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Ghaffari MK, Rafati A, Karbalaei N, Haghani M, Nemati M, Sefati N, Namavar MR. The effect of intra-nasal co-treatment with insulin and growth factor-rich serum on behavioral defects, hippocampal oxidative-nitrosative stress, and histological changes induced by icv-STZ in a rat model. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:4833-4849. [PMID: 38157024 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02899-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Impaired insulin and growth factor functions are thought to drive many alterations in neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and seem to contribute to oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Recent studies revealed that nasal growth factor therapy could induce neuronal and oligodendroglia protection in rodent brain damage induction models. Impairment of several growth factors signaling was reported in neurodegenerative diseases. So, in the present study, we examined the effects of intranasal co-treatment of insulin and a pool of growth factor-rich serum (GFRS) which separated from activated platelets on memory, and behavioral defects induced by intracerebroventricular streptozotocin (icv-STZ) rat model also investigated changes in the hippocampal oxidative-nitrosative state and histology. We found that icv-STZ injection (3 mg/kg bilaterally) impairs spatial learning and memory in Morris Water Maze, leads to anxiogenic-like behavior in the open field arena, and induces oxidative-nitrosative stress, neuroinflammation, and neuronal/oligodendroglia death in the hippocampus. GFRS (1µl/kg, each other day, 9 doses) and regular insulin (4 U/40 µl, daily, 18 doses) treatments improved learning, memory, and anxiogenic behaviors. The present study showed that co-treatment (GFRS + insulin with respective dose) has more robust protection against hippocampal oxidative-nitrosative stress, neuroinflammation, and neuronal/oligodendroglia survival in comparison with the single therapy. Memory and behavioral improvements in the co-treatment of insulin and GFRS could be attributed to their effects on neuronal/oligodendroglia survival and reduction of neuroinflammation in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Khorsand Ghaffari
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Rafati
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Narges Karbalaei
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoud Haghani
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Marzieh Nemati
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Niloofar Sefati
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Namavar
- Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- Clinical Neurology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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2
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Yao Y, Liu Q, Ding S, Chen Y, Song T, Shang Y. Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi stems and leaves flavonoids promote neuroregeneration and ameliorate memory loss in rats through cAMP-PKA-CREB signaling pathway based on network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27161. [PMID: 38533079 PMCID: PMC10963208 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the possible molecular mechanism of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi stems and leaves flavonoids (SSF) in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The active ingredients of SSF and their targets were identified via network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis. To test the successful establishment of a rat model of AD by Aβ25-35 combined with RHTGF-β1 and AlCl3, the Morris water maze test was used. To intervene, three different doses of SSF were administered. The model group and the control group were included among the parallel groups. A shuttle box test, immunohistochemistry, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, qPCR and Western blot were performed to verify the results. Based on the intersection of genes among AD disease targets, SSF component targets, and differentially expressed genes in the single cell dataset GSE138852 and bulk-seq dataset GSE5281, nine genes related to the action of SSF on AD were identified. SSF have an important anti-AD pathway in the cAMP signaling pathway. SSF can ameliorate the conditioned memory impairment, augment Brdu protein expression and cAMP content; and differentially regulate the mRNA and protein expressions of GPCR, Gαs, AC1, PKA, and VEGF. The cAMP-PKA-CREB pathway in the SSF may mediate the ability of the SSF to ameliorate the composite-induced memory loss and nerve regeneration in rats induced by composite Aβ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinhui Yao
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University / Hebei Province Key Research Office of Traditional Chinese Medicine Against Dementia / Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development / Hebei Key Laboratory of Nerve Injury and Repair, Chengde, China, Chengde, 067000, China
- Faculty of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Qianqian Liu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University / Hebei Province Key Research Office of Traditional Chinese Medicine Against Dementia / Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development / Hebei Key Laboratory of Nerve Injury and Repair, Chengde, China, Chengde, 067000, China
| | - Shengkai Ding
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University / Hebei Province Key Research Office of Traditional Chinese Medicine Against Dementia / Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development / Hebei Key Laboratory of Nerve Injury and Repair, Chengde, China, Chengde, 067000, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University / Hebei Province Key Research Office of Traditional Chinese Medicine Against Dementia / Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development / Hebei Key Laboratory of Nerve Injury and Repair, Chengde, China, Chengde, 067000, China
| | - Tangtang Song
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University / Hebei Province Key Research Office of Traditional Chinese Medicine Against Dementia / Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development / Hebei Key Laboratory of Nerve Injury and Repair, Chengde, China, Chengde, 067000, China
| | - Yazhen Shang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical University / Hebei Province Key Research Office of Traditional Chinese Medicine Against Dementia / Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development / Hebei Key Laboratory of Nerve Injury and Repair, Chengde, China, Chengde, 067000, China
- Faculty of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
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3
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Ceci C, Lacal PM, Barbaccia ML, Mercuri NB, Graziani G, Ledonne A. The VEGFs/VEGFRs system in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases: Pathophysiological roles and therapeutic implications. Pharmacol Res 2024; 201:107101. [PMID: 38336311 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their cognate receptors (VEGFRs), besides their well-known involvement in physiological angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis and in diseases associated to pathological vessel formation, play multifaceted functions in the central nervous system (CNS). In addition to shaping brain development, by controlling cerebral vasculogenesis and regulating neurogenesis as well as astrocyte differentiation, the VEGFs/VEGFRs axis exerts essential functions in the adult brain both in physiological and pathological contexts. In this article, after describing the physiological VEGFs/VEGFRs functions in the CNS, we focus on the VEGFs/VEGFRs involvement in neurodegenerative diseases by reviewing the current literature on the rather complex VEGFs/VEGFRs contribution to the pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases. Thereafter, based on the outcome of VEGFs/VEGFRs targeting in animal models of AD and PD, we discuss the factual relevance of pharmacological VEGFs/VEGFRs modulation as a novel and potential disease-modifying approach for these neurodegenerative pathologies. Specific VEGFRs targeting, aimed at selective VEGFR-1 inhibition, while preserving VEGFR-2 signal transduction, appears as a promising strategy to hit the molecular mechanisms underlying AD pathology. Moreover, therapeutic VEGFs-based approaches can be proposed for PD treatment, with the aim of fine-tuning their brain levels to amplify neurotrophic/neuroprotective effects while limiting an excessive impact on vascular permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ceci
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Luisa Barbaccia
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Biagio Mercuri
- Neurology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Rome, Italy; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| | - Ada Ledonne
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Rome, Italy; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
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4
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Abdullahi A, Wong TW, Ng SS. Understanding the mechanisms of disease modifying effects of aerobic exercise in people with Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 94:102202. [PMID: 38272266 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102202] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a very disabling disease. Pathologically, it is characterized by the presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain that results in neurodegeneration. Its clinical manifestations include progressive memory impairment, language decline and difficulty in carrying out activities of daily living (ADL). The disease is managed using interventions such as pharmacological interventions and aerobic exercise. Use of aerobic exercise has shown some promises in reducing the risk of developing AD, and improving cognitive function and the ability to carry out both basic and instrumental ADL. Although, the mechanisms through which aerobic exercise improves AD are poorly understood, improvement in vascular function, brain glucose metabolism and cardiorespiratory fitness, increase in antioxidant capacity and haemoglobin level, amelioration of immune-related and inflammatory responses, modulation of concentration of circulating Neurotrophins and peptides and decrease in concentration of tau protein and cortisol level among others seem to be the possible mechanisms. Therefore, understanding these mechanisms is important to help characterize the dose and the nature of the aerobic exercise to be given. In addition, they may also help in finding ways to optimize other interventions such as the pharmacological interventions. However, more quality studies are needed to verify the mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Auwal Abdullahi
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Thomson Wl Wong
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shamay Sm Ng
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
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Steiner K, Humpel C. Beta-Amyloid Enhances Vessel Formation in Organotypic Brain Slices Connected to Microcontact Prints. Biomolecules 2023; 14:3. [PMID: 38275744 PMCID: PMC10812928 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010003] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
In Alzheimer's disease, the blood-brain barrier breakdown, blood vessel damage and re-organization are early events. Deposits of the small toxic peptide beta-amyloid (Aβ) cause the formation of extracellular plaques and accumulate in vessels disrupting the blood flow but may also play a role in blood clotting. In the present study, we aim to explore the impact of Aβ on the migration of endothelial cells and subsequent vessel formation. We use organotypic brain slices of postnatal day 10 wildtype mice (C57BL/6) and connect them to small microcontact prints (µCPs) of collagen. Our data show that laminin-positive endothelial cells migrate onto collagen µCPs, but without any vessel formation after 4 weeks. When the µCPs are loaded with human Aβ40, (aggregated) human Aβ42 and mouse Aβ42 peptides, the number and migration distance of endothelial cells are significantly reduced, but with a more pronounced subsequent vessel formation. The vessel formation is verified by zonula occludens (ZO)-1 and -2 stainings and confocal microscopy. In addition, the vessel formation is accompanied by a stronger GFAP-positive astroglial formation. Finally, we show that vessels can grow towards convergence when two opposed slices are connected via microcontact-printed lanes. In conclusion, our data show that Aβ promotes vessel formation, and organotypic brain slices connected to collagen µCPs provide a potent tool to study vessel formation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christian Humpel
- Laboratory of Psychiatry and Experimental Alzheimer’s Research, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
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Xie D, Song C, Qin T, Zhai Z, Cai J, Dai J, Sun T, Xu Y. Moschus ameliorates glutamate-induced cellular damage by regulating autophagy and apoptosis pathway. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18586. [PMID: 37903904 PMCID: PMC10616123 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45878-7] [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: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder, causes short-term memory and cognition declines. It is estimated that one in three elderly people die from AD or other dementias. Chinese herbal medicine as a potential drug for treating AD has gained growing interest from many researchers. Moschus, a rare and valuable traditional Chinese animal medicine, was originally documented in Shennong Ben Cao Jing and recognized for its properties of reviving consciousness/resuscitation. Additionally, Moschus has the efficacy of "regulation of menstruation with blood activation, relief of swelling and pain" and is used for treating unconsciousness, stroke, coma, and cerebrovascular diseases. However, it is uncertain whether Moschus has any protective effect on AD patients. We explored whether Moschus could protect glutamate (Glu)-induced PC12 cells from cellular injury and preliminarily explored their related action mechanisms. The chemical compounds of Moschus were analyzed and identified by GC-MS. The Glu-induced differentiated PC12 cell model was thought to be the common AD cellular model. The study aims to preliminarily investigate the intervention effect of Moschus on Glu-induced PC12 cell damage as well as their related action mechanisms. Cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), cell apoptosis, autophagic vacuoles, autolysosomes or autophagosomes, proteins related to apoptosis, and the proteins related to autophagy were examined and analyzed. Seventeen active compounds of the Moschus sample were identified based on GC-MS analysis. In comparison to the control group, Glu stimulation increased cell viability loss, LDH release, mitochondrial damage, loss of MMP, apoptosis rate, and the number of cells containing autophagic vacuoles, and autolysosomes or autophagosomes, while these results were decreased after the pretreatment with Moschus and 3-methyladenine (3-MA). Furthermore, Glu stimulation significantly increased cleaved caspase-3, Beclin1, and LC3II protein expression, and reduced B-cell lymphoma 2/BAX ratio and p62 protein expression, but these results were reversed after pretreatment of Moschus and 3-MA. Moschus has protective activity in Glu-induced PC12 cell injury, and the potential mechanism might involve the regulation of autophagy and apoptosis. Our study may promote research on Moschus in the field of neurodegenerative diseases, and Moschus may be considered as a potential therapeutic agent for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danni Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Caiyou Song
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Tao Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Zhenwei Zhai
- School of Medical Information Engineering, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Jie Cai
- School of Medical Information Engineering, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Jingyi Dai
- School of Medical Information Engineering, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Tao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
- School of Medical Information Engineering, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Ying Xu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China.
