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Hernan-Godoy M, Rouaux C. From Environment to Gene Expression: Epigenetic Methylations and One-Carbon Metabolism in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Cells 2024; 13:967. [PMID: 38891099 PMCID: PMC11171807 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The etiology of the neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is complex and considered multifactorial. The majority of ALS cases are sporadic, but familial cases also exist. Estimates of heritability range from 8% to 61%, indicating that additional factors beyond genetics likely contribute to ALS. Numerous environmental factors are considered, which may add up and synergize throughout an individual's lifetime building its unique exposome. One level of integration between genetic and environmental factors is epigenetics, which results in alterations in gene expression without modification of the genome sequence. Methylation reactions, targeting DNA or histones, represent a large proportion of epigenetic regulations and strongly depend on the availability of methyl donors provided by the ubiquitous one-carbon (1C) metabolism. Thus, understanding the interplay between exposome, 1C metabolism, and epigenetic modifications will likely contribute to elucidating the mechanisms underlying altered gene expression related to ALS and to developing targeted therapeutic interventions. Here, we review evidence for 1C metabolism alterations and epigenetic methylation dysregulations in ALS, with a focus on the impairments reported in neural tissues, and discuss these environmentally driven mechanisms as the consequences of cumulative exposome or late environmental hits, but also as the possible result of early developmental defects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caroline Rouaux
- Inserm UMR_S 1329, Strasbourg Translational Neuroscience and Psychiatry, Université de Strasbourg, Centre de Recherche en Biomédecine de Strasbourg, 1 Rue Eugène Boeckel, 67 000 Strasbourg, France;
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2
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The role of DNA methylation in progression of neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases as well as the prospect of using DNA methylation inhibitors as therapeutic agents for such disorders. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2022; 14:28-37. [PMID: 36590248 PMCID: PMC9794904 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide studies related to neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases have pointed to the role of epigenetic changes such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and noncoding RNAs. DNA methylation machinery controls the dynamic regulation of methylation patterns in discrete brain regions. Objective This review aims to describe the role of DNA methylation in inhibiting and progressing neurological and neurodegenerative disorders and therapeutic approaches. Methods A Systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library was conducted for all qualified studies from 2000 to 2022. Results For the current need of time, we have focused on the DNA methylation role in neurological and neurodegenerative diseases and the expression of genes involved in neurodegeneration such as Alzheimer's, Depression, and Rett Syndrome. Finally, it appears that the various epigenetic changes do not occur separately and that DNA methylation and histone modification changes occur side by side and affect each other. We focused on the role of modification of DNA methylation in several genes associated with depression (NR3C1, NR3C2, CRHR1, SLC6A4, BDNF, and FKBP5), Rett syndrome (MECP2), Alzheimer's, depression (APP, BACE1, BIN1 or ANK1) and Parkinson's disease (SNCA), as well as the co-occurring modifications to histones and expression of non-coding RNAs. Understanding these epigenetic changes and their interactions will lead to better treatment strategies. Conclusion This review captures the state of understanding of the epigenetics of neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. With new epigenetic mechanisms and targets undoubtedly on the horizon, pharmacological modulation and regulation of epigenetic processes in the brain holds great promise for therapy.
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Qi Z, Li J, Li M, Du X, Zhang L, Wang S, Xu B, Liu W, Xu Z, Deng Y. The Essential Role of Epigenetic Modifications in Neurodegenerative Diseases with Dyskinesia. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:2459-2472. [PMID: 34383231 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01133-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetics play an essential role in the occurrence and improvement of many diseases. Evidence shows that epigenetic modifications are crucial to the regulation of gene expression. DNA methylation is closely linked to embryonic development in mammalian. In recent years, epigenetic drugs have shown unexpected therapeutic effects on neurological diseases, leading to the study of the epigenetic mechanism in neurodegenerative diseases. Unlike genetics, epigenetics modify the genome without changing the DNA sequence. Research shows that epigenetics is involved in all aspects of neurodegenerative diseases. The study of epigenetic will provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanism of neurodegenerative diseases, which may lead to new treatments and diagnoses. This article reviews the role of epigenetic modifications neurodegenerative diseases with dyskinesia, and discusses the therapeutic potential of epigenetic drugs in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng Qi
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiashuo Li
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Minghui Li
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianchao Du
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Xu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaofa Xu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Deng
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110122, People's Republic of China.
