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Urkiola A, Domínguez E, Solà-Montrabeta M, Bardagí M. Prevalence of middle ear effusion in French bulldogs without clinical signs of otic disease: A retrospective study of magnetic resonance imaging (2017-2022). Vet Dermatol 2024; 35:317-324. [PMID: 38284304 DOI: 10.1111/vde.13239] [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: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine middle ear effusion (MEE) is usually asymptomatic, being an incidental finding when computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head is performed for other reasons unrelated to otic disease. The clinical relevance of the presence of material in the tympanic bulla (TB) remains uncertain, and more detail about its prevalence and appearance in MRI are required. OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence of presence of material within the TB of French bulldogs (FB) with no clinical signs suggestive of otitis (externa, media or interna) that underwent high-field MRI for other medical reasons. ANIMALS Two hundred fifty-two TB of 126 FB were included in this study. MATERIALS AND METHODS Nonexperimental retrospective study in which MRI images were evaluated by a board-certified veterinary radiologist. RESULTS Fifty-eight per cent of the dogs had material in the TB lumen (46% of the TB) and 59% were bilaterally affected. The signal intensity of this material related to the grey matter was variable on T1w and mainly hyperintense on T2w sequences. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE FB are predisposed to MEE. This is important when assessing imaging studies of TB of FB with chronic otitis externa, as high percentage of cases may have concurrent MEE. MRI findings in FB with MEE are characterised by a hyperintense signal to the grey matter on T2w in most cases and variable on T1w sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ane Urkiola
- AniCura Ars Veterinària Hospital Veterinari, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Mar Bardagí
- AniCura Ars Veterinària Hospital Veterinari, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain
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Li H, Xiang BL, Li X, Li C, Li Y, Miao Y, Ma GL, Ma YH, Chen JQ, Zhang QY, Lv LB, Zheng P, Bi R, Yao YG. Cognitive Deficits and Alzheimer's Disease-Like Pathologies in the Aged Chinese Tree Shrew. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:1892-1906. [PMID: 37814108 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03663-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common chronic progressive neurodegenerative disease in the elderly. It has an increasing prevalence and a growing health burden. One of the limitations in studying AD is the lack of animal models that show features of Alzheimer's pathogenesis. The tree shrew has a much closer genetic affinity to primates than to rodents and has great potential to be used for research into aging and AD. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether tree shrews naturally develop cognitive impairment and major AD-like pathologies with increasing age. Pole-board and novel object recognition tests were used to assess the cognitive performance of adult (about 1 year old) and aged (6 years old or older) tree shrews. The main AD-like pathologies were assessed by Western blotting, immunohistochemical staining, immunofluorescence staining, and Nissl staining. Our results showed that the aged tree shrews developed an impaired cognitive performance compared to the adult tree shrews. Moreover, the aged tree shrews exhibited several age-related phenotypes that are associated with AD, including increased levels of amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation and phosphorylated tau protein, synaptic and neuronal loss, and reactive gliosis in the cortex and the hippocampal tissues. Our study provides further evidence that the tree shrew is a promising model for the study of aging and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongli Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, and KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
| | - Bo-Lin Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, and KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, and KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
| | - Cong Li
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
| | - Yu Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, and KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
| | - Ying Miao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, and KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Science at the Microscale, School of Life Science, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Guo-Lan Ma
- Kunming Biological Diversity Regional Center of Large Apparatus and Equipments, Public Technology Service Center, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
| | - Yu-Hua Ma
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650107, China
| | - Jia-Qi Chen
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650107, China
| | - Qing-Yu Zhang
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650107, China
| | - Long-Bao Lv
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650107, China
| | - Ping Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650107, China
- Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
| | - Rui Bi
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, and KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China.
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China.
| | - Yong-Gang Yao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, and KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China.
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China.
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650107, China.
- Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China.
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Taylor TL, Smith BP, Hazel SJ. Guardians' perceptions of caring for a dog with canine cognitive dysfunction. Vet Rec 2024; 194:e3266. [PMID: 37503693 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is a neurodegenerative disease that is difficult to diagnose, as its clinical signs are similar to those of other age-related conditions. The experience of caring for a senior dog with or without CCD is not well described. METHODS Data were collected via an online survey. Using a mixed methods design, the level of CCD and burden of care were measured using validated tools, and open-ended questions gathered qualitative data. A general linear model showed the factors associated with guardian burden of care. RESULTS Sixteen percent of guardians experienced a clinically significant burden of care. Factors associated with burden of care included severity of CCD, sleep location, guardian employment, household size, dog age, guardian age and the dog taking medication. Few dogs with CCD were prescribed CCD medications to ameliorate clinical signs. Euthanasia, strong attachment mitigating burden and the complexities of caregiving were themes presented by guardians. LIMITATIONS Measures are based on self-reports and as such the usual limitations apply. CONCLUSIONS The burden of caring for an older dog is greater if they have CCD. More attention to the treatment of senior dogs, including medications to reduce clinical signs of CCD, could improve the welfare of older dogs and decrease the clinical burden experienced by guardians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey L Taylor
- Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Bradley P Smith
- College of Psychology, School of Human Health and Social Sciences, Central Queensland University Australia, Wayville, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan J Hazel
- Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Kim J, Kwon D, Kim SS, Lee K, Yoon H. Measurement of brainstem diameter in small-breed dogs using magnetic resonance imaging. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1183412. [PMID: 37519998 PMCID: PMC10374218 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1183412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Measurement of brainstem diameters (midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata)is of potential clinical significance, as changes in brainstem size may decrease or increase due to age, neurodegenerative disorders, or neoplasms. In human medicine, numerous studies have reported the normal reference range of brainstem size, which is hitherto unexplored in veterinary medicine, particularly for small-breed dogs. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the reference range of brainstem diameters in small-breed dogs and to correlate the measurements with age, body weight (BW), and body condition score (BCS). Herein, magnetic resonance (MR) images of 544 small-breed dogs were evaluated. Based on the exclusion criteria, 193 dogs were included in the midbrain and pons evaluation, and of these, 119 dogs were included in the medulla oblongata evaluation. Using MR images, the height and width of the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata were measured on the median and transverse plane on the T1-weighted image. For the medulla oblongata, two points were measured for each height and width. The mean values of midbrain height (MH), midbrain width (MW), pons height (PH), pons width (PW), medulla oblongata height at the fourth ventricle level (MOHV), medulla oblongata height at the cervicomedullary (CM) junction level (MOHC), rostral medulla oblongata width (RMOW), and caudal medulla oblongata width (CMOW) were 7.18 ± 0.56 mm, 17.42 ± 1.21 mm, 9.73 ± 0.64 mm, 17.23 ± 1.21 mm, 6.06 ± 0.53 mm, 5.77 ± 0.40 mm, 18.93 ± 1.25 mm, and 10.12 ± 1.08 mm, respectively. No significant differences were found between male and female dogs for all the measurements. A negative correlation was found between age and midbrain diameter, including MH (p < 0.001) and MW (p = 0.002). All brainstem diameters were correlated positively with BW (p < 0.05). No significant correlation was found between BCS and all brainstem diameters. Brainstem diameters differed significantly between breeds (p < 0.05), except for MW (p = 0.137). This study assessed linear measurements of the brainstem diameter in small-breed dogs. We suggest that these results could be useful in assessing abnormal conditions of the brainstem in small-breed dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun Kim
- Department of Veterinary Medical Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, Republic of Korea
| | - Danbee Kwon
- Bundang Leaders Animal Medical Center, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Soo Kim
- VIP Animal Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kichang Lee
- Department of Veterinary Medical Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hakyoung Yoon
- Department of Veterinary Medical Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, Republic of Korea
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Associations between physical activity and cognitive dysfunction in older companion dogs: results from the Dog Aging Project. GeroScience 2023; 45:645-661. [PMID: 36129565 PMCID: PMC9886770 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-022-00655-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is a form of dementia that shares many similarities with Alzheimer's disease. Given that physical activity is believed to reduce risk of Alzheimer's disease in humans, we explored the association between physical activity and cognitive health in a cohort of companion dogs, aged 6-18 years. We hypothesized that higher levels of physical activity would be associated with lower (i.e., better) scores on a cognitive dysfunction rating instrument and lower prevalence of dementia, and that this association would be robust when controlling for age, comorbidities, and other potential confounders. Our sample included 11,574 companion dogs enrolled through the Dog Aging Project, of whom 287 had scores over the clinical threshold for CCD. In this observational, cross-sectional study, we used owner-reported questionnaire data to quantify dog cognitive health (via a validated scale), physical activity levels, health conditions, training history, and dietary supplements. We fit regression models with measures of cognitive health as the outcome, and physical activity-with several important covariates-as predictors. We found a significant negative relationship between physical activity and current severity of cognitive dysfunction symptoms (estimate = - 0.10, 95% CI: - 0.11 to - 0.08, p < 0.001), extent of symptom worsening over a 6-month interval (estimate = - 0.07, 95% CI: - 0.09 to - 0.05, p < 0.001), and whether a dog reached a clinical level of CCD (odds ratio = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.45 to 0.63, p < 0.001). Physical activity was robustly associated with better cognitive outcomes in dogs. Our findings illustrate the value of companion dogs as a model for investigating relationships between physical activity and cognitive aging, including aspects of dementia that may have translational potential for Alzheimer's disease. While the current study represents an important first step in identifying a relationship between physical activity and cognitive function, it cannot determine causality. Future studies are needed to rule out reverse causation by following the same dogs prospectively over time, and to evaluate causality by administering physical activity interventions.
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I F. The unique neuropathological vulnerability of the human brain to aging. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 87:101916. [PMID: 36990284 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD)-related neurofibrillary tangles (NFT), argyrophilic grain disease (AGD), aging-related tau astrogliopathy (ARTAG), limbic predominant TDP-43 proteinopathy (LATE), and amygdala-predominant Lewy body disease (LBD) are proteinopathies that, together with hippocampal sclerosis, progressively appear in the elderly affecting from 50% to 99% of individuals aged 80 years, depending on the disease. These disorders usually converge on the same subject and associate with additive cognitive impairment. Abnormal Tau, TDP-43, and α-synuclein pathologies progress following a pattern consistent with an active cell-to-cell transmission and abnormal protein processing in the host cell. However, cell vulnerability and transmission pathways are specific for each disorder, albeit abnormal proteins may co-localize in particular neurons. All these alterations are unique or highly prevalent in humans. They all affect, at first, the archicortex and paleocortex to extend at later stages to the neocortex and other regions of the telencephalon. These observations show that the phylogenetically oldest areas of the human cerebral cortex and amygdala are not designed to cope with the lifespan of actual humans. New strategies aimed at reducing the functional overload of the human telencephalon, including optimization of dream repair mechanisms and implementation of artificial circuit devices to surrogate specific brain functions, appear promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferrer I
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Emeritus Researcher of the Bellvitge Institute of Biomedical Research (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain; Biomedical Research Network of Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
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Szriber SJ, Novaes LS, Santos NBD, Munhoz CD, Leite-Dellova DCA. Imbalance in the ratio between mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors and neurodegeneration in the dentate gyrus of aged dogs. Vet World 2022; 15:2543-2550. [PMID: 36590120 PMCID: PMC9798053 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.2543-2550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Cortisol binds to mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) found in the hippocampus. The balanced expression of these receptors is essential to neuronal survival as MR and GR activations have antiapoptotic and proapoptotic effects, respectively. Given the aging changes in dogs' dentate gyrus (DG) and the possible involvement of cortisol receptors in this process, this study aimed to evaluate the expression of MR and GR and neuronal degeneration in this hippocampal region of aged dogs. Materials and Methods This study included cadaveric histologic hippocampus sections from six dogs aged 10 years and older (AG group) and 12 young/adult dogs aged up to 8 years (YAd group). Nissl staining and immunohistochemistry were performed to identify cells and investigate MR and GR expression, respectively. Furthermore, fluorescent labeling (fluoro-Jade B) was used to detect degenerating neurons. Results The AG group's polymorphic layer of the DG had a lower cell count (16%) and more degenerating neurons than the YAd group. In addition to these cellular changes, the AG group had lower MR immunoreactivity and MR-to-GR ratio. Furthermore, the lowest MR expression was associated with neuronal degeneration in the polymorphic layer of the DG of dogs. Conclusion An imbalance in the MR-to-GR ratio was observed in the polymorphic layer of the DG of aged dogs, along with lower MR expression and a greater number of degenerating neurons. These findings have clinical implications for understanding the decline in hippocampal memory formation associated with cognitive changes in aged dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Jaqueline Szriber
