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Xu H, Fu J, Mohammed Nazar RB, Yang J, Chen S, Huang Y, Bao T, Chen X. Investigation of the Relationship between Apolipoprotein E Alleles and Serum Lipids in Alzheimer's Disease: A Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1554. [PMID: 38002514 PMCID: PMC10670160 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13111554] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Prior studies have yielded mixed findings concerning the association between apolipoprotein E(APOE)-ε4 and serum lipids in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and healthy individuals. Some studies suggested a relationship between APOEε4 and serum lipids in patients with AD and healthy individuals, whereas others proposed that the APOEε4 allele affects lipids only in patients with AD. Our study aimed to investigate whether APOE alleles have a distinct impact on lipids in AD. We conducted a comprehensive search of the PubMed and Embase databases for all related studies that investigate APOE and serum lipids of AD from the inception to 30 May 2022. Elevated total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were found in APOEε4 allele carriers compared with non-carriers. No significant differences were found for high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglyceride (TG) levels in APOEε4 allele carriers compared to non-carriers. Notably, elevated TC and LDL levels showed considerable heterogeneity between patients with AD and healthy controls. A network meta-analysis did not find a distinct effect of carrying one or two APOEε4 alleles on lipid profiles. Higher TC and LDL levels were found in APOEε4 allele carriers compared with non-carriers, and the difference was more significant in patients with AD than in healthy controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaxue Xu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (J.F.); (R.B.M.N.); (J.Y.); (S.C.)
| | - Jiajia Fu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (J.F.); (R.B.M.N.); (J.Y.); (S.C.)
| | - Risna Begam Mohammed Nazar
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (J.F.); (R.B.M.N.); (J.Y.); (S.C.)
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (J.F.); (R.B.M.N.); (J.Y.); (S.C.)
| | - Sihui Chen
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (J.F.); (R.B.M.N.); (J.Y.); (S.C.)
| | - Yan Huang
- Management Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.H.); (T.B.)
| | - Ting Bao
- Management Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (Y.H.); (T.B.)
| | - Xueping Chen
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (H.X.); (J.F.); (R.B.M.N.); (J.Y.); (S.C.)
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Nissar K, Firdous P, Hussain A, Bashir S, Ahmad Z, Ganai BA. Transcriptomic Downregulation of APOE, Polymorphic Variations of APOE, Diet, Social Isolation, and Co-morbidities as Contributing Factors to Alzheimer's Disease: a Case-Control Study of Kashmiri Population. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:5891-5901. [PMID: 37357229 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03425-5] [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: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, generally affecting elderly people in the age group of above 60-65 years. Amyloid deposition has been found to be a possible cause and a characteristic feature of Alzheimer's disease. Mutations, variant genotypes, or downregulation that reduce amyloid clearance or accelerate amyloid accumulation can lead to Alzheimer's disease. This study involved clinically confirmed AD patients, age matched controls of similar ethnicity, and patients who had no history of cancer or any other chronic disease. DNA and RNA extractions of samples were done as per Saguna et al. [45] and TRIzol method, respectively. Frequencies of variant genotypes were observed using the RFLP technique, whereas, for expression analysis, qPCR was performed. The association between diet, smoking status, family history, and co-morbidities was calculated using statistical tools. Expression analysis showed downregulation in more than 65% of AD cases. Hypertension and diabetes also had a significant association with AD. Allelic isoforms ε2:ε2 and ε2:ε3 tend to be less frequent among AD cases compared to controls (2.85% vs 26.15% and 11.42% vs 21.43%, respectively). Among individuals (AD cases) with ε2:ε3 and ε2:ε4, 37.5% of the patients were having severe dementia and 62.5% were having mild to moderate dementia, whereas, among individuals with ε3:ε4 and ε4:ε4, 57% were having severe dementia and 43% were having mild to moderate dementia. Besides this, all early-onset Alzheimer's patients were found to have at least one ε4 allele. The percentage of individuals with family history (cases vs controls) was 34.17% vs 3.75%, without family history 64.55% vs 95%. On comparing AD cases against controls for smoking status, the results observed are the following: chain smokers, 12.65% vs 18.75%; moderate smokers, 16.45% vs 6.25%; ex-smokers, 36.70% vs 22.50%; non-smokers, 34.17% vs 52.50%. On comparing dietary habits in AD cases against controls, the results were as follows: individuals with generally fatty diet 26.58% vs 11.25%, with mixed diet 36.70% vs 78.75%, with generally vegetarian diet 34.17% vs 10.00%, data not available 2.53% among AD cases. Family history, dietary habits, genetics, and socioeconomic status are strongly associated with the development of Alzheimer disease. Although family history or genetic makeup cannot be changed, eating habits can be changed quite easily. We simply need to go from a high-fat diet to one that is lower in fat. Regarding socioeconomic status, which includes stress of both kinds, including economic stress, stress brought on by the loss of loved ones through death or separation, and co-morbidities (hypertension and diabetes), all are manageable and even modifiable through counseling, positive behavior, and physical activity like exercise, walking, cycling, and playing games.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamran Nissar
