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Rani L, Chandra Mondal A. Vanillin Mitigates the MPTP-Induced α-Synucleinopathy in a Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease: Insights into the Involvement of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling. J Integr Neurosci 2024; 23:175. [PMID: 39344237 DOI: 10.31083/j.jin2309175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The abnormal aggregation of α-synuclein (α-syn) in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) region of the brain is characteristic of Parkinson's disease (PD), leading to the selective demise of neurons. Modifications in the post-translational processing of α-syn, phosphorylation at Ser129 in particular, are implicated in α-syn aggregation and are considered key hallmarks of PD. Furthermore, dysregulated Wnt/β-catenin signaling, influenced by glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β), is implicated in PD pathogenesis. Inhibition of GSK-3β holds promise in promoting neuroprotection by enhancing the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. METHODS In our previous study utilizing 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-administered differentiated SH-SY5Y cells and a PD mouse model, we explored Vanillin's neuroprotective properties and related mechanisms against neuronal loss induced by MPP+/1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) administration. In the current study, we elucidated the mitigating effects of Vanillin on motor impairments, P-Ser129-α-syn expression, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and autophagic neuron death induced by MPTP in a mouse model of PD by performing motor function tests, western blot analysis and immunostaining. RESULTS Our results show that Vanillin effectively modulated the motor dysfunctions, GSK-3β expression, and activity, activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and reduced autophagic neuronal demise in the MPTP-lesioned mice, highlighting its neuroprotective effects. CONCLUSIONS These findings underscore the complex interplay between α-syn pathology, GSK-3β, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and autophagic-cell death in PD pathogenesis. Targeting these pathways, particularly with Vanillin, can be a promising therapeutic strategy for restoring dopaminergic (DA-ergic) neuronal homeostasis and slowing the progression of PD. Further research is crucial to resolving existing disputes and translating these discoveries into effective therapeutic interventions for PD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linchi Rani
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, 110067 New Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Amal Chandra Mondal
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, 110067 New Delhi, Delhi, India
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Strobel S, Sian-Hulsmann J, Tappe D, Jellinger K, Riederer P, Monoranu CM. Postencephalitic Parkinsonism: Unique Pathological and Clinical Features-Preliminary Data. Cells 2024; 13:1511. [PMID: 39329695 PMCID: PMC11430219 DOI: 10.3390/cells13181511] [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: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Postencephalitic parkinsonism (PEP) is suggested to show a virus-induced pathology, which is different from classical idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) as there is no α-synuclein/Lewy body pathology. However, PEP shows a typical clinical representation of motor disturbances. In addition, compared to PD, there is no iron-induced pathology. The aim of this preliminary study was to compare PEP with PD regarding iron-induced pathology, using histochemistry methods on paraffin-embedded post-mortem brain tissue. In the PEP group, iron was not seen, except for one case with sparse perivascular depositions. Rather, PEP offers a pathology related to tau-protein/neurofibrillary tangles, with mild to moderate memory deficits only. It is assumed that this virus-induced pathology is due to immunological dysfunctions causing (neuro)inflammation-induced neuronal network disturbances as events that trigger clinical parkinsonism. The absence of iron deposits implies that PEP cannot be treated with iron chelators. The therapy with L-Dopa is also not an option, as L-Dopa only leads to an initial slight improvement in symptoms in isolated cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Strobel
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Neuropathology, University of Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany;
| | - Jeswinder Sian-Hulsmann
- Department of Medical Physiology, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 30197, Nairobi 00100, Kenya;
| | - Dennis Tappe
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, 20359 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Kurt Jellinger
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, A-1150 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Peter Riederer
- Clinic and Policlinic for Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany;