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Duque de Caxias Norte Avenue, 225, 13635-900, Pirassununga, Brazil,Corresponding author: Shirley Jaqueline Szriber, e-mail: Co-authors: LSN: , NBDS: , CDM: , DCAL:
| | - Leonardo Santana Novaes
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of Sao Paulo, Professor Lineu Prestes Avenue, 1524, Room 323, 05508-000, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nilton Barreto Dos Santos
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of Sao Paulo, Professor Lineu Prestes Avenue, 1524, Room 323, 05508-000, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carolina Demarchi Munhoz
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of Sao Paulo, Professor Lineu Prestes Avenue, 1524, Room 323, 05508-000, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Deise Carla Almeida Leite-Dellova
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Duque de Caxias Norte Avenue, 225, 13635-900, Pirassununga, Brazil
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Araujo JA, Segarra S, Mendes J, Paradis A, Brooks M, Thevarkunnel S, Milgram NW. Sphingolipids and DHA Improve Cognitive Deficits in Aged Beagle Dogs. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:646451. [PMID: 35909696 PMCID: PMC9329143 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.646451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a disorder found in senior dogs that is typically defined by the development of specific behavioral signs which are attributed to pathological brain aging and no other medical causes. One way of objectively characterizing CDS is with the use of validated neuropsychological test batteries in aged Beagle dogs, which are a natural model of this condition. This study used a series of neuropsychological tests to evaluate the effectiveness of supplementation with a novel lipid extract containing porcine brain-derived sphingolipids (Biosfeen®) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for attenuating cognitive deficits in aged Beagles. Two groups (n = 12), balanced for baseline cognitive test performance, received a daily oral dose of either test supplement, or placebo over a 6-month treatment phase. Cognitive function was evaluated using the following tasks: delayed non-matching to position (DNMP), selective attention, discrimination learning retention, discrimination reversal learning, and spatial discrimination acquisition and reversal learning. The effect of the supplement on brain metabolism using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was also examined. A significant decline (p = 0.02) in DNMP performance was seen in placebo-treated dogs, but not in dogs receiving the supplement, suggesting attenuation of working memory performance decline. Compared to placebo, the supplemented group also demonstrated significantly improved (p = 0.01) performance on the most difficult pattern of the spatial discrimination task and on reversal learning of the same pattern (p = 0.01), potentially reflecting improved spatial recognition and executive function, respectively. MRS revealed a significant increase (p = 0.048) in frontal lobe glutamate and glutamine in the treatment group compared to placebo, indicating a physiological change which may be attributed to the supplement. Decreased levels of glutamate and glutamine have been correlated with cognitive decline, suggesting the observed increase in these metabolites might be linked to the positive cognitive effects found in the present study. Results of this study suggest the novel lipid extract may be beneficial for counteracting age-dependent deficits in Beagle dogs and supports further investigation into its use for treatment of CDS. Additionally, due to parallels between canine and human aging, these results might also have applicability for the use of the supplement in human cognitive health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sergi Segarra
- R&D Bioiberica S.A.U., Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Sergi Segarra
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Evaluation of the response to a food-searching task in older dogs with and without cognitive impairment. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Cardy TJA, Jewth‐Ahuja D, Crawford AH. Perceptions and attitudes towards companion animal brain banking in pet owners: A UK pilot study. Vet Rec Open 2022; 9:e36. [PMID: 35663272 PMCID: PMC9142818 DOI: 10.1002/vro2.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Detailed analysis of archived brain tissue is fundamental to advancing the understanding of neurological disease. The development of the UK Brain Bank Network (UBBN) has provided an invaluable resource to facilitate such research in the human medical field. Similar resources are needed in veterinary medicine. However, collection and archiving of companion animal brain tissue is a potentially sensitive area for pet owners and veterinary professionals. Methods Using an online survey, we aimed to study pet owners’ perceptions of brain banking. The survey included information on respondents, their views on organ donation, the UBBN and the Royal Veterinary College's Companion Animal Brain Bank (RVC CABB). Results In total 185 respondents were included. The use of brain tissue from pets for research was supported by 87% of respondents, and 66% of respondents felt that they were highly likely or likely to donate their pet's brain tissue to a CABB. Furthermore, 94% felt that more information on tissue banking in companion animals should be readily available. Conclusions We found that the perceptions of companion animal brain banking were positive in our respondents. Open dialogue and clear information provision on the process and benefits of the CABB could enhance awareness and thus facilitate brain donation for translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J. A. Cardy
- Cave Veterinary Specialists, George's Farm West Buckland Wellington UK
- Clinical Science and Services Royal Veterinary College AL9 7TA, North Mymms, Hatfield Herts UK
| | - Daniel Jewth‐Ahuja
- Clinical Science and Services Royal Veterinary College AL9 7TA, North Mymms, Hatfield Herts UK
| | - Abbe H. Crawford
- Clinical Science and Services Royal Veterinary College AL9 7TA, North Mymms, Hatfield Herts UK
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Sándor S, Jónás D, Tátrai K, Czeibert K, Kubinyi E. Poly(A) RNA sequencing reveals age-related differences in the prefrontal cortex of dogs. GeroScience 2022; 44:1269-1293. [PMID: 35288843 PMCID: PMC9213612 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-022-00533-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Dogs may possess a unique translational potential to investigate neural aging and dementia because they are prone to age-related cognitive decline, including an Alzheimer’s disease–like pathological condition. Yet very little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying canine cognitive decline. The goal of the current study was to explore the transcriptomic differences between young and old dogs’ frontal cortex, which is a brain region often affected by various forms of age-related dementia in humans. RNA isolates from the frontal cortical brain area of 13 pet dogs, which represented 7 different breeds and crossbreds, were analyzed. The dogs were euthanized for medical reasons, and their bodies had been donated by their owners for scientific purposes. The poly(A) tail RNA subfraction of the total transcriptome was targeted in the sequencing analysis. Cluster analyses, differential gene expression analyses, and gene ontology analyses were carried out to assess which genes and genetic regulatory mechanisms were mostly affected by aging. Age was the most prominent factor in the clustering of the animals, indicating the presence of distinct gene expression patterns related to aging in a genetically variable population. A total of 3436 genes were found to be differentially expressed between the age groups, many of which were linked to neural function, immune system, and protein synthesis. These findings are in accordance with previous human brain aging RNA sequencing studies. Some genes were found to behave more similarly to humans than to rodents, further supporting the applicability of dogs in translational aging research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sára Sándor
- Department of Ethology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1/c Pázmány Péter sétány, Budapest, 1117, Hungary.