- Dept. of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
- Centre of Research for Development, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
- Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Parveena Firdous
- Centre of Research for Development, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Arshad Hussain
- Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Samirul Bashir
- Dept. of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Zubair Ahmad
- Dept. of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Bashir Ahmad Ganai
- Centre of Research for Development, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India.
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Passero M, Zhai T, Huang Z. Investigation of Potential Drug Targets for Cholesterol Regulation to Treat Alzheimer's Disease. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6217. [PMID: 37444065 PMCID: PMC10341567 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20136217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite extensive research and seven approved drugs, the complex interplay of genes, proteins, and pathways in Alzheimer's disease remains a challenge. This implies the intricacies of the mechanism for Alzheimer's disease, which involves the interaction of hundreds of genes, proteins, and pathways. While the major hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease are the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles, excessive accumulation of cholesterol is reportedly correlated with Alzheimer's disease patients. In this work, protein-protein interaction analysis was conducted based upon the genes from a clinical database to identify the top protein targets with most data-indicated involvement in Alzheimer's disease, which include ABCA1, CYP46A1, BACE1, TREM2, GSK3B, and SREBP2. The reactions and pathways associated with these genes were thoroughly studied for their roles in regulating brain cholesterol biosynthesis, amyloid beta accumulation, and tau protein tangle formation. Existing clinical trials for each protein target were also investigated. The research indicated that the inhibition of SREBP2, BACE1, or GSK3B is beneficial to reduce cholesterol and amyloid beta accumulation, while the activation of ABCA1, CYP46A1, or TREM2 has similar effects. In this study, Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein 2 (SREBP2) emerged as the primary protein target. SREBP2 serves a pivotal role in maintaining cholesterol balance, acting as a transcription factor that controls the expression of several enzymes pivotal for cholesterol biosynthesis. Novel studies suggest that SREBP2 performs a multifaceted role in Alzheimer's disease. The hyperactivity of SREBP2 may lead to heightened cholesterol biosynthesis, which suggested association with the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Lowering SREBP2 levels in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model results in reduced production of amyloid-beta, a major contributor to Alzheimer's disease progression. Moreover, its thoroughly analyzed crystal structure allows for computer-aided screening of potential inhibitors; SREBP2 is thus selected as a prospective drug target. While more protein targets can be added onto the list in the future, this work provides an overview of key proteins involved in the regulation of brain cholesterol biosynthesis that may be further investigated for Alzheimer's disease intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zuyi Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Villanova University, Villanova, PA 19085, USA
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Lewandowski CT, Laham MS, Thatcher GR. Remembering your A, B, C's: Alzheimer's disease and ABCA1. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:995-1018. [PMID: 35530134 PMCID: PMC9072248 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The function of ATP binding cassette protein A1 (ABCA1) is central to cholesterol mobilization. Reduced ABCA1 expression or activity is implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other disorders. Therapeutic approaches to boost ABCA1 activity have yet to be translated successfully to the clinic. The risk factors for AD development and progression, including comorbid disorders such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, highlight the intersection of cholesterol transport and inflammation. Upregulation of ABCA1 can positively impact APOE lipidation, insulin sensitivity, peripheral vascular and blood–brain barrier integrity, and anti-inflammatory signaling. Various strategies towards ABCA1-boosting compounds have been described, with a bias toward nuclear hormone receptor (NHR) agonists. These agonists display beneficial preclinical effects; however, important side effects have limited development. In particular, ligands that bind liver X receptor (LXR), the primary NHR that controls ABCA1 expression, have shown positive effects in AD mouse models; however, lipogenesis and unwanted increases in triglyceride production are often observed. The longstanding approach, focusing on LXRβ vs. LXRα selectivity, is over-simplistic and has failed. Novel approaches such as phenotypic screening may lead to small molecule NHR modulators that elevate ABCA1 function without inducing lipogenesis and are clinically translatable.