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Camelia-Maria Monoranu
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Neuropathology, University of Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany;
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Ivanov MV, Kopeykina AS, Gorshkov MV. Reanalysis of DIA Data Demonstrates the Capabilities of MS/MS-Free Proteomics to Reveal New Biological Insights in Disease-Related Samples. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2024; 35:1775-1785. [PMID: 38938158 DOI: 10.1021/jasms.4c00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Data-independent acquisition (DIA) at the shortened data acquisition time is becoming a method of choice for quantitative proteomic applications requiring high throughput analysis of large cohorts of samples. With the advent of the combination of high resolution mass spectrometry with an asymmetric track lossless analyzer, these DIA capabilities were further extended with the recent demonstration of quantitative analyses at the speed of up to hundreds of samples per day. In particular, the proteomic data for the brain samples related to multiple system atrophy disease were acquired using 7 and 28 min chromatography gradients (Guzman et al., Nat. Biotech. 2024). In this work, we applied the recently introduced DirectMS1 method to reanalysis of these data using only MS1 spectra. Both DirectMS1 and DIA results were matched against long gradient DDA analysis from the earlier study of the same sample cohort. While the quantitation efficiency of DirectMS1 was comparable with DIA on the same data sets, we found an additional five proteins of biological significance relevant to the analyzed tissue samples. Among the findings, DirectMS1 was able to detect decreased caspase activity for Vimentin protein in the multiple system atrophy samples missed by the MS/MS-based quantitation methods. Our study suggests that DirectMS1 can be an efficient MS1-only addition to the analysis of DIA data in high-throughput quantitative proteomic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark V Ivanov
- V. L. Talrose Institute for Energy Problems of Chemical Physics, N. N. Semenov Federal Research Center of Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119334, Russia
| | - Anna S Kopeykina
- V. L. Talrose Institute for Energy Problems of Chemical Physics, N. N. Semenov Federal Research Center of Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119334, Russia
| | - Mikhail V Gorshkov
- V. L. Talrose Institute for Energy Problems of Chemical Physics, N. N. Semenov Federal Research Center of Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119334, Russia
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4
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Leupold D, Buder S, Pfeifer L, Szyc L, Riederer P, Strobel S, Monoranu CM. New Aspects Regarding the Fluorescence Spectra of Melanin and Neuromelanin in Pigmented Human Tissue Concerning Hypoxia. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8457. [PMID: 39126026 PMCID: PMC11313424 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158457] [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: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanin is a crucial pigment in melanomagenesis. Its fluorescence in human tissue is exceedingly weak but can be detected through advanced laser spectroscopy techniques. The spectral profile of melanin fluorescence distinctively varies among melanocytes, nevomelanocytes, and melanoma cells, with melanoma cells exhibiting a notably "red" fluorescence spectrum. This characteristic enables the diagnosis of melanoma both in vivo and in histological samples. Neuromelanin, a brain pigment akin to melanin, shares similar fluorescence properties. Its fluorescence can also be quantified with high spectral resolution using the same laser spectroscopic methods. Documented fluorescence spectra of neuromelanin in histological samples from the substantia nigra substantiate these findings. Our research reveals that the spectral behavior of neuromelanin fluorescence mirrors that of melanin in melanomas. This indicates that the typical red fluorescence is likely influenced by the microenvironment around (neuro)melanin, rather than by direct pigment interactions. Our ongoing studies aim to further explore this distinctive "red" fluorescence. We have observed this red fluorescence spectrum in post-mortem measurements of melanin in benign nevus. The characteristic red spectrum is also evident here (unlike the benign nevus in vivo), suggesting that hypoxia may contribute to this phenomenon. Given the central role of hypoxia in both melanoma development and treatment, as well as in fundamental Parkinson's disease mechanisms, this study discusses strategies aimed at reinforcing the hypothesis that red fluorescence from (neuro)melanin serves as an indicator of hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Leupold
- LTB Lasertechnik Berlin GmbH, 12489 Berlin, Germany; (D.L.); (L.P.)
