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Fu H, Li J, Zhang C, Du P, Gao G, Ge Q, Guan X, Cui D. Aβ-Aggregation-Generated Blue Autofluorescence Illuminates Senile Plaques as well as Complex Blood and Vascular Pathologies in Alzheimer's Disease. Neurosci Bull 2024; 40:1115-1126. [PMID: 38345691 PMCID: PMC11306447 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01175-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Senile plaque blue autofluorescence was discovered around 40 years ago, however, its impact on Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology has not been fully examined. We analyzed senile plaques with immunohistochemistry and fluorescence imaging on AD brain sections and also Aβ aggregation in vitro. In DAPI or Hoechst staining, the nuclear blue fluorescence could only be correctly assigned after subtracting the blue plaque autofluorescence. The flower-like structures wrapping dense-core blue fluorescence formed by cathepsin D staining could not be considered central-nucleated neurons with defective lysosomes since there was no nuclear staining in the plaque core when the blue autofluorescence was subtracted. Both Aβ self-oligomers and Aβ/hemoglobin heterocomplexes generated blue autofluorescence. The Aβ amyloid blue autofluorescence not only labels senile plaques but also illustrates red cell aggregation, hemolysis, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, vascular plaques, vascular adhesions, and microaneurysms. In summary, we conclude that Aβ-aggregation-generated blue autofluorescence is an excellent multi-amyloidosis marker in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hualin Fu
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, School of Sensing Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
- Institute of Marine Equipment, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
- National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Jilong Li
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, School of Sensing Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Chunlei Zhang
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, School of Sensing Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Peng Du
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, School of Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Guo Gao
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, School of Sensing Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Qiqi Ge
- Institute of Marine Equipment, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Department of Automation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xinping Guan
- Department of Automation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- The Key Laboratory of System Control and Information Processing, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Daxiang Cui
- Institute of Nano Biomedicine and Engineering, School of Sensing Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
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Jagadeesan N, Roules GC, Chandrashekar DV, Yang J, Kolluru S, Sumbria RK. Modulation of hippocampal protein expression by a brain penetrant biologic TNF-α inhibitor in the 3xTg Alzheimer's disease mice. J Transl Med 2024; 22:291. [PMID: 38500108 PMCID: PMC10946165 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05008-x] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biologic TNF-α inhibitors (bTNFIs) can block cerebral TNF-α in Alzheimer's disease (AD) if these macromolecules can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Thus, a model bTNFI, the extracellular domain of type II TNF-α receptor (TNFR), which can bind to and sequester TNF-α, was fused with a mouse transferrin receptor antibody (TfRMAb) to enable brain delivery via BBB TfR-mediated transcytosis. Previously, we found TfRMAb-TNFR to be protective in a mouse model of amyloidosis (APP/PS1) and tauopathy (PS19), and herein we investigated its effects in mice that combine both amyloidosis and tauopathy (3xTg-AD). METHODS Eight-month-old female 3xTg-AD mice were injected intraperitoneally with saline (n = 11) or TfRMAb-TNFR (3 mg/kg; n = 11) three days per week for 12 weeks. Age-matched wild-type (WT) mice (n = 9) were treated similarly with saline. Brains were processed for immunostaining and high-resolution multiplex NanoString GeoMx spatial proteomics. RESULTS We observed regional differences in proteins relevant to Aβ, tau, and neuroinflammation in the hippocampus of 3xTg-AD mice compared with WT mice. From 64 target proteins studied using spatial proteomics, a comparison of the Aβ-plaque bearing vs. plaque-free regions in the 3xTg-AD mice yielded 39 differentially expressed proteins (DEP) largely related to neuroinflammation (39% of DEP) and Aβ and tau pathology combined (31% of DEP). Hippocampal spatial proteomics revealed that the majority of the proteins modulated by TfRMAb-TNFR in the 3xTg-AD mice were relevant to microglial function (⁓ 33%). TfRMAb-TNFR significantly reduced mature Aβ plaques and increased Aβ-associated microglia around larger Aβ deposits in the 3xTg-AD mice. Further, TfRMAb-TNFR increased mature Aβ plaque-associated microglial TREM2 in 3xTg-AD mice. CONCLUSION Overall, despite the low visual Aβ load in the 11-month-old female 3xTg-AD mice, our results highlight region-specific AD-relevant DEP in the hippocampus of these mice. Chronic TfRMAb-TNFR dosing modulated several DEP involved in AD pathology and showed a largely microglia-centric mechanism of action in the 3xTg-AD mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataraj Jagadeesan
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - G Chuli Roules
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Devaraj V Chandrashekar
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Joshua Yang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Sanjana Kolluru
- Rancho Cucamonga High School, 11801 Lark Dr, Rancho Cucamonga, CA, 91701, USA
| | - Rachita K Sumbria
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA, 92618, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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Stepanchuk AA, Stys PK. Spectral Fluorescence Pathology of Protein Misfolding Disorders. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:898-908. [PMID: 38407017 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein misfolding has been extensively studied in the context of neurodegenerative disorders and systemic amyloidoses. Due to misfolding and aggregation of proteins being highly heterogeneous and generating a variety of structures, a growing body of evidence illustrates numerous ways how the aggregates contribute to progression of diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and prion disorders. Different misfolded species of the same protein, commonly referred to as strains, appear to play a significant role in shaping the disease clinical phenotype and clinical progression. The distinct toxicity profiles of various misfolded proteins underscore their importance. Current diagnostics struggle to differentiate among these strains early in the disease course. This review explores the potential of spectral fluorescence approaches to illuminate the complexities of protein misfolding pathology and discusses the applications of advanced spectral methods in the detection and characterization of protein misfolding disorders. By examining spectrally variable probes, current data analysis approaches, and important considerations for the use of these techniques, this review aims to provide an overview of the progress made in this field and highlights directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiia A Stepanchuk
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Peter K Stys
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
