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Costa RG, Conceição A, Matos CA, Nóbrega C. The polyglutamine protein ATXN2: from its molecular functions to its involvement in disease. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:415. [PMID: 38877004 PMCID: PMC11178924 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06812-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
A CAG repeat sequence in the ATXN2 gene encodes a polyglutamine (polyQ) tract within the ataxin-2 (ATXN2) protein, showcasing a complex landscape of functions that have been progressively unveiled over recent decades. Despite significant progresses in the field, a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms governed by ATXN2 remains elusive. This multifaceted protein emerges as a key player in RNA metabolism, stress granules dynamics, endocytosis, calcium signaling, and the regulation of the circadian rhythm. The CAG overexpansion within the ATXN2 gene produces a protein with an extended poly(Q) tract, inducing consequential alterations in conformational dynamics which confer a toxic gain and/or partial loss of function. Although overexpanded ATXN2 is predominantly linked to spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2), intermediate expansions are also implicated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and parkinsonism. While the molecular intricacies await full elucidation, SCA2 presents ATXN2-associated pathological features, encompassing autophagy impairment, RNA-mediated toxicity, heightened oxidative stress, and disruption of calcium homeostasis. Presently, SCA2 remains incurable, with patients reliant on symptomatic and supportive treatments. In the pursuit of therapeutic solutions, various studies have explored avenues ranging from pharmacological drugs to advanced therapies, including cell or gene-based approaches. These endeavours aim to address the root causes or counteract distinct pathological features of SCA2. This review is intended to provide an updated compendium of ATXN2 functions, delineate the associated pathological mechanisms, and present current perspectives on the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael G Costa
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal.
- PhD program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal.
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal.
| | - André Conceição
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal
- PhD program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Coimbra, Portugal
- Champalimaud Research Program, Champalimaud Center for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carlos A Matos
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal
| | - Clévio Nóbrega
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal.
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal.
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2
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Raghunathan N, Sankaran S, Miteu GD. A comprehensive review of iPS cell line-based disease modelling of the polyglutamine spinocerebellar ataxias 2 and 3: a focus on the research outcomes. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:3487-3498. [PMID: 38846892 PMCID: PMC11152827 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are a rare autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder. To date, approximately 50 different subtypes of SCAs have been characterized. The prevalent types of SCAs are usually of PolyQ origin, wherein the disease pathology is a consequence of multiple glutamine residues being encoded onto the disease proteins, causing expansions. SCAs 2 and 3 are the most frequently diagnosed subtypes, wherein affected patients exhibit certain characteristic physiological manifestations, such as gait ataxia and dysarthria. Nevertheless, other clinical signs were exclusive to these subtypes. Recently, multiple molecular diagnostic methods have been developed to identify and characterize these subtypes. Despite these advancements, the molecular pathology of SCAs remains unknown. To further understand the mechanisms involved in neurodegenerative SCAs 2 and 3, patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based modelling is a compelling avenue to pursue. We cover the present state of iPSC-based in-vitro illness modelling of SCA subtypes 2 and 3 below, along with a list of cell lines created, and the relevance of research outcomes to personalized autologous therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Goshen D. Miteu
- School of Biosciences, Biotechnology, University of Nottingham, England, UK
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Caleb University, Lagos, Nigeria
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3
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Wang JY, Liu YJ, Zhang XL, Liu YH, Jiang LL, Hu HY. PolyQ-expanded ataxin-2 aggregation impairs cellular processing-body homeostasis via sequestering the RNA helicase DDX6. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107413. [PMID: 38810698 PMCID: PMC11254730 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Ataxin-2 (Atx2) is a polyglutamine (polyQ) tract-containing RNA-binding protein, while its polyQ expansion may cause protein aggregation that is implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2). However, the molecular mechanism underlying how Atx2 aggregation contributes to the proteinopathies remains elusive. Here, we investigated the influence of Atx2 aggregation on the assembly and functionality of cellular processing bodies (P-bodies) by using biochemical and fluorescence imaging approaches. We have revealed that polyQ-expanded (PQE) Atx2 sequesters the DEAD-box RNA helicase (DDX6), an essential component of P-bodies, into aggregates or puncta via some RNA sequences. The N-terminal like-Sm (LSm) domain of Atx2 (residues 82-184) and the C-terminal helicase domain of DDX6 are responsible for the interaction and specific sequestration. Moreover, sequestration of DDX6 may aggravate pre-mRNA mis-splicing, and interfere with the assembly of cellular P-bodies, releasing the endoribonuclease MARF1 that promotes mRNA decay and translational repression. Rescuing the DDX6 protein level can recover the assembly and functionality of P-bodies, preventing targeted mRNA from degradation. This study provides a line of evidence for sequestration of the P-body components and impairment of the P-body homeostasis in dysregulating RNA metabolism, which is implicated in the disease pathologies and a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Yang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Ya-Jun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xiang-Le Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yin-Hu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Lei-Lei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Hong-Yu Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China.