| | - Susanne Buder
- Clinic for Dermatology and Venerology, Vivantes Klinikum Neukölln, 12351 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Lutz Pfeifer
- LTB Lasertechnik Berlin GmbH, 12489 Berlin, Germany; (D.L.); (L.P.)
| | | | - Peter Riederer
- Department and Research Unit of Psychiatry, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark;
- Center of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Sabrina Strobel
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Neuropathology, University of Wuerzburg, Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) Mainfranken Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany;
| | - Camelia-Maria Monoranu
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Neuropathology, University of Wuerzburg, Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) Mainfranken Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany;
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Bhardwaj K, Singh AA, Kumar H. Unveiling the Journey from the Gut to the Brain: Decoding Neurodegeneration-Gut Connection in Parkinson's Disease. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:2454-2469. [PMID: 38896463 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease, a classical motor disorder affecting the dopaminergic system of the brain, has been as a disease of the brain, but this classical notion has now been viewed differently as the pathology begins in the gut and then gradually moves up to the brain regions. The microorganisms in the gut play a critical role in maintaining the physiology of the gut from maintaining barrier integrity to secretion of microbial products that maintain a healthy gut state. The pathology subsequently alters the normal composition of gut microbes and causes deleterious effects that ultimately trigger strong neuroinflammation and nonmotor symptoms along with characteristic synucleopathy, a pathological hallmark of the disease. Understanding the complex pathomechanisms in distinct and established preclinical models is the primary goal of researchers to decipher how exactly gut pathology has a central effect; the quest has led to many answered and some open-ended questions for researchers. We summarize the popular opinions and some contrasting views, concise footsteps in the treatment strategies targeting the gastrointestinal system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kritika Bhardwaj
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Opposite Air force station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, 382355 Gujarat, India
| | - Aditya A Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Opposite Air force station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, 382355 Gujarat, India
| | - Hemant Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Opposite Air force station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, 382355 Gujarat, India
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Chowdhury R, Eslami S, Pham CV, Rai A, Lin J, Hou Y, Greening DW, Duan W. Role of aptamer technology in extracellular vesicle biology and therapeutic applications. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:11457-11479. [PMID: 38856692 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr00207e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived nanosized membrane-bound vesicles that are important intercellular signalling regulators in local cell-to-cell and distant cell-to-tissue communication. Their inherent capacity to transverse cell membranes and transfer complex bioactive cargo reflective of their cell source, as well as their ability to be modified through various engineering and modification strategies, have attracted significant therapeutic interest. Molecular bioengineering strategies are providing a new frontier for EV-based therapy, including novel mRNA vaccines, antigen cross-presentation and immunotherapy, organ delivery and repair, and cancer immune surveillance and targeted therapeutics. The revolution of EVs, their diversity as biocarriers and their potential to contribute to intercellular communication, is well understood and appreciated but is ultimately dependent on the development of methods and techniques for their isolation, characterization and enhanced targeting. As single-stranded oligonucleotides, aptamers, also known as chemical antibodies, offer significant biological, chemical, economic, and therapeutic advantages in terms of their size, selectivity, versatility, and multifunctional programming. Their integration into the field of EVs has been contributing to the development of isolation, detection, and analysis pipelines associated with bioengineering strategies for nano-meets-molecular biology, thus translating their use for therapeutic and diagnostic utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocky Chowdhury
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, and IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia.
| | - Sadegh Eslami
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Cuong Viet Pham
- Molecular Imaging and Theranostics Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Alin Rai
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jia Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yingchu Hou
- Laboratory of Tumor Molecular and Cellular Biology College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University 620 West Chang'an Avenue, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China
| | - David W Greening
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Wei Duan
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, and IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia.
