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Reza Naghdi M, Ahadi R, Motamed Nezhad A, Sadat Ahmadi Tabatabaei F, Soleimani M, Hajisoltani R. The neuroprotective effect of Diosgenin in the rat Valproic acid model of autism. Brain Res 2024; 1838:148963. [PMID: 38705555 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.148963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with two core behavioral symptoms restricted/repetitive behavior and social-communication deficit. The unknown etiology of ASD makes it difficult to identify potential treatments. Valproic acid (VPA) is an anticonvulsant drug with teratogenic effects during pregnancy in humans and rodents. Prenatal exposure to VPA induces autism-like behavior in both humans and rodents. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Diosgenin in prenatal Valproic acid-induced autism in rats. METHOD pregnant Wister female rats were given a single intraperitoneal injection of VPA (600 mg/kg, i.p.) on gestational day 12.5. The male offspring were given oral Dios (40 mg/kg, p.o.) or Carboxymethyl cellulose (5 mg/kg, p.o.) for 30 days starting from postnatal day 23. On postnatal day 52, behavioral tests were done. Additionally, biochemical assessments for oxidative stress markers were carried out on postnatal day 60. Further, histological evaluations were performed on the prefrontal tissue by Nissl staining and Immunohistofluorescence. RESULTS The VPA-exposed rats showed increased anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze (EPM). They also demonstrated repetitive and grooming behaviors in the marble burying test (MBT) and self-grooming test. Social interaction was reduced, and they had difficulty detecting the novel object in the novel object recognition (NOR) test. Also, VPA-treated rats have shown higher levels of oxidative stress malondialdehyde (MDA) and lower GPX, TAC, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. Furthermore, the number of neurons decreased and the ERK signaling pathway upregulated in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). On the other hand, treatment with Dios restored the behavioral consequences, lowered oxidative stress, and death of neurons, and rescued the overly activated ERK1/2 signaling in the prefrontal cortex. CONCLUSION Chronic treatment with Dios restored the behavioral, biochemical, and histological abnormalities caused by prenatal VPA exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Reza Ahadi
- Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Mansoureh Soleimani
- Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Razieh Hajisoltani
- Physiology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Kale G, Addepalli V, Joshi S. A snapshot on introspection of autism spectrum disorder. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:610. [PMID: 38704762 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09514-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by restricted interests and difficulty with social communication. ASD is characterized by heightened neuroinflammation and irregular neuronal connections. ASD is more frequent in male than female with male-female ratio of around 4:1. ASD affects 2.8% or 1 in 36 8-year-olds, based on the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Various factors like Environmental, Genetic, Epigenetic and Developmental factors are linked with genesis of ASD. Repetitive behaviors, Impaired communication skills, difficulty with social interaction are some of the clinical features of ASD. Current Pharmacotherapy of ASD limits to management of symptoms only, not cure. The stem cell therapy has a promising potential to be a breakthrough in treating ASD. Various types of stem cells have been successfully tested in children with ASD. AI has a potential to emerge as a tool for early detection of ASD. Robotics can assist the children with ASD to overcome the challenges associated with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Govind Kale
- Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune, 411018, Maharashtra, India
| | - Veeranjaneyulu Addepalli
- Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune, 411018, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Sharvari Joshi
- Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune, 411018, Maharashtra, India
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Li Y, Ma R, Hao X. Therapeutic role of PTEN in tissue regeneration for management of neurological disorders: stem cell behaviors to an in-depth review. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:268. [PMID: 38627382 PMCID: PMC11021430 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06657-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) represents the initial tumor suppressor gene identified to possess phosphatase activity, governing various cellular processes including cell cycle regulation, migration, metabolic pathways, autophagy, oxidative stress response, and cellular senescence. Current evidence suggests that PTEN is critical for stem cell maintenance, self-renewal, migration, lineage commitment, and differentiation. Based on the latest available evidence, we provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms by which PTEN regulates activities of different stem cell populations and influences neurological disorders, encompassing autism, stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. This review aims to elucidate the therapeutic impacts and mechanisms of PTEN in relation to neurogenesis or the stem cell niche across a range of neurological disorders, offering a foundation for innovative therapeutic approaches aimed at tissue repair and regeneration in neurological disorders. This review unravels novel therapeutic strategies for tissue restoration and regeneration in neurological disorders based on the regulatory mechanisms of PTEN on neurogenesis and the stem cell niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, 999078, Macau, China.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, 999078, Macau, China.
| | - Ruishuang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 301617, Tianjin, China
| | - Xia Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 301617, Tianjin, China
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Jingyi L, Lin W, Yuan C, Lingling Z, Qianqian J, Anlong X, Yansong G. Intravenous transplantation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells improved behavioral deficits and altered fecal microbiota composition of BTBR mice. Life Sci 2024; 336:122330. [PMID: 38065352 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
AIMS It is recognized that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly complex neurodevelopmental disorder with communication deficits as well as multiple social barriers. The core symptoms of ASD are not treatable with current therapeutics. Therefore, finding new treatment strategies for ASD is urgently needed. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have been shown to be a promising therapeutic approach in previous studies. However, the underlying mechanisms of MSC treatment for ASD through gut microbiota remain unclear and require further investigation. MAIN METHODS BTBR mice were used as ASD model and then randomly assigned to the human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hBMMSC) intravenous treatment group or vehicle treatment group. C57BL/6J (C57) mice served as control. Multiple social behavioral tests were performed during the 6-week period and fecal samples were collected at different time points for 16 s rRNA sequencing analysis. KEY FINDINGS The administration of hBMMSC improved social deficits of BTBR mice in the open field test (OFT), light-dark box test (LBT), novel object recognition (NOR), and free social test (FST), while also significantly reducing stereotypic behaviors. Additionally, hBMMSC administration notably reversed the alterations of microbiota abundance in BTBR mice, particularly the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Several specific differential taxa were further selected and showed a correlation with the prognosis and behavioral scores of ASD. SIGNIFICANCE Overall, intravenous treatment with hBMMSC had a beneficial impact on ASD by ameliorating social deficits and modifying microbiota compositions. This outcome indicates that hBMMSC intravenous transplantation could be a promising therapeutic strategy for enhancing ASD symptoms improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Jingyi
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China; Jiuzhitang Maker (Beijing) Cell Technology Co., LTD., Beijing 102600, China
| | - Wang Lin
- Jiuzhitang Maker (Beijing) Cell Technology Co., LTD., Beijing 102600, China
| | - Chen Yuan
- Jiuzhitang Maker (Beijing) Cell Technology Co., LTD., Beijing 102600, China
| | - Zhang Lingling
- Jiuzhitang Maker (Beijing) Cell Technology Co., LTD., Beijing 102600, China
| | - Jiang Qianqian
- Jiuzhitang Maker (Beijing) Cell Technology Co., LTD., Beijing 102600, China
| | - Xu Anlong
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| | - Gao Yansong