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4
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Henriques C, Lopes MM, Silva AC, Lobo DD, Badin RA, Hantraye P, Pereira de Almeida L, Nobre RJ. Viral-based animal models in polyglutamine disorders. Brain 2024; 147:1166-1189. [PMID: 38284949 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae012] [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: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyglutamine disorders are a complex group of incurable neurodegenerative disorders caused by an abnormal expansion in the trinucleotide cytosine-adenine-guanine tract of the affected gene. To better understand these disorders, our dependence on animal models persists, primarily relying on transgenic models. In an effort to complement and deepen our knowledge, researchers have also developed animal models of polyglutamine disorders employing viral vectors. Viral vectors have been extensively used to deliver genes to the brain, not only for therapeutic purposes but also for the development of animal models, given their remarkable flexibility. In a time- and cost-effective manner, it is possible to use different transgenes, at varying doses, in diverse targeted tissues, at different ages, and in different species, to recreate polyglutamine pathology. This paper aims to showcase the utility of viral vectors in disease modelling, share essential considerations for developing animal models with viral vectors, and provide a comprehensive review of existing viral-based animal models for polyglutamine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Henriques
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Gene and Stem Cell Therapies for the Brain Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Vectors, Gene and Cell Therapy Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- ViraVector-Viral Vector for Gene Transfer Core Facility, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miguel M Lopes
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Gene and Stem Cell Therapies for the Brain Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Vectors, Gene and Cell Therapy Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- ViraVector-Viral Vector for Gene Transfer Core Facility, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (III), University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana C Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Gene and Stem Cell Therapies for the Brain Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Vectors, Gene and Cell Therapy Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- ViraVector-Viral Vector for Gene Transfer Core Facility, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (III), University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Diana D Lobo
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Gene and Stem Cell Therapies for the Brain Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Vectors, Gene and Cell Therapy Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- ViraVector-Viral Vector for Gene Transfer Core Facility, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (III), University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Romina Aron Badin
- CEA, DRF, Institute of Biology François Jacob, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRCen), 92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
- CNRS, CEA, Paris-Sud University, Université Paris-Saclay, Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory (UMR9199), 92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Philippe Hantraye
- CEA, DRF, Institute of Biology François Jacob, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRCen), 92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
- CNRS, CEA, Paris-Sud University, Université Paris-Saclay, Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory (UMR9199), 92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Luís Pereira de Almeida
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Gene and Stem Cell Therapies for the Brain Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Vectors, Gene and Cell Therapy Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- ViraVector-Viral Vector for Gene Transfer Core Facility, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Jorge Nobre
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Gene and Stem Cell Therapies for the Brain Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Vectors, Gene and Cell Therapy Group, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- ViraVector-Viral Vector for Gene Transfer Core Facility, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (III), University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
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5
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Liu YJ, Wang JY, Zhang XL, Jiang LL, Hu HY. Ataxin-2 sequesters Raptor into aggregates and impairs cellular mTORC1 signaling. FEBS J 2024; 291:1795-1812. [PMID: 38308810 DOI: 10.1111/febs.17081] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Ataxin-2 (Atx2) is a polyglutamine (polyQ) protein, in which abnormal expansion of the polyQ tract can trigger protein aggregation and consequently cause spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2), but the mechanism underlying how Atx2 aggregation leads to proteinopathy remains elusive. Here, we investigate the molecular mechanism and cellular consequences of Atx2 aggregation by molecular cell biology approaches. We have revealed that either normal or polyQ-expanded Atx2 can sequester Raptor, a component of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), into aggregates based on their specific interaction. Further research indicates that the polyQ tract and the N-terminal region (residues 1-784) of Atx2 are responsible for the specific sequestration. Moreover, this sequestration leads to suppression of the mTORC1 activity as represented by down-regulation of phosphorylated P70S6K, which can be reversed by overexpression of Raptor. As mTORC1 is a key regulator of autophagy, Atx2 aggregation and sequestration also induces autophagy by upregulating LC3-II and reducing phosphorylated ULK1 levels. This study proposes that Atx2 sequesters Raptor into aggregates, thereby impairing cellular mTORC1 signaling and inducing autophagy, and will be beneficial for a better understanding of the pathogenesis of SCA2 and other polyQ diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Jun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Yang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang-Le Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lei-Lei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Yu Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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6
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Marinina KS, Bezprozvanny IB, Egorova PA. Cognitive Decline and Mood Alterations in the Mouse Model of Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 23:145-161. [PMID: 36680704 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-023-01520-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) is a hereditary disorder, caused by an expansion of polyglutamine in the ataxin-2 protein. Although the mutant protein is expressed throughout all the cell and organ types, the cerebellum is primarily affected. The disease progression is mainly accompanied by a decline in motor functions. However, the disturbances in cognitive abilities and low mental state have also been reported in patients. Recent evidence suggests that the cerebellar functionality expands beyond the motor control. Thus, the cerebellum turned out to be involved into the language, verbal working, and spatial memory; executive functions such as working memory, planning, organizing, and strategy formation; and emotional processing. Here, we used the transgenic SCA2-58Q mice to evaluate their anxiety, cognitive functions, and mood alterations. The expression of the mutant ataxin-2 specifically in the cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) in SCA2-58Q mice allowed us to study the direct involvement of the cerebellum into the cognitive and affective control. We determined that SCA2-58Q mice exhibit anxiolytic behavior, decline in spatial memory, and a depressive-like state. Our results support the idea of cerebellar involvement in cognitive control and the handling of emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ksenia S Marinina
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ilya B Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
- Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Polina A Egorova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
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Felício D, du Mérac TR, Amorim A, Martins S. Functional implications of paralog genes in polyglutamine spinocerebellar ataxias. Hum Genet 2023; 142:1651-1676. [PMID: 37845370 PMCID: PMC10676324 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-023-02607-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Polyglutamine (polyQ) spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) comprise a group of autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorders caused by (CAG/CAA)n expansions. The elongated stretches of adjacent glutamines alter the conformation of the native proteins inducing neurotoxicity, and subsequent motor and neurological symptoms. Although the etiology and neuropathology of most polyQ SCAs have been extensively studied, only a limited selection of therapies is available. Previous studies on SCA1 demonstrated that ATXN1L, a human duplicated gene of the disease-associated ATXN1, alleviated neuropathology in mice models. Other SCA-associated genes have paralogs (i.e., copies at different chromosomal locations derived from duplication of the parental gene), but their functional relevance and potential role in disease pathogenesis remain unexplored. Here, we review the protein homology, expression pattern, and molecular functions of paralogs in seven polyQ dominant ataxias-SCA1, SCA2, MJD/SCA3, SCA6, SCA7, SCA17, and DRPLA. Besides ATXN1L, we highlight ATXN2L, ATXN3L, CACNA1B, ATXN7L1, ATXN7L2, TBPL2, and RERE as promising functional candidates to play a role in the neuropathology of the respective SCA, along with the parental gene. Although most of these duplicates lack the (CAG/CAA)n region, if functionally redundant, they may compensate for a partial loss-of-function or dysfunction of the wild-type genes in SCAs. We aim to draw attention to the hypothesis that paralogs of disease-associated genes may underlie the complex neuropathology of dominant ataxias and potentiate new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Felício
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Tanguy Rubat du Mérac
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - António Amorim
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sandra Martins
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.
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Guo R, Cui M, Li X, Wu M, Xu F, Zhang Y, Wang C, Feng P, Wang J, Huo S, Luo Z, Xing R, Gu J, Shi X, Liu Y, Wang L. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of pyrrolopyrimidine derivatives as novel and selective positive modulator of the small conductance Ca 2+-activated K + channels. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 254:115353. [PMID: 37068385 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
The type 2 small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (SK2) have been considered as one of the most promising therapeutic targets for spinocerebellar ataxias type 2 (SCA2) by playing a critical role in the control of normal purkinje cells (PCs) pacemaking. Herein, a novel series of pyrrolopyrimidine derivatives were designed and synthesized from the lead compound NS13001 as subtype-selective modulators of SK channels. Among them, the halogen-substituted compound 12b (EC50 = 0.34 ± 0.044 μM) was identified with a ∼5.4-fold higher potency on potentiating SK2-a channels at submicromolar concentrations as compared to NS13001 (EC50 = 1.83 ± 0.50 μM). Furthermore, compound 12b exhibited selectivity on SK2-a/SK3 subtype by displaying 93.33 ± 3.26% efficacies on SK2-a channels, and 84.54% ± 7.49% on SK3 channels. In addition, compound 12b demonstrated the potential to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) with suitable pharmacokinetic properties and low cytotoxicity. Molecular docking study also unveiled the binding interactions of compound 12b with SK2-CaM protein complex. Overall, the novel pyrrolopyrimidines provide an insightful guidance for future structural optimization of SK channel agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Guo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Miao Cui
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Mengqi Wu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Yining Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Chun Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Penglei Feng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Jianchao Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Sijia Huo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Zijun Luo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Ruijuan Xing
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Jianmin Gu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Xiaowei Shi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China; Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China; Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Research and Evaluation, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.