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Qi XH, Chen P, Wang YJ, Zhou ZP, Liu XC, Fang H, Wang CW, Liu J, Liu RY, Liu HK, Zhang ZX, Zhou JN. Increased cysteinyl-tRNA synthetase drives neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease. Transl Neurodegener 2024; 13:3. [PMID: 38191451 PMCID: PMC10773087 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-023-00394-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is not only a response to pathophysiological events, but also plays a causative role in neurodegeneration. Cytoplasmic cysteinyl-tRNA synthetase (CARS) is considered to be a stimulant for immune responses to diseases; however, it remains unknown whether CARS is involved in the pathogenesis of AD. METHODS Postmortem human temporal cortical tissues at different Braak stages and AD patient-derived serum samples were used to investigate the changes of CARS levels in AD by immunocytochemical staining, real-time PCR, western blotting and ELISA. After that, C57BL/6J and APP/PS1 transgenic mice and BV-2 cell line were used to explore the role of CARS protein in memory and neuroinflammation, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Finally, the associations of morphological features among CARS protein, microglia and dense-core plaques were examined by immunocytochemical staining. RESULTS A positive correlation was found between aging and the intensity of CARS immunoreactivity in the temporal cortex. Both protein and mRNA levels of CARS were increased in the temporal cortex of AD patients. Immunocytochemical staining revealed increased CARS immunoreactivity in neurons of the temporal cortex in AD patients. Moreover, overexpression of CARS in hippocampal neurons induced and aggravated cognitive dysfunction in C57BL/6J and APP/PS1 mice, respectively, accompanied by activation of microglia and the TLR2/MyD88 signaling pathway as well as upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines. In vitro experiments showed that CARS treatment facilitated the production of proinflammatory cytokines and the activation of the TLR2/MyD88 signaling pathway of BV-2 cells. The accumulation of CARS protein occurred within dense-core Aβ plaques accompanied by recruitment of ameboid microglia. Significant upregulation of TLR2/MyD88 proteins was also observed in the temporal cortex of AD. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that the neuronal CARS drives neuroinflammation and induces memory deficits, which might be involved in the pathogenesis of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu-Hong Qi
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Institute of Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Yue-Ju Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Zhe-Ping Zhou
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Xue-Chun Liu
- Department of Neurology, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230011, China
| | - Hui Fang
- Anhui Institute of Pediatric Research, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, 230051, China
| | - Chen-Wei Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Ji Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Brain-Inspired Intelligence Technology and Application, School of Information Science and Technology, and The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Rong-Yu Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Han-Kui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Diseases and Genomes, BGI-Genomics, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Zhen-Xin Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100007, China
| | - Jiang-Ning Zhou
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Institute of Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China.
- Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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Oba R, Ujike N, Ono Y, Okano T, Murakami T. Label-free autofluorescence and hyperspectral imaging of cerebral amyloid-β lesions in aged squirrel monkeys. J Vet Diagn Invest 2024; 36:41-45. [PMID: 37830746 PMCID: PMC10734585 DOI: 10.1177/10406387231204876] [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] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The observation of amyloid-β (Aβ) lesions using autofluorescence in transgenic mice and human Alzheimer disease patients has been reported frequently. However, no reports verify the autofluorescence of spontaneous Aβ amyloidosis in animals, to our knowledge. We validated the autofluorescence of Aβ lesions in spontaneous squirrel monkey cases under label-free conditions; lesions had intense blue-white autofluorescence in fluorescence microscopy using excitation light at 400-440 nm. Thioflavin S staining and immunohistochemistry of the same specimens revealed that this blue-white autofluorescence was derived from Aβ lesions. Hyperspectral analysis of these lesions revealed a characteristic spectrum with bimodal peaks at 440 and 460 nm, as reported for Aβ lesions in mice. Principal component analysis using hyperspectral data specifically separated the Aβ lesions from other autofluorescent substances, such as lipofuscin. A non-labeled and mechanistic detection of Aβ lesions by hyperspectral imaging could provide valuable insights for developing early diagnostic techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryohei Oba
- Laboratory of Veterinary Toxicology, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoki Ujike
- Laboratory of Veterinary Toxicology, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Ono
- Advanced Technology Center, Corporate R&D Headquarters, Konica Minolta, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Okano
- Advanced Technology Center, Corporate R&D Headquarters, Konica Minolta, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Murakami
- Laboratory of Veterinary Toxicology, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
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Zhukov O, He C, Soylu-Kucharz R, Cai C, Lauritzen AD, Aldana BI, Björkqvist M, Lauritzen M, Kucharz K. Preserved blood-brain barrier and neurovascular coupling in female 5xFAD model of Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1089005. [PMID: 37261266 PMCID: PMC10228387 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1089005] [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: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dysfunction of the cerebral vasculature is considered one of the key components of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the mechanisms affecting individual brain vessels are poorly understood. Methods Here, using in vivo two-photon microscopy in superficial cortical layers and ex vivo imaging across brain regions, we characterized blood-brain barrier (BBB) function and neurovascular coupling (NVC) at the level of individual brain vessels in adult female 5xFAD mice, an aggressive amyloid-β (Aβ) model of AD. Results We report a lack of abnormal increase in adsorptive-mediated transcytosis of albumin and preserved paracellular barrier for fibrinogen and small molecules despite an extensive load of Aβ. Likewise, the NVC responses to somatosensory stimulation were preserved at all regulatory segments of the microvasculature: penetrating arterioles, precapillary sphincters, and capillaries. Lastly, the Aβ plaques did not affect the density of capillary pericytes. Conclusion Our findings provide direct evidence of preserved microvascular function in the 5xFAD mice and highlight the critical dependence of the experimental outcomes on the choice of preclinical models of AD. We propose that the presence of parenchymal Aβ does not warrant BBB and NVC dysfunction and that the generalized view that microvascular impairment is inherent to Aβ aggregation may need to be revised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleg Zhukov