- Jiuzhitang Maker (Beijing) Cell Technology Co., LTD., Beijing 102600, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Quality Attribute of Cell Therapy Products, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
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Sandhu A, Rawat K, Gautam V, Sharma A, Kumar A, Saha L. Phosphodiesterase inhibitor, ibudilast alleviates core behavioral and biochemical deficits in the prenatal valproic acid exposure model of autism spectrum disorder. Brain Res 2023; 1815:148443. [PMID: 37290608 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is categorized as a neurodevelopmental disorder, presenting with a variety of aetiological and phenotypical features. Ibudilast is known to produce beneficial effects in several neurological disorders including neuropathic pain, multiple sclerosis, etc. by displaying its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Here, in our study, the pharmacological outcome of ibudilast administration was investigated in the prenatal valproic acid (VPA)-model of ASD in Wistar rats. METHODS Autistic-like symptoms were induced in Wistar male pups of dams administered with Valproic acid (VPA) on embryonic day 12.5. VPA-exposed male pups were administered with two doses of ibudilast (5 and10 mg/kg) and all the groups were evaluated for behavioral parameters like social interaction, spatial memory/learning, anxiety, locomotor activity, and nociceptive threshold. Further, the possible neuroprotective effect of ibudilast was evaluated by assessing oxidative stress, neuroinflammation (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10) in the hippocampus, % area of Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive cells and neuronal damage in the cerebellum. KEY FINDINGS Treatment with ibudilast significantly attenuated prenatal VPA exposure associated social interaction and spatial learning/memory deficits, anxiety, hyperactivity, and increased nociceptive threshold, and it decreased oxidative stress markers, pro-inflammatory markers (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6), and % area of GFAP-positive cells and restored neuronal damage. CONCLUSIONS Ibudilast treatment has restored crucial ASD-related behavioural abnormalities, potentially through neuroprotection. Therefore, benefits of ibudilast administration in animal models of ASD suggest that ibudilast may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arushi Sandhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Kajal Rawat
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Vipasha Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Antika Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Anil Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Lekha Saha
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India.
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Wang L, Wang B, Wu C, Wang J, Sun M. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Neurodevelopmental Risk Factors, Biological Mechanism, and Precision Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031819. [PMID: 36768153 PMCID: PMC9915249 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous, behaviorally defined neurodevelopmental disorder. Over the past two decades, the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders has progressively increased, however, no clear diagnostic markers and specifically targeted medications for autism have emerged. As a result, neurobehavioral abnormalities, neurobiological alterations in ASD, and the development of novel ASD pharmacological therapy necessitate multidisciplinary collaboration. In this review, we discuss the development of multiple animal models of ASD to contribute to the disease mechanisms of ASD, as well as new studies from multiple disciplines to assess the behavioral pathology of ASD. In addition, we summarize and highlight the mechanistic advances regarding gene transcription, RNA and non-coding RNA translation, abnormal synaptic signaling pathways, epigenetic post-translational modifications, brain-gut axis, immune inflammation and neural loop abnormalities in autism to provide a theoretical basis for the next step of precision therapy. Furthermore, we review existing autism therapy tactics and limits and present challenges and opportunities for translating multidisciplinary knowledge of ASD into clinical practice.
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Viana CE, Bortolotto VC, Araujo SM, Dahleh MMM, Machado FR, de Souza Pereira A, Moreira de Oliveira BP, Leimann FV, Gonçalves OH, Prigol M, Guerra GP. Lutein-loaded nanoparticles reverse oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autism spectrum disorder-like behaviors induced by prenatal valproic acid exposure in female rats. Neurotoxicology 2023; 94:223-234. [PMID: 36528186 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social interaction and repetitive behaviors. In this study, we assessed the effect of lutein-loaded nanoparticles on ASD-like behaviors induced by prenatal valproic acid (VPA) exposure in female offspring rats and the possible involvement of oxidative stress and apoptosis. Pregnant female Wistar rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of VPA (600 mg/kg), on the gestational day 12.5. The VPA-exposed female offspring rats were divided into two subgroups and received either lutein-loaded nanoparticles (5 mg/kg) or saline by oral gavage, for 14 days. The animals were submitted to the three-chamber test and open field to evaluate ASD-like behaviors. The hippocampus was removed for the determination of oxidative stress indicators (ROS; TBARS; SOD and Nrf2) and apoptosis biomarkers (Hsp-70; p38-MAPK; Bax and Bcl-2). The exposure to lutein-loaded nanoparticles reversed sociability deficit, social memory deficit, and anxiety-like and repetitive behaviors induced by VPA, and restored the oxidative stress indicators and apoptosis biomarkers in the hippocampus. This neurochemical effect must be associated with the reversal of ASD-like behaviors. These results provide evidence that lutein-loaded nanoparticles are an alternative treatment for VPA-induced behavioral damage in female rats and suggest the involvement of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristini Escobar Viana
- Laboratório de Avaliações Farmacológicas e Toxicológicas Aplicadas às Moléculas Bioativas - LaftamBio, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Itaqui, 97650-000 Itaqui, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, 97508-000 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Vandreza Cardoso Bortolotto
- Laboratório de Avaliações Farmacológicas e Toxicológicas Aplicadas às Moléculas Bioativas - LaftamBio, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Itaqui, 97650-000 Itaqui, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, 97508-000 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Stífani Machado Araujo
- Laboratório de Avaliações Farmacológicas e Toxicológicas Aplicadas às Moléculas Bioativas - LaftamBio, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Itaqui, 97650-000 Itaqui, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, 97508-000 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Mustafa Munir Mustafa Dahleh
- Laboratório de Avaliações Farmacológicas e Toxicológicas Aplicadas às Moléculas Bioativas - LaftamBio, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Itaqui, 97650-000 Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Franciéle Romero Machado
- Laboratório de Avaliações Farmacológicas e Toxicológicas Aplicadas às Moléculas Bioativas - LaftamBio, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Itaqui, 97650-000 Itaqui, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, 97508-000 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Adson de Souza Pereira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, 97508-000 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Byanca Pereira Moreira de Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, Campus Campo Mourão, 87301-006 Campo Mourão, PR, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Vitória Leimann
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, Campus Campo Mourão, 87301-006 Campo Mourão, PR, Brazil; Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), ESA, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Odinei Hess Gonçalves
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, Campus Campo Mourão, 87301-006 Campo Mourão, PR, Brazil; Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), ESA, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Marina Prigol
- Laboratório de Avaliações Farmacológicas e Toxicológicas Aplicadas às Moléculas Bioativas - LaftamBio, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Itaqui, 97650-000 Itaqui, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, 97508-000 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Petri Guerra
- Laboratório de Avaliações Farmacológicas e Toxicológicas Aplicadas às Moléculas Bioativas - LaftamBio, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Itaqui, 97650-000 Itaqui, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, 97508-000 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil.