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Willems S, Zaienne D, Merk D. Targeting Nuclear Receptors in Neurodegeneration and Neuroinflammation. J Med Chem 2021; 64:9592-9638. [PMID: 34251209 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors, also known as ligand-activated transcription factors, regulate gene expression upon ligand signals and present as attractive therapeutic targets especially in chronic diseases. Despite the therapeutic relevance of some nuclear receptors in various pathologies, their potential in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation is insufficiently established. This perspective gathers preclinical and clinical data for a potential role of individual nuclear receptors as future targets in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis, and concomitantly evaluates the level of medicinal chemistry targeting these proteins. Considerable evidence suggests the high promise of ligand-activated transcription factors to counteract neurodegenerative diseases with a particularly high potential of several orphan nuclear receptors. However, potent tools are lacking for orphan receptors, and limited central nervous system exposure or insufficient selectivity also compromises the suitability of well-studied nuclear receptor ligands for functional studies. Medicinal chemistry efforts are needed to develop dedicated high-quality tool compounds for the therapeutic validation of nuclear receptors in neurodegenerative pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Willems
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Daniel Zaienne
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Daniel Merk
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Strasse 9, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
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Husain MA, Laurent B, Plourde M. APOE and Alzheimer's Disease: From Lipid Transport to Physiopathology and Therapeutics. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:630502. [PMID: 33679311 PMCID: PMC7925634 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.630502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by extracellular amyloid β (Aβ) and intraneuronal tau protein aggregations. One risk factor for developing AD is the APOE gene coding for the apolipoprotein E protein (apoE). Humans have three versions of APOE gene: ε2, ε3, and ε4 allele. Carrying the ε4 allele is an AD risk factor while carrying the ε2 allele is protective. ApoE is a component of lipoprotein particles in the plasma at the periphery, as well as in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and in the interstitial fluid (ISF) of brain parenchyma in the central nervous system (CNS). ApoE is a major lipid transporter that plays a pivotal role in the development, maintenance, and repair of the CNS, and that regulates multiple important signaling pathways. This review will focus on the critical role of apoE in AD pathogenesis and some of the currently apoE-based therapeutics developed in the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Amir Husain
- Centre de Recherche Sur le Vieillissement, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et Services Sociaux de l'Estrie-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Benoit Laurent
- Centre de Recherche Sur le Vieillissement, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et Services Sociaux de l'Estrie-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Département de Biochimie et Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Mélanie Plourde
- Centre de Recherche Sur le Vieillissement, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et Services Sociaux de l'Estrie-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
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Yassine HN, Finch CE. APOE Alleles and Diet in Brain Aging and Alzheimer's Disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:150. [PMID: 32587511 PMCID: PMC7297981 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.00150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The APOE gene alleles modify human aging and the response to the diet at many levels with diverse pleotropic effects from gut to brain. To understand the interactions of APOE isoforms and diet, we analyze how cellular trafficking of apoE proteins affects energy metabolism, the immune system, and reproduction. The age-accelerating APOE4 allele alters the endosomal trafficking of cell surface receptors that mediate lipid and glucose metabolism. The APOE4 allele is the ancestral human allele, joined by APOE3 and then APOE2 in the human species. Under conditions of high infection, uncertain food, and shorter life expectancy, APOE4 may be adaptive for reducing mortality. As humans transitioned into modern less-infectious environments and longer life spans, APOE4 increased risks of aging-related diseases, particularly impacting arteries and the brain. The association of APOE4 with glucose dysregulation and body weight promotes many aging-associated diseases. Additionally, the APOE gene locus interacts with adjacent genes on chromosome 19 in haplotypes that modify neurodegeneration and metabolism, for which we anticipate complex gene-environment interactions. We summarize how diet and Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk are altered by APOE genotype in both animal and human studies and identify gaps. Much remains obscure in how APOE alleles modify nutritional factors in human aging. Identifying risk variant haplotypes in the APOE gene complex will clarify homeostatic adaptive responses to environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein N. Yassine
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Caleb E. Finch