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7
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Manso-Calderón R, Cacabelos-Pérez P, Sevillano-García MD, Herrero-Prieto ME, González-Sarmiento R. Analysis of endothelial gene polymorphisms in Spanish patients with vascular dementia and Alzheimer´s disease. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13441. [PMID: 37596325 PMCID: PMC10439194 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39576-7] [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: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
There is increasing evidence for the involvement of blood-brain barrier (BBB) in vascular dementia (VaD) and Alzheimer´s disease (AD) pathogenesis. However, the role of endothelial function-related genes in these disorders remains unclear. We evaluated the association of four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (VEGF, VEGFR2 and NOS3) with diagnosis and rate of cognitive decline in AD and VaD in a Spanish case-control cohort (150 VaD, 147 AD and 150 controls). Participants carrying -604AA genotype in VEGFR2 (rs2071559) were less susceptible to VaD after multiple testing. Further analysis for VaD subtype revealed a significant difference between small-vessel VaD patients and controls, but not for large-vessel VaD patients. In addition, -2578A and -460C alleles in VEGF (rs699947 and rs833061) showed to decrease the risk of AD, whereas NOS3 (rs1799983) influenced disease progression. Our study supports previous findings of a deleterious effect of VEGFR2 reduced expression on small-vessel disease, but not on large-vessel disease; as well as a detrimental effect of down-regulating VEGF and eNOS in AD, affecting vascular permeability and neuronal survival. These data highlight the relevance of endothelial function and, therefore, BBB in both VaD and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Manso-Calderón
- Department of Neurology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca (CAUSA), Paseo de San Vicente 58-182, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, Complejo Asistencial de Ávila, Ávila, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
| | - Purificación Cacabelos-Pérez
- Department of Neurology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca (CAUSA), Paseo de San Vicente 58-182, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago (CHUS), A Coruña, Spain
| | - M Dolores Sevillano-García
- Department of Neurology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca (CAUSA), Paseo de San Vicente 58-182, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - M Elisa Herrero-Prieto
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, Complejo Asistencial de Ávila, Ávila, Spain
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital El Bierzo de Ponferrada, León, Spain
| | - Rogelio González-Sarmiento
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Molecular Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
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8
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Seto M, Dumitrescu L, Mahoney ER, Sclafani AM, De Jager PL, Menon V, Koran MEI, Robinson RA, Ruderfer DM, Cox NJ, Seyfried NT, Jefferson AL, Schneider JA, Bennett DA, Petyuk VA, Hohman TJ. Multi-omic characterization of brain changes in the vascular endothelial growth factor family during aging and Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2023; 126:25-33. [PMID: 36905877 PMCID: PMC10106439 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2023.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling family has been implicated in neuroprotection and clinical progression in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Previous work in postmortem human dorsolateral prefrontal cortex demonstrated that higher transcript levels of VEGFB, PGF, FLT1, and FLT4 are associated with AD dementia, worse cognitive outcomes, and higher AD neuropathology. To expand prior work, we leveraged bulk RNA sequencing data, single nucleus RNA (snRNA) sequencing, and both tandem mass tag and selected reaction monitoring mass spectrometry proteomic measures from the post-mortem brain. Outcomes included AD diagnosis, cognition, and AD neuropathology. We replicated previously reported VEGFB and FLT1 results, whereby higher expression was associated with worse outcomes, and snRNA results suggest microglia, oligodendrocytes, and endothelia may play a central role in these associations. Additionally, FLT4 and NRP2 expression were associated with better cognitive outcomes. This study provides a comprehensive molecular picture of the VEGF signaling family in cognitive aging and AD and critical insight towards the biomarker and therapeutic potential of VEGF family members in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mabel Seto
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Logan Dumitrescu
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Emily R Mahoney
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Annah M Sclafani
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Philip L De Jager
- Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vilas Menon
- Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mary E I Koran
- Department of Radiology, Stanford Hospital, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Renã A Robinson
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Douglas M Ruderfer
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Nancy J Cox
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Nicholas T Seyfried
- Goizueta Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Angela L Jefferson
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Julie A Schneider
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David A Bennett
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vladislav A Petyuk
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, USA
| | - Timothy J Hohman
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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9
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Park E, Li LY, He C, Abbasi AZ, Ahmed T, Foltz WD, O'Flaherty R, Zain M, Bonin RP, Rauth AM, Fraser PE, Henderson JT, Wu XY. Brain-Penetrating and Disease Site-Targeting Manganese Dioxide-Polymer-Lipid Hybrid Nanoparticles Remodel Microenvironment of Alzheimer's Disease by Regulating Multiple Pathological Pathways. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2207238. [PMID: 36808713 PMCID: PMC10131868 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Finding effective disease-modifying treatment for Alzheimer's disease remains challenging due to an array of factors contributing to the loss of neural function. The current study demonstrates a new strategy, using multitargeted bioactive nanoparticles to modify the brain microenvironment to achieve therapeutic benefits in a well-characterized mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. The application of brain-penetrating manganese dioxide nanoparticles significantly reduces hypoxia, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress; ultimately reducing levels of amyloid β plaques within the neocortex. Analyses of molecular biomarkers and magnetic resonance imaging-based functional studies indicate that these effects improve microvessel integrity, cerebral blood flow, and cerebral lymphatic clearance of amyloid β. These changes collectively shift the brain microenvironment toward conditions more favorable to continued neural function as demonstrated by improved cognitive function following treatment. Such multimodal disease-modifying treatment may bridge critical gaps in the therapeutic treatment of neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliya Park
- Leslie Dan Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of Toronto144 College StTorontoONM5S 3M2Canada
| | - Lily Yi Li
- Leslie Dan Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of Toronto144 College StTorontoONM5S 3M2Canada
| | - Chunsheng He
- Leslie Dan Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of Toronto144 College StTorontoONM5S 3M2Canada
| | - Azhar Z. Abbasi
- Leslie Dan Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of Toronto144 College StTorontoONM5S 3M2Canada
| | - Taksim Ahmed
- Leslie Dan Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of Toronto144 College StTorontoONM5S 3M2Canada
| | - Warren D. Foltz
- Department of Radiation OncologyUniversity Health Network149 College StTorontoONM5T 1P5Canada
| | - Regan O'Flaherty
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative DiseasesDepartment of Medical BiophysicsUniversity of Toronto135 Nassau StTorontoONM5T 1M8Canada
| | - Maham Zain
- Leslie Dan Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of Toronto144 College StTorontoONM5S 3M2Canada
| | - Robert P. Bonin
- Leslie Dan Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of Toronto144 College StTorontoONM5S 3M2Canada
| | - Andrew M. Rauth
- Departments of Medical Biophysics and Radiation OncologyUniversity of Toronto101 College StTorontoONM5G 1L7Canada
| | - Paul E. Fraser
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative DiseasesDepartment of Medical BiophysicsUniversity of Toronto135 Nassau StTorontoONM5T 1M8Canada
| | - Jeffrey T. Henderson
- Leslie Dan Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of Toronto144 College StTorontoONM5S 3M2Canada
| | - Xiao Yu Wu
- Leslie Dan Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of Toronto144 College StTorontoONM5S 3M2Canada
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10
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de Frutos Lucas J, Sewell KR, García-Colomo A, Markovic S, Erickson KI, Brown BM. How does apolipoprotein E genotype influence the relationship between physical activity and Alzheimer's disease risk? A novel integrative model. Alzheimers Res Ther 2023; 15:22. [PMID: 36707869 PMCID: PMC9881295 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-023-01170-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wide evidence suggests that physical activity (PA) confers protection against Alzheimer's disease (AD). On the other hand, the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) ε4 allele represents the greatest genetic risk factor for developing AD. Extensive research has been conducted to determine whether frequent PA can mitigate the increased AD risk associated with APOE ε4. However, thus far, these attempts have produced inconclusive results. In this context, one possible explanation could be that the influence of the combined effect of PA and APOE ε4 carriage might be dependent on the specific outcome measure utilised. MAIN BODY In order to bridge these discrepancies, the aim of this theoretical article is to propose a novel model on the interactive effects of PA and APOE ε4 carriage on well-established mechanisms underlying AD. Available literature was searched to investigate how PA and APOE ε4 carriage, independently and in combination, may alter several molecular pathways involved in AD pathogenesis. The reviewed mechanisms include amyloid beta (Aβ) and tau deposition and clearance, neuronal resilience and neurogenesis, lipid function and cerebrovascular alterations, brain immune response and glucose metabolism. Finally, combining all this information, we have built an integrative model, which includes evidence-based and theoretical synergistic interactions across mechanisms. Moreover, we have identified key knowledge gaps in the literature, providing a list of testable hypotheses that future studies need to address. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that PA influences a wide array of molecular targets involved in AD neuropathology. A deeper understanding of where, when and, most importantly, how PA decreases AD risk even in the presence of the APOE ε4 allele will enable the creation of new protocols using exercise along pharmaceuticals in combined therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaisalmer de Frutos Lucas
- Experimental Psychology, Cognitive Processes and Logopedia Department, School of Psychology, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28223, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain.