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Elgamal MA, Khodeer DM, Abdel-Wahab BA, Ibrahim IAA, Alzahrani AR, Moustafa YM, Ali AA, El-Sayed NM. Canagliflozin alleviates valproic acid-induced autism in rat pups: Role of PTEN/PDK/PPAR-γ signaling pathways. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1113966. [PMID: 36909191 PMCID: PMC9992196 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1113966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism is complex and multifactorial, and is one of the fastest growing neurodevelopmental disorders. Canagliflozin (Cana) is an antidiabetic drug that exhibits neuroprotective properties in various neurodegenerative syndromes. This study investigated the possible protective effect of Cana against the valproic acid (VPA)-induced model of autism. VPA was injected subcutaneously (SC) into rat pups at a dose of 300 mg/kg, twice daily on postnatal day-2 (PD-2) and PD-3, and once on PD-4 to induce an autism-like syndrome. Graded doses of Cana were administered (5 mg/kg, 7.5 mg/kg, and 10 mg/kg, P.O.) starting from the first day of VPA injections and continued for 21 days. At the end of the experiment, behavioral tests and histopathological alterations were assessed. In addition, the gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR γ), lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK), cellular myeloctomatosis (c-Myc) with protein expression of glucose transporter-1 (GLUT-1), phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), and level of acetylcholine (ACh) were determined. Treatment with Cana significantly counteracted histopathological changes in the cerebellum tissues of the brain induced by VPA. Cana (5 mg/kg, 7.5 mg/kg, and 10 mg/kg) improved sociability and social preference, enhanced stereotypic behaviors, and decreased hyperlocomotion activity, in addition to its significant effect on the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway via the downregulation of gene expression of LDHA (22%, 64%, and 73% in cerebellum tissues with 51%, 60%, and 75% in cerebrum tissues), PDK (27%, 50%, and 67% in cerebellum tissues with 34%, 66%, and 77% in cerebrum tissues), c-Myc (35%, 44%, and 72% in cerebellum tissues with 19%, 58%, and 79% in cerebrum tissues), protein expression of GLUT-1 (32%, 48%, and 49% in cerebellum tissues with 30%, 50%, and 54% in cerebrum tissues), and elevating gene expression of PPAR-γ (2, 3, and 4 folds in cerebellum tissues with 1.5, 3, and 9 folds in cerebrum tissues), protein expression of PTEN (2, 5, and 6 folds in cerebellum tissues with 6, 6, and 10 folds in cerebrum tissues), and increasing the ACh levels (4, 5, and 7 folds) in brain tissues. The current study confirmed the ameliorating effect of Cana against neurochemical and behavioral alterations in the VPA-induced model of autism in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam A Elgamal
- Egypt Healthcare Authority, Comprehensive Health Insurance, Port-Said, Egypt
| | - Dina M Khodeer
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Basel A Abdel-Wahab
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim Abdel Aziz Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah R Alzahrani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasser M Moustafa
- Dean of Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo, Badr City, Egypt.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Azza A Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Norhan M El-Sayed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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Dufour A, Dumon C, Gouty-Colomer LA, Eftekhari S, Ferrari DC, Ben-Ari Y. Prenatal reduction of E14.5 embryonically fate-mapped pyramidal neurons in a mouse model of autism. Eur J Neurosci 2022; 56:3875-3888. [PMID: 35636970 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Although several observations suggest that the constitutive biological, genetic or physiological changes leading to Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) start in utero, their early impact on the number and density of neurons in the brain remains unknown. Using genetic fate mapping associated with the iDISCO clearing method we identified and counted a selective population of neocortical and hippocampal pyramidal neurons in the in utero valproate (VPA) mouse model of autism. We report that one day before birth the number of pyramidal neurons born at E14.5 in the neocortex and hippocampus of VPA-mice is smaller than in age-matched controls. VPA also induced a reduction of the neocortical -but not hippocampal- volume one day before birth. Interestingly, VPA-mice present an increase in both neocortical and hippocampal volumes 2 days after birth compared to controls. These results suggest that the VPA-exposed hippocampus and neocortex differ substantially from controls during the highly complex perinatal period, and specially one day before birth, reflecting the early pathogenesis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Dufour
- Fundamental Research Department, Neurochlore, Marseille, France
| | - Camille Dumon
- Fundamental Research Department, Neurochlore, Marseille, France
| | | | - Sanaz Eftekhari
- Fundamental Research Department, Neurochlore, Marseille, France
| | - Diana C Ferrari
- Fundamental Research Department, Neurochlore, Marseille, France
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Juvenile handling rescues autism-related effects of prenatal exposure to valproic acid. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7174. [PMID: 35504947 PMCID: PMC9065111 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11269-7] [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: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental factors acting on young animals affect neurodevelopmental trajectories and impact adult brain function and behavior. Psychiatric disorders may be caused or worsen by environmental factors, but early interventions can improve performance. Understanding the possible mechanisms acting upon the developing brain could help identify etiological factors of psychiatric disorders and enable advancement of effective therapies. Research has focused on the long-lasting effects of environmental factors acting during the perinatal period, therefore little is known about the impact of these factors at later ages when neurodevelopmental pathologies such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are usually diagnosed. Here we show that handling mice during the juvenile period can rescue a range of behavioral and cellular effects of prenatal valproic acid (VPA) exposure. VPA-exposed animals show reduced sociability and increased repetitive behaviors, along with other autism-related endophenotypes such as increased immobility in the forced swim test and increased neuronal activity in the piriform cortex (Pir). Our results demonstrate that briefly handling mice every other day between postnatal days 22 and 34 can largely rescue these phenotypes. This effect can also be observed when animals are analyzed across tests using an “autism” factor, which also discriminates between animals with high and low Pir neuron activity. Thus, we identified a juvenile developmental window when environmental factors can determine adult autism-related behavior. In addition, our results have broader implications on behavioral neuroscience, as they highlight the importance of adequate experimental design and control of behavioral experiments involving treating or testing young animals.