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4
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Hamzeiy H, Savaş D, Tunca C, Şen NE, Gündoğdu Eken A, Şahbaz I, Calini D, Tiloca C, Ticozzi N, Ratti A, Silani V, Başak AN. Elevated Global DNA Methylation Is Not Exclusive to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Is Also Observed in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Types 1 and 2. NEURODEGENER DIS 2018; 18:38-48. [PMID: 29428949 DOI: 10.1159/000486201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult-onset neurological disorders are caused and influenced by a multitude of different factors, including epigenetic modifications. Here, using an ELISA kit selected upon careful testing, we investigated global 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) levels in sporadic and familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (sALS and fALS), spinocerebellar ataxia types 1 and 2 (SCA1 and SCA2), Huntington's disease, Friedreich's ataxia, and myotonic dystrophy type 1. We report a significant elevation in global 5-mC levels of about 2-7% on average for sALS (p < 0.01 [F(1, 243) = 9.159, p = 0.0027]) and various forms of fALS along with SCA1 (p < 0.01 [F(1, 83) = 11.285], p = 0.0012) and SCA2 (p < 0.001 [F(1, 122) = 29.996, p = 0.0001]) when compared to age- and sex-matched healthy controls. C9orf72 expansion carrier ALS patients exhibit the highest global 5-mC levels along with C9orf72 promoter hypermethylation. We failed to measure global 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) levels in blood, probably due to the very low levels of 5-hmC and the limitations of the commercially available ELISA kits. Our results point towards a role for epigenetics modification in ALS, SCA1, and SCA2, and help conclude a dispute on the global 5-mC levels in sALS blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Hamzeiy
- Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, Neurodegeneration Research Laboratory (NDAL), Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Doruk Savaş
- Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, Neurodegeneration Research Laboratory (NDAL), Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ceren Tunca
- Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, Neurodegeneration Research Laboratory (NDAL), Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nesli Ece Şen
- Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, Neurodegeneration Research Laboratory (NDAL), Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aslı Gündoğdu Eken
- Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, Neurodegeneration Research Laboratory (NDAL), Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Irmak Şahbaz
- Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, Neurodegeneration Research Laboratory (NDAL), Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Daniela Calini
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Cinzia Tiloca
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Ticozzi
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, "Dino Ferrari" Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonia Ratti
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, "Dino Ferrari" Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Silani
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, "Dino Ferrari" Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - A Nazlı Başak
- Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, Neurodegeneration Research Laboratory (NDAL), Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul, Turkey
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5
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Boumil EF, Vohnoutka RB, Liu Y, Lee S, Shea TB. Omega-3 Hastens and Omega-6 Delays the Progression of Neuropathology in a Murine Model of Familial ALS. Open Neurol J 2017; 11:84-91. [PMID: 29387280 PMCID: PMC5748836 DOI: 10.2174/1874205x01711010084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive disease of motor neurons that has no cure or effective treatment. Any approach that could sustain minor motor function during terminal stages would improve quality of life. OBJECTIVE We examined the impact of omega-3 (Ω-3) and Ω-6, on motor neuron function in mice expressing mutant human superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD-1), which dominantly confers familial ALS and induces a similar sequence of motor neuron decline and eventual death when expressed in mice. METHOD Mice received standard diets supplemented with equivalent amounts of Ω-3 and Ω-6 or a 10x increase in Ω-6 with no change in Ω-3 commencing at 4 weeks of age. Motor function and biochemical/histological parameters were assayed by standard methodologies. RESULTS Supplementation with equivalent Ω-3 and Ω-6 hastened motor neuron pathology and death, while 10x Ω-6 with no change in Ω-3 significantly delayed motor neuron pathology, including preservation of minor motor neuron function during the terminal stage. CONCLUSION In the absence of a cure or treatment, affected individuals may resort to popular nutritional supplements such as Ω-3 as a form of "self-medication". However, our findings and those of other laboratories indicate that such an approach could be harmful. Our findings suggest that a critical balance of Ω-6 and Ω-3 may temporarily preserve motor neuron function during the terminal stages of ALS, which could provide a substantial improvement in quality of life for affected individuals and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward F. Boumil
- Laboratory for Neuroscience, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
| | - Rishel Brenna Vohnoutka
- Laboratory for Neuroscience, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
| | - Yuguan Liu
- Department of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
| | - Sangmook Lee
- Laboratory for Neuroscience, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
| | - Thomas B Shea
- Laboratory for Neuroscience, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