- Centre for Precision Health, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, 6027, Australia.
- Departamento de PsicologíaFacultad de Ciencias de la Vida y de la Naturaleza, Universidad Antonio de Nebrija, 28015, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Kelsey R Sewell
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - Alejandra García-Colomo
- Experimental Psychology, Cognitive Processes and Logopedia Department, School of Psychology, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28223, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Shaun Markovic
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
- Australian Alzheimer's Research Foundation, Sarich Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Kirk I Erickson
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
- PROFITH "PROmoting FITness and Health Through Physical Activity" Research Group, Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), Department of Physical and Sports Education, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
- AdventHealth Research Institute, Orlando, FL, 32804, USA
| | - Belinda M Brown
- Centre for Precision Health, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, 6027, Australia
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
- Australian Alzheimer's Research Foundation, Sarich Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, 6027, Australia
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11
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Thacker JS, Mielke JG. The combined effects of corticosterone and brain-derived neurotrophic factor on plasticity-related receptor phosphorylation and expression at the synaptic surface in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Horm Behav 2022; 145:105233. [PMID: 35878471 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Following acute exercise, a temporal window exists wherein neuroplasticity is thought to be heightened. Although a number of studies have established that pairing this post-exercise period with motor training enhances learning, the mechanisms through which exercise-induced priming occurs are not well understood. Previously, we characterized a rodent model of acute exercise that generates significant enhancement in glutamatergic receptor phosphorylation as a possible mechanism to explain how exercise-induced priming might occur. However, whether these changes are stimulated by peripheral factors (e.g., glucocorticoids), central effects (e.g., brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), or a combination of the two remains unclear. Herein, we explored the possible individual and/or cumulative contribution corticosterone (CORT) and BDNF may have on glutamate receptor phosphorylation and synaptic surface expression. Tissue slices from the sensorimotor cortex were prepared and acutely (30 min) incubated with either CORT (200 nM), BDNF (20 ng/mL), or the simultaneous application of CORT and BDNF (CORT+BDNF). Immunoblotting with biotinylated synaptoneurosomes (which provide an enrichment of proteins from the synaptic surface) suggested divergent effects between CORT and BDNF. Acute CORT application enhanced NMDA- (GluN2A, B) and AMPA- (GluA1) receptor phosphorylation, whereas BDNF preferentially increased synaptic surface expression of both NMDA- and AMPA-receptor subunits. The combined effects of CORT+BDNF resulted in a unique subset of signaling patterns that favored phosphorylation in the absence of surface expression. Taken together, these data provide a mechanistic framework for how CORT and BDNF may alter glutamatergic synapses during exercise-induced priming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan S Thacker
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - John G Mielke
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3G1, Canada
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12
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Joshi R, Salton SRJ. Neurotrophin Crosstalk in the Etiology and Treatment of Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:932497. [PMID: 35909451 PMCID: PMC9335126 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.932497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the current progress in our understanding of the mechanisms by which growth factors, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and select neurotrophin-regulated gene products, such as VGF (non-acronymic) and VGF-derived neuropeptides, function in the central nervous system (CNS) to modulate neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, with a discussion of the possible therapeutic applications of these growth factors to major depressive disorder (MDD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). BDNF and VEGF levels are generally decreased regionally in the brains of MDD subjects and in preclinical animal models of depression, changes that are associated with neuronal atrophy and reduced neurogenesis, and are reversed by conventional monoaminergic and novel ketamine-like antidepressants. Downstream of neurotrophins and their receptors, VGF was identified as a nerve growth factor (NGF)- and BDNF-inducible secreted protein and neuropeptide precursor that is produced and trafficked throughout the CNS, where its expression is greatly influenced by neuronal activity and exercise, and where several VGF-derived peptides modulate neuronal activity, function, proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Moreover, levels of VGF are reduced in the CSF of AD subjects, where it has been repetitively identified as a disease biomarker, and in the hippocampi of subjects with MDD, suggesting possible shared mechanisms by which reduced levels of VGF and other proteins that are similarly regulated by neurotrophin signaling pathways contribute to and potentially drive the pathogenesis and progression of co-morbid neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, particularly MDD and AD, opening possible therapeutic windows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev Joshi
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Stephen R. J. Salton
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Friedman Brain Institute, New York, NY, United States
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Stephen R. J. Salton,
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13
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Koca S, Kiris I, Sahin S, Cinar N, Karsidag S, Hanagasi HA, Yildiz GB, Tarik Baykal A. Decreased levels of cytokines implicate altered immune response in plasma of moderate-stage Alzheimer's disease patients. Neurosci Lett 2022; 786:136799. [PMID: 35842208 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136799] [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: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain. However, increasing evidence suggests that the pathogenesis of the disease is associated with peripheral inflammation. Here, we aimed to determine plasma concentrations of multiple cytokines and chemokines from moderate-stage AD and age-matched controls. Changes in a total of 20 cytokines and chemokines in plasma of moderate-stage AD were evaluated by using quantitative microarray. Six of them, namely MCP-1, MIP-1a, MIP-1b, MMP-9, RANTES, and VEGF, were found to be significantly reduced in moderate-stage AD patients (n = 25) in comparison to age-matched and non-demented controls (n = 25). However, GM-CSF, GRO-α/β/γ, IFN- γ, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-10, IL-12 p70, IL-13, IL-2, IL- 4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α showed no significant differences between the patient and control groups. On the contrary to previous early-stage AD studies that show increased plasma cytokine/chemokine levels, our results indicate that inflammatory plasma molecules are reduced in moderate-stage AD. This finding points out the reduced immune responsiveness, which is known to be directly correlated to the degree of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebile Koca
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Health Sciences, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Irem Kiris
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Health Sciences, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevki Sahin
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Maltepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nilgun Cinar
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Maltepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sibel Karsidag
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Maltepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hasmet A Hanagasi
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gulsen B Yildiz
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Tarik Baykal
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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14
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Gallego I, Villate-Beitia I, Saenz-Del-Burgo L, Puras G, Pedraz JL. Therapeutic Opportunities and Delivery Strategies for Brain Revascularization in Stroke, Neurodegeneration, and Aging. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:439-461. [PMID: 35302047 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.121.000418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) diseases, especially acute ischemic events and neurodegenerative disorders, constitute a public health problem with no effective treatments to allow a persistent solution. Failed therapies targeting neuronal recovery have revealed the multifactorial and intricate pathophysiology underlying such CNS disorders as ischemic stroke, Alzheimeŕs disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, vascular Parkisonism, vascular dementia, and aging, in which cerebral microvasculature impairment seems to play a key role. In fact, a reduction in vessel density and cerebral blood flow occurs in these scenarios, contributing to neuronal dysfunction and leading to loss of cognitive function. In this review, we provide an overview of healthy brain microvasculature structure and function in health and the effect of the aforementioned cerebral CNS diseases. We discuss the emerging new therapeutic opportunities, and their delivery approaches, aimed at recovering brain vascularization in this context. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The lack of effective treatments, mainly focused on neuron recovery, has prompted the search of other therapies to treat cerebral central nervous system diseases. The disruption and degeneration of cerebral microvasculature has been evidenced in neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, and aging, constituting a potential target for restoring vascularization, neuronal functioning, and cognitive capacities by the development of therapeutic pro-angiogenic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idoia Gallego
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P); Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P.); and Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P.)
| | - Ilia Villate-Beitia
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P); Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P.); and Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P.)
| | - Laura Saenz-Del-Burgo
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P); Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P.); and Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P.)
| | - Gustavo Puras
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P); Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P.); and Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P.)
| | - José Luis Pedraz
- NanoBioCel Research Group, Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P); Networking Research Centre of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P.); and Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain (I.G., I.V.-B., L.S.-B., G.P., J.L.P.)