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Li Y, Wu H, Jiang X, Dong Y, Zheng J, Gao J. New idea to promote the clinical applications of stem cells or their extracellular vesicles in central nervous system disorders: combining with intranasal delivery. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:3215-3232. [PMID: 35967290 PMCID: PMC9366301 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical translation of stem cells and their extracellular vesicles (EVs)-based therapy for central nervous system (CNS) diseases is booming. Nevertheless, the insufficient CNS delivery and retention together with the invasiveness of current administration routes prevent stem cells or EVs from fully exerting their clinical therapeutic potential. Intranasal (IN) delivery is a possible strategy to solve problems as IN route could circumvent the brain‒blood barrier non-invasively and fit repeated dosage regimens. Herein, we gave an overview of studies and clinical trials involved with IN route and discussed the possibility of employing IN delivery to solve problems in stem cells or EVs-based therapy. We reviewed relevant researches that combining stem cells or EVs-based therapy with IN administration and analyzed benefits brought by IN route. Finally, we proposed possible suggestions to facilitate the development of IN delivery of stem cells or EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaosheng Li
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Honghui Wu
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xinchi Jiang
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yunfei Dong
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Juanjuan Zheng
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jianqing Gao
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Corresponding author. Tel.: +86 571 88208436.
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12
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Villarreal-Martínez L, González-Martínez G, Sáenz-Flores M, Bautista-Gómez AJ, González-Martínez A, Ortiz-Castillo M, Robles-Sáenz DA, Garza-López E. Stem Cell Therapy in the Treatment of Patients With Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 18:155-164. [PMID: 34515938 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10257-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Assess the safety and efficacy of upcoming stem cell treatments and analyze their effects on the cognitive and behavioral impairments in patients diagnosed with autism. METHODS We included controlled and noncontrolled, randomized and non-randomized trials evaluating stem cell therapy as a treatment in patients with autism spectrum disorder compared to placebo or without comparator. DATA SOURCES Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE and EMBASE. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane's Risk of Bias tool and the NIH's Quality Assessment Tool for Studies With No Control Group. RESULTS Eleven trials including 461 patients proved eligible. ABC scale meta-analysis showed a mean raw of -11.97 in the intervention groups (95 % CI -91.45 to 67.52, p < 0.01). CARS scale reported a mean raw of -9.08 (95 % CI -15.43 to -2.73, p < 0.01). VABS scale was reported by their domains: communication domain reported a mean raw of 2.69 (95 % CI 1.30 to 4.08, p = 0.92); daily living domain, 1.99 (95 % CI 0.83 to 3.15, p = 0.51); motor domain, 1.06 (95 % CI -0.37 to 2.48, p = 0.20); socialization domain, 3.09 (95 % CI 1.71 to 4.48, p = 0.61); adaptive behavior domain, 2.10 (95 % CI 1.04 to 3.16, p = 0.36). Furthermore, the most common side effects reported included fever, hyperactivity, vomit, headache, and aggressiveness; no serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS The body of evidence suggests that stem cell therapy significantly improves scales in patients with autism spectrum disorder, hence, future studies should help us have more confidence in the results. We found no serious adverse events related to the stem cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Villarreal-Martínez
- Hematology Service, Hospital UniversitariöDr. José Eleuterio González¨, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Monterrey, México.
| | - Gerardo González-Martínez
- Hematology Service, Hospital UniversitariöDr. José Eleuterio González¨, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
| | - Melissa Sáenz-Flores
- Plataforma INVEST Medicina UANL-KER Unit Mayo Clinic (KER Unit Mexico), Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, 64460, México
| | - Andrea Judith Bautista-Gómez
- Hematology Service, Hospital UniversitariöDr. José Eleuterio González¨, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
| | - Adrián González-Martínez
- Hematology Service, Hospital UniversitariöDr. José Eleuterio González¨, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
| | - Miguel Ortiz-Castillo
- Hematology Service, Hospital UniversitariöDr. José Eleuterio González¨, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
| | - David Alejandro Robles-Sáenz
- Hematology Service, Hospital UniversitariöDr. José Eleuterio González¨, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
| | - Elizabeth Garza-López
- Plataforma INVEST Medicina UANL-KER Unit Mayo Clinic (KER Unit Mexico), Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, 64460, México
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13
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Bicker F, Nardi L, Maier J, Vasic V, Schmeisser MJ. Criss-crossing autism spectrum disorder and adult neurogenesis. J Neurochem 2021; 159:452-478. [PMID: 34478569 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comprises a group of multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorders primarily characterized by deficits in social interaction and repetitive behavior. Although the onset is typically in early childhood, ASD poses a lifelong challenge for both patients and caretakers. Adult neurogenesis (AN) is the process by which new functional neurons are created from neural stem cells existing in the post-natal brain. The entire event is based on a sequence of cellular processes, such as proliferation, specification of cell fate, maturation, and ultimately, synaptic integration into the existing neural circuits. Hence, AN is implicated in structural and functional brain plasticity throughout life. Accumulating evidence shows that impaired AN may underlie some of the abnormal behavioral phenotypes seen in ASD. In this review, we approach the interconnections between the molecular pathways related to AN and ASD. We also discuss existing therapeutic approaches targeting such pathways both in preclinical and clinical studies. A deeper understanding of how ASD and AN reciprocally affect one another could reveal important converging pathways leading to the emergence of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Bicker
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Leonardo Nardi
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jannik Maier
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Verica Vasic
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael J Schmeisser
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
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14
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A Brief Review on Erythropoietin and Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapies for Paediatric Neurological Disorders. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40778-021-00189-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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15
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Emerging mechanisms of valproic acid-induced neurotoxic events in autism and its implications for pharmacological treatment. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 137:111322. [PMID: 33761592 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a sort of mental disorder marked by deficits in cognitive and communication abilities. To date no effective cure for this pernicious disease has been available. Valproic acid (VPA) is a broad-spectrum, antiepileptic drug, and it is also a potent teratogen. Epidemiological studies have shown that children exposed to VPA are at higher risk for ASD during the first trimester of their gestational development. Several animal and human studies have demonstrated important behavioral impairments and morphological changes in the brain following VPA treatment. However, the mechanism of VPA exposure-induced ASD remains unclear. Several factors are involved in the pathological phase of ASD, including aberrant excitation/inhibition of synaptic transmission, neuroinflammation, diminished neurogenesis, oxidative stress, etc. In this review, we aim to outline the current knowledge of the critical pathophysiological mechanisms underlying VPA exposure-induced ASD. This review will give insight toward understanding the complex nature of VPA-induced neuronal toxicity and exploring a new path toward the development of novel pharmacological treatment against ASD.