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Ma LY, Jia B, Geng H, Liang J, Huo L. Poly(rC)-binding protein 1 alleviates neurotoxicity in 6-OHDA-induced SH-SY5Y cells and modulates glial cells in neuroinflammation. Brain Res 2024; 1832:148863. [PMID: 38492841 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.148863] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parkinson's disease (PD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative condition characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons and neuroinflammation. Previous research has identified the involvement of Poly (rC)-binding protein 1 (PCBP1) in certain degenerative diseases; however, its specific mechanisms in PD remain incompletely understood. METHODS In this study, 6-OHDA-induced neurotoxicity in the cell lines SH-SY5Y, BV-2 and HA, was used to evaluate the protective effects of PCBP1. We assessed alterations in BDNF levels in SY5Y cells, changes in GDNF expression in glial cells, as well as variations in HSP70 and NF-κB activation. Additionally, glial cells were used as the in vitro model for neuroinflammation mechanisms. RESULTS The results indicate that the overexpression of PCBP1 significantly enhances cell growth compared to the control plasmid pEGFP/N1 group. Overexpression of PCBP1 leads to a substantial reduction in early apoptosis rates in SH-SY5Y, HA, and BV-2 cells, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the overexpression of PCBP1 in cells results in a marked increase in the expression of HSP70, GDNF, and BDNF, while reducing NF-κB expression. Additionally, in SH-SY5Y, HA, and BV-2 cells overexpressing PCBP1, there is a decrease in the inflammatory factor IL-6 compared to the control plasmid pEGFP/N1 group, while BV-2 cells exhibit a significant increase in the anti-inflammatory factor IL-10. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that PCBP1 plays a substantial role in promoting cell growth and modulating the balance of neuroprotective and inflammatory factors. These results offer valuable insights into the potential therapeutic utility of PCBP1 in mitigating neuroinflammation and enhancing neuronal survival in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Yun Ma
- Central Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Fuxing Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Bingbing Jia
- Central Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Fuxing Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China; Department of Neurology, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100045, China
| | - Haoming Geng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Jiantao Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Lirong Huo
- Central Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Fuxing Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China.
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Naoi M, Maruyama W, Shamoto-Nagai M, Riederer P. Toxic interactions between dopamine, α-synuclein, monoamine oxidase, and genes in mitochondria of Parkinson's disease. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:639-661. [PMID: 38196001 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02730-6] [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: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease is characterized by its distinct pathological features; loss of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and accumulation of Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites containing modified α-synuclein. Beneficial effects of L-DOPA and dopamine replacement therapy indicate dopamine deficit as one of the main pathogenic factors. Dopamine and its oxidation products are proposed to induce selective vulnerability in dopamine neurons. However, Parkinson's disease is now considered as a generalized disease with dysfunction of several neurotransmitter systems caused by multiple genetic and environmental factors. The pathogenic factors include oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, α-synuclein accumulation, programmed cell death, impaired proteolytic systems, neuroinflammation, and decline of neurotrophic factors. This paper presents interactions among dopamine, α-synuclein, monoamine oxidase, its inhibitors, and related genes in mitochondria. α-Synuclein inhibits dopamine synthesis and function. Vice versa, dopamine oxidation by monoamine oxidase produces toxic aldehydes, reactive oxygen species, and quinones, which modify α-synuclein, and promote its fibril production and accumulation in mitochondria. Excessive dopamine in experimental models modifies proteins in the mitochondrial electron transport chain and inhibits the function. α-Synuclein and familiar Parkinson's disease-related gene products modify the expression and activity of monoamine oxidase. Type A monoamine oxidase is associated with neuroprotection by an unspecific dose of inhibitors of type B monoamine oxidase, rasagiline and selegiline. Rasagiline and selegiline prevent α-synuclein fibrillization, modulate this toxic collaboration, and exert neuroprotection in experimental studies. Complex interactions between these pathogenic factors play a decisive role in neurodegeneration in PD and should be further defined to develop new therapies for Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Naoi
- Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aichi Gakuin University, 12 Araike, Iwasaki-cho, Nisshin, Aichi, 320-0195, Japan.