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15
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Ali M, Falkenhain K, Njiru BN, Murtaza-Ali M, Ruiz-Uribe NE, Haft-Javaherian M, Catchers S, Nishimura N, Schaffer CB, Bracko O. VEGF signalling causes stalls in brain capillaries and reduces cerebral blood flow in Alzheimer's mice. Brain 2022; 145:1449-1463. [PMID: 35048960 PMCID: PMC9150081 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased incidence of stalled capillary blood flow caused by adhesion of
leucocytes to the brain microvascular endothelium leads to a 17%
reduction of cerebral blood flow and exacerbates short-term memory loss in
multiple mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease. Here, we report that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signalling at the
luminal side of the brain microvasculature plays an integral role in the
capillary stalling phenomenon of the APP/PS1 mouse model. Administration of the anti-mouse VEGF-A164 antibody, an isoform that inhibits
blood–brain barrier hyperpermeability, reduced the number of stalled
capillaries within an hour of injection, leading to an immediate increase in
average capillary blood flow but not capillary diameter. VEGF-A inhibition also
reduced the overall endothelial nitric oxide synthase protein concentrations,
increased occludin levels and decreased the penetration of circulating Evans
Blue dye across the blood–brain barrier into the brain parenchyma,
suggesting increased blood–brain barrier integrity. Capillaries prone to
neutrophil adhesion after anti-VEGF-A treatment also had lower occludin
concentrations than flowing capillaries. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that VEGF-A signalling in APP/PS1 mice
contributes to aberrant endothelial nitric oxide synthase /occludin-associated
blood–brain barrier permeability, increases the incidence of capillary
stalls, and leads to reductions in cerebral blood flow. Reducing leucocyte
adhesion by inhibiting luminal VEGF signalling may provide a novel and
well-tolerated strategy for improving brain microvascular blood flow in
Alzheimer’s disease patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ali
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA, 148532
| | - Kaja Falkenhain
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA, 148532
| | - Brendah N Njiru
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA, 148532
| | - Muhammad Murtaza-Ali
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA, 148532
| | - Nancy E Ruiz-Uribe
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA, 148532
| | | | | | - Nozomi Nishimura
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA, 148532
| | - Chris B Schaffer
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA, 148532
| | - Oliver Bracko
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA, 148532
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16
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Zarezadehmehrizi A, Hong J, Lee J, Rajabi H, Gharakhanlu R, Naghdi N, Azimi M, Park Y. Exercise training ameliorates cognitive dysfunction in amyloid beta-injected rat model: possible mechanisms of Angiostatin/VEGF signaling. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:2263-2271. [PMID: 34003412 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00751-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) regulates angio/neurogenesis and also tightly links to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although exercise has a beneficial effect on neurovascular function and cognitive function, the direct effect of exercise on VEGF-related signaling and cognitive deficit in AD is incompletely understood. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of exercise on angiostatin/VEGF cascade and cognitive function in AD model rats. Wistar male rats were randomly divided into five groups: control (CON), injection of DMSO (Sham-CON), CON-exercise (sham-EX), intrahippocampal injection of Aβ (Aβ), and Aβ-exercise (Aβ-EX). Rats in EX groups underwent treadmill exercise for 4 weeks, then the cognitive function was measured by the Morris Water Maze (MWM) test. mRNA levels of hypoxia-induced factor-1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), and angiostatin were determined in hippocampus by RT-PCR. We found that spatial learning and memory were impaired in Aβ-injected rats, but exercise training improved it. Moreover, exercise training increased the reduced mRNA expression level of VEGF signaling, including HIF1α, VEGF, and VEGFR2 in the hippocampus from Aβ-injected rats. Also, the mRNA expression level of angiostatin was elevated in the hippocampus from Aβ-injected rats, and exercise training abrogated its expression. Our findings suggest that exercise training improves cognitive function in Aβ-injected rats, possibly through enhancing VEGF signaling and reducing angiostatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliasghar Zarezadehmehrizi
- Laboratory of Integrated Physiology, Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Junyoung Hong
- Laboratory of Integrated Physiology, Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jonghae Lee
- Laboratory of Integrated Physiology, Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hamid Rajabi
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Gharakhanlu
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Faculty of Humanities, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Naser Naghdi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Pasteur Institute of Iran 13164, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Azimi
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Faculty of Humanities, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yoonjung Park
- Laboratory of Integrated Physiology, Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
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17
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Liang YY, Zhang LD, Luo X, Wu LL, Chen ZW, Wei GH, Zhang KQ, Du ZA, Li RZ, So KF, Li A. All roads lead to Rome - a review of the potential mechanisms by which exerkines exhibit neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2021; 17:1210-1227. [PMID: 34782555 PMCID: PMC8643060 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.325012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have become a critical public health issue due to the significantly extended human lifespan, leading to considerable economic and social burdens. Traditional therapies for AD such as medicine and surgery remain ineffective, impractical, and expensive. Many studies have shown that a variety of bioactive substances released by physical exercise (called “exerkines”) help to maintain and improve the normal functions of the brain in terms of cognition, emotion, and psychomotor coordination. Increasing evidence suggests that exerkines may exert beneficial effects in AD as well. This review summarizes the neuroprotective effects of exerkines in AD, focusing on the underlying molecular mechanism and the dynamic expression of exerkines after physical exercise. The findings described in this review will help direct research into novel targets for the treatment of AD and develop customized exercise therapy for individuals of different ages, genders, and health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Yao Liang
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University; Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li-Dan Zhang
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University; Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xi Luo
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University; Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li-Li Wu
- Department of Medical Ultrasonics, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhao-Wei Chen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guang-Hao Wei
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Kai-Qing Zhang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ze-An Du
- Department of Clinical Medicine, International School, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ren-Zhi Li
- International Department of the Affiliated High School of South China Normal University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University; Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University), Ministry of Education; Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, Guangdong Province; Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ang Li
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University; Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University), Ministry of Education; Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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18
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The Potential Role of Cytokines and Growth Factors in the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102790. [PMID: 34685770 PMCID: PMC8534363 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most prominent neurodegenerative diseases, which impairs cognitive function in afflicted individuals. AD results in gradual decay of neuronal function as a consequence of diverse degenerating events. Several neuroimmune players (such as cytokines and growth factors that are key players in maintaining CNS homeostasis) turn aberrant during crosstalk between the innate and adaptive immunities. This aberrance underlies neuroinflammation and drives neuronal cells toward apoptotic decline. Neuroinflammation involves microglial activation and has been shown to exacerbate AD. This review attempted to elucidate the role of cytokines, growth factors, and associated mechanisms implicated in the course of AD, especially with neuroinflammation. We also evaluated the propensities and specific mechanism(s) of cytokines and growth factors impacting neuron upon apoptotic decline and further shed light on the availability and accessibility of cytokines across the blood-brain barrier and choroid plexus in AD pathophysiology. The pathogenic and the protective roles of macrophage migration and inhibitory factors, neurotrophic factors, hematopoietic-related growth factors, TAU phosphorylation, advanced glycation end products, complement system, and glial cells in AD and neuropsychiatric pathology were also discussed. Taken together, the emerging roles of these factors in AD pathology emphasize the importance of building novel strategies for an effective therapeutic/neuropsychiatric management of AD in clinics.