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Egorova PA, Marinina KS, Bezprozvanny IB. Chronic suppression of STIM1-mediated calcium signaling in Purkinje cells rescues the cerebellar pathology in spinocerebellar ataxia type 2. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2023; 1870:119466. [PMID: 36940741 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Distorted neuronal calcium signaling has been reported in many neurodegenerative disorders, including different types of spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs). Cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) are primarily affected in SCAs and the disturbances in the calcium homeostasis were observed in SCA PCs. Our previous results have revealed that 3,5-dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG) induced greater calcium responses in SCA2-58Q PC cultures than in wild type (WT) PC cultures. Here we observed that glutamate-induced calcium release in PCs cells bodies is significantly higher in SCA2-58Q PCs from acute cerebellar slices compared to WT PCs of the same age. Recent studies have demonstrated that the stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) plays an important role in the regulation of the neuronal calcium signaling in cerebellar PCs in mice. The main function of STIM1 is to regulate store-operated calcium entry through the TRPC/Orai channels formation to refill the calcium stores in the ER when it is empty. Here we demonstrated that the chronic viral-mediated expression of the small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting STIM1 specifically in cerebellar PCs alleviates the deranged calcium signaling in SCA2-58Q PCs, rescues the spine loss in these cerebellar neurons, and also improves the motor decline in SCA2-58Q mice. Thus, our preliminary results support the important role of the altered neuronal calcium signaling in SCA2 pathology and also suggest the STIM1-mediated signaling pathway as a potential therapeutic target for treatment of SCA2 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polina A Egorova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ksenia S Marinina
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ilya B Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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10
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Vázquez-Mojena Y, Rodríguez-Córdova Y, Dominguez-Barrios Y, León-Arcia K, Miranda-Becerra D, Gonzalez-Zaldivar Y, Guerra-Bustillos G, Ziemann U, Auburger G, Rodríguez-Labrada R, Robinson-Agramonte MDLÁ, Velázquez-Pérez L. Peripheral Inflammation Links with the Severity of Clinical Phenotype in Spinocerebellar Ataxia 2. Mov Disord 2023. [PMID: 36811296 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of peripheral inflammation in spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) is unknown. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to identify peripheral inflammation biomarkers and their relationship with the clinical and molecular features. METHODS Blood cell count-derived inflammatory indices were measured in 39 SCA2 subjects and their matched controls. Clinical scores of ataxia, nonataxia, and cognitive dysfunction were assessed. RESULTS The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), the Systemic Inflammation Index (SII), and the Aggregate Index of Systemic Inflammation (AISI) were significantly increased in SCA2 subjects compared with controls. The increases in PLR, SII, and AISI were even observed in preclinical carriers. NLR, PLR, and SII were correlated with the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia speech item score rather than with the total score. The NLR and SII were correlated with the nonataxia and the cognitive scores. CONCLUSIONS Peripheral inflammatory indices are biomarkers in SCA2, which may help to design future immunomodulatory trials and advance our understanding of the disease. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Karen León-Arcia
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cuban Centre for Neuroscience, Havana, Cuba
| | - David Miranda-Becerra
- Department of Educational Neurosciences, Cuban Centre for Neuroscience, Havana, Cuba
| | - Yanetza Gonzalez-Zaldivar
- Molecular Genetics Department, Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguin, Cuba
| | | | - Ulf Ziemann
- Department of Neurology and Stroke, Eberhard-Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Department Neurology and Stroke, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Eberhard-Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Georg Auburger
- Experimental Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
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11
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Jain M, Patil N, Abdi G, Abbasi Tarighat M, Mohammed A, Ahmad Mohd Zain MR, Goh KW. Mechanistic Insights and Potential Therapeutic Approaches in PolyQ Diseases via Autophagy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11010162. [PMID: 36672670 PMCID: PMC9856063 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11010162] [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: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyglutamine diseases are a group of congenital neurodegenerative diseases categorized with genomic abnormalities in the expansion of CAG triplet repeats in coding regions of specific disease-related genes. Protein aggregates are the toxic hallmark for polyQ diseases and initiate neuronal death. Autophagy is a catabolic process that aids in the removal of damaged organelles or toxic protein aggregates, a process required to maintain cellular homeostasis that has the potential to fight against neurodegenerative diseases, but this pathway gets affected under diseased conditions, as there is a direct impact on autophagy-related gene expression. The increase in the accumulation of autophagy vesicles reported in neurodegenerative diseases was due to an increase in autophagy or may have been due to a decrease in autophagy flux. These reports suggested that there is a contribution of autophagy in the pathology of diseases and regulation in the process of autophagy. It was demonstrated in various disease models of polyQ diseases that autophagy upregulation by using modulators can enhance the dissolution of toxic aggregates and delay disease progression. In this review, interaction of the autophagy pathway with polyQ diseases was analyzed, and a therapeutic approach with autophagy inducing drugs was established for disease pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukul Jain
- Department of Lifesciences, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, India
- Lab 209 Cell and Developmental Biology Lab, Centre of Research for Development, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, India
| | - Nil Patil
- Department of Lifesciences, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, India
- Lab 209 Cell and Developmental Biology Lab, Centre of Research for Development, Parul University, Vadodara 391760, India
| | - Gholamreza Abdi
- Department of Biotechnology, Persian Gulf Research Institute, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr, 75169, Iran
- Correspondence: (G.A.); (M.R.A.M.Z.); (K.W.G.)
| | - Maryam Abbasi Tarighat
- Faculty of Nano and Bio Science and Technology, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr 75169, Iran
| | - Arifullah Mohammed
- Department of Agriculture, Faculty of Agro-Based Industry, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli 17600, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Rajaei Ahmad Mohd Zain
- Department of Orthopaedics, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian 16150, Malaysia
- Correspondence: (G.A.); (M.R.A.M.Z.); (K.W.G.)
| | - Khang Wen Goh
- Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, Nilai 71800, Malaysia
- Correspondence: (G.A.); (M.R.A.M.Z.); (K.W.G.)