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Chen He
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rana Soylu-Kucharz
- Biomarkers in Brain Disease, Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Changsi Cai
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Blanca Irene Aldana
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Björkqvist
- Biomarkers in Brain Disease, Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Martin Lauritzen
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Krzysztof Kucharz
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Ou W, Ohno Y, Yang J, Chandrashekar DV, Abdullah T, Sun J, Murphy R, Roules C, Jagadeesan N, Cribbs DH, Sumbria RK. Efficacy and Safety of a Brain-Penetrant Biologic TNF-α Inhibitor in Aged APP/PS1 Mice. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2200. [PMID: 36297637 PMCID: PMC9612380 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14102200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) plays a vital role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology, and TNF-α inhibitors (TNFIs) modulate AD pathology. We fused the TNF-α receptor (TNFR), a biologic TNFI that sequesters TNF-α, to a transferrin receptor antibody (TfRMAb) to deliver the TNFI into the brain across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). TfRMAb-TNFR was protective in 6-month-old transgenic APP/PS1 mice in our previous work. However, the effects and safety following delayed chronic TfRMAb-TNFR treatment are unknown. Herein, we initiated the treatment when the male APP/PS1 mice were 10.7 months old (delayed treatment). Mice were injected intraperitoneally with saline, TfRMAb-TNFR, etanercept (non-BBB-penetrating TNFI), or TfRMAb for ten weeks. Biologic TNFIs did not alter hematology indices or tissue iron homeostasis; however, TfRMAb altered hematology indices, increased splenic iron transporter expression, and increased spleen and liver iron. TfRMAb-TNFR and etanercept reduced brain insoluble-amyloid beta (Aβ) 1-42, soluble-oligomeric Aβ, and microgliosis; however, only TfRMAb-TNFR reduced Aβ peptides, Thioflavin-S-positive Aβ plaques, and insoluble-oligomeric Aβ and increased plaque-associated phagocytic microglia. Accordingly, TfRMAb-TNFR improved spatial reference memory and increased BBB-tight junction protein expression, whereas etanercept did not. Overall, despite delayed treatment, TfRMAb-TNFR resulted in a better therapeutic response than etanercept without any TfRMAb-related hematology- or iron-dysregulation in aged APP/PS1 mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijun Ou
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Yuu Ohno
- Henry E. Riggs School of Applied Life Sciences, Keck Graduate Institute, 535 Watson Dr, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
| | - Joshua Yang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- Henry E. Riggs School of Applied Life Sciences, Keck Graduate Institute, 535 Watson Dr, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
| | - Devaraj V. Chandrashekar
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Tamara Abdullah
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Jiahong Sun
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Riley Murphy
- Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, Chapman University, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Chuli Roules
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Nataraj Jagadeesan
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - David H. Cribbs
- MIND Institute, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Rachita K. Sumbria
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Chapman University, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92868, USA
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Azarafrouz F, Farhangian M, Chavoshinezhad S, Dargahi S, Nassiri-Asl M, Dargahi L. Interferon beta attenuates recognition memory impairment and improves brain glucose uptake in a rat model of Alzheimer's disease: Involvement of mitochondrial biogenesis and PI3K pathway. Neuropeptides 2022; 95:102262. [PMID: 35709657 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2022.102262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Interferon beta (IFNβ) is a cytokine with anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties, and its beneficial effects on Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been recently shown. The alterations in cerebral glucose uptake are closely linked to memory deficit and AD progression. The current study was designed to determine if IFNβ can improve recognition memory and brain glucose uptake in a rat model of AD. The lentiviruses expressing mutant human amyloid precursor protein were injected bilaterally to the rat hippocampus. From day 23 after virus injection, rats were intranasally treated with recombinant IFNβ protein (68,000 IU/rat) every other day until day 50. Recognition memory performance was evaluated by novel object recognition test on days 46-49. The 18F-2- fluoro-deoxy-d-glucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG-PET) was used to determine changes in brain glucose metabolism on day 50. The expression of the PI3K/Akt pathway components, neurotrophins and mitochondrial biogenesis factors were also measured by qPCR in the hippocampus. Our results showed that IFNβ treatment improves recognition memory performance in parallel with increased glucose uptake and neuronal survival in the hippocampus of the AD rats. The neuroprotective effect of IFNβ could be attributed, at least partly, to activation of PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling pathway, increased expression of NGF, and mitochondrial biogenesis. Taken together, our findings suggest the therapeutic potential of IFNβ for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Forouzan Azarafrouz
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Farhangian
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Chavoshinezhad
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Saina Dargahi
- Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marjan Nassiri-Asl
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Deep blue autofluorescence reflects the oxidation state of human transthyretin. Redox Biol 2022; 56:102434. [PMID: 35987087 PMCID: PMC9411673 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Human transthyretin (TTR) is a tetrameric protein transporting thyroid hormones and retinol. TTR is a neuroprotective factor and sensor of oxidative stress which stability is diminished due to mutations and aging, leading to amyloid deposition. Adverse environmental conditions, such as redox and metal ion imbalances, induce destabilization of the TTR structure. We have previously shown that the stability of TTR was disturbed by Ca2+ and other factors, including DTT, and led to the formation of an intrinsic fluorophore(s) emitting blue light, termed deep blue autofluorescence (dbAF). Here, we show that the redox state of TTR affects the formation dynamics and properties of dbAF. Free thiols lead to highly unstable subpopulations of TTR and the frequent ocurrence of dbAF. Oxidative conditions counteracted the destabilizing effects of free thiols to some extent. However, strong oxidative conditions led to modifications of TTR, which altered the stability of TTR and resulted in unique dbAF spectra. Riboflavin and/or riboflavin photoproducts bound to TTR and crosslinked TTR subunits. Riboflavin-sensitized photooxidation increased TTR unfolding, while photooxidation, either in the absence or presence of riboflavin, increased proteolysis and resulted in multiple oxidative modifications and dityrosine formation in TTR molecules. Therefore, oxidation can switch the role of TTR from a protective to pathogenic factor.