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19
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Skaaraas GHES, Melbye C, Puchades MA, Leung DSY, Jacobsen Ø, Rao SB, Ottersen OP, Leergaard TB, Torp R. Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease Associates with Upregulated Angiopoietin and Downregulated Hypoxia-Inducible Factor. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 83:1651-1663. [PMID: 34459401 PMCID: PMC8609707 DOI: 10.3233/jad-210571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: Vascular pathology is a common feature in patients with advanced Alzheimer’s disease, with cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) and microvascular changes commonly observed at autopsies and in genetic mouse models. However, despite a plethora of studies addressing the possible impact of CAA on brain vasculature, results have remained contradictory, showing reduced, unchanged, or even increased capillary densities in human and rodent brains overexpressing amyloid-β in Alzheimer’s disease and Down’s syndrome. Objective: We asked if CAA is associated with changes in angiogenetic factors or receptors and if so, whether this would translate into morphological alterations in pericyte coverage and vessel density. Methods: We utilized the transgenic mice carrying the Arctic (E693G) and Swedish (KM670/6701NL) amyloid precursor protein which develop severe CAA in addition to parenchymal plaques. Results: The main finding of the present study was that CAA in Tg-ArcSwe mice is associated with upregulated angiopoietin and downregulated hypoxia-inducible factor. In the same mice, we combined immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy to quantify the extent of CAA and investigate to which degree vessels associated with amyloid plaques were pathologically affected. We found that despite a severe amount of CAA and alterations in several angiogenetic factors in Tg-ArcSwe mice, this was not translated into significant morphological alterations like changes in pericyte coverage or vessel density. Conclusion: Our data suggest that CAA does not impact vascular density but might affect capillary turnover by causing changes in the expression levels of angiogenetic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christoffer Melbye
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maja A Puchades
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Doreen Siu Yi Leung
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Shreyas B Rao
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ole Petter Ottersen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trygve B Leergaard
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Reidun Torp
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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20
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Moazzami K, Wittbrodt MT, Lima BB, Kim JH, Hammadah M, Ko YA, Obideen M, Abdelhadi N, Kaseer B, Gafeer MM, Nye JA, Shah AJ, Ward L, Raggi P, Waller EK, Bremner JD, Quyyumi AA, Vaccarino V. Circulating Progenitor Cells and Cognitive Impairment in Men and Women with Coronary Artery Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 74:659-668. [PMID: 32083582 DOI: 10.3233/jad-191063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circulating progenitor cells (CPC) have been associated with memory function and cognitive impairment in healthy adults. However, it is unclear whether such associations also exist in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). OBJECTIVE To assess the association between CPCs and memory performance among individuals with CAD. METHODS We assessed cognitive function in 509 patients with CAD using the verbal and visual Memory subtests of the Wechsler memory scale-IV and the Trail Making Test parts A and B. CPCs were enumerated with flow cytometry as CD45med/CD34+ blood mononuclear cells, those co-expressing other epitopes representing populations enriched for hematopoietic and endothelial progenitors. RESULTS After adjusting for demographic and cardiovascular risk factors, lower number of endothelial progenitor cell counts were independently associated with lower visual and verbal memory scores (p for all < 0.05). There was a significant interaction in the magnitude of this association with race (p < 0.01), such that the association of verbal memory scores with endothelial progenitor subsets was present in Black but not in non-Black participants. No associations were present with the hematopoietic progenitor-enriched cells or with the Trail Making Tests. CONCLUSION Lower numbers of circulating endothelial progenitor cells are associated with cognitive impairment in patients with CAD, suggesting a protective effect of repair/regeneration processes in the maintenance of cognitive status. Impairment of verbal memory function was more strongly associated with lower CPC counts in Black compared to non-Black participants with CAD. Whether strategies designed to improve regenerative capacity will improve cognition needs further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasra Moazzami
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Matthew T Wittbrodt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Bruno B Lima
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jeong Hwan Kim
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Muhammad Hammadah
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yi-An Ko
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Malik Obideen
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Naser Abdelhadi
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Belal Kaseer
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - M Mazen Gafeer
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jonathon A Nye
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Amit J Shah
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Laura Ward
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Paolo Raggi
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada
| | - Edmund K Waller
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - J Douglas Bremner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Arshed A Quyyumi
- Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Viola Vaccarino
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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21
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Kapoor A, Nation DA. Role of Notch signaling in neurovascular aging and Alzheimer's disease. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 116:90-97. [PMID: 33384205 PMCID: PMC8236496 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved cell signaling system known to be involved in vascular development and function. Recent evidence suggests that dysfunctional Notch signaling could play a critical role in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases. We reviewed current literature on the role of Notch signaling pathway, and specifically Notch receptor genes and proteins, in aging, cerebrovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease. We hypothesize that Notch signaling may represent a key point of overlap between age-related vascular and Alzheimer's pathophysiology contributing to their comorbidity and combined influence on cognitive decline and dementia. Numerous findings from studies of genetics, neuropathology and cell culture models all suggest a link between altered Notch signaling and Alzheimer's pathophysiology. Age-related changes in Notch signaling may also trigger neurovascular dysfunction, contributing to the development of neurodegenerative diseases; however, additional studies are warranted. Future research directly exploring the influence of aberrant Notch signaling in the development of Alzheimer's disease is needed to better understand this mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arunima Kapoor
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Daniel A Nation
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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22
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Tubi MA, Kothapalli D, Hapenney M, Feingold FW, Mack WJ, King KS, Thompson PM, Braskie MN. Regional relationships between CSF VEGF levels and Alzheimer's disease brain biomarkers and cognition. Neurobiol Aging 2021; 105:241-251. [PMID: 34126466 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2021.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a complex signaling protein that supports vascular and neuronal function. Alzheimer's disease (AD) -neuropathological hallmarks interfere with VEGF signaling and modify previously detected positive associations between cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) VEGF and cognition and hippocampal volume. However, it remains unknown 1) whether regional relationships between VEGF and glucose metabolism and cortical thinning exist, and 2) whether AD-neuropathological hallmarks (CSF Aβ, t-tau, p-tau) also modify these relationships. We addressed this in 310 Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) participants (92 cognitively normal, 149 mild cognitive impairment, 69 AD; 215 CSF Aβ+, 95 CSF Aβ-) with regional cortical thickness and cognition measurements and 158 participants with FDG-PET. In Aβ + participants (CSF Aβ42 ≤ 192 pg/mL), higher CSF VEGF levels were associated with greater FDG-PET signal in the inferior parietal, and middle and inferior temporal cortices. Abnormal CSF amyloid and tau levels strengthened the positive association between VEGF and regional FDG-PET indices. VEGF also had both direct associations with semantic memory, as well as indirect associations mediated by regional FDG-PET signal to cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meral A Tubi
- Imaging Genetics Center, Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Marina del Rey, CA, USA
| | - Deydeep Kothapalli
- Imaging Genetics Center, Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Marina del Rey, CA, USA
| | - Matthew Hapenney
- Imaging Genetics Center, Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Marina del Rey, CA, USA
| | - Franklin W Feingold
- Imaging Genetics Center, Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Marina del Rey, CA, USA; Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Wendy J Mack
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kevin S King
- Huntington Medical Research Institutes, Imaging Division, Pasadena, CA, 91105 USA
| | - Paul M Thompson
- Imaging Genetics Center, Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Marina del Rey, CA, USA
| | - Meredith N Braskie
- Imaging Genetics Center, Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Marina del Rey, CA, USA.
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23
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Miziak B, Błaszczyk B, Czuczwar SJ. Some Candidate Drugs for Pharmacotherapy of Alzheimer's Disease. PHARMACEUTICALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 14:ph14050458. [PMID: 34068096 PMCID: PMC8152728 DOI: 10.3390/ph14050458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD; progressive neurodegenerative disorder) is associated with cognitive and functional impairment with accompanying neuropsychiatric symptoms. The available pharmacological treatment is of a symptomatic nature and, as such, it does not modify the cause of AD. The currently used drugs to enhance cognition include an N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist (memantine) and cholinesterase inhibitors. The PUBMED, Medical Subject Heading and Clinical Trials databases were used for searching relevant data. Novel treatments are focused on already approved drugs for other conditions and also searching for innovative drugs encompassing investigational compounds. Among the approved drugs, we investigated, are intranasal insulin (and other antidiabetic drugs: liraglitude, pioglitazone and metformin), bexarotene (an anti-cancer drug and a retinoid X receptor agonist) or antidepressant drugs (citalopram, escitalopram, sertraline, mirtazapine). The latter, especially when combined with antipsychotics (for instance quetiapine or risperidone), were shown to reduce neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD patients. The former enhanced cognition. Procognitive effects may be also expected with dietary antioxidative and anti-inflammatory supplements—curcumin, myricetin, and resveratrol. Considering a close relationship between brain ischemia and AD, they may also reduce post-brain ischemia neurodegeneration. An investigational compound, CN-105 (a lipoprotein E agonist), has a very good profile in AD preclinical studies, and its clinical trial for postoperative dementia is starting soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Miziak
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Barbara Błaszczyk
- Faculty of Health Sciences, High School of Economics, Law and Medical Sciences, 25-734 Kielce, Poland;
| | - Stanisław J. Czuczwar
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-81-448-65-00; Fax: +48-81-65-00-01
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24
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Crumpler R, Roman RJ, Fan F. Capillary Stalling: A Mechanism of Decreased Cerebral Blood Flow in AD/ADRD. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 2:149-153. [PMID: 35028643 PMCID: PMC8754422 DOI: 10.33696/neurol.2.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and Alzheimer's Disease-Related Dementias (ADRD) are debilitating conditions that are highly associated with aging populations, especially those with comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension. In addition to the classical pathological findings of AD, such as beta-amyloid (Aβ) accumulation and tau hyperphosphorylation, vascular dysfunction is also associated with the progression of the disease. Vascular dysfunction in AD is associated with decreased cerebral blood flow (CBF). Impaired CBF is an early and persistent symptom of AD/ADRD and is thought to be associated with deficient autoregulation and neurovascular coupling. Another recently elucidated mechanism that contributes to cerebral hypoperfusion is capillary stalling, or the temporary arrest of capillary blood flow usually precipitated by a stalled leukocyte or constriction of actin-containing capillary pericytes. Stalled capillaries are associated with decreased CBF and impaired cognitive performance. AD/ADRD are associated with chronic, low-level inflammation, which contributes to capillary stalling by increased cell adhesion molecules, circulating leukocytes, and reactive oxygen species production. Recent research has shed light on potential targets to decrease capillary stalling in AD mice. Separate inhibition of Ly6G and VEGF-A has been shown to decrease capillary stalling and increase CBF in AD mice. These results suggest that targeting stalled capillaries could influence the outcome of AD and potentially be a target for future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reece Crumpler
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
| | - Richard J. Roman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
| | - Fan Fan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
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25
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Pilozzi A, Carro C, Huang X. Roles of β-Endorphin in Stress, Behavior, Neuroinflammation, and Brain Energy Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:E338. [PMID: 33396962 PMCID: PMC7796446 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
β-Endorphins are peptides that exert a wide variety of effects throughout the body. Produced through the cleavage pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC), β-endorphins are the primarily agonist of mu opioid receptors, which can be found throughout the body, brain, and cells of the immune system that regulate a diverse set of systems. As an agonist of the body's opioid receptors, β-endorphins are most noted for their potent analgesic effects, but they also have their involvement in reward-centric and homeostasis-restoring behaviors, among other effects. These effects have implicated the peptide in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, making it a research target of interest. This review briefly summarizes the basics of endorphin function, goes over the behaviors and regulatory pathways it governs, and examines the variability of β-endorphin levels observed between normal and disease/disorder affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xudong Huang
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA; (A.P.); (C.C.)