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology and Dornsife College, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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8
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Cui W, Sun C, Ma Y, Wang S, Wang X, Zhang Y. Neuroprotective effect of tormentic acid against memory impairment and neuro‑inflammation in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model. Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:739-750. [PMID: 32468017 PMCID: PMC7339752 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment and neuro-inflammatory responses are the distinctive characteristics of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Tormentic acid (TA) is one of the major active components of Potentilla chinensis and has been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory properties. However, the potential effects of TA on neuro-inflammatory responses and memory impairment in AD remain unknown. The present study investigated the therapeutic effect of TA on neuro-inflammation, as well as learning and memory impairment in AD mice. In addition, the effects of TA treatment were also examined in a co-culture system of microglia and primary neurons. Intraperitoneal administration of TA attenuated memory deficits in amyloid β precursor protein/presenilin 1 transgenic mice, with a marked decrease in amyloid plaque deposition. TA also reduced microglial activation and decreased the secretion of pro-inflammatory factors in AD mice. Furthermore, pre-treatment with TA suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory markers, as well as the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 induced by Aβ exposure in BV2 cells. TA also reduced inhibited neurotoxicity and improved neuron survival in a neuron-microglia co-culture system. Taken together, these findings suggested that TA could attenuate neuro-inflammation and memory impairment, which may be closely associated with regulation of the NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weigang Cui
- Department of Human Anatomy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Chunli Sun
- Department of Human Anatomy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Yuqi Ma
- Department of Human Anatomy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Songtao Wang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Xianwei Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Yinghua Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
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9
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Gutierrez E, Lütjohann D, Kerksiek A, Fabiano M, Oikawa N, Kuerschner L, Thiele C, Walter J. Importance of γ-secretase in the regulation of liver X receptor and cellular lipid metabolism. Life Sci Alliance 2020; 3:3/6/e201900521. [PMID: 32354700 PMCID: PMC7195048 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.201900521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of the Alzheimer associated γ-secretase impairs the regulation of cellular lipid droplet homeostasis. Presenilins (PS) are the catalytic components of γ-secretase complexes that mediate intramembrane proteolysis. Mutations in the PS genes are a major cause of familial early-onset Alzheimer disease and affect the cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein, thereby altering the production of the amyloid β-peptide. However, multiple additional protein substrates have been identified, suggesting pleiotropic functions of γ-secretase. Here, we demonstrate that inhibition of γ-secretase causes dysregulation of cellular lipid homeostasis, including up-regulation of liver X receptors, and complex changes in the cellular lipid composition. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of γsecretase leads to strong accumulation of cytoplasmic lipid droplets, associated with increased levels of acylglycerols, but lowered cholesteryl esters. Furthermore, accumulation of lipid droplets was augmented by increasing levels of amyloid precursor protein C-terminal fragments, indicating a critical involvement of this γ-secretase substrate. Together, these data provide a mechanism that functionally connects γ-secretase activity to cellular lipid metabolism. These effects were also observed in human astrocytic cells, indicating an important function of γ-secretase in cells critical for lipid homeostasis in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dieter Lütjohann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anja Kerksiek
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marietta Fabiano
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Naoto Oikawa
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lars Kuerschner
- Life and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Thiele
- Life and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jochen Walter