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Han Y, Chen L, Liu J, Chen J, Wang C, Guo Y, Yu X, Zhang C, Chu H, Ma H. A Class I HDAC Inhibitor Rescues Synaptic Damage and Neuron Loss in APP-Transfected Cells and APP/PS1 Mice through the GRIP1/AMPA Pathway. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27134160. [PMID: 35807406 PMCID: PMC9268711 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27134160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As a neurodegenerative disease, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) seriously affects the health of older people. Changes in synapses occur first over the course of the disease, perhaps even before the formation of Aβ plaques. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) mediates the damage of Aβ oligomers to dendritic spines. Therefore, we examined the relationship between HDAC activity and synaptic defects using an HDAC inhibitor (HDACI), BG45, in the human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line with stable overexpression of Swedish mutant APP (APPsw) and in APP/PS1 transgenic mice during this study. The cells were treated with 15 μM BG45 and the APP/PS1 mice were treated with 30 mg/kg BG45. We detected the levels of synapse-related proteins, HDACs, tau phosphorylation, and amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. We also measured the expression of cytoskeletal proteins in the cell model. The mRNA levels of the glutamate ion receptor alginate subunit 2 (GRIK2), sodium voltage-gated channel beta subunit (SCN3B), synaptophysin (SYP), Grm2 (the gene encoding glutamate receptor subunit 2 (GluR2)), Grid2IP, glutamate receptor interacting protein 1 (GRIP1), and GRIP2 were detected to explore the effects of the HDACI on regulating the expression of synaptic proteins and AMPA receptors. According to our studies, the expressions of HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC3 were increased, which were accompanied by the downregulation of the synapse-related proteins SYP, postsynaptic dendritic protein (PSD-95), and spinophilin as early as 24 h after transfection with the APPsw gene. BG45 upregulated the expression of synapse-related proteins and repaired cytoskeletal damage. In vivo, BG45 alleviated the apoptosis-mediated loss of hippocampal neurons, upregulated synapse-related proteins, reduced Aβ deposition and phosphorylation of tau, and increased the levels of the synapse-related genes GRIK2, SCN3B, SYP, Grm2, and Grid2IP. BG45 increased the expression of the AMPA receptor subunits GluA1, GluA2, and GluA3 on APPsw-transfected cells and increased GRIP1 and GRIP2 expression and AMPA receptor phosphorylation in vivo. Based on these results, HDACs are involved in the early process of synaptic defects in AD models, and BG45 may rescue synaptic damage and the loss of hippocampal neurons by specifically inhibiting HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC3, thereby modulating AMPA receptor transduction, increasing synapse-related gene expression, and finally enhancing the function of excitatory synapses. BG45 may be considered a potential drug for the treatment of early AD in further studies.