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26
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Alvarez XA, Alvarez I, Martinez A, Romero I, Benito C, Suarez I, Mourente S, Fantini M, Figueroa J, Aleixandre M, Linares C, Muresanu D, Winter S, Moessler H. Serum VEGF Predicts Clinical Improvement Induced by Cerebrolysin Plus Donepezil in Patients With Advanced Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 23:581-586. [PMID: 32640027 PMCID: PMC7710915 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyaa046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) increases with Alzheimer's disease (AD) severity and may prevent cognitive decline. However, information on the influence of AD drug therapy on circulating VEGF is limited. This study assessed changes in serum VEGF levels and its association with clinical and functional responses in mild to moderate AD patients who were treated with Cerebrolysin, donepezil, or the combined therapy in a randomized, controlled trial. Treatment with Cerebrolysin plus donepezil reduced elevated serum VEGF levels and improved functioning and cognition significantly compared with donepezil alone in patients with advanced AD, and treatment differences were more pronounced in patients with higher VEGF levels. Our results indicate that the combined therapy reversed the increase of serum VEGF in advanced AD, which was associated with cognitive and functional responses, particularly in patients with high baseline VEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Anton Alvarez
- Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica RehaSalud, A Coruña, Spain ,Clinical Research Department, QPS Holdings, A Coruña, Spain,Correspondence: Dr X. Antón Alvarez, MD, PhD, Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica RehaSalud, 15006-A Coruña, Spain ()
| | - Irene Alvarez
- Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica RehaSalud, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Antia Martinez
- Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Ourense, Ourense, Spain
| | - Iria Romero
- Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica RehaSalud, A Coruña, Spain ,Clinical Research Department, QPS Holdings, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Concha Benito
- Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica RehaSalud, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Irene Suarez
- Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica RehaSalud, A Coruña, Spain
| | | | | | - Jesús Figueroa
- Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica RehaSalud, A Coruña, Spain ,Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | | | | | - Dafin Muresanu
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Iuliu Hațieganu,” Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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27
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Qin C, Lu Y, Wang K, Bai L, Shi G, Huang Y, Li Y. Transplantation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells improves cognitive deficits and alleviates neuropathology in animal models of Alzheimer's disease: a meta-analytic review on potential mechanisms. Transl Neurodegener 2020; 9:20. [PMID: 32460886 PMCID: PMC7251864 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-020-00199-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder. Therapeutically, a transplantation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) can play a beneficial role in animal models of Alzheimer's disease. However, the relevant mechanism remains to be fully elucidated. MAIN BODY Subsequent to the transplantation of BMMSCs, memory loss and cognitive impairment were significantly improved in animal models with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Potential mechanisms involved neurogenesis, apoptosis, angiogenesis, inflammation, immunomodulation, etc. The above mechanisms might play different roles at certain stages. It was revealed that the transplantation of BMMSCs could alter some gene levels. Moreover, the differential expression of representative genes was responsible for neuropathological phenotypes in Alzheimer's disease, which could be used to construct gene-specific patterns. CONCLUSIONS Multiple signal pathways involve therapeutic mechanisms by which the transplantation of BMMSCs improves cognitive and behavioral deficits in AD models. Gene expression profile can be utilized to establish statistical regression model for the evaluation of therapeutic effect. The transplantation of autologous BMMSCs maybe a prospective therapy for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Qin
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Comparative Medical Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, 5 Panjiayuan Nanli St, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Yalan Lu
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Comparative Medical Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, 5 Panjiayuan Nanli St, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Kewei Wang
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Comparative Medical Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, 5 Panjiayuan Nanli St, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Lin Bai
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Comparative Medical Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, 5 Panjiayuan Nanli St, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Guiying Shi
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Comparative Medical Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, 5 Panjiayuan Nanli St, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Yiying Huang
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Comparative Medical Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, 5 Panjiayuan Nanli St, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Yongning Li
- Department of International Medical Service & Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dong Cheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
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28
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Liu X, Chu B, Jin S, Li M, Xu Y, Yang H, Feng Z, Bi J, Wang P. Vascular endothelial growth factor alleviates mitochondrial dysfunction and suppression of mitochondrial biogenesis in models of Alzheimer’s disease. Int J Neurosci 2020; 131:154-162. [PMID: 32083964 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1733564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangtian Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Bingcong Chu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Suqin Jin
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Maoyu Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingying Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhe Feng
- Department of Neurology, Qufu People’s Hospital, Qufu, China
| | - Jianzhong Bi
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
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29
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Marefati N, Mokhtari-Zaer A, Roghani M, Karimian SM, Khamse S, Fatima S, Ebrahimnia P, Sadeghipour HR. Lactation ameliorates neurobehavioral outcomes in the ischemic rat dams. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2020; 35:852-860. [PMID: 32102575 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2020.1731796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Aims: Cardiac arrest and stroke as a life-threatening event that may occur in throughout the female life, especially during pregnancy or after delivery. Previous studies demonstrated that cerebral ischemia during pregnancy or the puerperium is a rare occurrence but is associated with significant mortality and high morbidity. This study was designed to assess the effects of pregnancy and lactation on behavioral deficits, neural density, and angiogenesis in rat dams undergoing global ischemia.Materials and methods: Thirty-two female Wistar rats were divided into four groups: virgin-Sham (Vir-Sham) group, virgin-ischemic (Vir-Isc) group, pregnancy-lactation-sham (P-L-Sham) group, and pregnancy-lactation-ischemic (P-L-Isc) group. Global brain ischemia was induced in ischemic groups by using the 2-vessel occlusion (2-VO) model at the end of lactation phase. Seven days after 2-VO, anxiety-like signals and passive avoidance memory tests were assessed in animals.Key findings: We found that the lactation significantly improved memory and reduced anxiety-like signals in P-L-Isc group as compared with Vir-Isc group. Moreover, angiogenesis and neural density significantly increased in the P-L-Isc group as compared with the Vir-Isc group.Significance: This finding for the first time indicated that lactation protects the maternal brain against ischemic insult partly through promoting angiogenesis and neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Marefati
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Mokhtari-Zaer
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Roghani
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Morteza Karimian
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Safoura Khamse
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sulail Fatima
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Ebrahimnia
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Sadeghipour
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Twelve weeks of resistance training does not influence peripheral levels of neurotrophic growth factors or homocysteine in healthy adults: a randomized-controlled trial. Eur J Appl Physiol 2019; 119:2167-2176. [PMID: 31372803 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-019-04202-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is growing evidence for a preventative effect of resistance training on cognitive decline through physiological mechanisms; yet, the effect of resistance training on resting growth factors and homocysteine levels is incompletely understood. This study aimed to investigate the effect of intense resistance training, for 12 weeks, on changes in peripheral growth factors and homocysteine in late middle-aged adults. METHODS 45 healthy adults were enrolled into the single-site parallel groups' randomized-controlled trial conducted at the Department of Exercise Science, Strength and Conditioning Laboratory, Murdoch University. Participants were allocated to the following conditions: (1) high-load resistance training (n = 14), or (2) moderate-load resistance training (n = 15) twice per week for 12 weeks; or (3) non-exercising control group (n = 16). Data were collected from September 2016 to December 2017. Fasted blood samples were collected at baseline and within 7 days of trial completion for the analysis of resting serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), insulin-like growth factor 1, vascular endothelial growth factor, and plasma homocysteine levels. RESULTS No differences in baseline to post-intervention change in serum growth factors or plasma homocysteine levels were observed between groups. A medium effect was calculated for BDNF change within the high-load condition alone (+ 12.9%, g = 0.54). CONCLUSIONS High-load or moderate-load resistance training twice per week for 12 weeks has no effect on peripheral growth factors or homocysteine in healthy late middle-aged adults. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12616000690459.
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Galts CP, Bettio LE, Jewett DC, Yang CC, Brocardo PS, Rodrigues ALS, Thacker JS, Gil-Mohapel J. Depression in neurodegenerative diseases: Common mechanisms and current treatment options. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 102:56-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Alvarez XA, Alvarez I, Aleixandre M, Linares C, Muresanu D, Winter S, Moessler H. Severity-Related Increase and Cognitive Correlates of Serum VEGF Levels in Alzheimer's Disease ApoE4 Carriers. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 63:1003-1013. [PMID: 29710700 DOI: 10.3233/jad-160477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an angioneurin involved in the regulation of vascular and neural functions relevant for the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the influence of AD severity and ApoE4 status on circulating VEGF and its relationship with cognition has not been investigated. We assessed serum VEGF levels and cognitive performance in AD, amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and control subjects. VEGF levels were higher in AD patients than in MCI cases and controls (p < 0.05) and showed a progressive increase with clinical severity in the whole study population (p < 0.01). Among AD patients, severity-related VEGF elevations were significant in ApoE4 carriers (p < 0.05), but not in non-carriers. Increased VEGF levels were associated with disease severity and showed mild correlations with cognitive impairment that were only consistent for the ADAS-cog+ items remembering test instructions (memory) and maze task (executive functions) in the group of AD patients (p < 0.05). On the other hand, higher VEGF values were related to better memory and language performance in ApoE4 carriers with moderately-severe AD. According to these results showing severity- and ApoE4-related differences in serum VEGF and its cognitive correlates, it is suggested that increases in VEGF levels might represent an endogenous response driven by pathological factors and could entail cognitive benefits in AD patients, particularly in ApoE4 carriers. Our findings support the notion that VEGF constitutes a relevant molecular target to be further explored in AD pathology and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Anton Alvarez
- Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica RehaSalud, A Coruña, Spain.,Clinical Research Department, QPS Holdings, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Irene Alvarez
- Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica RehaSalud, A Coruña, Spain.,Clinical Research Department, QPS Holdings, A Coruña, Spain
| | | | | | - Dafin Muresanu
- "RoNeuro" Institute for Neurological Research and Diagnostic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Haţieganu", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Park JM, Kim YJ. [Effect of Ghrelin on Memory Impairment in a Rat Model of Vascular Dementia]. J Korean Acad Nurs 2019; 49:317-328. [PMID: 31266928 DOI: 10.4040/jkan.2019.49.3.317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to identify the effect of ghrelin on memory impairment in a rat model of vascular dementia induced by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. METHODS Randomized controlled groups and the posttest design were used. We established the representative animal model of vascular dementia caused by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion and administered 80 μg/kg ghrelin intraperitoneally for 4 weeks. First, behavioral studies were performed to evaluate spatial memory. Second, we used molecular biology techniques to determine whether ghrelin ameliorates the damage to the structure and function of the white matter and hippocampus, which are crucial to learning and memory. RESULTS Ghrelin improved the spatial memory impairment in the Y-maze and Morris water maze test. In the white matter, demyelination and atrophy of the corpus callosum were significantly decreased in the ghrelin-treated group. In the hippocampus, ghrelin increased the length of hippocampal microvessels and reduced the microvessels pathology. Further, we confirmed angiogenesis enhancement through the fact that ghrelin treatment increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-related protein levels, which are the most powerful mediators of angiogenesis in the hippocampus. CONCLUSION We found that ghrelin affected the damaged myelin sheaths and microvessels by increasing angiogenesis, which then led to neuroprotection and improved memory function. We suggest that further studies continue to accumulate evidence of the effect of ghrelin. Further, we believe that the development of therapeutic interventions that increase ghrelin may contribute to memory improvement in patients with vascular dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Min Park
- College of Nursing Science, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Youn Jung Kim
- College of Nursing Science, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea.