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Neal M, Richardson JR. Epigenetic regulation of astrocyte function in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2017; 1864:432-443. [PMID: 29113750 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms control various functions throughout the body, from cell fate determination in development to immune responses and inflammation. Neuroinflammation is one of the prime contributors to the initiation and progression of neurodegeneration in a variety of diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Because astrocytes are the largest population of glial cells, they represent an important regulator of CNS function, both in health and disease. Only recently have studies begun to identify the epigenetic mechanisms regulating astrocyte responses in neurodegenerative diseases. These epigenetic mechanisms, along with the epigenetic marks involved in astrocyte development, could elucidate novel pathways to potentially modulate astrocyte-mediated neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity. This review examines the known epigenetic mechanisms involved in regulation of astrocyte function, from development to neurodegeneration, and links these mechanisms to potential astrocyte-specific roles in neurodegenerative disease with a focus on potential opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Neal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44201, USA
| | - Jason R Richardson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44201, USA.
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7
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Klemann CJHM, Visser JE, Van Den Bosch L, Martens GJM, Poelmans G. Integrated molecular landscape of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis provides insights into disease etiology. Brain Pathol 2017; 28:203-211. [PMID: 28035716 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe, progressive and ultimately fatal motor neuron disease caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but its underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. To gain insight into the etiology of ALS, we here conducted genetic network and literature analyses of the top-ranked findings from six genome-wide association studies of sporadic ALS (involving 3589 cases and 8577 controls) as well as genes implicated in ALS etiology through other evidence, including familial ALS candidate gene association studies. We integrated these findings into a molecular landscape of ALS that allowed the identification of three main processes that interact with each other and are crucial to maintain axonal functionality, especially of the long axons of motor neurons, i.e. (1) Rho-GTPase signaling; (2) signaling involving the three regulatory molecules estradiol, folate, and methionine; and (3) ribonucleoprotein granule functioning and axonal transport. Interestingly, estradiol signaling is functionally involved in all three cascades and as such an important mediator of the molecular ALS landscape. Furthermore, epidemiological findings together with an analysis of possible gender effects in our own cohort of sporadic ALS patients indicated that estradiol may be a protective factor, especially for bulbar-onset ALS. Taken together, our molecular landscape of ALS suggests that abnormalities within three interconnected molecular processes involved in the functioning and maintenance of motor neuron axons are important in the etiology of ALS. Moreover, estradiol appears to be an important modulator of the ALS landscape, providing important clues for the development of novel disease-modifying treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J H M Klemann
- Department of Molecular Animal Physiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J E Visser
- Department of Molecular Animal Physiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - L Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Experimental Neurology, KU Leuven and VIB, Vesalius Research Center, Leuven, Belgium
| | - G J M Martens
- Department of Molecular Animal Physiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - G Poelmans
- Department of Molecular Animal Physiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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8
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Pharmacological intervention of early neuropathy in neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacol Res 2017; 119:169-177. [PMID: 28167240 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Revised: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Extensive studies have reported the significant roles of numerous cellular features and processes in properly maintaining neuronal morphology and function throughout the lifespan of an animal. Any alterations in their homeostasis appear to be strongly associated with neuronal aging and the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases, even before the occurrence of prominent neuronal death. However, until recently, the primary focus of studies regarding many neurodegenerative diseases has been on the massive cell death occurring at the late stages of disease progression. Thus, our understanding on early neuropathy in these diseases remains relatively limited. The complicated nature of various neuropathic features manifested early in neurodegenerative diseases suggests the involvement of a system-wide transcriptional regulation and epigenetic control. Epigenetic alterations and consequent changes in the neuronal transcriptome are now begun to be extensively studied in various neurodegenerative diseases. Upon the catastrophic incident of neuronal death in disease progression, it is utterly difficult to reverse the deleterious defects by pharmacological treatments, and therefore, therapeutics targeting the system-wide transcriptional dysregulation associated with specific early neuropathy is considered a better option. Here, we review our current understanding on the system-wide transcriptional dysregulation that is likely associated with early neuropathy shown in various neurodegenerative diseases and discuss the possible future developments of pharmaceutical therapeutics.