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11
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Mabrouk R, Gotkiewicz M, Rauramaa T, Tanila H. DAPI (4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) Stains Compact Amyloid Plaques. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 88:949-955. [PMID: 35754268 DOI: 10.3233/jad-220072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
DAPI is conventionally used as a nuclear stain for cells in culture or tissue. Here we demonstrate that it binds specifically to the β-sheet core of amyloid-β plaques but not diffuse amyloid-β at the plaque periphery. The specific DAPI induced blue fluorescence is much stronger than amyloid plaque autofluorescence. DAPI staining of fibrillar amyloid deposit may yield a misleading impression of damaged or dying cells. On the other hand, it provides a handy and low-cost means of staining compact amyloid plaques together with cell nuclei in double or triple immunofluorescent studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Mabrouk
- A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Maria Gotkiewicz
- A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tuomas Rauramaa
- Department of Pathology, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.,Unit of Pathology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio Finland
| | - Heikki Tanila
- A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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12
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Chang K, Yang WK, Li WT, Yeh TY, Jao CH, Lin JR, Lin CC, Jeng YM, Chao CC, Hsieh ST. Distinct Patterns of Amyloid Pathology in Autopsies of Transthyretin S77Y and A97S Amyloidosis: Significance of Symptomatology and Cell Biology. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2022; 81:363-376. [PMID: 35388433 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlac022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary transthyretin (ATTRv) amyloidosis is a systemic disease with amyloid deposition in the peripheral and autonomic nervous systems caused by mutation of transthyretin (TTR) gene. The mutant TTR S77Y is the second prevalent mutation in many countries. In Taiwan, A97S mutant accounts for more than 90% of cases. Although distinct clinical manifestations such as dysphagia, carpal tunnel syndrome, and sudden cardiac death occur, the underlying pathology has not been elucidated. Here, we report the first autopsy cases of ATTRv S77Y and A97S and comprehensively compare the pathology underlying the unique clinical manifestations. This study demonstrated the following: (1) distinct spatial patterns of amyloid deposits in peripheral nerves, with a tendency toward more amyloid deposition in the large peripheral nerves, particularly the median nerves, and scarcely in the sural nerves, and different amyloid distribution in different genotypes; (2) amyloid deposits in the conduction system of the heart in addition to surrounding cardiomyocytes; (3) extensive amyloid deposits in the larynx and gastrointestinal tract, contributing to the unique clinical symptom of dysphagia; and (4) characteristic TTR intracytoplasmic inclusions in the hepatocytes of A97S. The pathology of the first autopsied cases of ATTRv S77Y and A97S provides pathology and mechanisms underlying unique clinical manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koping Chang
- From the Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Kang Yang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Ting Li
- From the Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ti-Yen Yeh
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hsuan Jao
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jhih Rong Lin
- From the Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng Chen Lin
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Ming Jeng
- From the Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chao Chao
- Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Tsang Hsieh
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan.,Center of Precision Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
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13
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Li L, Li J, Dai Y, Yang M, Liang S, Wang Z, Liu W, Chen L, Tao J. Electro-Acupuncture Improve the Early Pattern Separation in Alzheimer’s Disease Mice via Basal Forebrain-Hippocampus Cholinergic Neural Circuit. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 13:770948. [PMID: 35185516 PMCID: PMC8847781 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.770948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To explore the effect of electro-acupuncture (EA) treatment on pattern separation and investigate the neural circuit mechanism involved in five familial mutations (5 × FAD) mice. Methods Five familial mutations mice were treated with EA at Baihui (DU20) and Shenting (DU24) acupoints for 30 min each, lasting for 4 weeks. Cognitive-behavioral tests were performed to evaluate the effects of EA treatment on cognitive functions. 1H-MRS, Nissl staining, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were performed to examine the cholinergic system alteration. Thioflavin S staining and 6E10 immunofluorescence were performed to detect the amyloid-β (Aβ). Furthermore, hM4Di designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) virus and long-term clozapine-N-oxide injection were used to inhibit the medial septal and vertical limb of the diagonal band and dentate gyrus (MS/VDB-DG) cholinergic neural circuit. Cognitive-behavioral tests and immunofluorescence were performed to investigate the cholinergic neural circuit mechanism of EA treatment improving cognition in 5 × FAD mice. Results Electro-acupuncture treatment significantly improved spatial recognition memory and pattern separation impairment, regulated cholinergic system via reduction neuron loss, upregulation of choline/creatine, choline acetyltransferase, vesicular acetylcholine transporter, and downregulation of enzyme acetylcholinesterase in 5 × FAD mice. Aβ deposition was reduced after EA treatment. Subsequently, the monosynaptic hM4Di DREADDs virus tracing and inhibiting strategy showed that EA treatment activates the MS/VDB-DG cholinergic neural circuit to improve the early pattern separation. In addition, EA treatment activates this circuit to upregulating M1 receptors positive cells and promoting hippocampal neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus (DG). Conclusion Electro-acupuncture could improve the early pattern separation impairment by activating the MS/VDB-DG cholinergic neural circuit in 5 × FAD mice, which was related to the regulation of the cholinergic system and the promotion of neurogenesis by EA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Li
- Rehabilitation Medical Technology Joint National Local Engineering Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianhong Li
- TCM Rehabilitation Research Center of SATCM, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yaling Dai
- Rehabilitation Medical Technology Joint National Local Engineering Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Minguang Yang
- Rehabilitation Medical Technology Joint National Local Engineering Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shengxiang Liang
- TCM Rehabilitation Research Center of SATCM, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhifu Wang
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Weilin Liu
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lidian Chen
- Rehabilitation Medical Technology Joint National Local Engineering Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jing Tao
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Tao,
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14