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Lewandowski CT, Maldonado Weng J, LaDu MJ. Alzheimer's disease pathology in APOE transgenic mouse models: The Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 139:104811. [PMID: 32087290 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.104811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The focus on amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles has yielded no Alzheimer's disease (AD) modifying treatments in the past several decades, despite successful studies in preclinical mouse models. This inconsistency has caused a renewed focus on improving the fidelity and reliability of AD mouse models, with disparate views on how this improvement can be accomplished. However, the interactive effects of the universal biological variables of AD, which include age, APOE genotype, and sex, are often overlooked. Age is the greatest risk factor for AD, while the ε4 allele of the human APOE gene, encoding apolipoprotein E, is the greatest genetic risk factor. Sex is the final universal biological variable of AD, as females develop AD at almost twice the rate of males and, importantly, female sex exacerbates the effects of APOE4 on AD risk and rate of cognitive decline. Therefore, this review evaluates the importance of context for understanding the role of APOE in preclinical mouse models. Specifically, we detail how human AD pathology is mirrored in current transgenic mouse models ("What") and describe the critical need for introducing human APOE into these mouse models ("Who"). We next outline different methods for introducing human APOE into mice ("How") and highlight efforts to develop temporally defined and location-specific human apoE expression models ("When" and "Where"). We conclude with the importance of choosing the human APOE mouse model relevant to the question being addressed, using the selection of transgenic models for testing apoE-targeted therapeutics as an example ("Why").
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Affiliation(s)
- Cutler T Lewandowski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S. Wood St., Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Juan Maldonado Weng
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 808 S. Wood St., Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Mary Jo LaDu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 808 S. Wood St., Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Morsy A, Trippier PC. Current and Emerging Pharmacological Targets for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 72:S145-S176. [PMID: 31594236 DOI: 10.3233/jad-190744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
No cure or disease-modifying therapy for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has yet been realized. However, a multitude of pharmacological targets have been identified for possible engagement to enable drug discovery efforts for AD. Herein, we review these targets comprised around three main therapeutic strategies. First is an approach that targets the main pathological hallmarks of AD: amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers and hyperphosphorylated tau tangles which primarily focuses on reducing formation and aggregation, and/or inducing their clearance. Second is a strategy that modulates neurotransmitter signaling. Comprising this strategy are the cholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor blockade treatments that are clinically approved for the symptomatic treatment of AD. Additional targets that aim to stabilize neuron signaling through modulation of neurotransmitters and their receptors are also discussed. Finally, the third approach comprises a collection of 'sensitive targets' that indirectly influence Aβ or tau accumulation. These targets are proteins that upon Aβ accumulation in the brain or direct Aβ-target interaction, a modification in the target's function is induced. The process occurs early in disease progression, ultimately causing neuronal dysfunction. This strategy aims to restore normal target function to alleviate Aβ-induced toxicity in neurons. Overall, we generally limit our analysis to targets that have emerged in the last decade and targets that have been validated using small molecules in in vitro and/or in vivo models. This review is not an exhaustive list of all possible targets for AD but serves to highlight the most promising and critical targets suitable for small molecule drug intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Morsy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Paul C Trippier
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA
- UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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12
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Clausznitzer D, Pichardo-Almarza C, Relo AL, van Bergeijk J, van der Kam E, Laplanche L, Benson N, Nijsen M. Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Model for Alzheimer Disease Indicates Targeting Sphingolipid Dysregulation as Potential Treatment Option. CPT-PHARMACOMETRICS & SYSTEMS PHARMACOLOGY 2018; 7:759-770. [PMID: 30207429 PMCID: PMC6263662 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder with high unmet medical need. Drug development is hampered by limited understanding of the disease and its driving factors. Quantitative Systems Pharmacology (QSP) modeling provides a comprehensive quantitative framework to evaluate the relevance of biological mechanisms in the context of disease and to predict the efficacy of novel treatments. Here, we report a QSP model for AD with a particular focus on investigating the relevance of dysregulation of cholesterol and sphingolipids. We show that our model captures the modulation of several biomarkers in subjects with AD, as well as the response to pharmacological interventions. We evaluate the impact of targeting the sphingosine-1-phosphate 5 receptor (S1PR5) as a potential novel treatment option for AD, and model predictions increase our confidence in this novel disease pathway. Future applications for the QSP model are in validation of further targets and identification of potential treatment response biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Neil Benson
- Certara QSP, Innovation centre, Unit 43, Canterbury, UK