| | - Dávid Jónás
- Department of Ethology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1/c Pázmány Péter sétány, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Kitti Tátrai
- Department of Ethology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1/c Pázmány Péter sétány, Budapest, 1117, Hungary.,Department of Genetics, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1/c Pázmány Péter sétány, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Kálmán Czeibert
- Department of Ethology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1/c Pázmány Péter sétány, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Eniko Kubinyi
- Department of Ethology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1/c Pázmány Péter sétány, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
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Burbaitė E, Gradeckienė A, Juodžentė D, Jankauskas M. MRI abnormalities in a severe cognitive impairment mimicking a forebrain lesion in a geriatric dog. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2022; 44:e001022. [PMID: 35775863 PMCID: PMC9239522 DOI: 10.29374/2527-2179.bjvm001022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction is a neurological condition, that causes dogs to experience a wide variety of clinical signs. On rare occasions the symptoms may be unusual and severe, therefore they reminiscent of another disease. In this case report a 16 year and 8-month-old intact female poodle presented with circling, head pressing, and generalized ataxia. Prior clinical and neurologic examinations indicated the neurolocalisation to be forebrain. Morphometric brain parameters in MRI indicated otherwise. Quantitative MRI parameters such as the ventricle-brain index, interthalamic adhesion thickness, area, and the ratio of the interthalamic adhesion thickness to brain height may aid in the diagnosis of CCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelina Burbaitė
- Faculty of VeterinaryVeterinary AcademyLithuanian University of Health SciencesKaunasLithuaniaVeterinarian, Kriaučeliūnas Small Animal Veterinary Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary, Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Correspondence
Evelina Burbaitė
Dr. L. Kriaučeliūnas Small Animal Clinic, Veterinary Faculty, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences – LUHS
Tilžės g. 18, LT- 47181, Kaunas, Lithuania
E-mail:
| | - Aistė Gradeckienė
- Faculty of VeterinaryVeterinary AcademyLithuanian University of Health SciencesKaunasLithuaniaVeterinarian, Kriaučeliūnas Small Animal Veterinary Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary, Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Dalia Juodžentė
- Faculty of VeterinaryVeterinary AcademyLithuanian University of Health SciencesKaunasLithuaniaVeterinarian, Kriaučeliūnas Small Animal Veterinary Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary, Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Martinas Jankauskas
- Faculty of VeterinaryVeterinary AcademyLithuanian University of Health SciencesKaunasLithuaniaVeterinarian, Kriaučeliūnas Small Animal Veterinary Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary, Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
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13
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Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) scores correlate with amyloid beta 42 levels in dog brain tissue. GeroScience 2021; 43:2379-2386. [PMID: 34417706 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-021-00422-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a significant burden for human health that is increasing in prevalence as the global population ages. There is growing recognition that current preclinical models of AD are insufficient to recapitulate key aspects of the disease. Laboratory models for AD include mice, which do not naturally develop AD-like pathology during aging, and laboratory Beagle dogs, which do not share the human environment. In contrast, the companion dog shares the human environment and presents a genetically heterogeneous population of animals that might spontaneously develop age-associated AD-like pathology and cognitive dysfunction. Here, we quantitatively measured amyloid beta (Aβ42 or Abeta-42) levels in three areas of the companion dog brain (prefrontal cortex, temporal cortex, hippocampus/entorhinal cortex) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using a newly developed Luminex assay. We found significant positive correlations between Aβ42 and age in all three brain regions. Brain Aβ42 abundance in all three brain regions was also correlated with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Scale score in a multivariate analysis. This latter effect remained significant when correcting for age, except in the temporal cortex. There was no correlation between Aβ42 in CSF and cognitive scores; however, we found a significant positive correlation between Aβ42 in CSF and body weight, as well as a significant negative correlation between Aβ42 in CSF and age. Our results support the suitability of the companion dog as a model for AD and illustrate the utility of veterinary biobanking to make biospecimens available to researchers for analysis.
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14
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Radhakrishnan H, Ubele MF, Krumholz SM, Boaz K, Mefford JL, Jones ED, Meacham B, Smiley J, Puskás LG, Powell DK, Norris CM, Stark CEL, Head E. Tacrolimus Protects against Age-Associated Microstructural Changes in the Beagle Brain. J Neurosci 2021; 41:5124-5133. [PMID: 33952632 PMCID: PMC8197636 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0361-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The overexpression of calcineurin leads to astrocyte hyperactivation, neuronal death, and inflammation, which are characteristics often associated with pathologic aging and Alzheimer's disease. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, prevents age-associated microstructural atrophy, which we measured using higher-order diffusion MRI, in the middle-aged beagle brain (n = 30, male and female). We find that tacrolimus reduces hippocampal (p = 0.001) and parahippocampal (p = 0.002) neurite density index, as well as protects against an age-associated increase in the parahippocampal (p = 0.007) orientation dispersion index. Tacrolimus also protects against an age-related decrease in fractional anisotropy in the prefrontal cortex (p < 0.0001). We also show that these microstructural alterations precede cognitive decline and gross atrophy. These results support the idea that calcineurin inhibitors may have the potential to prevent aging-related pathology if administered at middle age.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Hyperactive calcineurin signaling causes neuroinflammation and other neurobiological changes often associated with pathologic aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Controlling the expression of calcineurin before gross cognitive deficits are observable might serve as a promising avenue for preventing AD pathology. In this study, we show that the administration of the calcineurin inhibitor, tacrolimus, over 1 year prevents age- and AD-associated microstructural changes in the hippocampus, parahippocampal cortex, and prefrontal cortex of the middle-aged beagle brain, with no noticeable adverse effects. Tacrolimus is already approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in humans to prevent solid organ transplant rejection, and our results bolster the promise of this drug to prevent AD and aging-related pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamsanandini Radhakrishnan