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Zhang Z, Tan X, Sun X, Wei J, Li QX, Wu Z. Isoorientin Affects Markers of Alzheimer's Disease via Effects on the Oral and Gut Microbiota in APP/PS1 Mice. J Nutr 2022; 152:140-152. [PMID: 34636875 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxab328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing evidence of strong associations between the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dysbiotic oral and gut microbiota. Recent studies demonstrated that isoorientin (ISO) is anti-inflammatory and alleviates markers of AD, which were hypothesized to be mediated by the oral and gut microbiota. OBJECTIVES We studied the effects of oral administration of ISO on AD-related markers and the oral and gut microbiota in mice. METHODS Eight-month-old amyloid precursor protein/presenilin-1 (AP) transgenic male mice were randomly allocated to 3 groups of 15 mice each: vehicle (AP) alone or with a low dose of ISO (AP + ISO-L; 25 mg/kg) or a high dose of ISO (AP + ISO-H; 50 mg/kg). Age-matched wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 male littermates were used as controls. The 4 groups were treated intragastrically with ISO or sterilized ultrapure water for 2 months. AD-related markers in the brain, serum, colon, and liver were analyzed with immunohistochemical and histochemical staining, Western blotting, and ELISA. Oral and gut microbiotas were analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. RESULTS The high-dose ISO treatment significantly decreased amyloid beta 42-positive deposition by 38.1% and 45.2% in the cortex and hippocampus, respectively, of AP mice (P < 0.05). Compared with the AP group, both ISO treatments reduced brain phospho-Tau, phosphor-p65, phosphor-inhibitor of NF-κB, and brain and serum LPS and TNF-α by 17.9%-72.5% and increased brain and serum IL-4 and IL-10 by 130%-210% in the AP + ISO-L and AP + ISO-H groups (P < 0.05). Abundances of 26, 25, and 23 microbial taxa in oral, fecal and cecal samples, respectively, were increased in both the AP + ISO-L and AP + ISO-H groups relative to the AP group [linear discriminant analysis (LDA) >3.0; P < 0.05]. Gram-negative bacteria, Alteromonas, Campylobacterales, and uncultured Bacteroidales bacterium were positively correlated (rho = 0.28-0.59; P < 0.05) with the LPS levels and responses of inflammatory cytokines. CONCLUSIONS The microbiota-gut-brain axis is a potential mechanism by which ISO reduces AD-related markers in AP mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongbao Zhang
- Beijing Agro-Biotechnology Research Center, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqin Tan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaorong Sun
- Beijing Agro-Biotechnology Research Center, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhua Wei
- Beijing Agro-Biotechnology Research Center, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qing X Li
- Department of Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Zhongyi Wu
- Beijing Agro-Biotechnology Research Center, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
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15
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Sanchez-Arias JC, Carrier M, Frederiksen SD, Shevtsova O, McKee C, van der Slagt E, Gonçalves de Andrade E, Nguyen HL, Young PA, Tremblay MÈ, Swayne LA. A Systematic, Open-Science Framework for Quantification of Cell-Types in Mouse Brain Sections Using Fluorescence Microscopy. Front Neuroanat 2021; 15:722443. [PMID: 34949993 PMCID: PMC8691181 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2021.722443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The ever-expanding availability and evolution of microscopy tools has enabled ground-breaking discoveries in neurobiology, particularly with respect to the analysis of cell-type density and distribution. Widespread implementation of many of the elegant image processing tools available continues to be impeded by the lack of complete workflows that span from experimental design, labeling techniques, and analysis workflows, to statistical methods and data presentation. Additionally, it is important to consider open science principles (e.g., open-source software and tools, user-friendliness, simplicity, and accessibility). In the present methodological article, we provide a compendium of resources and a FIJI-ImageJ-based workflow aimed at improving the quantification of cell density in mouse brain samples using semi-automated open-science-based methods. Our proposed framework spans from principles and best practices of experimental design, histological and immunofluorescence staining, and microscopy imaging to recommendations for statistical analysis and data presentation. To validate our approach, we quantified neuronal density in the mouse barrel cortex using antibodies against pan-neuronal and interneuron markers. This framework is intended to be simple and yet flexible, such that it can be adapted to suit distinct project needs. The guidelines, tips, and proposed methodology outlined here, will support researchers of wide-ranging experience levels and areas of focus in neuroscience research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Micaël Carrier
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Axe Neurosciences, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université de Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | | | - Olga Shevtsova
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Chloe McKee
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Emma van der Slagt
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | | | - Hai Lam Nguyen
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Penelope A Young
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Marie-Ève Tremblay
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Axe Neurosciences, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université de Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Université de Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Leigh Anne Swayne
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Brain Repair and Integrative Neuroscience Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
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16
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Wieczorek E, Bezara P, Ożyhar A. Deep blue autofluorescence reveals the instability of human transthyretin. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 191:492-499. [PMID: 34562536 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.09.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Wild-type human transthyretin (TTR) is a tetrameric protein that transports thyroxine and retinol in the blood and brain. However, a number of mutations or aging leads to destabilization of the quaternary structure of TTR, which results in dissociation of TTR tetramers to monomers, followed by oligomerization and subsequent amyloid formation. TTR amyloid is a pathogenic factor underlying several diseases. It has recently been documented that destabilization of the structure of TTR is driven by Ca2+. The present work shows that the in vitro redox conditions contribute to the destabilization and formation of the highly unstable substoichiometric population(s) of TTR molecules. Importantly, destabilized TTR forms acquire the ability to emit fluorescence in the blue range of the light spectrum. Dithiothreitol (DTT), in the presence of Ca2+, enhances the formation of complex autofluorophore which displays maxima at 417 nm and 438 nm in the emission spectrum of TTR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elżbieta Wieczorek
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Patrycja Bezara
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Ożyhar
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland
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17
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Blood cell-produced amyloid-β induces cerebral Alzheimer-type pathologies and behavioral deficits. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:5568-5577. [PMID: 32681097 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-0842-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
It is traditionally believed that cerebral amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposits are derived from the brain itself in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Peripheral cells such as blood cells also produce Aβ. The role of peripherally produced Aβ in the pathogenesis of AD remains unknown. In this study, we established a bone marrow transplantation model to investigate the contribution of blood cell-produced Aβ to AD pathogenesis. We found that bone marrow cells (BMCs) transplanted from APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic mice into wild-type (Wt) mice at 3 months of age continuously expressed human Aβ in the blood, and caused AD phenotypes including Aβ plaques, cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), tau hyperphosphorylation, neuronal degeneration, neuroinflammation, and behavioral deficits in the Wt recipient mice at 12 months after transplantation. Bone marrow reconstitution in APPswe/PS1dE9 mice with Wt-BMCs at 3 months of age reduced blood Aβ levels, and alleviated brain Aβ burden, neuronal degeneration, neuroinflammation, and behavioral deficits in the AD model mice at 12 months after transplantation. Our study demonstrated that blood cell-produced Aβ plays a significant role in AD pathogenesis, and the elimination of peripheral production of Aβ can decrease brain Aβ deposition and represents a novel therapeutic approach for AD.