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12
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Egorova PA, Bezprozvanny IB. Electrophysiological Studies Support Utility of Positive Modulators of SK Channels for the Treatment of Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 21:742-749. [PMID: 34978024 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-021-01349-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) is an incurable hereditary disorder accompanied by cerebellar degeneration following ataxic symptoms. The causative gene for SCA2 is ATXN2. The ataxin-2 protein is involved in RNA metabolism; the polyQ expansion may interrupt ataxin-2 interaction with its molecular targets, thus representing a loss-of-function mutation. However, mutant ataxin-2 protein also displays the features of gain-of-function mutation since it forms the aggregates in SCA2 cells and also enhances the IP3-induced calcium release in affected neurons. The cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) are primarily affected in SCA2. Their tonic pacemaker activity is crucial for the proper cerebellar functioning. Disturbances in PC pacemaking are observed in many ataxic disorders. The abnormal intrinsic pacemaking was reported in mouse models of episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2), SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, SCA6, Huntington's disease (HD), and in some other murine models of the disorders associated with the cerebellar degeneration. In our studies using SCA2-58Q transgenic mice via cerebellar slice recording and in vivo recording from urethane-anesthetized mice and awake head-fixed mice, we have demonstrated the impaired firing frequency and irregularity of PCs in these mice. PC pacemaker activity is regulated by SK channels. The pharmacological activation of SK channels has demonstrated some promising results in the electrophysiological experiments on EA2, SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, SCA6, HD mice, and also on mutant CACNA1A mice. In our studies, we have reported that the SK activators CyPPA and NS309 converted bursting activity into tonic, while oral treatment with CyPPA and NS13001 significantly improved motor performance and PC morphology in SCA2 mice. The i.p. injections of chlorzoxazone (CHZ) during in vivo recording sessions converted bursting cells into tonic in anesthetized SCA2 mice. And, finally, long-term injections of CHZ recovered the precision of PC pacemaking activity in awake SCA2 mice and alleviated their motor decline. Thus, the SK activation can be used as a potential way to treat SCA2 and other diseases accompanied by cerebellar degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polina A Egorova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Ilya B Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia.
- Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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13
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Skeletal Muscle Pathogenesis in Polyglutamine Diseases. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132105. [PMID: 35805189 PMCID: PMC9265456 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyglutamine diseases are characterized by selective dysfunction and degeneration of specific types of neurons in the central nervous system. In addition, nonneuronal cells can also be affected as a consequence of primary degeneration or due to neuronal dysfunction. Skeletal muscle is a primary site of toxicity of polyglutamine-expanded androgen receptor, but it is also affected in other polyglutamine diseases, more likely due to neuronal dysfunction and death. Nonetheless, pathological processes occurring in skeletal muscle atrophy impact the entire body metabolism, thus actively contributing to the inexorable progression towards the late and final stages of disease. Skeletal muscle atrophy is well recapitulated in animal models of polyglutamine disease. In this review, we discuss the impact and relevance of skeletal muscle in patients affected by polyglutamine diseases and we review evidence obtained in animal models and patient-derived cells modeling skeletal muscle.
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14
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Li X, Cao G, Liu X, Tang TS, Guo C, Liu H. Polymerases and DNA Repair in Neurons: Implications in Neuronal Survival and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:852002. [PMID: 35846567 PMCID: PMC9279898 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.852002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Most of the neurodegenerative diseases and aging are associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) or other intracellular damaging agents that challenge the genome integrity of the neurons. As most of the mature neurons stay in G0/G1 phase, replication-uncoupled DNA repair pathways including BER, NER, SSBR, and NHEJ, are pivotal, efficient, and economic mechanisms to maintain genomic stability without reactivating cell cycle. In these progresses, polymerases are prominent, not only because they are responsible for both sensing and repairing damages, but also for their more diversified roles depending on the cell cycle phase and damage types. In this review, we summarized recent knowledge on the structural and biochemical properties of distinct polymerases, including DNA and RNA polymerases, which are known to be expressed and active in nervous system; the biological relevance of these polymerases and their interactors with neuronal degeneration would be most graphically illustrated by the neurological abnormalities observed in patients with hereditary diseases associated with defects in DNA repair; furthermore, the vicious cycle of the trinucleotide repeat (TNR) and impaired DNA repair pathway is also discussed. Unraveling the mechanisms and contextual basis of the role of the polymerases in DNA damage response and repair will promote our understanding about how long-lived postmitotic cells cope with DNA lesions, and why disrupted DNA repair contributes to disease origin, despite the diversity of mutations in genes. This knowledge may lead to new insight into the development of targeted intervention for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Li
- Nano-Biotechnology Key Lab of Hebei Province, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao, China
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Xiaoling Li
| | - Guanghui Cao
- Nano-Biotechnology Key Lab of Hebei Province, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Xiaokang Liu
- Nano-Biotechnology Key Lab of Hebei Province, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Tie-Shan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Caixia Guo
- Beijing Institute of Genomics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences/China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Caixia Guo
| | - Hongmei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- Hongmei Liu
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15
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Ataxia with Ocular Apraxia Type 1 (AOA1) (APTX, W279* Mutation): Neurological, Neuropsychological, and Molecular Outlining of a Heterogenous Phenotype in Four Colombian Siblings. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3845-3858. [PMID: 35420381 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02821-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary ataxias are a group of devastating neurological disorders that affect coordination of gait and are often associated with poor coordination of hands, speech, and eye movements. Ataxia with ocular apraxia type 1 (AOA1) (OMIM: 606,350.0006) is characterized by slowly progressive symptoms of childhood-onset and pathogenic mutations in APTX; the only known cause underpinning AOA1. APTX encodes the protein aprataxin, composed of three domains sharing homology with proteins involved in DNA damage, signaling, and repair. We present four siblings from an endogamic family in a rural, isolated town of Colombia with ataxia and ocular apraxia of childhood-onset and confirmed molecular diagnosis of AOA1, homozygous for the W279* p.Trp279Ter mutation. We predicted the mutated APTX with AlphaFold to demonstrate the effects of this stop-gain mutation that deletes three beta helices encoded by amino acid 270 to 339 rescinding the C2H2-type zinc fingers (Znf) (C2H2 Znf) DNA-binding, the DNA-repair domain, and the whole 3D structure of APTX. All siblings exhibited different ages of onset (4, 6, 8, and 11 years old) and heterogeneous patterns of dysarthria (ranging from absence to mild-moderate dysarthria). Neuropsychological evaluation showed no neurocognitive impairment in three siblings, but one sibling showed temporospatial disorientation, semantic and phonologic fluency impairment, episodic memory affection, constructional apraxia, moderate anomia, low executive function, and symptoms of depression. To our knowledge, this report represents the most extensive series of siblings affected with AOA1 in Latin America, and the genetic analysis completed adds important knowledge to outline this family's disease and general complex phenotype of hereditary ataxias.