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16
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Alò R, Olivito I, Fazzari G, Zizza M, Di Vito A, Avolio E, Mandalà M, Bruno R, Barni T, Canonaco M, Facciolo RM. Correlation of distinct behaviors to the modified expression of cerebral Shank1,3 and BDNF in two autistic animal models. Behav Brain Res 2021; 404:113165. [PMID: 33577886 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder featuring altered neuronal circuitry and consequently impaired social interactions, restrictive interests plus repetitive stereotypic activities. In the present study, differentiated behaviors of valproic (VPA) and propionic (PPA) acid-mediated autism rats were correlated to cerebral scaffolding proteins (Shank1,3) and BDNF expression variations. Sprague-Dawley offspring that received VPA during pregnancy displayed a notably diminished permanence (-78 %, p < 0.01) in the light chamber of light dark (LD) test, reduced exploratory tasks, i.e. grooming (-90 %) and rearing (-65 %). Moreover, they executed extremely greater climbing intervals (+300 %, p < 0.001) in novel cage (NC) test, plus exhibited an extremely reduced (-331 %) discrimination index in novel object recognition (NOR) test when compared to controls. PPA-treated postnatal days (PND) 12-16 rats also displayed anxiety-like behaviors, although in a less evident manner, as indicated by a moderate time (+55 %; p < 0.05) spent in dark chamber along with notable and moderate decreases in digging (-78 %) plus grooming (-52 %), respectively. Contextually, VPA- more than PPA supplied opposite Shank1,3 expression changes in cerebellum (CB; -62 %; +78 %), dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DM-PFC; +95 % -76 %), respectively, while resulting extremely upregulated in hippocampus (HIP; +125 % - +155 %). Even BDNF resulted to be substantially and notably diminished in HIP (-85 %) and DM-PFC (-72 %), respectively, of VPA rats while it was only moderately reduced (-35 % to -45 %) in these same areas of PPA rats. The early altered brain-specific expression levels accounting for different behavioral performances may provide useful diagnostic indications and constitute valuable therapeutic strategies for autistic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Alò
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Ilaria Olivito
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Gilda Fazzari
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Merylin Zizza
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Anna Di Vito
- Dept. of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ennio Avolio
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy; Health Center srl, Biomedical and Nutritional Center, via Sabotino 66, 87100 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Maurizio Mandalà
- Vascular Physiology Lab., Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Rosalinda Bruno
- Dept. of Pharmacy and Science of Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Tullio Barni
- Dept. of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Marcello Canonaco
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy.
| | - Rosa Maria Facciolo
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
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17
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Sabit H, Tombuloglu H, Rehman S, Almandil NB, Cevik E, Abdel-Ghany S, Rashwan S, Abasiyanik MF, Yee Waye MM. Gut microbiota metabolites in autistic children: An epigenetic perspective. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06105. [PMID: 33553761 PMCID: PMC7848646 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota has become an issue of great importance recently due to its major role in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Over the past three decades, there has been a sustained research activity focused to explain the actual mechanism by which gut microbiota triggers/develops autism. Several genetic and epigenetic factors are involved in this disorder, with epigenetics being the most active area of research. Although the constant investigation and advancements, epigenetic implications in ASD still need a deeper functional/causal analysis. In this review, we describe the major gut microbiota metabolites and how they induce epigenetic changes in ASD along with interactions through the gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Sabit
- Department of Genetics, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P. O. Box 1982, Dammam, 31441 Saudi Arabia
| | - Huseyin Tombuloglu
- Department of Genetics, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P. O. Box 1982, Dammam, 31441 Saudi Arabia
| | - Suriya Rehman
- Department of Epidemic Diseases, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P. O. Box 1982, Dammam, 31441 Saudi Arabia
| | - Noor B Almandil
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultation (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P. O. Box 1982, Dammam, 31441 Saudi Arabia
| | - Emre Cevik
- Department of Genetics, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P. O. Box 1982, Dammam, 31441 Saudi Arabia
| | - Shaimaa Abdel-Ghany
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology, Misr University for Science and Technology, P. O. Box 77, Giza, Egypt
| | - Sanaa Rashwan
- Pediatrics Department, Madinat Zayed Hospital, SEHA, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mustafa Fatih Abasiyanik
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.,Institute for Genomics and Systems Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Mary Miu Yee Waye
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, The Croucher Laboratory for Human Genomics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T. Hong Kong
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18
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Liang Y, Duan L, Xu X, Li X, Liu M, Chen H, Lu J, Xia J. Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes for Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2020; 3:6384-6393. [PMID: 35021769 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c00831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Recent breakthroughs in the field of stem cell therapy have brought hope to the treatment of mental diseases. Animal experiments and clinical studies have shown that transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has a positive effect on the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the therapeutic efficacy of the MSC transplants was primarily associated with the signals and molecules secreted by the MSCs. Exosomes, for example, the secreted organelles from MSCs, carry bioactive molecules of the MSCs that are essential for the therapeutic effects in ASD treatment. This then inspires us to explore the intranasal delivery of MSC exosomes to brain tissues for the treatment of ASD. Exosomes from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) that efficiently enter the brain tissue through the intranasal route restore the social ability of the mice and correct the repeated stereotyped behaviors and other abnormal phenotypes in the offspring of valproic acid (VPA)-treated mice, which show autism-like symptoms. The therapeutic efficacy can be attributed at least partially to the anti-inflammatory effect of the MSC exosomes. This work thereby reports brain-specific delivery of hUC-MSC exosomes, as a cell-free therapy to relieve autism-related phenotypes, providing a promising direction for the treatment of mental development disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Liang
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen Mental Health Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Psychological Healthcare & Shenzhen Institute of Mental Health, Shenzhen 518003, China.,Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Li Duan
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Intelligent Orthopaedics and Biomedical Innovation Platform, Guangdong Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Innovation Platform, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518035, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Intelligent Orthopaedics and Biomedical Innovation Platform, Guangdong Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Innovation Platform, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518035, China
| | - Xingfu Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Intelligent Orthopaedics and Biomedical Innovation Platform, Guangdong Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Innovation Platform, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518035, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hongfei Chen
- Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jianping Lu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen Mental Health Center, Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Psychological Healthcare & Shenzhen Institute of Mental Health, Shenzhen 518003, China.,School of Medicine Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518035, China
| | - Jiang Xia
- Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
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19
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Nguyen Thanh L, Nguyen HP, Ngo MD, Bui VA, Dam PTM, Bui HTP, Ngo DV, Tran KT, Dang TTT, Duong BD, Nguyen PAT, Forsyth N, Heke M. Outcomes of bone marrow mononuclear cell transplantation combined with interventional education for autism spectrum disorder. Stem Cells Transl Med 2020; 10:14-26. [PMID: 32902182 PMCID: PMC7780798 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell transplantation combined with educational intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder. An open‐label clinical trial was performed from July 2017 to August 2019 at Vinmec International Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam. Thirty children who fulfilled the autism criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, and had Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) scores >37 were selected. Bone marrow was harvested by anterior iliac crest puncture under general anesthesia. The volume collected was as follows: 8 mL/kg for patients under 10 kg (80 mL + [body weight in kg − 10] × 7 mL) for patients above 10 kg. Mononuclear cells were isolated with a Ficoll gradient and then infused intrathecally. The same procedure was repeated 6 months later. After the first transplantation, all patients underwent 8 weeks of educational intervention based on the Early Start Denver Model. There were no severe adverse events associated with transplantation. The severity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was significantly reduced, with the median CARS score decreasing from 50 (range 40‐55.5) to 46.5 (range 33.5‐53.5) (P < .05). Adaptive capacity increased, with the median Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales score rising from 53.5 to 60.5. Social communication, language, and daily skills improved markedly within 18 months after transplantation. Conversely, repetitive behaviors and hyperactivity decreased remarkably. Autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell transplantation in combination with behavioral intervention was safe and well tolerated in children with ASD (Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03225651).
