1
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Geng C, Wang Z, Tang Y. Machine learning in Alzheimer's disease drug discovery and target identification. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 93:102172. [PMID: 38104638 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) stands as a formidable neurodegenerative ailment that poses a substantial threat to the elderly population, with no known curative or disease-slowing drugs in existence. Among the vital and time-consuming stages in the drug discovery process, disease modeling and target identification hold particular significance. Disease modeling allows for a deeper comprehension of disease progression mechanisms and potential therapeutic avenues. On the other hand, target identification serves as the foundational step in drug development, exerting a profound influence on all subsequent phases and ultimately determining the success rate of drug development endeavors. Machine learning (ML) techniques have ushered in transformative breakthroughs in the realm of target discovery. Leveraging the strengths of large dataset analysis, multifaceted data processing, and the exploration of intricate biological mechanisms, ML has become instrumental in the quest for effective AD treatments. In this comprehensive review, we offer an account of how ML methodologies are being deployed in the pursuit of drug discovery for AD. Furthermore, we provide an overview of the utilization of ML in uncovering potential intervention strategies and prospective therapeutic targets for AD. Finally, we discuss the principal challenges and limitations currently faced by these approaches. We also explore the avenues for future research that hold promise in addressing these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaofan Geng
- Department of Neurology & Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Neurological Disorders, Beijing, China
| | - ZhiBin Wang
- Department of Neurology & Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Neurological Disorders, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Tang
- Department of Neurology & Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Neurological Disorders, Beijing, China; Neurodegenerative Laboratory of Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Beijing, China.
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2
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Boyd RJ, Avramopoulos D, Jantzie LL, McCallion AS. Neuroinflammation represents a common theme amongst genetic and environmental risk factors for Alzheimer and Parkinson diseases. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:223. [PMID: 36076238 PMCID: PMC9452283 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02584-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Multifactorial diseases are characterized by inter-individual variation in etiology, age of onset, and penetrance. These diseases tend to be relatively common and arise from the combined action of genetic and environmental factors; however, parsing the convoluted mechanisms underlying these gene-by-environment interactions presents a significant challenge to their study and management. For neurodegenerative disorders, resolving this challenge is imperative, given the enormous health and societal burdens they impose. The mechanisms by which genetic and environmental effects may act in concert to destabilize homeostasis and elevate risk has become a major research focus in the study of common disease. Emphasis is further being placed on determining the extent to which a unifying biological principle may account for the progressively diminishing capacity of a system to buffer disease phenotypes, as risk for disease increases. Data emerging from studies of common, neurodegenerative diseases are providing insights to pragmatically connect mechanisms of genetic and environmental risk that previously seemed disparate. In this review, we discuss evidence positing inflammation as a unifying biological principle of homeostatic destabilization affecting the risk, onset, and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Specifically, we discuss how genetic variation associated with Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease may contribute to pro-inflammatory responses, how such underlying predisposition may be exacerbated by environmental insults, and how this common theme is being leveraged in the ongoing search for effective therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel J Boyd
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Dimitri Avramopoulos
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Lauren L Jantzie
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Andrew S McCallion
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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3
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Preventing dementia? Interventional approaches in mild cognitive impairment. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 122:143-164. [PMID: 33440197 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is defined as an intermediate state between normal cognitive aging and dementia. It describes a status of the subjective impression of cognitive decline and objectively detectible memory impairment beyond normal age-related changes. Activities of daily living are not affected. As the population ages, there is a growing need for early, proactive programs that can delay the consequences of dementia and improve the well-being of people with MCI and their caregivers. Various forms and approaches of intervention for older people with MCI have been suggested to delay cognitive decline. Pharmacological as well as non-pharmacological approaches (cognitive, physiological, nutritional supplementation, electric stimulation, psychosocial therapeutic) and multicomponent interventions have been proposed. Interventional approaches in MCI from 2009 to April 2019 concerning the cognitive performance are presented in this review.