- Mathematical, Computational and Systems Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Margo F Ubele
- Sanders Brown Center on Aging, Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506
| | - Stephanie M Krumholz
- Sanders Brown Center on Aging, Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506
| | - Kathy Boaz
- Sanders Brown Center on Aging, Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506
| | - Jennifer L Mefford
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506
| | - Erin Denhart Jones
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506
| | - Beverly Meacham
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506
| | - Jeffrey Smiley
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506
| | | | - David K Powell
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506
| | - Christopher M Norris
- Sanders Brown Center on Aging, Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506
| | - Craig E L Stark
- Mathematical, Computational and Systems Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California 92697
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California 92697
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15
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Barry EF, Loftus JP, Luh WM, de Leon MJ, Niogi SN, Johnson PJ. Diffusion tensor-based analysis of white matter in the healthy aging canine brain. Neurobiol Aging 2021; 105:129-136. [PMID: 34062488 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2021.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
White matter dysfunction and degeneration have been a topic of great interest in healthy and pathological aging. While ex vivo studies have investigated age-related changes in canines, little in vivo canine aging research exists. Quantitative diffusion MRI such as diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has demonstrated aging and neurodegenerative white matter changes in humans. However, this method has not been applied and adapted in vivo to canine populations. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that white matter diffusion changes frequently reported in human aging are also found in aged canines. The study used Tract Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS) and a region of interest (ROI) approach to investigate age related changes in fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AxD) and radial diffusivity (RD). The results show that, compared to younger animals, aged canines have significant decreases in FA in parietal and temporal regions as well as the corpus callosum and fornix. Additionally, AxD decreases were observed in parietal, frontal, and midbrain regions. Similarly, an age- related increase in RD was observed in the right parietal lobe while MD decreases were found in the midbrain. These findings suggest that canine samples show commonalities with human brain aging as both exhibit similar white matter diffusion tensor changes with increasing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica F Barry
- Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | - John P Loftus
- Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | - Wen-Ming Luh
- National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Mony J de Leon
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Sumit N Niogi
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
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16
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Vitek MP, Araujo JA, Fossel M, Greenberg BD, Howell GR, Rizzo SJS, Seyfried NT, Tenner AJ, Territo PR, Windisch M, Bain LJ, Ross A, Carrillo MC, Lamb BT, Edelmayer RM. Translational animal models for Alzheimer's disease: An Alzheimer's Association Business Consortium Think Tank. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2021; 6:e12114. [PMID: 33457489 PMCID: PMC7798310 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over 5 million Americans and 50 million individuals worldwide are living with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The progressive dementia associated with AD currently has no cure. Although clinical trials in patients are ultimately required to find safe and effective drugs, animal models of AD permit the integration of brain pathologies with learning and memory deficits that are the first step in developing these new drugs. The purpose of the Alzheimer's Association Business Consortium Think Tank meeting was to address the unmet need to improve the discovery and successful development of Alzheimer's therapies. We hypothesize that positive responses to new therapies observed in validated models of AD will provide predictive evidence for positive responses to these same therapies in AD patients. To achieve this goal, we convened a meeting of experts to explore the current state of AD animal models, identify knowledge gaps, and recommend actions for development of next-generation models with better predictability. Among our findings, we all recognize that models reflecting only single aspects of AD pathogenesis do not mimic AD. Models or combinations of new models are needed that incorporate genetics with environmental interactions, timing of disease development, heterogeneous mechanisms and pathways, comorbidities, and other pathologies that lead to AD and related dementias. Selection of the best models requires us to address the following: (1) which animal species, strains, and genetic backgrounds are most appropriate; (2) which models permit efficient use throughout the drug development pipeline; (3) the translatability of behavioral-cognitive assays from animals to patients; and (4) how to match potential AD therapeutics with particular models. Best practice guidelines to improve reproducibility also need to be developed for consistent use of these models in different research settings. To enhance translational predictability, we discuss a multi-model evaluation strategy to de-risk the successful transition of pre-clinical drug assets to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Nicholas T. Seyfried
- Departments of Biochemistry and NeurologyEmory School of MedicineAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Andrea J. Tenner
- Department of Molecular Biology and BiochemistryUniversity of CaliforniaIrvineCaliforniaUSA
| | | | | | - Lisa J. Bain
- Independent Science and Medical WriterElversonPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - April Ross
- Former Alzheimer's Association EmployeeChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | | | - Bruce T. Lamb
- Indiana University School of MedicineStark Neurosciences Research InstituteIndianapolisIndianaUSA
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17