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9
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Amorini AM, Lazzarino G, Di Pietro V, Signoretti S, Lazzarino G, Belli A, Tavazzi B. Severity of experimental traumatic brain injury modulates changes in concentrations of cerebral free amino acids. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 21:530-542. [PMID: 27696676 PMCID: PMC5323875 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, concentrations of free amino acids (FAA) and amino group containing compounds (AGCC) following graded diffuse traumatic brain injury (mild TBI, mTBI; severe TBI, sTBI) were evaluated. After 6, 12, 24, 48 and 120 hr aspartate (Asp), glutamate (Glu), asparagine (Asn), serine (Ser), glutamine (Gln), histidine (His), glycine (Gly), threonine (Thr), citrulline (Cit), arginine (Arg), alanine (Ala), taurine (Tau), γ‐aminobutyrate (GABA), tyrosine (Tyr), S‐adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), l‐cystathionine (l‐Cystat), valine (Val), methionine (Met), tryptophane (Trp), phenylalanine (Phe), isoleucine (Ile), leucine (Leu), ornithine (Orn), lysine (Lys), plus N‐acetylaspartate (NAA) were determined in whole brain extracts (n = 6 rats at each time for both TBI levels). Sham‐operated animals (n = 6) were used as controls. Results demonstrated that mTBI caused modest, transient changes in NAA, Asp, GABA, Gly, Arg. Following sTBI, animals showed profound, long‐lasting modifications of Glu, Gln, NAA, Asp, GABA, Ser, Gly, Ala, Arg, Citr, Tau, Met, SAH, l‐Cystat, Tyr and Phe. Increase in Glu and Gln, depletion of NAA and Asp increase, suggested a link between NAA hydrolysis and excitotoxicity after sTBI. Additionally, sTBI rats showed net imbalances of the Glu‐Gln/GABA cycle between neurons and astrocytes, and of the methyl‐cycle (demonstrated by decrease in Met, and increase in SAH and l‐Cystat), throughout the post‐injury period. Besides evidencing new potential targets for novel pharmacological treatments, these results suggest that the force acting on the brain tissue at the time of the impact is the main determinant of the reactions ignited and involving amino acid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Maria Amorini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology group, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Stefano Signoretti
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences Head and Neck Surgery, S. Camillo Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Belli
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology group, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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10
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Rescue of Early bace-1 and Global DNA Demethylation by S-Adenosylmethionine Reduces Amyloid Pathology and Improves Cognition in an Alzheimer's Model. Sci Rep 2016; 6:34051. [PMID: 27681803 PMCID: PMC5041108 DOI: 10.1038/srep34051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
General DNA hypomethylation is associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD), but it is unclear when DNA hypomethylation starts or plays a role in AD pathology or whether DNA re-methylation would rescue early amyloid-related cognitive impairments. In an APP transgenic mouse model of AD-like amyloid pathology we found that early intraneuronal amyloid beta build-up is sufficient to unleash a global and beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (bace-1) DNA demethylation in AD-vulnerable brain regions. S-adenosylmethionine administration at these early stages abolished this hypomethylation, diminished the amyloid pathology and restored cognitive capabilities. To assess a possible human significance of findings, we examined the methylation at 12 CpGs sites in the bace-1 promoter, using genome-wide DNA methylation data from 740 postmortem human brains. Thus, we found significant associations of bace-1 promoter methylation with β-amyloid load among persons with AD dementia, and PHFtau tangle density. Our results support a plausible causal role for the earliest amyloid beta accumulation to provoke DNA hypomethylation, influencing AD pathological outcomes.