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Affiliation(s)
- Liem Nguyen Thanh
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology (VRISG), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hoang-Phuong Nguyen
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology (VRISG), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Minh Duy Ngo
- Vinmec Times City International Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Viet Anh Bui
- Vinmec Hightech Center, Vinmec Health Care System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Phuong T M Dam
- Vinmec Hightech Center, Vinmec Health Care System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Doan Van Ngo
- Vinmec Times City International Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Kien Trung Tran
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology (VRISG), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Binh Duc Duong
- Vinmec Times City International Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Nicholas Forsyth
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Keele University, Newcastle, UK
| | - Michael Heke
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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20
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Donegan JJ, Lodge DJ. Stem Cells for Improving the Treatment of Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Stem Cells Dev 2020; 29:1118-1130. [PMID: 32008442 PMCID: PMC7469694 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2019.0265] [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: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment options for neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia and autism are currently limited. Antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia are not effective for all patients, do not target all symptoms of the disease, and have serious adverse side effects. There are currently no FDA-approved drugs to treat the core symptoms of autism. In an effort to develop new and more effective treatment strategies, stem cell technologies have been used to reprogram adult somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells, which can be differentiated into neuronal cells and even three-dimensional brain organoids. This new technology has the potential to elucidate the complex mechanisms that underlie neurodevelopmental disorders, offer more relevant platforms for drug discovery and personalized medicine, and may even be used to treat the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J. Donegan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Daniel J. Lodge
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
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21
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Chaliha D, Albrecht M, Vaccarezza M, Takechi R, Lam V, Al-Salami H, Mamo J. A Systematic Review of the Valproic-Acid-Induced Rodent Model of Autism. Dev Neurosci 2020; 42:12-48. [DOI: 10.1159/000509109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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22
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Wu M, Di Y, Diao Z, Yao L, Qian Z, Wei C, Zheng Q, Liu Y, Han J, Liu Z, Fan J, Tian Y, Ren W. Abnormal reinforcement learning in a mice model of autism induced by prenatal exposure to valproic acid. Behav Brain Res 2020; 395:112836. [PMID: 32745663 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112836] [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: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) display dysfunction in learning from environmental stimulus that have positive or negative emotional values, posing obstacles to their everyday life. Unfortunately, mechanisms of the dysfunction are still unclear. Although early intervention for ASD victims based on reinforcement learning are commonly used, the mechanisms and characteristics of the improvement are also unknown. By using a mice model of ASD produced by prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA), the present work discovered a delayed response-reinforcer forming, and an impaired habit forming in a negative reinforcement learning paradigm in VPA exposure male offspring. But the extinction of the learned skills was found to become faster than normal male animals. Since escape action of nosepoking and the motility remain unchanged in the VPA male offspring, the impaired learning and the accelerated extinction are caused by deficits in higher brain functions underlying association between the animals' behavioral responses and the outcomes of such responses. The results further suggest that the rodent ASD model produced by prenatal exposure to VPA reproduces the deficits in reasoning or building the contingency between one's own behaviors and the consequent outcomes of the behavior seen in ASD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meilin Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Yuanyuan Di
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Zhijun Diao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Li Yao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Zhaoqiang Qian
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Chunling Wei
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Qiaohua Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Yihui Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Jing Han
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Zhiqiang Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Juan Fan
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China
| | - Yingfang Tian
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China.
| | - Wei Ren
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China.
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23
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Skogstrand K, Hagen CM, Borbye-Lorenzen N, Christiansen M, Bybjerg-Grauholm J, Bækvad-Hansen M, Werge T, Børglum A, Mors O, Nordentoft M, Mortensen PB, Hougaard DM. Reduced neonatal brain-derived neurotrophic factor is associated with autism spectrum disorders. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:252. [PMID: 31591381 PMCID: PMC6779749 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-019-0587-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mental disorders have for the majority of cases an unknown etiology, but several studies indicate that neurodevelopmental changes happen in utero or early after birth. We performed a nested case-control study of the relation between blood levels of neuro-developmental (S100B, BDNF, and VEGF-A) and inflammatory (MCP-1, TARC, IL-8, IL-18, CRP, and IgA) biomarkers in newborns, and later development of autism spectrum disorders (ASD, N = 751), attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD, N = 801), schizophrenia (N = 1969), affective (N = 641) or bipolar disorders (N = 641). Samples and controls were obtained as part of the iPSYCH Danish Case-Cohort Study using dried blood spot samples collected between 1981 and 2004, and stored frozen at the Danish National Biobank. In newborns lower blood level of BDNF was significantly associated with increased odds (OR 1.15) of developing ASD (p = 0.001). This difference could not be explained by genetic variation in the BDNF coding gene region. A tendency of decreased levels of all the neurotrophic markers and increased levels of all inflammatory markers was noted. The low newborn blood levels of BDNF in children developing ASD is an important finding, suggesting that lower BDNF levels in newborns contributes to the etiology of ASD and indicates new directions for further research. It may also help identifying a long-sought marker for high-ASD risk in, e.g., younger siblings of ASD children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Skogstrand
- Danish Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Christian Munch Hagen
- Danish Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nis Borbye-Lorenzen
- Danish Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Christiansen
- Danish Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jonas Bybjerg-Grauholm
- Danish Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Bækvad-Hansen
- Danish Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Werge
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Børglum
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine and iSEQ, Centre for Integrative Sequencing, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- National Centre for Register-Based Research, Business and Social Sciences, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ole Mors
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Psychosis Research Unit, Aarhus University Hospital-Psychiatry, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Merethe Nordentoft
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Preben Bo Mortensen
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine and iSEQ, Centre for Integrative Sequencing, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Centre for Integrated Register-based Research, CIRRAU, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - David Michael Hougaard
- Danish Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
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24