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18
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Ma K, Xing S, Luan Y, Zhang C, Liu Y, Fei Y, Zhang Z, Liu Y, Chen X. Glypican 4 Regulates Aβ Internalization in Neural Stem Cells Partly via Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein 1. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:732429. [PMID: 34552470 PMCID: PMC8450433 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.732429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural stem cell (NSC) damage has been reported in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Intracellular Aβ plays a vital role in NSC damage. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans are potent mediators of Aβ enrichment in the brain. We hypothesized the heparan sulfate proteoglycan glypican 4 (Gpc4) regulates Aβ internalization by NSCs. We evaluated Gpc4 expression in NSCs from P0–P2 generations using immunofluorescence. Adenovirus and lentivirus were used to regulate Gpc4 expression in NSCs and APP/PS1 mice, respectively. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to determine the relationship between Gpc4, Aβ, and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1). Intracellular Aβ concentrations were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunofluorescence. The role of Gpc4/LRP1 on toxic/physical Aβ-induced effects was evaluated using the JC-1 kit, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUPT nick end labeling, and western blotting. Gpc4 was stably expressed in NSCs, neurons, and astrocytes. Gpc4 was upregulated by Aβ in NSCs and regulated Aβ internalization. Gpc4 attenuation reduced Aβ uptake; Gpc4 overexpression increased Aβ uptake. Gpc4 regulated Aβ internalization through LRP1 and contributed to Aβ internalization and toxic/physical concentrations of Aβ-induced mitochondrial membrane potential and cell apoptosis, partly via LRP1. Therefore, Gpc4 is a key regulator of Aβ enrichment in NSCs. Inhibiting Gpc4 rescued the Aβ-induced toxic effect and attenuated the nontoxic Aβ enrichment into intracellular toxic concentrations. Gpc4 contributed to Aβ internalization and toxic/physical concentrations of Aβ-induced mitochondrial membrane potential damage and cell apoptosis, partly via LRP1. These findings suggest a potential role of Gpc4 in treating Alzheimer’s disease at an early stage, by targeting NSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaige Ma
- Institute of Neurobiology, Department of Neurobiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Shan Xing
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yan Luan
- Institute of Neurobiology, Department of Neurobiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Chenglin Zhang
- 2018 Grade, Zonglian College, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Yingfei Liu
- Institute of Neurobiology, Department of Neurobiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Yulang Fei
- Medical College, Xijing University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhichao Zhang
- Institute of Neurobiology, Department of Neurobiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Institute of Neurobiology, Department of Neurobiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Xinlin Chen
- Institute of Neurobiology, Department of Neurobiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
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19
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Liu K, Li J, Raghunathan R, Zhao H, Li X, Wong STC. The Progress of Label-Free Optical Imaging in Alzheimer's Disease Screening and Diagnosis. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:699024. [PMID: 34366828 PMCID: PMC8341907 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.699024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
As the major neurodegenerative disease of dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD) has caused an enormous social and economic burden on society. Currently, AD has neither clear pathogenesis nor effective treatments. Positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been verified as potential tools for diagnosing and monitoring Alzheimer's disease. However, the high costs, low spatial resolution, and long acquisition time limit their broad clinical utilization. The gold standard of AD diagnosis routinely used in research is imaging AD biomarkers with dyes or other reagents, which are unsuitable for in vivo studies owing to their potential toxicity and prolonged and costly process of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for human use. Furthermore, these exogenous reagents might bring unwarranted interference to mechanistic studies, causing unreliable results. Several label-free optical imaging techniques, such as infrared spectroscopic imaging (IRSI), Raman spectroscopic imaging (RSI), optical coherence tomography (OCT), autofluorescence imaging (AFI), optical harmonic generation imaging (OHGI), etc., have been developed to circumvent this issue and made it possible to offer an accurate and detailed analysis of AD biomarkers. In this review, we present the emerging label-free optical imaging techniques and their applications in AD, along with their potential and challenges in AD diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Liu
- Translational Biophotonics Laboratory, Systems Medicine and Bioengineering Department, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiasong Li
- Translational Biophotonics Laboratory, Systems Medicine and Bioengineering Department, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- T. T. and W. F. Chao Center for BRAIN, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Raksha Raghunathan
- Translational Biophotonics Laboratory, Systems Medicine and Bioengineering Department, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- T. T. and W. F. Chao Center for BRAIN, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Hong Zhao
- Translational Biophotonics Laboratory, Systems Medicine and Bioengineering Department, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Xuping Li
- T. T. and W. F. Chao Center for BRAIN, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Stephen T. C. Wong
- Translational Biophotonics Laboratory, Systems Medicine and Bioengineering Department, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- T. T. and W. F. Chao Center for BRAIN, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
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20