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16
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Lipid Dyshomeostasis and Inherited Cerebellar Ataxia. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3800-3828. [PMID: 35420383 PMCID: PMC9148275 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02826-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Cerebellar ataxia is a form of ataxia that originates from dysfunction of the cerebellum, but may involve additional neurological tissues. Its clinical symptoms are mainly characterized by the absence of voluntary muscle coordination and loss of control of movement with varying manifestations due to differences in severity, in the site of cerebellar damage and in the involvement of extracerebellar tissues. Cerebellar ataxia may be sporadic, acquired, and hereditary. Hereditary ataxia accounts for the majority of cases. Hereditary ataxia has been tentatively divided into several subtypes by scientists in the field, and nearly all of them remain incurable. This is mainly because the detailed mechanisms of these cerebellar disorders are incompletely understood. To precisely diagnose and treat these diseases, studies on their molecular mechanisms have been conducted extensively in the past. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that some common pathogenic mechanisms exist within each subtype of inherited ataxia. However, no reports have indicated whether there is a common mechanism among the different subtypes of inherited cerebellar ataxia. In this review, we summarize the available references and databases on neurological disorders characterized by cerebellar ataxia and show that a subset of genes involved in lipid homeostasis form a new group that may cause ataxic disorders through a common mechanism. This common signaling pathway can provide a valuable reference for future diagnosis and treatment of ataxic disorders.
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17
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Ghanekar SD, Kuo SH, Staffetti JS, Zesiewicz TA. Current and Emerging Treatment Modalities for Spinocerebellar Ataxias. Expert Rev Neurother 2022; 22:101-114. [PMID: 35081319 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2022.2029703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA) are a group of rare neurodegenerative diseases that dramatically affect the lives of affected individuals and their families. Despite having a clear understanding of SCA's etiology, there are no current symptomatic or neuroprotective treatments approved by the FDA. AREAS COVERED Research efforts have greatly expanded the possibilities for potential treatments, including both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Great attention is also being given to novel therapeutics based in gene therapy, neurostimulation, and molecular targeting. This review article will address the current advances in the treatment of SCA and what potential interventions are on the horizon. EXPERT OPINION SCA is a highly complex and multifaceted disease family with the majority of research emphasizing symptomatic pharmacologic therapies. As pre-clinical trials for SCA and clinical trials for other neurodegenerative conditions illuminate the efficacy of disease modifying therapies such as AAV-mediated gene therapy and ASOs, the potential for addressing SCA at the pre-symptomatic stage is increasingly promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaila D Ghanekar
- University of South Florida (USF) Department of Neurology, USF Ataxia Research Center, Tampa, Florida, USA.,James A Haley Veteran's Hospital, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Sheng-Han Kuo
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.,Initiative for Columbia Ataxia and Tremor, New York, New York, USA
| | - Joseph S Staffetti
- University of South Florida (USF) Department of Neurology, USF Ataxia Research Center, Tampa, Florida, USA.,James A Haley Veteran's Hospital, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Theresa A Zesiewicz
- University of South Florida (USF) Department of Neurology, USF Ataxia Research Center, Tampa, Florida, USA.,James A Haley Veteran's Hospital, Tampa, Florida, USA
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18
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El-Sayed NS, Nam YW, Egorova PA, Nguyen HM, Orfali R, Rahman MA, Yang G, Wulff H, Bezprozvanny I, Parang K, Zhang M. Structure-Activity Relationship Study of Subtype-Selective Positive Modulators of K Ca2 Channels. J Med Chem 2022; 65:303-322. [PMID: 34962403 PMCID: PMC8758555 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
A series of modified N-cyclohexyl-2-(3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)-6-methylpyrimidin-4-amine (CyPPA) analogues were synthesized by replacing the cyclohexane moiety with different 4-substituted cyclohexane rings, tyrosine analogues, or mono- and dihalophenyl rings and were subsequently studied for their potentiation of KCa2 channel activity. Among the N-benzene-N-[2-(3,5-dimethyl-pyrazol-1-yl)-6-methyl-4-pyrimidinamine derivatives, halogen decoration at positions 2 and 5 of benzene-substituted 4-pyrimidineamine in compound 2q conferred a ∼10-fold higher potency, while halogen substitution at positions 3 and 4 of benzene-substituted 4-pyrimidineamine in compound 2o conferred a ∼7-fold higher potency on potentiating KCa2.2a channels, compared to that of the parent template CyPPA. Both compounds retained the KCa2.2a/KCa2.3 subtype selectivity. Based on the initial evaluation, compounds 2o and 2q were selected for testing in an electrophysiological model of spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2). Both compounds were able to normalize the abnormal firing of Purkinje cells in cerebellar slices from SCA2 mice, suggesting the potential therapeutic usefulness of these compounds for treating symptoms of ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naglaa Salem El-Sayed
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, 9401 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Young-Woo Nam
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, 9401 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Polina A Egorova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Politekhnicheskaya Ulitsa, 29, St. Petersburg, 195251, Russia
| | - Hai Minh Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Razan Orfali
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, 9401 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Mohammad Asikur Rahman
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, 9401 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Grace Yang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, 9401 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Heike Wulff
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Ilya Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Politekhnicheskaya Ulitsa, 29, St. Petersburg, 195251, Russia
- Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6001 Forest Park Road, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Keykavous Parang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, 9401 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Miao Zhang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, 9401 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
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19
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Marcelo A, Afonso IT, Afonso-Reis R, Brito DVC, Costa RG, Rosa A, Alves-Cruzeiro J, Ferreira B, Henriques C, Nobre RJ, Matos CA, de Almeida LP, Nóbrega C. Autophagy in Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2, a dysregulated pathway, and a target for therapy. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:1117. [PMID: 34845184 PMCID: PMC8630050 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04404-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) is an incurable and genetic neurodegenerative disorder. The disease is characterized by progressive degeneration of several brain regions, resulting in severe motor and non-motor clinical manifestations. The mutation causing SCA2 disease is an abnormal expansion of CAG trinucleotide repeats in the ATXN2 gene, leading to a toxic expanded polyglutamine segment in the translated ataxin-2 protein. While the genetic cause is well established, the exact mechanisms behind neuronal death induced by mutant ataxin-2 are not yet completely understood. Thus, the goal of this study is to investigate the role of autophagy in SCA2 pathogenesis and investigate its suitability as a target for therapeutic intervention. For that, we developed and characterized a new striatal lentiviral mouse model that resembled several neuropathological hallmarks observed in SCA2 disease, including formation of aggregates, neuronal marker loss, cell death and neuroinflammation. In this new model, we analyzed autophagic markers, which were also analyzed in a SCA2 cellular model and in human post-mortem brain samples. Our results showed altered levels of SQSTM1 and LC3B in cells and tissues expressing mutant ataxin-2. Moreover, an abnormal accumulation of these markers was detected in SCA2 patients' striatum and cerebellum. Importantly, the molecular activation of autophagy, using the compound cordycepin, mitigated the phenotypic alterations observed in disease models. Overall, our study suggests an important role for autophagy in the context of SCA2 pathology, proposing that targeting this pathway could be a potential target to treat SCA2 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Marcelo
- ABC-RI, Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute, Algarve Biomedical Center, Faro, Portugal
- PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Inês T Afonso
- ABC-RI, Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute, Algarve Biomedical Center, Faro, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Afonso-Reis
- ABC-RI, Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute, Algarve Biomedical Center, Faro, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - David V C Brito