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4
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Zhao J, Liu X, Xia W, Zhang Y, Wang C. Targeting Amyloidogenic Processing of APP in Alzheimer's Disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:137. [PMID: 32848600 PMCID: PMC7418514 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of senile dementia, characterized by neurofibrillary tangle and amyloid plaque in brain pathology. Major efforts in AD drug were devoted to the interference with the production and accumulation of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ), which plays a causal role in the pathogenesis of AD. Aβ is generated from amyloid precursor protein (APP), by consecutive cleavage by β-secretase and γ-secretase. Therefore, β-secretase and γ-secretase inhibition have been the focus for AD drug discovery efforts for amyloid reduction. Here, we review β-secretase inhibitors and γ-secretase inhibitors/modulators, and their efficacies in clinical trials. In addition, we discussed the novel concept of specifically targeting the γ-secretase substrate APP. Targeting amyloidogenic processing of APP is still a fundamentally sound strategy to develop disease-modifying AD therapies and recent advance in γ-secretase/APP complex structure provides new opportunities in designing selective inhibitors/modulators for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhao
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, United States
| | - Xinyue Liu
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, United States
| | - Weiming Xia
- Geriatric Research Education Clinical Center, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yingkai Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Chunyu Wang
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, United States
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, United States
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5
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Zhao J, Li X, Chen X, Cai Y, Wang Y, Sun W, Mai H, Yang J, Fan W, Tang P, Ou M, Zhang Y, Huang X, Zhao B, Cui L. GRK5 influences the phosphorylation of tau via GSK3β and contributes to Alzheimer's disease. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:10411-10420. [PMID: 30511419 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptor kinase 5 (GRK5) is a serine/threonine kinase whose dysfunction results in cognitive impairment and Alzheimer-like pathology, including tau hyperphosphorylation. However, the mechanisms whereby GRK5 influences tau phosphorylation remain incompletely understood. In the current study, we showed that GRK5 influenced the phosphorylation of tau via glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β). The activity of both tau and GSK3β in the hippocampus was increased in aged GRK5-knockout mice, which is consistent with what occurs in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. Furthermore, GRK5 regulated the activity of GSK3β and phosphorylated tau in vitro. Regardless of changes of GRK5 protein levels, tau hyperphosphorylation remained reduced after GSK3β activity was inhibited, suggesting that GRK5 may specifically influence tau hyperphosphorylation by modulating GSK3β activity. Taken together, our findings suggest that GRK5 deficiency contributes to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease by influencing the hyperphosphorylation of tau through the activation of GSK3β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghao Zhao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.,Institute of Neurology, Dongguan People's Hospital, Dongguan, China
| | - Xiaohui Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xiongjin Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yujie Cai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life, Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenjing Sun
- Key Laboratory for Medical Molecular Diagnostics of Guangdong Province, China-America Cancer Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Hui Mai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.,Institute of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Jingqi Yang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Weihao Fan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Pei Tang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Mingqian Ou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xuemei Huang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.,Institute of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Lili Cui
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
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6
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Jazvinšćak Jembrek M, Slade N, Hof PR, Šimić G. The interactions of p53 with tau and Aß as potential therapeutic targets for Alzheimer’s disease. Prog Neurobiol 2018; 168:104-127. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2018.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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7
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A Closer Look into the Role of Protein Tau in the Identification of Promising Therapeutic Targets for Alzheimer's Disease. Brain Sci 2018; 8:brainsci8090162. [PMID: 30149687 PMCID: PMC6162660 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8090162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most commonly known chronic neurodegenerative disorders, Alzheimer's disease (AD), manifests the common type of dementia in 60⁻80% of cases. From a clinical standpoint, a patent cognitive decline and a severe change in personality, as caused by a loss of neurons, is usually evident in AD with about 50 million people affected in 2016. The disease progression in patients is distinguished by a gradual plummet in cognitive functions, eliciting symptoms such as memory loss, and eventually requiring full-time medical care. From a histopathological standpoint, the defining characteristics are intracellular aggregations of hyper-phosphorylated tau protein, known as neurofibrillary tangles (NFT), and depositions of amyloid β-peptides (Aβ) in the brain. The abnormal phosphorylation of tau protein is attributed to a wide gamut of neurological disorders known as tauopathies. In addition to the hyperphosphorylated tau lesions, neuroinflammatory processes could occur in a sustained manner through astro-glial activation, resulting in the disease progression. Recent findings have suggested a strong interplay between the mechanism of Tau phosphorylation, disruption of microtubules, and synaptic loss and pathology of AD. The mechanisms underlying these interactions along with their respective consequences in Tau pathology are still ill-defined. Thus, in this review: (1) we highlight the interplays existing between Tau pathology and AD; and (2) take a closer look into its role while identifying some promising therapeutic advances including state of the art imaging techniques.