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Multimodal, label-free fluorescence and Raman imaging of amyloid deposits in snap-frozen Alzheimer's disease human brain tissue. Commun Biol 2021; 4:474. [PMID: 33859370 PMCID: PMC8050064 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-01981-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology is characterized by hyperphosphorylated tau containing neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques. Normally these hallmarks are studied by (immuno-) histological techniques requiring chemical pretreatment and indirect labelling. Label-free imaging enables one to visualize normal tissue and pathology in its native form. Therefore, these techniques could contribute to a better understanding of the disease. Here, we present a comprehensive study of high-resolution fluorescence imaging (before and after staining) and spectroscopic modalities (Raman mapping under pre-resonance conditions and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS)) of amyloid deposits in snap-frozen AD human brain tissue. We performed fluorescence and spectroscopic imaging and subsequent thioflavin-S staining of the same tissue slices to provide direct confirmation of plaque location and correlation of spectroscopic biomarkers with plaque morphology; differences were observed between cored and fibrillar plaques. The SRS results showed a protein peak shift towards the β-sheet structure in cored amyloid deposits. In the Raman maps recorded with 532 nm excitation we identified the presence of carotenoids as a unique marker to differentiate between a cored amyloid plaque area versus a non-plaque area without prior knowledge of their location. The observed presence of carotenoids suggests a distinct neuroinflammatory response to misfolded protein accumulations.
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Balasco N, Diaferia C, Morelli G, Vitagliano L, Accardo A. Amyloid-Like Aggregation in Diseases and Biomaterials: Osmosis of Structural Information. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:641372. [PMID: 33748087 PMCID: PMC7966729 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.641372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery that the polypeptide chain has a remarkable and intrinsic propensity to form amyloid-like aggregates endowed with an extraordinary stability is one of the most relevant breakthroughs of the last decades in both protein/peptide chemistry and structural biology. This observation has fundamental implications, as the formation of these assemblies is systematically associated with the insurgence of severe neurodegenerative diseases. Although the ability of proteins to form aggregates rich in cross-β structure has been highlighted by recent studies of structural biology, the determination of the underlying atomic models has required immense efforts and inventiveness. Interestingly, the progressive molecular and structural characterization of these assemblies has opened new perspectives in apparently unrelated fields. Indeed, the self-assembling through the cross-β structure has been exploited to generate innovative biomaterials endowed with promising mechanical and spectroscopic properties. Therefore, this structural motif has become the fil rouge connecting these diversified research areas. In the present review, we report a chronological recapitulation, also performing a survey of the structural content of the Protein Data Bank, of the milestones achieved over the years in the characterization of cross-β assemblies involved in the insurgence of neurodegenerative diseases. A particular emphasis is given to the very recent successful elucidation of amyloid-like aggregates characterized by remarkable molecular and structural complexities. We also review the state of the art of the structural characterization of cross-β based biomaterials by highlighting the benefits of the osmosis of information between these two research areas. Finally, we underline the new promising perspectives that recent successful characterizations of disease-related amyloid-like assemblies can open in the biomaterial field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Balasco
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Diaferia
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB), University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Morelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB), University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Vitagliano
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Accardo
- Department of Pharmacy, Research Centre on Bioactive Peptides (CIRPeB), University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
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Hu Y, Li J, Zhu Y, Li M, Lin J, Yang L, Wang C, Lu Z. Development and characterization of an Otp conditional loss of function allele. Genesis 2020; 58:e23370. [PMID: 32468663 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Orthopedia (Otp) is a homeodomain transcription factor that plays an essential role in the development of hypothalamic neurosecretory systems. Loss of Otp results in the failure of differentiation of key hypothalamic neuroendocrine cell types, and pups die soon after birth. Although the constitutive knockout Otp mouse model (Otp KO ) has significantly expanded our understanding of Otp's function in vivo, a conditional loss of function Otp allele that enables tissue or cell-type specific ablation of Otp has not been developed. Here, we used CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology to generate a conditional Otp knockout mouse line in which exon 2 of the murine Otp gene is flanked by LoxP sites (Otp f/f ). Crossing the Otp f/f mouse with Agrp-Ires-cre mouse, we demonstrate the requirement for Otp in the continuous differentiation of AgRP neurons after cell fate determination. We also show that the residual AgRP neurons in Agrp-Ires-cre;Otp f/f mice project to similar downstream target regions. This newly developed Otp f/f mouse can be used to explore the functions of Otp with cell-type or temporal specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Hu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Development, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiamin Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Development, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuyuan Zhu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Development, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Key Lab of Drug Addiction, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mengqi Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Development, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Key Lab of Drug Addiction, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianbang Lin
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Development, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lixin Yang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Development, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chuan Wang
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhonghua Lu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Development, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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He C, Hu Z, Jiang C. Sleep Disturbance: An Early Sign of Alzheimer's Disease. Neurosci Bull 2019; 36:449-451. [PMID: 31808040 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-019-00453-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chao He
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Brain and Intelligence, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Zhian Hu
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Brain and Intelligence, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Chenggang Jiang
- Department of Medical Psychology, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, 400021, China.
- Department of Sleep and Psychology, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
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