments, the total mean number of tyrosine hydroxylase immunolabeled A6-A7 neurons was 17,228+/-1655, with no differences between young and aged dogs. In contrast, aged dogs with cognitive impairments exhibited a significant reduction in the total number of A6-A7 neurons (13,487+/-1374; P=0.001). Additionally, we found a negative correlation between the number of A6-A7 neurons and the extent of beta-amyloid deposits in the prefrontal cortex. These results suggest that the canine model could be useful in exploring the potential benefits of noradrenergic drugs for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Insua
- Departamento de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Veterinaria de Lugo, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain
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41
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Pugliese M, Gangitano C, Ceccariglia S, Carrasco JL, Del Fà A, Rodríguez MJ, Michetti F, Mascort J, Mahy N. Canine cognitive dysfunction and the cerebellum: acetylcholinesterase reduction, neuronal and glial changes. Brain Res 2007; 1139:85-94. [PMID: 17292335 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2006.12.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2006] [Revised: 12/13/2006] [Accepted: 12/24/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The specific functional and pathological alterations observed in Alzheimer's disease are less severe in the cerebellum than in other brain areas, particularly the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus. Since dense core amyloid-beta plaque formation has been associated with an acetylcholinesterase heterogeneous nucleator action, we examined if an acetylcholinesterase imbalance was involved in cerebellum plaque deposition. By using the canine counterpart of senile dementia of the Alzheimer's type, a promising model of human brain aging and early phases of Alzheimer's disease, we investigated how cerebellar pathology and acetylcholinesterase density could be related with cognitive dysfunction. As in Alzheimer's disease, the late affectation of the cerebellum was evidenced by its lack of amyloid-beta plaque and the presence of diffuse deposition throughout all cortical grey matter layers. The highest acetylcholinesterase optic density corresponded to cerebellar islands of the granular layer and was predominantly associated with synaptic glomeruli and the somata of Golgi cells. Its reduction correlated with aging and loss of granule cells, whereas cognitive deficit only correlated with loss of Purkinje cells. The observed Bergmann glia alterations may correspond to a reactive response to the loss and damage of the Purkinje cells, their specific neuronal partner. Regarding the role of acetylcholinesterase mediation in amyloid-beta deposition, our data argue against an interaction between these two proteins because acetylcholinesterase reduction correlates with aging but not with cognitive deficit. Finally, our data support the use of companion dogs of all breeds to study aging and early phases of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Pugliese
- Unitat de Bioquímica, IDIBAPS, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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