| | - Wakako Maruyama
- Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aichi Gakuin University, 12 Araike, Iwasaki-cho, Nisshin, Aichi, 320-0195, Japan
| | - Masayo Shamoto-Nagai
- Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aichi Gakuin University, 12 Araike, Iwasaki-cho, Nisshin, Aichi, 320-0195, Japan
| | - Peter Riederer
- Clinical Neurochemistry, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Fishman-Jacob T, Youdim MBH. A sporadic Parkinson's disease model via silencing of the ubiquitin-proteasome/E3 ligase component, SKP1A. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:675-707. [PMID: 37644186 PMCID: PMC11192832 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02687-6] [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: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Our and other's laboratory microarray-derived transcriptomic studies in human PD substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) samples have opened an avenue to concentrate on potential gene intersections or cross-talks along the dopaminergic (DAergic) neurodegenerative cascade in sporadic PD (SPD). One emerging gene candidate identified was SKP1A (p19, S-phase kinase-associated protein 1A), found significantly decreased in the SNpc as confirmed later at the protein level. SKP1 is part of the Skp1, Cullin 1, F-box protein (SCF) complex, the largest known class of sophisticated ubiquitin-proteasome/E3-ligases and was found to directly interact with FBXO7, a gene defective in PARK15-linked PD. This finding has led us to the hypothesis that a targeted site-specific reduction of Skp1 levels in DAergic neuronal cell culture and animal systems may result in a progressive loss of DAergic neurons and hopefully recreate motor disabilities in animals. The second premise considers the possibility that both intrinsic and extrinsic factors (e.g., manipulation of selected genes and mitochondria impairing toxins), alleged to play central roles in DAergic neurodegeneration in PD, may act in concert as modifiers of Skp1 deficiency-induced phenotype alterations ('dual-hit' hypothesis of neurodegeneration). To examine a possible role of Skp1 in DAergic phenotype, we have initially knocked down the expression of SKP1A gene in an embryonic mouse SN-derived cell line (SN4741) with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) lentiviruses (LVs). The deficiency of SKP1A closely recapitulated cardinal features of the DAergic pathology of human PD, such as decreased expression of DAergic phenotypic markers and cell cycle aberrations. Furthermore, the knocked down cells displayed a lethal phenotype when induced to differentiate exhibiting proteinaceous round inclusion structures, which were almost identical in composition to human Lewy bodies, a hallmark of PD. These findings support a role for Skp1 in neuronal phenotype, survival, and differentiation. The identification of Skp1 as a key player in DAergic neuron function suggested that a targeted site-specific reduction of Skp1 levels in mice SNpc may result in a progressive loss of DAergic neurons and terminal projections in the striatum. The injected LV SKP1shRNA to mouse SN resulted in decreased expression of Skp1 protein levels within DAergic neurons and loss of tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity (TH-IR) in both SNpc and striatum that was accompanied by time-dependent motor disabilities. The reduction of the vertical movements, that is rearing, may be reminiscent of the early occurrence of hypokinesia and axial, postural instability in PD. According to the 'dual-hit' hypothesis of neurodegenerative diseases, it is predicted that gene-gene and/or gene-environmental factors would act in concert or sequentially to propagate the pathological process of PD. Our findings are compatible with this conjecture showing that the genetic vulnerability caused by knock down of SKP1A renders DAergic SN4741 cells especially sensitive to genetic reduction of Aldh1 and exposure to the external stressors MPP+ and DA, which have been implicated in PD pathology. Future consideration should be given in manipulation SKP1A expression as therapeutic window, via its induction genetically or pharmacological, to prevent degeneration of the nigra striatal dopamine neurons, since UPS is defective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tali Fishman-Jacob
- Youdim Pharmaceutical Ltd, New Northern Industrial Park, 1 Ha- Tsmikha St, Stern Building, Fl-3, P. O. Box 72, 2069207, Yokneam, Israel
| | - Moussa B H Youdim
- Youdim Pharmaceutical Ltd, New Northern Industrial Park, 1 Ha- Tsmikha St, Stern Building, Fl-3, P. O. Box 72, 2069207, Yokneam, Israel.