- ABC-RI, Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute, Algarve Biomedical Center, Faro, Portugal
| | - Rafael G Costa
- ABC-RI, Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute, Algarve Biomedical Center, Faro, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Ana Rosa
- ABC-RI, Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute, Algarve Biomedical Center, Faro, Portugal
| | - João Alves-Cruzeiro
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Benedita Ferreira
- ABC-RI, Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute, Algarve Biomedical Center, Faro, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Carina Henriques
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui J Nobre
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos A Matos
- ABC-RI, Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute, Algarve Biomedical Center, Faro, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Luís Pereira de Almeida
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Clévio Nóbrega
- ABC-RI, Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute, Algarve Biomedical Center, Faro, Portugal.
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal.
- Champalimaud Research Program, Champalimaud Center for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal.
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20
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Marcelo A, Koppenol R, de Almeida LP, Matos CA, Nóbrega C. Stress granules, RNA-binding proteins and polyglutamine diseases: too much aggregation? Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:592. [PMID: 34103467 PMCID: PMC8187637 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03873-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Stress granules (SGs) are membraneless cell compartments formed in response to different stress stimuli, wherein translation factors, mRNAs, RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and other proteins coalesce together. SGs assembly is crucial for cell survival, since SGs are implicated in the regulation of translation, mRNA storage and stabilization and cell signalling, during stress. One defining feature of SGs is their dynamism, as they are quickly assembled upon stress and then rapidly dispersed after the stress source is no longer present. Recently, SGs dynamics, their components and their functions have begun to be studied in the context of human diseases. Interestingly, the regulated protein self-assembly that mediates SG formation contrasts with the pathological protein aggregation that is a feature of several neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, aberrant protein coalescence is a key feature of polyglutamine (PolyQ) diseases, a group of nine disorders that are caused by an abnormal expansion of PolyQ tract-bearing proteins, which increases the propensity of those proteins to aggregate. Available data concerning the abnormal properties of the mutant PolyQ disease-causing proteins and their involvement in stress response dysregulation strongly suggests an important role for SGs in the pathogenesis of PolyQ disorders. This review aims at discussing the evidence supporting the existence of a link between SGs functionality and PolyQ disorders, by focusing on the biology of SGs and on the way it can be altered in a PolyQ disease context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Marcelo
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal
- PhD Program in Biomedial Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Rebekah Koppenol
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal
- PhD Program in Biomedial Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Luís Pereira de Almeida
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos A Matos
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Clévio Nóbrega
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal.
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR), Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal.
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal.
- Champalimaud Research Program, Champalimaud Center for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal.
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21
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Ravanidis S, Bougea A, Karampatsi D, Papagiannakis N, Maniati M, Stefanis L, Doxakis E. Differentially Expressed Circular RNAs in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Patients with Parkinson's Disease. Mov Disord 2021; 36:1170-1179. [PMID: 33433033 PMCID: PMC8248110 DOI: 10.1002/mds.28467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background New noninvasive and affordable molecular approaches that will complement current practices and increase the accuracy of Parkinson's disease (PD) diagnosis are urgently needed. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are stable noncoding RNAs that accumulate with aging in neurons and are increasingly shown to regulate all aspects of neuronal development and function. Objectives Τhe aims of this study were to identify differentially expressed circRNAs in blood mononuclear cells of patients with idiopathic PD and explore the competing endogenous RNA networks affected. Methods Eighty‐seven circRNAs were initially selected based on relatively high gene expression in the human brain. More than half of these were readily detectable in blood mononuclear cells using real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. Comparative expression analysis was then performed in blood mononuclear cells from 60 control subjects and 60 idiopathic subjects with PD. Results Six circRNAs were significantly down‐regulated in patients with PD. The classifier that best distinguished PD consisted of four circRNAs with an area under the curve of 0.84. Cross‐linking immunoprecipitation‐sequencing data revealed that the RNA‐binding proteins bound by most of the deregulated circRNAs include the neurodegeneration‐associated FUS, TDP43, FMR1, and ATXN2. MicroRNAs predicted to be sequestered by most deregulated circRNAs have the Gene Ontology categories “protein modification” and “transcription factor activity” mostly enriched. Conclusions This is the first study that identifies specific circRNAs that may serve as diagnostic biomarkers for PD. Because they are highly expressed in the brain and are derived from genes with essential brain functions, they may also hint on the PD pathways affected. © 2021 Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stylianos Ravanidis
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasia Bougea
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Center of Clinical Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.,First Department of Neurology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitra Karampatsi
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Papagiannakis
- Center of Clinical Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.,First Department of Neurology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Matina Maniati
- Center of Clinical Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Leonidas Stefanis
- Center of Clinical Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.,First Department of Neurology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Epaminondas Doxakis
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
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22
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In vivo analysis of the spontaneous firing of cerebellar Purkinje cells in awake transgenic mice that model spinocerebellar ataxia type 2. Cell Calcium 2020; 93:102319. [PMID: 33248384 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2020.102319] [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: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) fire spontaneously in a tonic mode, although the precision of this pacemaking activity is disturbed in many abnormal conditions involving cerebellar atrophy, such as many spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs). In our previous studies we used the single-unit extracellular recording method to analyze spontaneous PC firing in vivo in the anesthetized SCA2-58Q transgenic mice. We realized that PCs from aging SCA2-58Q mice fire much less regularly compared to PCs from their wild type (WT) littermates and this abnormal activity can be reversed with an intraperitoneal (i. p.) injection of SK channel-positive modulator chlorzoxazone (CHZ). Here we used the same single-unit extracellular recording method to analyze the spontaneous firing in vivo in awake SCA2-58Q transgenic mice. For this purpose, we used the Mobile HomeCage (Neurotar, Finland) floating platform to immobilize the experimental animal's head during the recording sessions. We discovered that generally PCs from awake animals fired much more frequently and much less regularly than previously observed PCs from anesthetized animals. In vivo recordings from awake SCA2/WT mice revealed that complex spikes, which are generated by PCs in reply to the excitation coming by climbing fibers, as well as simple spikes, were much less frequent in SCA2 mice compared to their WT littermates. To test the effect of the SK channel positive modulation on the PCs firing activity in awake SCA2 mice and also the effect on their motor coordination, we started the CHZ trial in these mice. We discovered that the long-term i. p. injections of CHZ did not affect the spike generation in SCA2-58Q mice, however, they did recover the precision of this spontaneous pacemaking activity. Furthermore, we also showed that treatment with CHZ alleviated the age-dependent motor impairment in SCA2-58Q mice. We propose that the lack of precision in PC spike generation might be a key cause for the progression of ataxic symptoms in different SCAs and that the activation of calcium-activated potassium channels, including SK channels, can be used as a potential way to treat SCAs on the physiological level of the disease.