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8
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Guedes JR, Lao T, Cardoso AL, El Khoury J. Roles of Microglial and Monocyte Chemokines and Their Receptors in Regulating Alzheimer's Disease-Associated Amyloid-β and Tau Pathologies. Front Neurol 2018; 9:549. [PMID: 30158892 PMCID: PMC6104478 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemokines and their receptors have been shown to affect amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau pathologies in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by regulating microglia and monocyte-associated neuroinflammation, microglial movement and monocyte recruitment into the brain. These cells in turn can promote and mediate Aβ phagocytosis and degradation and tau phosphorylation. In this review we discuss published work in this field in mouse models of AD and review what is known about the contributions of microglial and monocyte chemokines and their receptors to amyloid and tau pathologies. We focus on the roles of the chemokine/chemokine receptor pairs CCL2/CCR2, CX3CL1/CX3CR1, CCL5/CCR5, CXCL10/CXCR3 and CXCL1/CXCR2, highlighting important knowledge gaps in this field. A full understanding of the functions of chemokines and their receptors in AD may guide the development of novel immunotherapies for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana R Guedes
- Doctoral Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine, CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, United States
| | - Taotao Lao
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, United States
| | - Ana L Cardoso
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joseph El Khoury
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, United States.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, United States
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9
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Dissociation of β-Sheet Stacking of Amyloid β Fibrils by Irradiation of Intense, Short-Pulsed Mid-infrared Laser. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2018; 38:1039-1049. [DOI: 10.1007/s10571-018-0575-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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10
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Neuroprotective and Anti-Apoptotic Effects of CSP-1103 in Primary Cortical Neurons Exposed to Oxygen and Glucose Deprivation. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18010184. [PMID: 28106772 PMCID: PMC5297816 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Revised: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
CSP-1103 (formerly CHF5074) has been shown to reverse memory impairment and reduce amyloid plaque as well as inflammatory microglia activation in preclinical models of Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, it was found to improve cognition and reduce brain inflammation in patients with mild cognitive impairment. Recent evidence suggests that CSP-1103 acts through a single molecular target, the amyloid precursor protein intracellular domain (AICD), a transcriptional regulator implicated in inflammation and apoptosis. We here tested the possible anti-apoptotic and neuroprotective activity of CSP-1103 in a cell-based model of post-ischemic injury, wherein the primary mouse cortical neurons were exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). When added after OGD, CSP-1103 prevented the apoptosis cascade by reducing cytochrome c release and caspase-3 activation and the secondary necrosis. Additionally, CSP-1103 limited earlier activation of p38 and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathways. These results demonstrate that CSP-1103 is neuroprotective in a model of post-ischemic brain injury and provide further mechanistic insights as regards its ability to reduce apoptosis and potential production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In conclusion, these findings suggest a potential use of CSP-1103 for the treatment of brain ischemia.
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11
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CHF5074 (CSP-1103) induces microglia alternative activation in plaque-free Tg2576 mice and primary glial cultures exposed to beta-amyloid. Neuroscience 2015; 302:112-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Revised: 10/06/2014] [Accepted: 10/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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12
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Branca C, Sarnico I, Ruotolo R, Lanzillotta A, Viscomi AR, Benarese M, Porrini V, Lorenzini L, Calzà L, Imbimbo BP, Ottonello S, Pizzi M. Pharmacological targeting of the β-amyloid precursor protein intracellular domain. Sci Rep 2014; 4:4618. [PMID: 24714650 PMCID: PMC3980230 DOI: 10.1038/srep04618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid precursor protein (APP) intracellular domain (AICD) is a product of APP processing with transcriptional modulation activity, whose overexpression causes various Alzheimer's disease (AD)-related dysfunctions. Here we report that 1-(3',4'-dichloro-2-fluoro[1,1'-biphenyl]-4-yl)-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid) (CHF5074), a compound that favorably affects neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation and memory deficit in transgenic mouse models of AD, interacts with the AICD and impairs its nuclear activity. In neuroglioma-APPswe cells, CHF5074 shifted APP cleavage from Aβ42 to the less toxic Aβ38 peptide without affecting APP-C-terminal fragment, nor APP levels. As revealed by photoaffinity labeling, CHF5074 does not interact with γ-secretase, but binds to the AICD and lowers its nuclear translocation. In vivo treatment with CHF5074 reduced AICD occupancy as well as histone H3 acetylation levels and transcriptional output of the AICD-target gene KAI1. The data provide new mechanistic insights on this compound, which is under clinical investigation for AD treatment/prevention, as well as on the contribution of the AICD to AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Branca