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Müller T, Riederer P. The vicious circle between homocysteine, methyl group-donating vitamins and chronic levodopa intake in Parkinson's disease. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:631-638. [PMID: 37329350 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02666-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
A biomarker for declined methylation capacity is elevation of homocysteine levels. They increase the risk for onset of vascular disease and contribute to progression of chronic neurodegeneration and aging. This narrative review discusses associations between homocysteine, consumption of methyl group-donating vitamins and impact on disease-generating mechanisms in levodopa-treated patients with Parkinson's disease. We conclude to recommend levodopa-treated patients to substitute themselves with methyl group-donating vitamins. This is harmless in terms of application of folic acid, methylcobalamin or hydroxocobalamin. Moreover, we suggest a crucial discussion on the value of the various popular hypotheses on Parkinson's disease-generating mechanisms. Findings from studies with acute levodopa exposure describe oxidative stress generation and impaired methylation capacity, which causes gene dysfunction. Their repeated occurrences contribute to onset of mitochondrial dysfunction, iron enrichment and pathologic protein accumulation in the long term. Current research underestimates these epigenetic, metabolic consequences of chronic levodopa application. Supplementary treatment strategies are recommended to avoid levodopa-related side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Müller
- Department of Neurology, St. Joseph Hospital Berlin-Weissensee, Gartenstr. 1, 13088, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Peter Riederer
- Center of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Würzburg, Margarete-Höppel Platz 1, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
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Lenzi P, Lazzeri G, Ferrucci M, Scotto M, Frati A, Puglisi-Allegra S, Busceti CL, Fornai F. Is There a Place for Lewy Bodies before and beyond Alpha-Synuclein Accumulation? Provocative Issues in Need of Solid Explanations. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3929. [PMID: 38612739 PMCID: PMC11011529 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, alpha-synuclein (alpha-syn) assumed a prominent role as a major component and seeding structure of Lewy bodies (LBs). This concept is driving ongoing research on the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD). In line with this, alpha-syn is considered to be the guilty protein in the disease process, and it may be targeted through precision medicine to modify disease progression. Therefore, designing specific tools to block the aggregation and spreading of alpha-syn represents a major effort in the development of disease-modifying therapies in PD. The present article analyzes concrete evidence about the significance of alpha-syn within LBs. In this effort, some dogmas are challenged. This concerns the question of whether alpha-syn is more abundant compared with other proteins within LBs. Again, the occurrence of alpha-syn compared with non-protein constituents is scrutinized. Finally, the prominent role of alpha-syn in seeding LBs as the guilty structure causing PD is questioned. These revisited concepts may be helpful in the process of validating which proteins, organelles, and pathways are likely to be involved in the damage to meso-striatal dopamine neurons and other brain regions involved in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Lenzi
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.L.); (G.L.); (M.F.); (M.S.)
| | - Gloria Lazzeri
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.L.); (G.L.); (M.F.); (M.S.)
| | - Michela Ferrucci
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.L.); (G.L.); (M.F.); (M.S.)
| | - Marco Scotto
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.L.); (G.L.); (M.F.); (M.S.)
| | - Alessandro Frati
- IRCCS—Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Neuromed, 86077 Pozzili, Italy or (A.F.); (S.P.-A.); (C.L.B.)
- Neurosurgery Division, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University, 00135 Roma, Italy
| | - Stefano Puglisi-Allegra
- IRCCS—Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Neuromed, 86077 Pozzili, Italy or (A.F.); (S.P.-A.); (C.L.B.)
| | - Carla Letizia Busceti
- IRCCS—Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Neuromed, 86077 Pozzili, Italy or (A.F.); (S.P.-A.); (C.L.B.)
| | - Francesco Fornai
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.L.); (G.L.); (M.F.); (M.S.)