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23
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Schwartz JL, Jones KL, Yeo GW. Repeat RNA expansion disorders of the nervous system: post-transcriptional mechanisms and therapeutic strategies. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 56:31-53. [PMID: 33172304 PMCID: PMC8192115 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2020.1841726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Dozens of incurable neurological disorders result from expansion of short repeat sequences in both coding and non-coding regions of the transcriptome. Short repeat expansions underlie microsatellite repeat expansion (MRE) disorders including myotonic dystrophy (DM1, CUG50–3,500 in DMPK; DM2, CCTG75–11,000 in ZNF9), fragile X tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS, CGG50–200 in FMR1), spinal bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA, CAG40–55 in AR), Huntington’s disease (HD, CAG36–121 in HTT), C9ORF72-amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)/frontotemporal dementia (FTD and C9-ALS/FTD, GGGGCC in C9ORF72), and many others, like ataxias. Recent research has highlighted several mechanisms that may contribute to pathology in this heterogeneous class of neurological MRE disorders – bidirectional transcription, intranuclear RNA foci, and repeat associated non-AUG (RAN) translation – which are the subject of this review. Additionally, many MRE disorders share similar underlying molecular pathologies that have been recently targeted in experimental and preclinical contexts. We discuss the therapeutic potential of versatile therapeutic strategies that may selectively target disrupted RNA-based processes and may be readily adaptable for the treatment of multiple MRE disorders. Collectively, the strategies under consideration for treatment of multiple MRE disorders include reducing levels of toxic RNA, preventing RNA foci formation, and eliminating the downstream cellular toxicity associated with peptide repeats produced by RAN translation. While treatments are still lacking for the majority of MRE disorders, several promising therapeutic strategies have emerged and will be evaluated within this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua L Schwartz
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Krysten Leigh Jones
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Gene W Yeo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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24
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Neves-Carvalho A, Duarte-Silva S, Teixeira-Castro A, Maciel P. Polyglutamine spinocerebellar ataxias: emerging therapeutic targets. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:1099-1119. [PMID: 32962458 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1827394] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Six of the most frequent dominantly inherited spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) worldwide - SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, SCA6, SCA7, and SCA17 - are caused by an expansion of a polyglutamine (polyQ) tract in the corresponding proteins. While the identification of the causative mutation has advanced knowledge on the pathogenesis of polyQ SCAs, effective therapeutics able to mitigate the severe clinical manifestation of these highly incapacitating disorders are not yet available. AREAS COVERED This review provides a comprehensive and critical perspective on well-established and emerging therapeutic targets for polyQ SCAs; it aims to inspire prospective drug discovery efforts. EXPERT OPINION The landscape of polyQ SCAs therapeutic targets and strategies includes (1) the mutant genes and proteins themselves, (2) enhancement of endogenous protein quality control responses, (3) abnormal protein-protein interactions of the mutant proteins, (4) disturbed neuronal function, (5) mitochondrial function, energy availability and oxidative stress, and (6) glial dysfunction, growth factor or hormone imbalances. Challenges include gaining a clearer definition of therapeutic targets for the drugs in clinical development, the discovery of novel drug-like molecules for challenging key targets, and the attainment of a stronger translation of preclinical findings to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Neves-Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho , Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory , Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Sara Duarte-Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho , Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory , Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Andreia Teixeira-Castro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho , Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory , Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Maciel
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho , Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory , Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
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25
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Sun L, Wei H. Ryanodine Receptors: A Potential Treatment Target in Various Neurodegenerative Disease. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2020; 41:1613-1624. [PMID: 32833122 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00936-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Progressive neuronal demise is a key contributor to the key pathogenic event implicated in many different neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs). There are several therapeutic strategies available; however, none of them are particularly effective. Targeted neuroprotective therapy is one such therapy, which seems a compelling option, yet remains challenging due to the internal heterogeneity of the mechanisms underlying various NDDs. An alternative method to treat NDDs is to exploit common modalities involving molecularly distinct subtypes and thus develop specialized drugs with broad-spectrum characteristics. There is mounting evidence which supports for the theory that dysfunctional ryanodine receptors (RyRs) disrupt intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, contributing to NDDs significantly. This review aims to provide direct and indirect evidence on the intersection of NDDs and RyRs malfunction, and to shed light on novel strategies to treat RyRs-mediated disease, modifying pharmacological therapies such as the potential therapeutic role of dantrolene, a RyRs antagonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 305 John Morgan Building, 3610 Hamilton Walk, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Huafeng Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 305 John Morgan Building, 3610 Hamilton Walk, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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26
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Park JY, Joo K, Woo SJ. Ophthalmic Manifestations and Genetics of the Polyglutamine Autosomal Dominant Spinocerebellar Ataxias: A Review. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:892. [PMID: 32973440 PMCID: PMC7472957 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) is a part of the cerebellar neurodegenerative disease group that is diverse in genetics and phenotypes. It usually shows autosomal dominant inheritance. SCAs, always together with the cerebellar degeneration, may exhibit clinical deficits in brainstem or eye, especially retina or optic nerve. Interestingly, autosomal dominant SCAs share a common genetic mechanism; the length of the glutamine chain is abnormally expanded due to the increase in the cytosine–adenine–guanine (CAG) repeats of the disease causing gene. Studies have suggested that the mutant ataxin induces alteration of protein conformation and abnormal aggregation resulting in nuclear inclusions, and causes cellular loss of photoreceptors through a toxic effect. As a result, these pathologic changes induce a downregulation of genes involved in the phototransduction, development, and differentiation of photoreceptors such as CRX, one of the photoreceptor transcription factors. However, the exact mechanism of neuronal degeneration by mutant ataxin restricted to only certain type of neuronal cell including cerebellar Purkinje neurons and photoreceptor is still unclear. The most common SCAs are types 