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Zhang R, Cai Y, Xiao R, Zhong H, Li X, Guo L, Xu H, Fan X. Human amniotic epithelial cell transplantation promotes neurogenesis and ameliorates social deficits in BTBR mice. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:153. [PMID: 31151403 PMCID: PMC6545017 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1267-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social interactions and communication and stereotypical patterns of behaviors, interests, or activities. Even with the increased prevalence of ASD, there is no defined standard drug treatment for ASD patients. Currently, stem cells, including human amniotic epithelial cell (hAEC) transplantation, seem to be a promising treatment for ASD, but the effectiveness needs to be verified, and the mechanism has not been clarified. Methods We intraventricularly transplanted hAECs into a 2-month-old BTBR T+tf/J (BTBR) mouse model of ASD. Behavior tests were detected 1 month later; hippocampal neurogenesis, neuroprogenitor cell (NPC) pool, and microglia activation were analyzed with immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence; the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and TrkB in the hippocampus were determined by real-time PCR or western blotting. Results After intraventricular injection of hAECs into adult males, social deficits in BTBR mice were significantly ameliorated. In addition, hAEC transplantation restored the decline of neurogenesis and NPCs in the hippocampus of BTBR mice by expanding the stem cell pool, and the decreased levels of BDNF and TrkB were also rescued in the hippocampus of the hAEC-injected BTBR mice. Meanwhile, the transplantation of hAECs did not induce microglial overactivation or excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus of BTBR mice. Conclusions Based on these results, we found that hAEC transplantation ameliorated social deficits and promoted hippocampal neurogenesis in BTBR mice. Our study indicates a promising therapeutic option that could be applied to ASD patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyu Zhang
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Amy Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yulong Cai
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Amy Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Rui Xiao
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Amy Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Hongyu Zhong
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Amy Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Amy Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Lihe Guo
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Haiwei Xu
- Southwest Eye Hospital, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Amy Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Xiaotang Fan
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Amy Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
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25
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Mirza R, Sharma B. Beneficial effects of pioglitazone, a selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonist in prenatal valproic acid-induced behavioral and biochemical autistic like features in Wistar rats. Int J Dev Neurosci 2019; 76:6-16. [PMID: 31128204 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2019.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder in children. It is diagnosis by two main behavioral phenotypes i.e. social-communication impairments and repetitive behavior. ASD is complex disorder with unsolved etiology due to multiple genes involvement, epigenetic mechanism and environmental factors. Valproic acid (VPA), a teratogen is known to induce characteristic features related to ASD in rodents. Numerous studies suggest the potential therapeutic effects of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) in different brain disorders. This research evaluates the utility of selective agonist of PPAR-γ, pioglitazone in prenatal VPA induced experimental ASD symptomatology in Wistar rats. The prenatal administration of VPA has induced social impairment, repetitive behavior, hyperlocomotion, anxiety and low exploratory activity in rats. Also, prenatal VPA-treated rats have shown higher levels of oxidative stress (increased in thiobarbituric acid reactive species, and decreased in reduced glutathione level) and inflammation (increased in interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and decreased in interleukin-10) in the cerebellum, brainstem and prefrontal cortex. Treatment with pioglitazone significantly attenuated the prenatal VPA-induced social impairment, repetitive behavior, hyperactivity, anxiety and low exploratory activity. Furthermore, pioglitazone also reduced the prenatal VPA-induced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in aforementioned brain regions. Hence, it may be concluded that pioglitazone may provide neurobehavioral and biochemical benefits in prenatal VPA-induced autistic phenotypes in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roohi Mirza
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Bhupesh Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, India.,CNS Pharmacology, Conscience Research, Delhi, India
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26
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Ornoy A, Weinstein-Fudim L, Ergaz Z. Prevention or Amelioration of Autism-Like Symptoms in Animal Models: Will it Bring Us Closer to Treating Human ASD? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20051074. [PMID: 30832249 PMCID: PMC6429371 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20051074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first animal model of valproic acid (VPA) induced autistic-like behavior, many genetic and non-genetic experimental animal models for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have been described. The more common non-genetic animal models induce ASD in rats and mice by infection/inflammation or the prenatal or early postnatal administration of VPA. Through the establishment of these models, attempts have been made to ameliorate or even prevent ASD-like symptoms. Some of the genetic models have been successfully treated by genetic manipulations or the manipulation of neurotransmission. Different antioxidants have been used (i.e., astaxanthin, green tea, piperine) to reduce brain oxidative stress in VPA-induced ASD models. Agents affecting brain neurotransmitters (donepezil, agmatine, agomelatine, memantine, oxytocin) also successfully reduced ASD-like symptoms. However, complete prevention of the development of symptoms was achieved only rarely. In our recent study, we treated mouse offspring exposed on postnatal day four to VPA with S-adenosine methionine (SAM) for three days, and prevented ASD-like behavior, brain oxidative stress, and the changes in gene expression induced by VPA. In this review, we describe, in addition to our data, the existing literature on the prevention/amelioration of ASD-like symptoms. We also discuss the possible mechanisms underlying some of these phenomena. Finally, we describe some of the clinical trials in children with ASD that were carried out as a result of data from animal studies, especially those with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Asher Ornoy
- Laboratory of Teratology, Department of Medical Neurobiology, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
| | - Liza Weinstein-Fudim
- Laboratory of Teratology, Department of Medical Neurobiology, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
| | - Zivanit Ergaz
- Laboratory of Teratology, Department of Medical Neurobiology, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
- Neonatology Department, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
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27
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Liu Q, Chen MX, Sun L, Wallis CU, Zhou JS, Ao LJ, Li Q, Sham PC. Rational use of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders. World J Stem Cells 2019; 11:55-72. [PMID: 30842805 PMCID: PMC6397804 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v11.i2.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 12/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) refer to a range of conditions characterized by impaired social and communication skills and repetitive behaviors caused by different combinations of genetic and environmental influences. Although the pathophysiology underlying ASD is still unclear, recent evidence suggests that immune dysregulation and neuroinflammation play a role in the etiology of ASD. In particular, there is direct evidence supporting a role for maternal immune activation during prenatal life in neurodevelopmental conditions. Currently, the available options of behavioral therapies and pharmacological and supportive nutritional treatments in ASD are only symptomatic. Given the disturbing rise in the incidence of ASD, and the fact that there is no effective pharmacological therapy for ASD, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic options. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess immunomodulatory properties that make them relevant to several diseases associated with inflammation and tissue damage. The paracrine regenerative mechanisms of MSCs are also suggested to be therapeutically beneficial for ASD. Thus the underlying pathology in ASD, including immune system dysregulation and inflammation, represent potential targets for MSC therapy. This review will focus on immune dysfunction in the pathogenesis of ASD and will further discuss the therapeutic potential for MSCs in mediating ASD-related immunological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Liu