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Abey A, Davies D, Goldsbury C, Buckland M, Valenzuela M, Duncan T. Distribution of tau hyperphosphorylation in canine dementia resembles early Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies. Brain Pathol 2020; 31:144-162. [PMID: 32810333 PMCID: PMC8018065 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Some aged community dogs acquire a degenerative syndrome termed Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) that resembles human dementia because of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), with comparable cognitive and behavioral deficits. Dogs also have similar neuroanatomy, share our domestic environment and develop amyloid‐β plaques, making them likely a valuable ecological model of AD. However, prior investigations have demonstrated a lack of neurofibrillary tau pathology in aged dogs, an important hallmark of AD, though elevated phosphorylated tau (p‐tau) at the Serine 396 (S396) epitope has been reported in CCD. Here using enhanced immunohistochemical methods, we investigated p‐tau in six CCD brains and six controls using the AT8 antibody (later stage neurofibrillary pathology), and an antibody against S396 p‐tau (earlier stage tau dysfunction). For the first time, we systematically assessed the Papez circuit and regions associated with Braak staging and found that all CCD dogs displayed elevated S396 p‐tau labeling throughout the circuit. The limbic thalamus was particularly implicated, with a similar labeling pattern to that reported for AD neurofibrillary pathology, especially the anterior nuclei, while the hippocampus exhibited dysfunction confined to synaptic layers and efferent pathways. The cingulate and temporal lobes displayed significantly greater tauopathy than the frontal and occipital cortices, also reflective of early Braak staging patterns in AD. Immunofluorescence confirmed that S396 was accumulating within neuronal axons, somata and oligodendrocytes. We also observed AT8 labeling in one CCD brain, near the transentorhinal cortex in layer II neurons, one of the first regions to be affected in AD. Together, these data demonstrate a concordance in regional distribution of tauopathy between CCD and AD, most evident in the limbic thalamus, an important step in further validating CCD as a translational model for human AD and understanding early AD pathogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajantha Abey
- Regenerative Neuroscience Group, The Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Danielle Davies
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Alzheimer's Disease Cell Biology Research Lab, The Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Claire Goldsbury
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Alzheimer's Disease Cell Biology Research Lab, The Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Buckland
- Department of Neuropathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Valenzuela
- Regenerative Neuroscience Group, The Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Psychiatry, Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Thomas Duncan
- Regenerative Neuroscience Group, The Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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18
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Gunde E, Czeibert K, Gábor A, Szabó D, Kis A, Arany-Tóth A, Andics A, Gácsi M, Kubinyi E. Longitudinal Volumetric Assessment of Ventricular Enlargement in Pet Dogs Trained for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) Studies. Vet Sci 2020; 7:vetsci7030127. [PMID: 32899680 PMCID: PMC7558420 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7030127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Recent studies suggest that clinically sound ventriculomegaly in dogs could be a preliminary form of the clinically significant hydrocephalus. We evaluated changes of ventricular volumes in awake functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) trained dogs with indirectly assessed cognitive abilities over time (thus avoiding the use of anaesthetics, which can alter the pressure). Our research question was whether ventricular enlargement developing over time would have any detrimental effect on staying still while being scanned; which can be extrapolated to the ability to pay attention and to exert inhibition. Methods: Seven healthy dogs, 2–8 years old at the baseline scan and 4 years older at rescan, participated in a rigorous and gradual training for staying motionless (<2 mm) in the magnetic resonance (MR) scanner without any sedation during 6 minute-long structural MR sequences. On T1 structural images, volumetric analyses of the lateral ventricles were completed by software guided semi-automated tissue-type segmentations performed with FMRIB Software Library (FSL, Analysis Group, Oxford, UK). Results and conclusion: We report significant enlargement for both ventricles (left: 47.46 %, right: 46.07 %) over time while dogs retained high levels of attention and inhibition. The results suggest that even considerable ventricular enlargement arising during normal aging does not necessarily reflect observable pathological changes in behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Gunde
- Department and Clinic of Surgery and Ophthalmology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1078 Budapest, Hungary; (E.G.); (A.A.-T.)
| | - Kálmán Czeibert
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (A.G.); (D.S.); (A.A.); (M.G.); (E.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Anna Gábor
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (A.G.); (D.S.); (A.A.); (M.G.); (E.K.)
- MTA-ELTE (Hungarian Academy of Sciences–Eötvös Loránd University) ‘Lendūlet Neuroethology of Communication Research Group, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dóra Szabó
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (A.G.); (D.S.); (A.A.); (M.G.); (E.K.)
| | - Anna Kis
- Psychobiology Research Group, Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Attila Arany-Tóth
- Department and Clinic of Surgery and Ophthalmology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1078 Budapest, Hungary; (E.G.); (A.A.-T.)
| | - Attila Andics
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (A.G.); (D.S.); (A.A.); (M.G.); (E.K.)
- MTA-ELTE (Hungarian Academy of Sciences–Eötvös Loránd University) ‘Lendūlet Neuroethology of Communication Research Group, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Márta Gácsi
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (A.G.); (D.S.); (A.A.); (M.G.); (E.K.)
- MTA-ELTE Comparative Ethology Research Group, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Enikő Kubinyi
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (A.G.); (D.S.); (A.A.); (M.G.); (E.K.)
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19
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20
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Smit I, Szabo D, Kubinyi E. Age-related positivity effect on behavioural responses of dogs to human vocalisations. Sci Rep 2019; 9:20201. [PMID: 31882873 PMCID: PMC6934484 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56636-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related changes in the brain can alter how emotions are processed. In humans, valence specific changes in attention and memory were reported with increasing age, i.e. older people are less attentive toward and experience fewer negative emotions, while processing of positive emotions remains intact. Little is yet known about this "positivity effect" in non-human animals. We tested young (n = 21, 1-5 years) and old (n = 19, >10 years) family dogs with positive (laugh), negative (cry), and neutral (hiccup, cough) human vocalisations and investigated age-related differences in their behavioural reactions. Only dogs with intact hearing were analysed and the selected sound samples were balanced regarding mean and fundamental frequencies between valence categories. Compared to young dogs, old individuals reacted slower only to the negative sounds and there was no significant difference in the duration of the reactions between groups. The selective response of the aged dogs to the sound stimuli suggests that the results cannot be explained by general cognitive and/or perceptual decline. and supports the presence of an age-related positivity effect in dogs, too. Similarities in emotional processing between humans and dogs may imply analogous changes in subcortical emotional processing in the canine brain during ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Smit
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, 1117, Hungary.
- HAS University of Applied Sciences, 's-Hertogenbosch, 5223DE, The Netherlands.