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Pan Y, Xu J, Chen C, Chen F, Jin P, Zhu K, Hu CW, You M, Chen M, Hu F. Royal Jelly Reduces Cholesterol Levels, Ameliorates Aβ Pathology and Enhances Neuronal Metabolic Activities in a Rabbit Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2018; 10:50. [PMID: 29556189 PMCID: PMC5845009 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2018.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia characterized by aggregation of amyloid β (Aβ) and neuronal loss. One of the risk factors for AD is high cholesterol levels, which are known to promote Aβ deposition. Previous studies have shown that royal jelly (RJ), a product of worker bees, has potential neuroprotective effects and can attenuate Aβ toxicity. However, little is known about how RJ regulates Aβ formation and its effects on cholesterol levels and neuronal metabolic activities. Here, we investigated whether RJ can reduce cholesterol levels, regulate Aβ levels and enhance neuronal metabolic activities in an AD rabbit model induced by 2% cholesterol diet plus copper drinking water. Our results suggest that RJ significantly reduced the levels of plasma total cholesterol (TC) and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and decreased the level of Aβ in rabbit brains. RJ was also shown to markedly ameliorate amyloid deposition in AD rabbits from Aβ immunohistochemistry and thioflavin-T staining. Furthermore, our study suggests that RJ can reduce the expression levels of β-site APP cleaving enzyme-1 (BACE1) and receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), and increase the expression levels of low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP-1) and insulin degrading enzyme (IDE). In addition, we found that RJ remarkably increased the number of neurons, enhanced antioxidant capacities, inhibited activated-capase-3 protein expression, and enhanced neuronal metabolic activities by increasing N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) and glutamate and by reducing choline and myo-inositol in AD rabbits. Taken together, our data demonstrated that RJ could reduce cholesterol levels, regulate Aβ levels and enhance neuronal metabolic activities in AD rabbits, providing preclinical evidence that RJ treatment has the potential to protect neurons and prevent AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongming Pan
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Comparative Medical Research Center, Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianqin Xu
- Comparative Medical Research Center, Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Chen
- Comparative Medical Research Center, Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fangming Chen
- Comparative Medical Research Center, Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ping Jin
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Keyan Zhu
- Comparative Medical Research Center, Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenyue W Hu
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mengmeng You
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Minli Chen
- Comparative Medical Research Center, Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fuliang Hu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Sodhi RK, Singh N. Liver X receptor agonist T0901317 reduces neuropathological changes and improves memory in mouse models of experimental dementia. Eur J Pharmacol 2014; 732:50-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2013] [Revised: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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15
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Sun JH, Yu JT, Tan L. The Role of Cholesterol Metabolism in Alzheimer’s Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 51:947-65. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-8749-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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16
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Wang Q, Wang S, Shi Y, Yao M, Hou L, Jiang L. Reduction of Liver X Receptor β expression in primary rat neurons by antisense oligodeoxynucleotides decreases secreted amyloid β levels. Neurosci Lett 2014; 561:146-50. [PMID: 24394905 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2013.12.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Revised: 11/26/2013] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Ligand-activated Liver X Receptor (LXR) is known to increase cholesterol efflux from cells and reduce the production of amyloid β (Aβ) from amyloid-beta precursor protein (APP). However, little is known about the effects of LXRβ, one subtype of LXR, on endogenous Aβ. In this study, we show that LXRβ inactivation with specific antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (As-ODN) significantly reduced secreted Aβ and decreased mRNA levels of APP(751+770), and α-, β-secretase (ADAM10, BACE1) in primary rat neurons. We also show that As-ODN down-regulated the LXR responsive genes ABCA1 and HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR). These changes are associated with decreased cellular cholesterol levels. The effect of LXRβ inactivation on Aβ levels is likely due to the alteration of cholesterol production and APP processing. Thus, our data suggest that LXRβ has an important function in cholesterol homeostasis and endogenous Aβ maintenance in neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qie Wang
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Suling Wang
- Hebei Province Blood Center, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yun Shi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Min Yao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lianguo Hou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lingling Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.