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Govindpani K, McNamara LG, Smith NR, Vinnakota C, Waldvogel HJ, Faull RL, Kwakowsky A. Vascular Dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease: A Prelude to the Pathological Process or a Consequence of It? J Clin Med 2019; 8:E651. [PMID: 31083442 PMCID: PMC6571853 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8050651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia. Despite decades of research following several theoretical and clinical lines, all existing treatments for the disorder are purely symptomatic. AD research has traditionally been focused on neuronal and glial dysfunction. Although there is a wealth of evidence pointing to a significant vascular component in the disease, this angle has been relatively poorly explored. In this review, we consider the various aspects of vascular dysfunction in AD, which has a significant impact on brain metabolism and homeostasis and the clearance of β-amyloid and other toxic metabolites. This may potentially precede the onset of the hallmark pathophysiological and cognitive symptoms of the disease. Pathological changes in vessel haemodynamics, angiogenesis, vascular cell function, vascular coverage, blood-brain barrier permeability and immune cell migration may be related to amyloid toxicity, oxidative stress and apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype. These vascular deficits may in turn contribute to parenchymal amyloid deposition, neurotoxicity, glial activation and metabolic dysfunction in multiple cell types. A vicious feedback cycle ensues, with progressively worsening neuronal and vascular pathology through the course of the disease. Thus, a better appreciation for the importance of vascular dysfunction in AD may open new avenues for research and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karan Govindpani
- Centre for Brain Research, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Laura G McNamara
- Centre for Brain Research, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Nicholas R Smith
- Centre for Brain Research, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Chitra Vinnakota
- Centre for Brain Research, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Henry J Waldvogel
- Centre for Brain Research, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Richard Lm Faull
- Centre for Brain Research, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Andrea Kwakowsky
- Centre for Brain Research, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) Disrupt the Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity and Elevate Amyloid Pathology in the Brains of 5XFAD Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20061489. [PMID: 30934587 PMCID: PMC6471393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20061489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2019] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder affecting 5.4 million people in the United States. Currently approved pharmacologic interventions for AD are limited to symptomatic improvement, not affecting the underlying pathology. Therefore, the search for novel therapeutic strategies is ongoing. A hallmark of AD is the compromised blood-brain barrier (BBB); thus, developing drugs that target the BBB to enhance its integrity and function could be a novel approach to prevent and/or treat AD. Previous evidence has shown the beneficial effects of growth factors in the treatment of AD pathology. Based on reported positive results obtained with the product Endoret®, the objective of this study was to investigate the effect of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) on the BBB integrity and function, initially in a cell-based BBB model and in 5x Familial Alzheimer’s Disease (5xFAD) mice. Our results showed that while PRGF demonstrated a positive effect in the cell-based BBB model with the enhanced integrity and function of the model, the in-vivo findings showed that PRGF exacerbated amyloid pathology in 5xFAD brains. At 10 and 100% doses, PRGF increased amyloid deposition associated with increased apoptosis and neuroinflammation. In conclusion, our results suggest PRGF may not provide beneficial effects against AD and the consideration to utilize growth factors should further be investigated.
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Marston KJ, Brown BM, Rainey-Smith SR, Peiffer JJ. Resistance Exercise-Induced Responses in Physiological Factors Linked with Cognitive Health. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 68:39-64. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-181079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kieran J. Marston
- Department of Exercise Science, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Ageing, Cognition and Exercise (ACE) Research Group, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Belinda M. Brown
- Department of Exercise Science, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Ageing, Cognition and Exercise (ACE) Research Group, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, Australia
- Australian Alzheimer’s Research Foundation, Sarich Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Stephanie R. Rainey-Smith
- Ageing, Cognition and Exercise (ACE) Research Group, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, Australia
- Australian Alzheimer’s Research Foundation, Sarich Neuroscience Research Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jeremiah J. Peiffer
- Department of Exercise Science, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Ageing, Cognition and Exercise (ACE) Research Group, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Singh Angom R, Wang Y, Wang E, Pal K, Bhattacharya S, Watzlawik JO, Rosenberry TL, Das P, Mukhopadhyay D. VEGF receptor-1 modulates amyloid β 1-42 oligomer-induced senescence in brain endothelial cells. FASEB J 2019; 33:4626-4637. [PMID: 30576228 PMCID: PMC6404587 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201802003r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Aggregated amyloid β (Aβ) peptides in the Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain are hypothesized to trigger several downstream pathologies, including cerebrovascular dysfunction. Previous studies have shown that Aβ peptides can have antiangiogenic properties, which may contribute to vascular dysfunction in the early stages of the disease process. We have generated data showing that brain endothelial cells (ECs) exposed to toxic Aβ1-42 oligomers can readily enter a senescence phenotype. To determine the effect of Aβ oligomers on brain ECs, we treated early passaged human brain microvascular ECs and HUVECs with high MW Aβ1-42 oligomers (5 µM, for 72 h). For controls, we used no peptide treatment, 5 µM Aβ1-42 monomers, and 5 µM Aβ1-42 fibrils, respectively. Brain ECs treated with Aβ1-42 oligomers showed increased senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining and increased senescence-associated p21/p53 expression. Treatment with either Aβ1-42 monomer or Aβ1-42 fibrils did not induce senescence in this assay. We then measured vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) expression in the Aβ1-42 oligomer-treated ECs, and these cells showed significantly increased VEGFR-1 expression and decreased VEGFR-2 levels. Overexpression of VEGFR-1 in brain ECs readily induced senescence, suggesting a direct role of VEGFR-1 signaling events in this paradigm. More importantly, small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of VEGFR-1 expression in brain ECs was able to prevent up-regulation of p21 protein expression and significantly reduced induction of senescence following Aβ1-42 oligomer treatment. Our studies show that exposure to Aβ1-42 oligomers may impair vascular functions by altering VEGFR-1 expression and causing ECs to enter a senescent phenotype. Altered VEGFR expression has been documented in brains of AD patients and suggests that this pathway may play a role in AD disease pathogenesis. These studies suggest that modulating VEGFR-1 expression and signaling events could potentially prevent senescence and rejuvenate EC functions, and provides us with a novel target to pursue for prevention and treatment of cerebrovascular dysfunction in AD.-Angom, R. S., Wang, Y., Wang, E., Pal, K., Bhattacharya, S., Watzlawik, J. O., Rosenberry, T. L., Das, P., Mukhopadhyay, D. VEGF receptor-1 modulates amyloid β 1-42 oligomer-induced senescence in brain endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and
| | - Enfeng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and
| | | | | | - Jens O. Watzlawik
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Terrone L. Rosenberry
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Pritam Das
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and
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Wang Z, Zhou W, Zhou B, Zhang J. Association of vascular endothelial growth factor levels in CSF and cerebral glucose metabolism across the Alzheimer's disease spectrum. Neurosci Lett 2018; 687:276-279. [PMID: 30278247 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.09.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The association of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels in CSF and cerebral glucose metabolism across the Alzheimer's disease (AD) spectrum is unclear. CSF VEGF levels were cross-sectionally related to cerebral glucose metabolism, as measured by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET), using linear regression models. We found that VEGF levels were associated with cerebral glucose metabolism in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD, but not in cognitively normal older adults. Our data indicated that VEGF may play an important role in cerebral glucose metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaowei Wang
- Department of Neurology, Qianjiang Central Hospital of Hubei Province, Hubei, China
| | - Wenjun Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, Qianjiang Central Hospital of Hubei Province, Hubei, China.