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11
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Coppedè F. The potential of epigenetic therapies in neurodegenerative diseases. Front Genet 2014; 5:220. [PMID: 25071843 PMCID: PMC4094885 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2014.00220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Available treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Huntington's disease, do not arrest disease progression but mainly help keeping patients from getting worse for a limited period of time. Increasing evidence suggests that epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and histone tail modifications are dynamically regulated in neurons and play a fundamental role in learning and memory processes. In addition, both global and gene-specific epigenetic changes and deregulated expression of the writer and eraser proteins of epigenetic marks are believed to contribute to the onset and progression of neurodegeneration. Studies in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases have highlighted the potential role of epigenetic drugs, including inhibitors of histone deacetylases and methyl donor compounds, in ameliorating the cognitive symptoms and preventing or delaying the motor symptoms of the disease, thereby opening the way for a potential application in human pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Coppedè
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa Pisa, Italy
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12
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McGoldrick P, Joyce PI, Fisher EMC, Greensmith L. Rodent models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2013; 1832:1421-36. [PMID: 23524377 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2013.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2012] [Revised: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterised by the degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons. Recent advances in our understanding of some of the genetic causes of ALS, such as mutations in SOD1, TARDBP, FUS and VCP have led to the generation of rodent models of the disease, as a strategy to help our understanding of the pathophysiology of ALS and to assist in the development of therapeutic strategies. This review provides detailed descriptions of TDP-43, FUS and VCP models of ALS, and summarises potential therapeutics which have been recently trialled in rodent models of the disease. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Animal Models of Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip McGoldrick
- MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, WC1N 3BG, UK.
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13
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Zhong WX, Wang YB, Peng L, Ge XZ, Zhang J, Liu SS, Zhang XN, Xu ZH, Chen Z, Luo JH. Lanthionine synthetase C-like protein 1 interacts with and inhibits cystathionine β-synthase: a target for neuronal antioxidant defense. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:34189-201. [PMID: 22891245 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.383646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The finding that eukaryotic lanthionine synthetase C-like protein 1 (LanCL1) is a glutathione-binding protein prompted us to investigate the potential relationship between LanCL1 and cystathionine β-synthase (CBS). CBS is a trans-sulfuration enzyme critical for the reduced glutathione (GSH) synthesis and GSH-dependent defense against oxidative stress. In this study we found that LanCL1 bound to CBS in mouse cortex and HEK293 cells. Mapping studies revealed that the binding region in LanCL1 spans amino acids 158-169, and that in CBS contains N-terminal and C-terminal regulatory domains. Recombinant His-LanCL1 directly bound endogenous CBS from mouse cortical lysates and inhibited its activity. Overexpression of LanCL1 inhibited CBS activity in HEK293 cells. CBS activity is reported to be regulated by oxidative stress. Here we found that oxidative stress induced by H(2)O(2) or glutamate lowered the GSH/GSSG ratio, dissociated LanCL1 from CBS, and elevated CBS activity in primary rat cortical neurons. Decreasing the GSH/GSSG ratio by adding GSSG to cellular extracts also dissociated LanCL1 from CBS. Either lentiviral knockdown of LanCL1 or specific disruption of the LanCL1-CBS interaction using the peptide Tat-LanCL1(153-173) released CBS activity in neurons but occluded CBS activation in response to oxidative stress, indicating the major contribution of the LanCL1-CBS interaction to the regulation of CBS activity. Furthermore, LanCL1 knockdown or Tat-LanCL1(153-173) treatment reduced H(2)O(2) or glutamate-induced neuronal damage. This study implies potential therapeutic value in targeting the LanCL1-CBS interaction for neuronal oxidative stress-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-xia Zhong
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
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14