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17
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Cacabelos R, Cacabelos P, Torrellas C, Tellado I, Carril JC. Pharmacogenomics of Alzheimer's disease: novel therapeutic strategies for drug development. Methods Mol Biol 2014; 1175:323-556. [PMID: 25150875 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0956-8_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major problem of health and disability, with a relevant economic impact on our society. Despite important advances in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment, its primary causes still remain elusive, accurate biomarkers are not well characterized, and the available pharmacological treatments are not cost-effective. As a complex disorder, AD is a polygenic and multifactorial clinical entity in which hundreds of defective genes distributed across the human genome may contribute to its pathogenesis. Diverse environmental factors, cerebrovascular dysfunction, and epigenetic phenomena, together with structural and functional genomic dysfunctions, lead to amyloid deposition, neurofibrillary tangle formation, and premature neuronal death, the major neuropathological hallmarks of AD. Future perspectives for the global management of AD predict that genomics and proteomics may help in the search for reliable biomarkers. In practical terms, the therapeutic response to conventional drugs (cholinesterase inhibitors, multifactorial strategies) is genotype-specific. Genomic factors potentially involved in AD pharmacogenomics include at least five categories of gene clusters: (1) genes associated with disease pathogenesis; (2) genes associated with the mechanism of action of drugs; (3) genes associated with drug metabolism (phase I and II reactions); (4) genes associated with drug transporters; and (5) pleiotropic genes involved in multifaceted cascades and metabolic reactions. The implementation of pharmacogenomic strategies will contribute to optimize drug development and therapeutics in AD and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramón Cacabelos
- Chair of Genomic Medicine, Camilo José Cela University, 28692, Villanueva de la Cañada, Madrid, Spain,
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18
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Cui W, Tao J, Wang Z, Ren M, Zhang Y, Sun Y, Peng Y, Li R. Neuregulin1beta1 antagonizes apoptosis via ErbB4-dependent activation of PI3-kinase/Akt in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. Neurochem Res 2013; 38:2237-46. [PMID: 23982319 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-013-1131-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2013] [Revised: 08/06/2013] [Accepted: 08/10/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the deposition of beta-amyloid protein (Aβ) and extensive neuronal cell death. Apoptosis plays a crucial role in loss of neurons in AD. Neuregulin1 (NRG1) has been found to protect neurons from oxygen glucose deprivation induced apoptosis and hypoxia ischemia induced apoptosis. However, the relationship between NRG1 and apoptosis related protein expression in AD and its mechanism remain uncertain. The present study explores the effects of NRG1 on Aβ-induced apoptosis in AD. In this study, extracellular domain of NRG1beta1 (NRG1β1-ECD) promoted the expression of p-ErbB4 receptor, p-Akt and increased the level of Bcl-2 both in APP/PS1 transgenic mice and in vitro. In primary culture of neurons, the level of Bcl-2 protein decreased significantly after Aβ treatment. These changes were inhibited by pretreatment of neurons with NRG1β1-ECD. A specific inhibitor of PI3-kinase/Akt pathway, wortmannin, significantly abrogated the effects of NRG1β1-ECD on p-Akt and Bcl-2 levels. Furthermore, the expression of PI3-kinase/Akt by NRG1β1-ECD was ErbB4-dependent. Our data demonstrated that NRG1β1-ECD might serve as an obvious neuroprotection in AD, and the possible protective mechanism occurs most likely via ErbB4-dependent activation of PI3-kinase/Akt pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weigang Cui
- Key Open Lab for Tissue Regeneration of Henan Universities, Department of Human Anatomy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
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19