| | - Dora Szabo
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Enikő Kubinyi
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
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21
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Biliverdin reductase-A impairment links brain insulin resistance with increased Aβ production in an animal model of aging: Implications for Alzheimer disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2018; 1864:3181-3194. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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22
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Hoffman JM, Creevy KE, Franks A, O'Neill DG, Promislow DEL. The companion dog as a model for human aging and mortality. Aging Cell 2018; 17:e12737. [PMID: 29457329 PMCID: PMC5946068 DOI: 10.1111/acel.12737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Around the world, human populations have experienced large increases in average lifespan over the last 150 years, and while individuals are living longer, they are spending more years of life with multiple chronic morbidities. Researchers have used numerous laboratory animal models to understand the biological and environmental factors that influence aging, morbidity, and longevity. However, the most commonly studied animal species, laboratory mice and rats, do not experience environmental conditions similar to those to which humans are exposed, nor do we often diagnose them with many of the naturally occurring pathologies seen in humans. Recently, the companion dog has been proposed as a powerful model to better understand the genetic and environmental determinants of morbidity and mortality in humans. However, it is not known to what extent the age‐related dynamics of morbidity, comorbidity, and mortality are shared between humans and dogs. Here, we present the first large‐scale comparison of human and canine patterns of age‐specific morbidity and mortality. We find that many chronic conditions that commonly occur in human populations (obesity, arthritis, hypothyroidism, and diabetes), and which are associated with comorbidities, are also associated with similarly high levels of comorbidity in companion dogs. We also find significant similarities in the effect of age on disease risk in humans and dogs, with neoplastic, congenital, and metabolic causes of death showing similar age trajectories between the two species. Overall, our study suggests that the companion dog may be an ideal translational model to study the many complex facets of human morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M. Hoffman
- Department of Biology; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham AL USA
| | - Kate E. Creevy
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences; Texas A&M University; College Station TX USA
| | - Alexander Franks
- Department of Statistics; University of Washington; Seattle WA USA
| | - Dan G. O'Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Health; The Royal Veterinary College; Hatfield UK
| | - Daniel E. L. Promislow
- Department of Pathology; University of Washington; Seattle WA USA
- Department of Biology; University of Washington; Seattle WA USA
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23
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Fernández-Flores F, García-Verdugo JM, Martín-Ibáñez R, Herranz C, Fondevila D, Canals JM, Arús C, Pumarola M. Characterization of the canine rostral ventricular-subventricular zone: Morphological, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, and neurosphere assay studies. J Comp Neurol 2017; 526:721-741. [DOI: 10.1002/cne.24365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2016] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Fernández-Flores
- Veterinary Faculty, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
- Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - José Manuel García-Verdugo
- Laboratorio de Neurobiologia comparada, Institut Cavanilles de Biodiversitat i Biologia Evolutiva, Universitat de València, CIBERNED; Valencia Spain
| | - Raquel Martín-Ibáñez
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory; Production and Validation Center of Advanced Therapies (Creatio), Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Department of Biomedicine; University of Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS); Barcelona Spain
- Networked Biomedical Research Centre for Neurodegenerative Disorders (CIBERNED); Valencia Spain
| | - Cristina Herranz
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory; Production and Validation Center of Advanced Therapies (Creatio), Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Department of Biomedicine; University of Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS); Barcelona Spain
- Networked Biomedical Research Centre for Neurodegenerative Disorders (CIBERNED); Valencia Spain
| | - Dolors Fondevila
- Veterinary Faculty, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - Josep María Canals
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory; Production and Validation Center of Advanced Therapies (Creatio), Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Department of Biomedicine; University of Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS); Barcelona Spain
- Networked Biomedical Research Centre for Neurodegenerative Disorders (CIBERNED); Valencia Spain
| | - Carles Arús
- Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - Martí Pumarola
- Veterinary Faculty, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
- Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
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Arai K, Takahashi K, Yasuda A, Kanno N, Kohara Y, Michishita M, Harada Y, Hara Y. Denervation-Associated Change in the Palatinus and Levator Veli Palatini Muscles of Dogs with Elongated Soft Palate. J Comp Pathol 2016; 155:199-206. [PMID: 27426002 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2016.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Muscle lesions and decreased numbers of peripheral nerve branches have been reported in the soft palates of dogs presenting with brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome (BAOS). Myosin adenosine triphosphatase staining was employed to investigate whether muscle lesions in the elongated soft palate (ESP) of dogs with BAOS reflect the presence of denervation. Soft palates were collected from nine brachycephalic dogs during surgical intervention for BAOS and from five healthy beagle dogs as controls. In the control soft palates, myofibres with relatively uniform diameters and a random mosaic pattern of type I and II myofibres were observed in the palatinus muscle (PM), while almost all of the myofibres in the levator veli palatini muscle (LVPM) were of type II. In the ESPs, small group atrophy, large group atrophy and angular-shaped atrophy were observed in myofibres of the PM and rarely in the LVPM. Fibre type grouping and an increase in type IIC myofibres were found only in the PM. Morphometric analysis of ESPs revealed a significant increase in the number of type I and II myofibres in the PM showing atrophy or hypertrophy compared with controls. A significant increase in atrophic type II myofibres was found in the LVPM of affected dogs. Myopathy consistent with denervation was observed in the PM, but rarely in the LVPM, of ESP specimens. The results suggest that the myopathy seen in dogs with ESP may partly reflect atrophy of myofibres resulting from damage to peripheral nerve branches, with subsequent reinnervation of myofibres.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Arai
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Japan; Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Japan.
| | | | | | - N Kanno
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Japan
| | - Y Kohara
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyounan-cho, Musashino, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Y Harada
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Japan
| | - Y Hara
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Japan
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25
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Bellows J, Colitz CMH, Daristotle L, Ingram DK, Lepine A, Marks SL, Sanderson SL, Tomlinson J, Zhang J. Common physical and functional changes associated with aging in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2016; 246:67-75. [PMID: 25517328 DOI: 10.2460/javma.246.1.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Bellows
- Pets Dental, 17100 Royal Palm Blvd, Weston, FL 33326
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26
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Szabó D, Gee NR, Miklósi Á. Natural or pathologic? Discrepancies in the study of behavioral and cognitive signs in aging family dogs. J Vet Behav 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2015.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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27
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Janota C, Lemere CA, Brito MA. Dissecting the Contribution of Vascular Alterations and Aging to Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2015; 53:3793-3811. [PMID: 26143259 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9319-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive decline that afflicts as many as 45 % of individuals who survive past the age of 85. AD has been associated with neurovascular dysfunction and brain accumulation of amyloid-β peptide, as well as tau phosphorylation and neurodegeneration, but the pathogenesis of the disease is still somewhat unclear. According to the amyloid cascade hypothesis of AD, accumulation of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) aggregates initiates a sequence of events leading to neuronal injury and loss, and dementia. Alternatively, the vascular hypothesis of AD incorporates the vascular contribution to the disease, stating that a primary insult to brain microcirculation (e.g., stroke) not only contributes to amyloidopathy but initiates a non-amyloidogenic pathway of vascular-mediated neuronal dysfunction and injury, which involves blood-brain barrier compromise, with increased permeability of blood vessels, leakage of blood-borne components into the brain, and, consequently, neurotoxicity. Vascular dysfunction also includes a diminished brain capillary flow, causing multiple focal ischemic or hypoxic microinjuries, diminished amyloid-β clearance, and formation of neurotoxic oligomers, which lead to neuronal dysfunction. Here we present and discuss relevant findings on the contribution of vascular alterations during aging to AD, with the hope that a better understanding of the players in the "orchestra" of neurodegeneration will be useful in developing therapies to modulate the "symphony".
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Affiliation(s)
- Cátia Janota
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cynthia A Lemere
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur (NRB 636F), Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Maria Alexandra Brito
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal. .,Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal.