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Defective neuromuscular transmission in the SOD1 G93A transgenic mouse improves after administration of human umbilical cord blood cells. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2012; 8:224-8. [PMID: 21678037 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-011-9281-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
To assess the effect of human umbilical cord blood (hUCB) transplantation on neuromuscular transmission in SOD1(G93A) transgenic mice, we studied the probability of neuromuscular transmission (PNMT), a relevant physiological indicator of motor nerve function, in 3 SOD1(G93A) mice transplanted with hUCB and compared to PNMT in 4 SOD1(G93A) mice without cell transplantation and 3 non-mutant SOD1 transgenic mice. For preparations isolated from non-mutant SOD1 transgenic mice, PNMT was 0.93 and 0.84 during the first 5 s of 70 and 90 Hz trains, respectively. PNMT gradually declined to 0.77 and 0.42 at the end of the trains. In striking contrast, PNMT for preparations from non-treated mutant SOD1(G93A) mice was 0.52 and 0.36 in the first 5 s of 70 and 90 Hz trains, respectively (p<0.05). Treatment with hUCB significantly (p<0.05) improved PNMT in SOD1(G93A) preparations. That is, the initial 5 s PNMT was 0.88 and 0.68 for the 70 and 90 Hz stimuli, respectively. We concluded that hUCB transplantation significantly improved PNMT for muscles removed from SOD1(G93A) mice. Testing PNMT in the SOD1(G93A) mouse model could be used as a simple in vitro protocol to detect a positive cellular response to therapeutic interventions in ALS.
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15
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Mischoulon D, Alpert JE, Arning E, Bottiglieri T, Fava M, Papakostas GI. Bioavailability of S-adenosyl methionine and impact on response in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in major depressive disorder. J Clin Psychiatry 2012; 73:843-8. [PMID: 22687580 PMCID: PMC4156851 DOI: 10.4088/jcp.11m07139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2011] [Accepted: 08/19/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the impact of S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) on homocysteine and potential risk of adverse cardiovascular effects by examining plasma levels of SAMe, S-adenosyl homocysteine (SAH), total homocysteine (tHCY), methionine (MET), and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) in 35 of 73 patients from a 6-week randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of SAMe augmentation in serotonin reuptake inhibitor partial responders with DSM-IV major depressive disorder (MDD), published in 2010. METHOD Subjects were randomized from June 4, 2004, until August 8, 2008, to adjunctive placebo or SAMe 800-1600 mg/d for 6 weeks. Primary outcome measures included changes in one-carbon cycle intermediates within each treatment arm (by paired t test) and between treatment arms (by independent samples t test). Univariate analysis of variance and Fisher Protected Least Significant Difference were carried out to compare posttreatment levels of each one-carbon cycle intermediate. Secondary outcome measures included associations between clinical improvement and change in plasma intermediate levels, examined by linear regression (for change in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores) and logistic regression (for response or remission). RESULTS We found significant differences in pretreatment plasma levels of tHCY (P = .03) between the SAMe and placebo arms. Following 6 weeks of treatment, plasma SAMe (P = .002) and SAH (P < .0001) levels increased significantly in the SAMe arm; no intermediates in the placebo group changed significantly. Posttreatment plasma SAMe (P = .0035), SAH (P < .0001), and tHCY (P = .0016) levels differed significantly between the SAMe and placebo groups. No significant associations were found between plasma intermediate levels and clinical improvement, response, or remission. CONCLUSIONS Despite concerns about the impact that SAMe therapy may have on homocysteine levels and risk of adverse cardiovascular effects, the lack of significant increase in tHCY levels after treatment suggests that no toxic effects from SAMe should be expected. Our findings, however, have some significant limitations and should be interpreted with caution. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00093847.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan E. Alpert
- Depression Clinical and Research Program, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Erland Arning
- Baylor Research Institute, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Dallas, TX
| | | | - Maurizio Fava
- Depression Clinical and Research Program, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - George I. Papakostas
- Depression Clinical and Research Program, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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16