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Sodhi RK, Singh N. Liver X receptors: emerging therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease. Pharmacol Res 2013; 72:45-51. [PMID: 23542729 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2013.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2012] [Revised: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder, typified by the pathological accumulation of ß-amyloid peptides (Aß) and neurofibrillary tangles within the brain, culminating to cognitive impairment. Epidemiological and biochemical data have suggested a link between cholesterol content, APP (amyloid precursor protein) processing, Aß, inflammation and AD. The intricacy of the disease presents considerable challenges for the development of newer therapeutic agents. Liver X receptors (LXRa and LXRß) are oxysterol activated nuclear receptors that play essential role in lipid and glucose homeostasis, steroidogenesis and inflammatory responses. LXR signalling impacts the development of AD pathology through multiple pathways. Reports indicate that genetic loss of either lxra or lxrß in APP/PS1 transgenic mice results in increased amyloid plaque load. Studies also suggest that ligand activation of LXRs in Tg2576 mice enhanced, the expression of genes linked with cholesterol efflux e.g. apoe, abca-1, down regulated APP processing and Aß production with significant improvement in memory functions. LXR agonists have also depicted to inhibit neuroinflammation through modulation of microglial phagocytosis and by repressing the expression of cox2, mcp1 and iNos in glial cells. This review summarizes in brief the biology of LXRs, with an emphasis on their probable pathophysiological mechanisms that may elicit the defending role of these receptors in brains of AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupinder K Sodhi
- Pharmacology Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, Punjabi University, Patiala 147002, Punjab, India
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20
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Pathogenesis, modulation, and therapy of Alzheimer’s disease: A perspective on roles of liver-X receptors. Transl Neurosci 2013. [DOI: 10.2478/s13380-013-0136-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been mostly linked to aberrant amyloid beta (Aβ) and tau proteins metabolism, disturbed lipid/cholesterol homeostasis, and progressive neuroinflammation. Liver X receptors (LXR) are ligand-activated transcription factors, best known as the key regulators of cholesterol metabolism and transport. In addition, LXR signaling has been shown to have significant anti-inflammatory properties. In this brief review, we focus on the outcome of studies implicating LXR in the pathogenesis, modulation, and therapy of AD.
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21
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Cui W, Sun Y, Wang Z, Xu C, Peng Y, Li R. Liver X receptor activation attenuates inflammatory response and protects cholinergic neurons in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. Neuroscience 2012; 210:200-10. [PMID: 22425753 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.02.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2012] [Accepted: 02/25/2012] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with beta-amyloid deposition, glial activation, and increased levels of the cytokines, as well as cholinergic dysfunction. Liver X receptor (LXR) has been found to inhibit the expression of pro-inflammatory genes. However, the effects of LXR activation on inflammatory response and on cholinergic system in AD are not yet clear. The present results revealed that LXR activation markedly attenuated several inflammatory markers and decreased microglial activation and reactive astrocytes in amyloid precursor protein (APP)/PS1 transgenic mice. Additionally, LXR activation significantly increased the number of cholinergic neurons in the medial septal regions and the basal nucleus of Meynert (NBM), and attenuated cognitive impairment. Furthermore, we observed that LXR activation inhibited the production of COX-2 and iNOS from Aβ(25-35)-induced microglia. LXR activation and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) inhibitor PDTC both attenuated Aβ(25-35) induction of NF-κB activation. These results suggest that LXR agonists suppress the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, at least in part, by modulating NF-κB-signaling pathway. Collectively, these studies suggest that LXR agonists may have therapeutic significance in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Cui
- Department of Human Anatomy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
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