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, and 17 which contain about 80% of autosomal dominant SCA cases. Various aspects of eye movement abnormalities are evident depending on the degree of cerebellar and brainstem degeneration in SCAs. In addition, certain types of SCAs such as SCA7 are characterized by both cerebellar ataxia and visual loss mainly due to retinal degeneration. The severity of the retinopathy can vary from occult macular photoreceptor disruption to extensive retinal atrophy and is correlated with the number of CAG repeats. The value of using optical coherence tomography in conjunction with electrodiagnostic and genetic testing is emphasized as the combination of these tests can provide critical information regarding the etiology, morphological evaluation, and functional significances. Therefore, ophthalmologists need to recognize and differentiate SCAs in order to properly diagnose and evaluate the disease. In this review, we have described and discussed SCAs showing ophthalmic abnormalities with particular attention to their ophthalmic features, neurodegenerative mechanisms, genetics, and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Young Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kwangsic Joo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Se Joon Woo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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27
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Niewiadomska-Cimicka A, Hache A, Trottier Y. Gene Deregulation and Underlying Mechanisms in Spinocerebellar Ataxias With Polyglutamine Expansion. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:571. [PMID: 32581696 PMCID: PMC7296114 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyglutamine spinocerebellar ataxias (polyQ SCAs) include SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, SCA6, SCA7, and SCA17 and constitute a group of adult onset neurodegenerative disorders caused by the expansion of a CAG repeat sequence located within the coding region of specific genes, which translates into polyglutamine tract in the corresponding proteins. PolyQ SCAs are characterized by degeneration of the cerebellum and its associated structures and lead to progressive ataxia and other diverse symptoms. In recent years, gene and epigenetic deregulations have been shown to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of polyQ SCAs. Here, we provide an overview of the functions of wild type and pathogenic polyQ SCA proteins in gene regulation, describe the extent and nature of gene expression changes and their pathological consequences in diseases, and discuss potential avenues to further investigate converging and distinct disease pathways and to develop therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Niewiadomska-Cimicka
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104, Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U964, Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Antoine Hache
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104, Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U964, Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Yvon Trottier
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104, Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U964, Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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28
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Egorova PA, Gavrilova AV, Bezprozvanny IB. Ataxic Symptoms in Huntington's Disease Transgenic Mouse Model Are Alleviated by Chlorzoxazone. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:279. [PMID: 32317916 PMCID: PMC7147686 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s disease (HD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative disease caused by a polyglutamine expansion in the huntingtin protein, Striatum atrophy in HD leads to a progressive disturbance of psychiatric, motor, and cognitive function. Recent studies of HD patients revealed that the degeneration of cerebellum is also observed independently from the striatal atrophy during early HD stage and may contribute to the motor impairment and ataxia observed in HD. Cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) are responsible for the proper cerebellar pathways functioning and motor control. Recent studies on mouse models of HD have shown that the abnormality of the biochemical functions of PCs are observed in HD, suggesting the contribution of PC dysfunction and death to the impaired movement coordination observed in HD. To investigate ataxic symptoms in HD we performed a series of experiments with the yeast artificial chromosome transgenic mouse model of HD (YAC128). Using extracellular single-unit recording method we found that the portion of the cerebellar PCs with bursting and irregular patterns of spontaneous activity drastically rises in aged YAC128 HD mice when compared with wild type littermates. Previous studies demonstrated that SK channels are responsible for the cerebellar PC pacemaker activity and that positive modulation of SK channel activity exerted beneficial effects in different ataxic mouse models. Here we studied effects of the SK channels modulator chlorzoxazone (CHZ) on the motor behavior of YAC128 HD mice and also on the electrophysiological activity and neuroanatomy of the cerebellar PCs from these mice. We determined that the long-term intraperitoneal injections of CHZ alleviated the progressive impairment in the firing pattern of YAC128 PCs. We also demonstrated that treatment with CHZ rescued age-dependent motor incoordination and improved the cerebellar morphology in YAC128 mice. We propose that abnormal changes in the PC firing patterns might be a one of the possible causes of ataxic symptoms in HD and in other polyglutamine disorders and that the pharmacological activation of SK channels may serve as a potential way to improve the activity of cerebellar PCs and relieve the ataxic phenotype in HD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polina A Egorova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Aleksandra V Gavrilova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ilya B Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia.,Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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29
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Ellerby
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 8001 Redwood Blvd, Novato, CA, 94945, USA.
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30
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Naphade S, Tshilenge KT, Ellerby LM. Modeling Polyglutamine Expansion Diseases with Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Neurotherapeutics 2019; 16:979-998. [PMID: 31792895 PMCID: PMC6985408 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-019-00810-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyglutamine expansion disorders, which include Huntington's disease, have expanded CAG repeats that result in polyglutamine expansions in affected proteins. How this specific feature leads to distinct neuropathies in 11 different diseases is a fascinating area of investigation. Most proteins affected by polyglutamine expansions are ubiquitously expressed, yet their mechanisms of selective neurotoxicity are unknown. Induced pluripotent stem cells have emerged as a valuable tool to model diseases, understand molecular mechanisms, and generate relevant human neural and glia subtypes, cocultures, and organoids. Ideally, this tool will generate specific neuronal populations that faithfully recapitulate specific polyglutamine expansion disorder phenotypes and mimic the selective vulnerability of a given disease. Here, we review how induced pluripotent technology is used to understand the effects of the disease-causing polyglutamine protein on cell function, identify new therapeutic targets, and determine how polyglutamine expansion affects human neurodevelopment and disease. We will discuss ongoing challenges and limitations in our use of induced pluripotent stem cells to model polyglutamine expansion diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Naphade
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 8001 Redwood Blvd, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | | | - Lisa M Ellerby
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 8001 Redwood Blvd, Novato, CA, 94945, USA.
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