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mo-Xian Chen
- School of Rehabilitation, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Lin Sun
- Department of Psychology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chloe U Wallis
- Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Jian-Song Zhou
- Mental Health Institute of the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Li-Juan Ao
- School of Rehabilitation, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Qi Li
- Department of Psychiatry, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Pak C Sham
- Department of Psychiatry, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Center for Genomic Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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28
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Mirza R, Sharma B. Benefits of Fenofibrate in prenatal valproic acid-induced autism spectrum disorder related phenotype in rats. Brain Res Bull 2019; 147:36-46. [PMID: 30769127 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with two major behavioral symptoms i.e. repetitive behavior and social-communication impairment. The unknown etiology of ASD is responsible for the difficulty in identifying the possible therapeutic modulators for ASD. Valproic acid (VPA) is an anticonvulsant drug in both human and rodents with teratogenic effects during pregnancy. Therefore, prenatal exposure of VPA induced autism spectrum disorder like phenotypes in both human and rodents. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-α) is widely localized in the brain. This research investigates the utility of fenofibrate, a selective agonist of PPAR-α in prenatal VPA-induced experimental ASD in Wistar rats. The prenatal VPA has induced social impairment (three chambers social behavior apparatus), repetitive behavior (Y-maze), hyperlocomotion (actophotometer), anxiety (elevated plus maze) and low exploratory activity (hole board test). Also, prenatal VPA treated rats have shown higher levels of oxidative stress (increased in thiobarbituric acid reactive species and decreased in reduced glutathione level) and inflammation (increased in interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α and decreased in interleukin-10) in the cerebellum, brainstem and prefrontal cortex. Treatment with fenofibrate significantly attenuated prenatal VPA-induced social impairment, repetitive behavior, hyperactivity, anxiety, and low exploratory activity. Furthermore, fenofibrate also decreased the prenatal VPA-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in brain regions. Hence, it may be concluded that fenofibrate may provide neurobehavioral and biochemical benefits in prenatal VPA-induced autism phenotypes in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roohi Mirza
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Bhupesh Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, India; CNS Pharmacology, Conscience Research, Delhi, India.
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29
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Siniscalco D, Kannan S, Semprún-Hernández N, Eshraghi AA, Brigida AL, Antonucci N. Stem cell therapy in autism: recent insights. STEM CELLS AND CLONING-ADVANCES AND APPLICATIONS 2018; 11:55-67. [PMID: 30425534 PMCID: PMC6204871 DOI: 10.2147/sccaa.s155410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are characterized by core domains: persistent deficits in social communication and interaction; restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. ASDs comprise heterogeneous and complex neurodevelopmental pathologies with well-defined inflammatory conditions and immune system dysfunction. Due to neurobiologic changes underlying ASD development, cell-based therapies have been proposed and applied to ASDs. Indeed, stem cells show specific immunologic properties, which make them promising candidates in ASD treatment. This comprehensive up-to-date review focuses on ASD cellular/molecular abnormalities, potentially useful stem cell types, animal models, and current clinical trials on the use of stem cells in treating autism. Limitations are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Siniscalco
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania, Napoli, Italy,
| | - Suresh Kannan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Neomar Semprún-Hernández
- Research Division, Autism Immunology Unit of Maracaibo, Catedra libre de Autismo, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - Adrien A Eshraghi
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hearing Research and Cochlear Implant Laboratory, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Nicola Antonucci
- Biomedical Centre for Autism Research and Treatment, Bari, Italy
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30
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Hou Q, Wang Y, Li Y, Chen D, Yang F, Wang S. A Developmental Study of Abnormal Behaviors and Altered GABAergic Signaling in the VPA-Treated Rat Model of Autism. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 12:182. [PMID: 30186123 PMCID: PMC6110947 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although studies have investigated the role of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic signaling in rodent neural development and behaviors relevant to autism, behavioral ontogeny, as underlain by the changes in GABAergic system, is poorly characterized in different brain regions. Here, we employed a valproic acid (VPA) rat model of autism to investigate the autism-like behaviors and GABAergic glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (GAD67) expression underlying these altered behaviors in multiple brain areas at different developmental stages from birth to adulthood. We found that VPA-treated rats exhibited behavioral abnormalities relevant to autism, including delayed nervous reflex development, altered motor coordination, delayed sensory development, autistic-like and anxiety behaviors and impaired spatial learning and memory. We also found that VPA rats had the decreased expression of GAD67 in the hippocampus (HC) and cerebellum from childhood to adulthood, while decreased GAD67 expression of the temporal cortex (TC) was only observed in adulthood. Conversely, GAD67 expression was increased in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) from adolescence to adulthood. The dysregulated GAD67 expression could alter the excitatory-inhibitory balance in the cerebral cortex, HC and cerebellum. Our findings indicate an impaired GABAergic system could be a major etiological factor occurring in the cerebral cortex, HC and cerebellum of human cases of autism, which suggests enhancement of GABA signaling would be a promising therapeutic target for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianling Hou
- Cerebrovascular Disease Laboratory, Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Cerebrovascular Disease Laboratory, Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yingbo Li
- Cerebrovascular Disease Laboratory, Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Di Chen
- Cerebrovascular Disease Laboratory, Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Feng Yang
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shali Wang
- Cerebrovascular Disease Laboratory, Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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31
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Gładysz D, Krzywdzińska A, Hozyasz KK. Immune Abnormalities in Autism Spectrum Disorder-Could They Hold Promise for Causative Treatment? Mol Neurobiol 2018; 55:6387-6435. [PMID: 29307081 PMCID: PMC6061181 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0822-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by impairments in language and communication development, social behavior, and the occurrence of stereotypic patterns of behavior and interests. Despite substantial speculation about causes of ASD, its exact etiology remains unknown. Recent studies highlight a link between immune dysfunction and behavioral traits. Various immune anomalies, including humoral and cellular immunity along with abnormalities at the molecular level, have been reported. There is evidence of altered immune function both in cerebrospinal fluid and peripheral blood. Several studies hypothesize a role for neuroinflammation in ASD and are supported by brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid analysis, as well as evidence of microglial activation. It has been shown that immune abnormalities occur in a substantial number of individuals with ASD. Identifying subgroups with immune system dysregulation and linking specific cellular immunophenotypes to different symptoms would be key to defining a group of patients with immune abnormalities as a major etiology underlying behavioral symptoms. These determinations would provide the opportunity to investigate causative treatments for a defined patient group that may specifically benefit from such an approach. This review summarizes recent insights into immune system dysfunction in individuals with ASD and discusses the potential implications for future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Gładysz
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Mother and Child, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Kamil K Hozyasz
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Mother and Child, Warsaw, Poland.
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