- IRCCS—Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Neuromed, 86077 Pozzili, Italy or (A.F.); (S.P.-A.); (C.L.B.)
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Fornstedt Wallin B. Oxidation of dopamine and related catechols in dopaminergic brain regions in Parkinson's disease and during ageing in non-Parkinsonian subjects. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:213-228. [PMID: 38238531 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02718-2] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
The present study was performed to examine if catechol oxidation is higher in brains from patients with Parkinson's disease compared to age-matched controls, and if catechol oxidation increases with age. Brain tissue from Parkinson patients and age-matched controls was examined for oxidation of dopamine, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) to corresponding quinones, by measurement of 5-S-cysteinyl-dopamine, 5-S-cysteinyl-DOPAC and 5-S-cysteinyl-DOPA. The cysteinyl catechols are assumed to be biomarkers for DA, DOPAC and DOPA autoxidation and part of the biosynthetic pathway of neuromelanin. The concentrations of the 5-S-cysteinyl catechols were lower, whereas the 5-S-cysteinyl-DA/DA and 5-S-cysteinyl-DOPAC/DOPAC ratios tended to be higher in the Parkinson group compared to controls, which was interpreted as a higher degree of oxidation. High 5-S-cysteinyl-DA/DA ratios were found in the substantia nigra of a sub-population of the Parkinson group. Based on 5-S-cysteinyl-DA/DA ratios, dopamine oxidation was found to increase statistically significantly with age in the caudate nucleus, and non-significantly in the substantia nigra. In conclusion, the occurrence of 5-S-cysteinyl-DA, 5-S-cysteinyl-DOPAC and 5-S-cysteinyl-DOPA was demonstrated in dopaminergic brain areas of humans, a tendency for higher oxidation of DA in the Parkinson group compared to controls was observed as well as a statistically significant increase in DA oxidation with age. Possibly, autoxidation of DA and other catechols are involved in both normal and pathological ageing of the brain. This study confirms one earlier but small study, as well as complements one study on non-PD cases and one study on both PD cases and controls on NM bound or integrated markers or catechols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bodil Fornstedt Wallin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Göteborg (at the time of the study), Göteborg, Sweden.
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Watanabe H, Dijkstra JM, Nagatsu T. Parkinson's Disease: Cells Succumbing to Lifelong Dopamine-Related Oxidative Stress and Other Bioenergetic Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2009. [PMID: 38396687 PMCID: PMC10888576 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The core pathological event in Parkinson's disease (PD) is the specific dying of dopamine (DA) neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). The reasons why SNc DA neurons are especially vulnerable and why idiopathic PD has only been found in humans are still puzzling. The two main underlying factors of SNc DA neuron vulnerability appear related to high DA production, namely (i) the toxic effects of cytoplasmic DA metabolism and (ii) continuous cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations in the absence of the Ca2+-buffer protein calbindin. Both factors cause oxidative stress by producing highly reactive quinones and increasing intra-mitochondrial Ca2+ concentrations, respectively. High DA expression in human SNc DA neuron cell bodies is suggested by the abundant presence of the DA-derived pigment neuromelanin, which is not found in such abundance in other species and has been associated with toxicity at higher levels. The oxidative stress created by their DA production system, despite the fact that the SN does not use unusually high amounts of energy, explains why SNc DA neurons are sensitive to various genetic and environmental factors that create mitochondrial damage and thereby promote PD. Aging increases multiple risk factors for PD, and, to a large extent, PD is accelerated aging. To prevent PD neurodegeneration, possible approaches that are discussed here are (1) reducing cytoplasmic DA accumulation, (2) blocking cytoplasmic Ca2+ oscillations, and (3) providing bioenergetic support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirohisa Watanabe
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-1192, Aichi, Japan
| | - Johannes M. Dijkstra
- Center for Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-1192, Aichi, Japan
| | - Toshiharu Nagatsu
- Center for Research Promotion and Support, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-1192, Aichi, Japan;