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28
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Galan A, Carletti B, Morgaz J, Granados M, Mesa I, Navarrete R, Lombardo R, Martínez C, Martín-Suárez E. Comparative study of select biochemical markers in cerebrospinal fluid of healthy dogs before and after treatment with nutraceuticals. Vet Clin Pathol 2014; 43:72-7. [DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Galan
- Animal Medicine and Surgery Department; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
- Teaching Hospital Francisco Santisteban; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
| | - B.E. Carletti
- Animal Medicine and Surgery Department; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
- Teaching Hospital Francisco Santisteban; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
| | - J. Morgaz
- Animal Medicine and Surgery Department; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
- Teaching Hospital Francisco Santisteban; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
| | - M.M. Granados
- Animal Medicine and Surgery Department; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
- Teaching Hospital Francisco Santisteban; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
| | - I. Mesa
- Animal Medicine and Surgery Department; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
| | - R. Navarrete
- Animal Medicine and Surgery Department; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
- Teaching Hospital Francisco Santisteban; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
| | - R. Lombardo
- Veterinary Sciences Department; University of Milan; Milan Italy
| | - C.M. Martínez
- Animal Medicine and Surgery Department; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
- Teaching Hospital Francisco Santisteban; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
| | - E.M. Martín-Suárez
- Animal Medicine and Surgery Department; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
- Teaching Hospital Francisco Santisteban; University of Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
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29
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Platt TL, Reeves VL, Murphy MP. Transgenic models of Alzheimer's disease: better utilization of existing models through viral transgenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2013; 1832:1437-48. [PMID: 23619198 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2013.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 04/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Animal models have been used for decades in the Alzheimer's disease (AD) research field and have been crucial for the advancement of our understanding of the disease. Most models are based on familial AD mutations of genes involved in the amyloidogenic process, such as the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and presenilin 1 (PS1). Some models also incorporate mutations in tau (MAPT) known to cause frontotemporal dementia, a neurodegenerative disease that shares some elements of neuropathology with AD. While these models are complex, they fail to display pathology that perfectly recapitulates that of the human disease. Unfortunately, this level of pre-existing complexity creates a barrier to the further modification and improvement of these models. However, as the efficacy and safety of viral vectors improves, their use as an alternative to germline genetic modification is becoming a widely used research tool. In this review we discuss how this approach can be used to better utilize common mouse models in AD research. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Animal Models of Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas L Platt
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
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30
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Blackwell EJ, Bradshaw JW, Casey RA. Fear responses to noises in domestic dogs: Prevalence, risk factors and co-occurrence with other fear related behaviour. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2012.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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31
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Ferrer I. Defining Alzheimer as a common age-related neurodegenerative process not inevitably leading to dementia. Prog Neurobiol 2012; 97:38-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2012.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2012] [Revised: 03/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/13/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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32
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Verdaguer E, Junyent F, Folch J, Beas-Zarate C, Auladell C, Pallàs M, Camins A. Aging biology: a new frontier for drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2012; 7:217-29. [DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2012.660144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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33
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Chambers JK, Uchida K, Nakayama H. White matter myelin loss in the brains of aged dogs. Exp Gerontol 2011; 47:263-9. [PMID: 22239863 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2011.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2011] [Revised: 11/28/2011] [Accepted: 12/12/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The significance of cerebral white matter (WM) demyelination in the cognitive decline of elderly humans is disputed. Cognitive decline also occurs in aged dogs, although the age-related changes that occur in the canine cerebral WM are yet to be studied, particularly with regard to their relevance to the WM alterations of elderly humans. The present study revealed age-dependent myelin loss in the frontal lobe WM of canine brains. The accumulation of ceroid-lipofuscin-laden phagocytes was observed in the perivascular spaces of the WM and was correlated with the decrease in myelination. Also, myelin basic protein was detected in some of the vacuoles of these phagocytes. In the WM, beta-amyloid (Aβ) was deposited focally in capillary walls, and colocalized with apolipoprotein E (Apo E). Note that the dog is homozygous for Apo E4, which genotype is related to capillary CAA in humans. These findings indicate that WM demyelination occurs in aged dogs as well as in aged humans, hence WM alterations may account for age-related behavioral changes of the dog. In conclusion, dogs are useful for chronological studies of age-related WM changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Kenn Chambers
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
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34
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Snigdha S, Berchtold N, Astarita G, Saing T, Piomelli D, Cotman CW. Dietary and behavioral interventions protect against age related activation of caspase cascades in the canine brain. PLoS One 2011; 6:e24652. [PMID: 21931796 PMCID: PMC3172245 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0024652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2011] [Accepted: 08/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lifestyle interventions such as diet, exercise, and cognitive training represent a quietly emerging revolution in the modern approach to counteracting age-related declines in brain health. Previous studies in our laboratory have shown that long-term dietary supplementation with antioxidants and mitochondrial cofactors (AOX) or behavioral enrichment with social, cognitive, and exercise components (ENR), can effectively improve cognitive performance and reduce brain pathology of aged canines, including oxidative damage and Aβ accumulation. In this study, we build on and extend our previous findings by investigating if the interventions reduce caspase activation and ceramide accumulation in the aged frontal cortex, since caspase activation and ceramide accumulation are common convergence points for oxidative damage and Aβ, among other factors associated with the aged and AD brain. Aged beagles were placed into one of four treatment groups: CON – control environment/control diet, AOX– control environment/antioxidant diet, ENR – enriched environment/control diet, AOX/ENR– enriched environment/antioxidant diet for 2.8 years. Following behavioral testing, brains were removed and frontal cortices were analyzed to monitor levels of active caspase 3, active caspase 9 and their respective cleavage products such as tau and semaphorin7a, and ceramides. Our results show that levels of activated caspase-3 were reduced by ENR and AOX interventions with the largest reduction occurring with combined AOX/ENR group. Further, reductions in caspase-3 correlated with reduced errors in a reversal learning task, which depends on frontal cortex function. In addition, animals treated with an AOX arm showed reduced numbers of cells expressing active caspase 9 or its cleavage product semaphorin 7A, while ENR (but not AOX) reduced ceramide levels. Overall, these data demonstrate that lifestyle interventions curtail activation of pro-degenerative pathways to improve cellular health and are the first to show that lifestyle interventions can regulate caspase pathways in a higher animal model of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikha Snigdha
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America.
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