- 1] Department of Molecular & Translational Medicine and National Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy [2]
| | - Ilenia Sarnico
- 1] Department of Molecular & Translational Medicine and National Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy [2]
| | - Roberta Ruotolo
- Laboratory of Functional Genomics and Protein Engineering, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Life Sciences, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Annamaria Lanzillotta
- Department of Molecular & Translational Medicine and National Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Arturo Roberto Viscomi
- 1] Laboratory of Functional Genomics and Protein Engineering, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Life Sciences, University of Parma, Italy [2]
| | - Marina Benarese
- Department of Molecular & Translational Medicine and National Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Vanessa Porrini
- 1] Department of Molecular & Translational Medicine and National Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy [2] IRCCS, San Camillo Hospital, Venice, Italy
| | - Luca Lorenzini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Health Science, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Calzà
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Health Science, University of Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Simone Ottonello
- Laboratory of Functional Genomics and Protein Engineering, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Life Sciences, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Marina Pizzi
- 1] Department of Molecular & Translational Medicine and National Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy [2] IRCCS, San Camillo Hospital, Venice, Italy
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13
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Mango D, Barbato G, Piccirilli S, Panico MB, Feligioni M, Schepisi C, Graziani M, Porrini V, Benarese M, Lanzillotta A, Pizzi M, Pieraccini S, Sironi M, Blandini F, Nicoletti F, Mercuri NB, Imbimbo BP, Nisticò R. Electrophysiological and metabolic effects of CHF5074 in the hippocampus: protection against in vitro ischemia. Pharmacol Res 2014; 81:83-90. [PMID: 24630950 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2014.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Revised: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
CHF5074 is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory derivative holding disease-modifying potential for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. The aim of the present study was to characterize the electrophysiological and metabolic profile of CHF5074 in the hippocampus. Electrophysiological recordings show that CHF5074 inhibits in a dose-dependent manner the current-evoked repetitive firing discharge in CA1 pyramidal neurons. This result is paralleled by a dose-dependent reduction of field excitatory post-synaptic potentials with no effect on the paired-pulse ratio. The effects of CHF5074 were not mediated by AMPA or NMDA receptors, since the inward currents induced by local applications of AMPA and NMDA remained constant in the presence of this compound. We also suggest a possible activity of CHF5074 on ASIC1a receptor since ASIC1a-mediated current, evoked by application of a pH 5.5 solution, is reduced by pretreatment with this compound. Moreover, we demonstrate that CHF5074 treatment is able to counteract in hippocampal slices the OGD-induced increase in alanine, lactate and acetate levels. Finally, CHF5074 significantly reduced the apoptosis in hippocampal neurons exposed to OGD, as revealed by cleaved-caspase-3 immunoreactivity and TUNEL staining. Overall, the present work identifies novel mechanisms for CHF5074 in reducing metabolic acidosis, rendering this compound potentially useful also in conditions of brain ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Mango
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - G Barbato
- European Brain Research Institute, Rita-Levi Montalcini Foundation, Rome, Italy; University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - M B Panico
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - M Feligioni
- European Brain Research Institute, Rita-Levi Montalcini Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - C Schepisi
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M Graziani
- Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - V Porrini
- University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | | | - M Pizzi
- University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; IRCCS San Camillo, Venice, Italy
| | | | - M Sironi
- University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - F Blandini
- IRCCS Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - N B Mercuri
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - B P Imbimbo
- Research and Development Department, Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy
| | - R Nisticò
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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14
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Sivilia S, Lorenzini L, Giuliani A, Gusciglio M, Fernandez M, Baldassarro VA, Mangano C, Ferraro L, Pietrini V, Baroc MF, Viscomi AR, Ottonello S, Villetti G, Imbimbo BP, Calzà L, Giardino L. Multi-target action of the novel anti-Alzheimer compound CHF5074: in vivo study of long term treatment in Tg2576 mice. BMC Neurosci 2013. [PMID: 23560952 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-14.44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer disease is a multifactorial disorder characterized by the progressive deterioration of neuronal networks. The pathological hallmarks includes extracellular amyloid plaques and intraneuronal neurofibrillary tangles, but the primary cause is only partially understood. Thus, there is growing interest in developing agents that might target multiple mechanisms leading to neuronal degeneration. CHF5074 is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory derivative that has been shown to behave as a γ-secretase modulator in vitro and to inhibit plaque deposition and to reverse memory deficit in vivo in transgenic mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the present study, the effects of a long-term (13-month) treatment with CHF5074 on indicators of brain functionality and neurodegeneration in transgenic AD mice (Tg2576) have been assessed and compared with those induced by a prototypical γ-secretase inhibitor (DAPT). RESULTS To this end, plaque-free, 6-month-old Tg2576 mice and wild-type littermates were fed with a diet containing CHF5074 (125 and 375 ppm/day), DAPT (375 ppm/day) or vehicle for 13 months. The measured indicators included object recognition memory, amyloid burden, brain oligomeric and plasma Aβ levels, intraneuronal Aβ, dendritic spine density/morphology, neuronal cyclin A positivity and activated microglia. Tg2576 mice fed with standard diet displayed an impairment of recognition memory. This deficit was completely reverted by the higher dose of CHF5074, while no effects were observed in DAPT-treated mice. Similarly, amyloid plaque burden, microglia activation and aberrant cell cycle events were significantly affected by CHF5074, but not DAPT, treatment. Both CHF5074 and DAPT reduced intraneuronal Aβ content, also increasing Aβ40 and Aβ42 plasma levels. CONCLUSIONS This comparative analysis revealed a profoundly diverse range of clinically relevant effects differentiating the multifunctional anti-inflammatory derivative CHF5074 from the γ-secretase inhibitor DAPT and highlighted unique mechanisms and potential targets that may be crucial for neuroprotection in mouse models of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Sivilia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Sivilia S, Lorenzini L, Giuliani A, Gusciglio M, Fernandez M, Baldassarro VA, Mangano C, Ferraro L, Pietrini V, Baroc MF, Viscomi AR, Ottonello S, Villetti G, Imbimbo BP, Calzà L, Giardino L. Multi-target action of the novel anti-Alzheimer compound CHF5074: in vivo study of long term treatment in Tg2576 mice. BMC Neurosci 2013; 14:44. [PMID: 23560952 PMCID: PMC3626610 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-14-44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/14/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Alzheimer disease is a multifactorial disorder characterized by the progressive deterioration of neuronal networks. The pathological hallmarks includes extracellular amyloid plaques and intraneuronal neurofibrillary tangles, but the primary cause is only partially understood. Thus, there is growing interest in developing agents that might target multiple mechanisms leading to neuronal degeneration. CHF5074 is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory derivative that has been shown to behave as a γ-secretase modulator in vitro and to inhibit plaque deposition and to reverse memory deficit in vivo in transgenic mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In the present study, the effects of a long-term (13-month) treatment with CHF5074 on indicators of brain functionality and neurodegeneration in transgenic AD mice (Tg2576) have been assessed and compared with those induced by a prototypical γ-secretase inhibitor (DAPT). Results To this end, plaque-free, 6-month-old Tg2576 mice and wild-type littermates were fed with a diet containing CHF5074 (125 and 375 ppm/day), DAPT (375 ppm/day) or vehicle for 13 months. The measured indicators included object recognition memory, amyloid burden, brain oligomeric and plasma Aβ levels, intraneuronal Aβ, dendritic spine density/morphology, neuronal cyclin A positivity and activated microglia. Tg2576 mice fed with standard diet displayed an impairment of recognition memory. This deficit was completely reverted by the higher dose of CHF5074, while no effects were observed in DAPT-treated mice. Similarly, amyloid plaque burden, microglia activation and aberrant cell cycle events were significantly affected by CHF5074, but not DAPT, treatment. Both CHF5074 and DAPT reduced intraneuronal Aβ content, also increasing Aβ40 and Aβ42 plasma levels. Conclusions This comparative analysis revealed a profoundly diverse range of clinically relevant effects differentiating the multifunctional anti-inflammatory derivative CHF5074 from the γ-secretase inhibitor DAPT and highlighted unique mechanisms and potential targets that may be crucial