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Sian-Hulsmann J, Riederer P. Virus-induced brain pathology and the neuroinflammation-inflammation continuum: the neurochemists view. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024:10.1007/s00702-023-02723-5. [PMID: 38261034 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02723-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Fascinatingly, an abundance of recent studies has subscribed to the importance of cytotoxic immune mechanisms that appear to increase the risk/trigger for many progressive neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis. Events associated with the neuroinflammatory cascades, such as ageing, immunologic dysfunction, and eventually disruption of the blood-brain barrier and the "cytokine storm", appear to be orchestrated mainly through the activation of microglial cells and communication with the neurons. The inflammatory processes prompt cellular protein dyshomeostasis. Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease share a common feature marked by characteristic pathological hallmarks of abnormal neuronal protein accumulation. These Lewy bodies contain misfolded α-synuclein aggregates in PD or in the case of AD, they are Aβ deposits and tau-containing neurofibrillary tangles. Subsequently, these abnormal protein aggregates further elicit neurotoxic processes and events which contribute to the onset of neurodegeneration and to its progression including aggravation of neuroinflammation. However, there is a caveat for exclusively linking neuroinflammation with neurodegeneration, since it's highly unlikely that immune dysregulation is the only factor that contributes to the manifestation of many of these neurodegenerative disorders. It is unquestionably a complex interaction with other factors such as genetics, age, and environment. This endorses the "multiple hit hypothesis". Consequently, if the host has a genetic susceptibility coupled to an age-related weakened immune system, this makes them more susceptible to the virus/bacteria-related infection. This may trigger the onset of chronic cytotoxic neuroinflammatory processes leading to protein dyshomeostasis and accumulation, and finally, these events lead to neuronal destruction. Here, we differentiate "neuroinflammation" and "inflammation" with regard to the involvement of the blood-brain barrier, which seems to be intact in the case of neuroinflammation but defect in the case of inflammation. There is a neuroinflammation-inflammation continuum with regard to virus-induced brain affection. Therefore, we propose a staging of this process, which might be further developed by adding blood- and CSF parameters, their stage-dependent composition and stage-dependent severeness grade. If so, this might be suitable to optimise therapeutic strategies to fight brain neuroinflammation in its beginning and avoid inflammation at all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeswinder Sian-Hulsmann
- Department of Human Anatomy and Medical Physiology, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 30197, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya
| | - Peter Riederer
- University Hospital Wuerzburg, Clinic and Policlinic for Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy Margarete-Höppel-Platz 1, 97080, Würzburg, Germany.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Southern Denmark, Winslows Vey 18, 5000, Odense, J.B, Denmark.
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Ali A, Sohail Arshad M, Ahmad Khan M, Chang MW, Ahmad Z. Recent advances towards overcoming the blood-brain barrier. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103735. [PMID: 37573965 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a protective element of the neurovascular unit (NVU) surrounded by astrocytes, pericytes, extracellular matrix, and the tight junctional complex, which play a fundamental role in brain homeostasis. Due to its impeccable structural architecture, the BBB is referred to as the brain's gatekeeper, a near-impenetrable barrier to therapeutics. This review summarises the significant strides that have been made in the last 5 years towards circumventing the BBB and developing efficient drug delivery systems. Challenges associated with several CNS disorders related to BBB failure and exploitation of this unique NVU component for targeted treatment of brain-related disorders are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amna Ali
- Leicester School of Pharmacy, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
| | | | - Mahtab Ahmad Khan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ming-Wei Chang
- Nanotechnology and Integrated Bioengineering Centre, University of Ulster, Belfast, UK
| | - Zeeshan Ahmad
- Leicester School of Pharmacy, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK.
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