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Solomon JA, Tarnopolsky MA, Hamadeh MJ. One universal common endpoint in mouse models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. PLoS One 2011; 6:e20582. [PMID: 21687686 PMCID: PMC3110799 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2010] [Accepted: 05/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
There is no consensus among research laboratories around the world on the criteria that define endpoint in studies involving rodent models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Data from 4 nutrition intervention studies using 162 G93A mice, a model of ALS, were analyzed to determine if differences exist between the following endpoint criteria: CS 4 (functional paralysis of both hindlimbs), CS 4+ (CS 4 in addition to the earliest age of body weight loss, body condition deterioration or righting reflex), and CS 5 (CS 4 plus righting reflex >20 s). The age (d; mean ± SD) at which mice reached endpoint was recorded as the unit of measurement. Mice reached CS 4 at 123.9±10.3 d, CS 4+ at 126.6±9.8 d and CS 5 at 127.6±9.8 d, all significantly different from each other (P<0.001). There was a significant positive correlation between CS 4 and CS 5 (r = 0.95, P<0.001), CS 4 and CS 4+ (r = 0.96, P<0.001), and CS 4+ and CS 5 (r = 0.98, P<0.001), with the Bland-Altman plot showing an acceptable bias between all endpoints. Logrank tests showed that mice reached CS 4 24% and 34% faster than CS 4+ (P = 0.046) and CS 5 (P = 0.006), respectively. Adopting CS 4 as endpoint would spare a mouse an average of 4 days (P<0.001) from further neuromuscular disability and poor quality of life compared to CS 5. Alternatively, CS 5 provides information regarding proprioception and severe motor neuron death, both could be important parameters in establishing the efficacy of specific treatments. Converging ethics and discovery, would adopting CS 4 as endpoint compromise the acquisition of insight about the effects of interventions in animal models of ALS?
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse A. Solomon
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark A. Tarnopolsky
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mazen J. Hamadeh
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Chan A, Ortiz D, Rogers E, Shea TB. Supplementation with apple juice can compensate for folate deficiency in a mouse model deficient in methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase activity. J Nutr Health Aging 2011; 15:221-5. [PMID: 21369671 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-010-0295-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Folate insufficiency promotes developmental as well as age-related disorders of the nervous system. The C677T variant of 5',10' methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR; which utilizes folate to regenerate methionine from homocysteine) displays reduced activity, and therefore promotes functional folate deficiency. Mice heterozygously lacking this gene (MTHFR+/- mice) represent a useful model for analysis of the impact of MTHFR deficiency and potential compensatory approaches. Since consumption of apple products has benefited mouse models subjected to dietary and/or genetically-induced folate deficiency, we compared the impact of supplementation with apple juice on cognitive and neuromuscular performance of mice MTHFR+/+ and +/- mice with and without dietary folate deficiency. Mice were maintained for 1 month on a standard, complete diet, or a challenge diet lacking folate, and vitamin E and containing a 50 g iron/500 g total diet as a pro-oxidant. Additional groups received apple juice concentrate (AJC) diluted to 0.5% (vol/vol) in their sole source of drinking water. MTHFR+/- mice demonstrated significantly impaired cognitive performance in standard reward-based T maze and the non-reward-based Y maze tests as compared to MTHFR+/+ when maintained on the complete diet; supplementation with AJC improved the performance of MTHFR+/- to the level observed for MTHFR+/+ mice. Maintenance for 1 month on the deficient diet reduced the performance of both genotypes in both tests, but supplementation with AJC prevented these reductions. MTHFR+/+ and +/- displayed virtually identical neuromuscular performance in the standard paw grip endurance test when maintained on the complete diet, and displayed similar, non-significant declines in performance when maintained on the deficient diet. Supplementation of either diet with AJC dramatically improved the performance of both genotypes. The findings presented herein indicate that supplementation with AJCs can compensate for genetic as well as dietary insufficiency in folate in a murine model of genetic folate compromise, and support the notion that dietary supplementation may be more critical under conditions of latent genetic compromise.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Chan
- Center for Cellular Neurobiology and Neurodegeneration Research, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
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