for neuroprotection in mouse models of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Sivilia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Inhibition of serine palmitoyltransferase reduces Aβ and tau hyperphosphorylation in a murine model: a safe therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2013; 34:2037-51. [PMID: 23528227 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2012] [Revised: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The contribution of the autosomal dominant mutations to the etiology of familial Alzheimer's disease (AD) is well characterized. However, the molecular mechanisms contributing to sporadic AD are less well understood. Increased ceramide levels have been evident in AD patients. We previously reported that increased ceramide levels, regulated by increased serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT), directly mediate amyloid β (Aβ) levels. Therefore, we inhibited SPT in an AD mouse model (TgCRND8) through subcutaneous administration of L-cylcoserine. The cortical Aβ₄₂ and hyperphosphorylated tau levels were down-regulated with the inhibition of SPT/ceramide. Positive correlations were observed among cortical SPT, ceramide, and Aβ₄₂ levels. With no evident toxic effects observed, inhibition of SPT could be a safe therapeutic strategy to ameliorate the AD pathology. We previously observed that miR-137, -181c, -9, and 29a/b post-transcriptionally regulate SPT levels, and the corresponding miRNA levels in the blood sera are potential diagnostic biomarkers for AD. Here, we observe a negative correlation between cortical Aβ₄₂ and sera Aβ₄₂, and a positive correlation between cortical miRNA levels and sera miRNA levels suggesting their potential as noninvasive diagnostic biomarkers.
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Hyperphosphorylation of tau by GSK-3β in Alzheimer’s disease: The interaction of Aβ and sphingolipid mediators as a therapeutic target. Transl Neurosci 2013. [DOI: 10.2478/s13380-013-0144-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the extracellular deposits of β amyloid peptides (Aβ) in senile plaques, and intracellular aggregates of hyperphosphorylated tau in neurofibrillary tangles (NFT). Although accumulation of Aβ has been long considered a leading hypothesis in the disease pathology, it is increasingly evident that the role hyperphosphorylation of tau in destabilization of microtubule assembly and disturbance of axonal transport is equally detrimental in the neurodegenerative process. The main kinase involved in phosphorylation of tau is glycogen-synthase kinase 3-beta (GSK-3β). Intracellular accumulation of Aβ also likely induces increase in hyperphosphorylated tau by a mechanism dependent on GSK-3β. In addition, Aβ affects production of ceramides, the major sphingolipids in mammalian cells, by acting on sphingomyelinases, enzymes responsible for the catabolic formation of ceramides from the sphingomyelin. Generated ceramides in turn increase production of Aβ by acting on β-secretase, a key enzyme in the proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP), altogether leading to a ceramide-Aβ-hyperphosphorylated tau cascade that ends in neuronal death. Modulators and inhibitors acting on members of this devastating cascade are considered as potential targets for AD therapy. There is still no adequate treatment for AD patients. Novel therapeutic strategies increasingly consider the combination of multiple targets and interactions among the key members of implicated molecular pathways. This review summarizes recent findings and therapeutic perspectives in the pathology and treatment of AD, with the emphasis on the interplay between hyperphosphorylated tau, amyloid β, and sphingolipid mediators.
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Dunkel P, Chai CL, Sperlágh B, Huleatt PB, Mátyus P. Clinical utility of neuroprotective agents in neurodegenerative diseases: current status of drug development for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2012; 21:1267-308. [PMID: 22741814 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2012.703178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION According to the definition of the Committee to Identify Neuroprotective Agents in Parkinson's Disease (CINAPS), "neuroprotection would be any intervention that favourably influences the disease process or underlying pathogenesis to produce enduring benefits for patients" [Meissner W, et al. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2004;25:249-253]. Preferably, neuroprotective agents should be used before or eventually during the prodromal phase of the diseases that could start decades before the appearance of symptoms. Although several symptomatic drugs are available, a disease-modifying agent is still elusive. AREAS COVERED The aim of the present review is to give an overview of neuroprotective agents being currently investigated for the treatment of AD, PD, HD and ALS in clinical phases. EXPERT OPINION Development of effective neuroprotective therapies resulting in clinically meaningful results is hampered by several factors in all research stages, both conceptual and methodological. Novel solutions might be offered by evaluation of new targets throughout clinical studies, therapies emerging from drug repositioning approaches, multi-target approaches and network pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Dunkel
- Semmelweis University, Department of Organic Chemistry, Budapest, Hungary
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