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Kishimoto Y, Tsukamoto I, Nishigawa A, Nishimoto A, Kirino Y, Kato Y, Konishi R, Maruyama T, Sakakibara N. Data on COA-Cl administration to the APP/PS2 double-transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer׳s disease: Improved hippocampus-dependent learning and unchanged spontaneous physical activity. Data Brief 2018; 20:1877-1883. [PMID: 30294639 PMCID: PMC6168792 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2018.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
We herein present behavioral data regarding whether COA-Cl, a novel adenosine-like nucleic acid analog that promotes angiogenesis and features neuroprotective roles, improves cognitive and behavioral deficits in a murine model for Alzheimer׳s disease (AD). COA-Cl induced significant spatial memory improvement in the amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 2 double-transgenic mouse model of AD (PS2Tg2576 mice). Correspondingly, non-spatial novel object cognition test performance also significantly improved in COA-Cl-treated PS2Tg2576 mice; however, these mice demonstrated no significant changes in physical activity or motor performance. COA-Cl did not change the spontaneous activities and cognitive ability in the wild-type mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Kishimoto
- Kagawa School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Japan
| | - Ikuko Tsukamoto
- Department of Pharmaco-Bio-Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Japan
| | - Atsuko Nishigawa
- Kagawa School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Japan
| | - Akiko Nishimoto
- Kagawa School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kirino
- Kagawa School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Kato
- Kagawa School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Japan
| | - Ryoji Konishi
- Department of Pharmaco-Bio-Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Japan
| | - Tokumi Maruyama
- Kagawa School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Japan
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Shen Y, Ye B, Chen P, Wang Q, Fan C, Shu Y, Xiang M. Cognitive Decline, Dementia, Alzheimer's Disease and Presbycusis: Examination of the Possible Molecular Mechanism. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:394. [PMID: 29937713 PMCID: PMC6002513 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidences of presbycusis and dementia are high among geriatric diseases. Presbycusis is the general term applied to age-related hearing loss and can be caused by many risk factors, such as noise exposure, smoking, medication, hypertension, family history, and other factors. Mutation of mitochondrial DNA in hair cells, spiral ganglion cells, and stria vascularis cells of the cochlea is the basic mechanism of presbycusis. Dementia is a clinical syndrome that includes the decline of cognitive and conscious states and is caused by many neurodegenerative diseases, of which Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common. The amyloid cascade hypothesis and tau hypothesis are the two major hypotheses that describe the AD pathogenic mechanism. Recent studies have shown that deposition of Aβ and hyperphosphorylation of the tau protein may cause mitochondrial dysfunction. An increasing number of papers have reported that, on one hand, the auditory system function in AD patients is damaged as their cognitive ability declines and that, on the other hand, hearing loss may be a risk factor for dementia and AD. However, the relationship between presbycusis and AD is still unknown. By reviewing the relevant literature, we found that the SIRT1-PGC1α pathway and LKB1 (or CaMKKβ)-AMPK pathway may play a role in the preservation of cerebral neuron function by taking part in the regulation of mitochondrial function. Then vascular endothelial growth factor signal pathway is activated to promote vascular angiogenesis and maintenance of the blood–brain barrier integrity. Recently, experiments have also shown that their expression levels are altered in both presbycusis and AD mouse models. Therefore, we propose that exploring the specific molecular link between presbycusis and AD may provide new ideas for their prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Shen
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Ye
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Penghui Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Quan Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Cui Fan
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yilai Shu
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, EENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingliang Xiang
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
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Guo H, Xia D, Liao S, Niu B, Tang J, Hu H, Qian H, Cao B. Vascular endothelial growth factor improves the cognitive decline of Alzheimer's disease via concurrently inducing the expression of ADAM10 and reducing the expression of β-site APP cleaving enzyme 1 in Tg2576 mice. Neurosci Res 2018; 142:49-57. [PMID: 29702127 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2018] [Revised: 04/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is primarily characterized by the production and deposit of β-amyloid protein (Aβ) in β-amyloid plaques (APs). On this basis, we investigated whether vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a growth factor with important neuroprotective activity, may provide a therapeutic opportunity for treating AD. We initially found that the expression and production of VEGF was downregulated in the brains of Tg2576 mice during the course of AD development and progression. Restoring VEGF in the brains of Tg2576 mice antagonized the production and deposit of Aβ in Tg2576 mice. The addition of VEGF concurrently increased the expression of disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 10 (ADAM10) and decreased the expression of β-site APP cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), which contributes to the enhanced clearance of Aβ in vivo. By decreasing the production and deposit of Aβ, VEGF improved the cognitive decline of Tg2576 mice. These observations provide a novel implication for VEGF as a therapeutic approach for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Guo
- Department of Neurology, Jinan Clinical Medicine College of The Second Military Medical University, Jinan, 250000, China; Department of Neurology, Jinan Military General Hospital, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Deyu Xia
- Department of Neurology, Navy General Hospital of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Shaohua Liao
- Department of Neurology, Jinan Military General Hospital, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Bing Niu
- Department of Neurology, Jinan Military General Hospital, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Jigang Tang
- Department of Neurology, Jinan Military General Hospital, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Huaiqiang Hu
- Department of Neurology, Jinan Military General Hospital, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Hairong Qian
- Department of Neurology, Navy General Hospital of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100048, China.
| | - Bingzhen Cao
- Department of Neurology, Jinan Clinical Medicine College of The Second Military Medical University, Jinan, 250000, China; Department of Neurology, Jinan Military General Hospital, Jinan, 250000, China.
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Birch AM, Kelly ÁM. Lifelong environmental enrichment in the absence of exercise protects the brain from age-related cognitive decline. Neuropharmacology 2018; 145:59-74. [PMID: 29630903 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.03.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Environmental manipulations enhance neuroplasticity, with enrichment-induced cognitive improvements linked to increased expression of growth factors and enhanced hippocampal neurogenesis. Environmental enrichment (EE) is defined as the addition of social, physical and somatosensory stimulation into an animal's environment via larger group housing, extra objects and, often, running wheels. Previous studies from our laboratory report that physical activity is a potent memory enhancer but that long-term environmental stimulation can be as effective as exercise at ameliorating age-related memory decline. To assess the effects of EE, in the absence of exercise, rats were housed in continuous enriched conditions for 20 months and memory assessed at young, middle aged and aged timepoints. MRI scans were also performed at these timepoints to assess regional changes in grey matter and blood flow with age, and effects of EE upon these measures. Results show an age-related decline in recognition, spatial and working memory that was prevented by EE. A parallel reduction in βNGF in hippocampus, and cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus, was prevented by EE. Furthermore, EE attenuated an age-related increase in apoptosis and expression of pro-inflammatory markers IL-1β and CD68. Long-term EE induced region-specific changes in grey matter intensity and partially rescued age-related reductions in cerebral blood flow. This study demonstrates that sensory enrichment alone can ameliorate many features typical of the ageing brain, such as increases in apoptosis and pro-inflammatory markers. Furthermore, we provide novel data on enrichment-induced regional grey matter alterations and age-related changes in blood flow in the rat. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled "Neurobiology of Environmental Enrichment".
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M Birch
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine & Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience & Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Áine M Kelly
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine & Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience & Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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Ambrose CT. The Role of Capillaries in the Lesser Ailments of Old Age and in Alzheimer's Disease and Vascular Dementia: The Potential of Pro-Therapeutic Angiogenesis. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 54:31-43. [PMID: 27392865 DOI: 10.3233/jad-160303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Apart from chronic diseases (arthritis, diabetes, etc.), old age is generally characterized by three lesser ailments: muscle weakness, minor memory lapses, and cold intolerance. This trio of complaints may have a common, underlying cause, namely, the age-associated reduced microcirculation in muscles, brain, skin, and elsewhere in the body. The Angiogenesis Hypothesis proposes that old age is in part a deficiency disease due to the decline in angiogenic (AG) factors, resulting in a reduced capillary density (CD) throughout the body. Over fifty published papers document waning levels of AG factors and/or decreased CD in various organ systems of aged animals and people, including those with Alzheimer's disease. The deficiency of AG factors is analogous to that of certain hormones (e.g., testosterone) whose blood levels also decline with age. In theory, therapeutic angiogenesis employing recombinant AG factors is a tenable treatment for the lesser ailments of old age and may improve the later years of human life. An optimal administration route may be intranasal.
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Nation DA, Tan A, Dutt S, McIntosh EC, Yew B, Ho JK, Blanken AE, Jang JY, Rodgers KE, Gaubert A. Circulating Progenitor Cells Correlate with Memory, Posterior Cortical Thickness, and Hippocampal Perfusion. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 61:91-101. [PMID: 29103037 PMCID: PMC5924766 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bone marrow-derived progenitor cells survey the vasculature and home to sites of tissue injury where they can promote repair and regeneration. It has been hypothesized that these cells may play a protective role neurodegenerative and vascular cognitive impairment. OBJECTIVE To evaluate progenitor cell levels in older adults with and without mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and to relate circulating levels to memory, brain volume, white matter lesion volume, and cerebral perfusion. METHOD Thirty-two older adults, free of stroke and cardiovascular disease, were recruited from the community and evaluated for diagnosis of MCI versus cognitively normal (CN). Participants underwent brain MRI and blood samples were taken to quantify progenitor reserve using flow cytometry (CD34+, CD34+CD133+, and CD34+CD133+CD309+ cells). RESULTS Participants with MCI (n = 10) exhibited depletion of all CPC markers relative to those who were CN (n = 22), after controlling for age, sex, and education. Post-hoc age, sex, and education matched comparisons (n = 10 MCI, n = 10 CN) also revealed the same pattern of results. Depletion of CD34+ cells correlated with memory performance, left posterior cortical thickness, and bilateral hippocampal perfusion. Participants exhibited low levels of vascular risk and white matter lesion burden that did not correlate with progenitor levels. CONCLUSIONS Circulating progenitor cells are associated with cognitive impairment, memory, cortical atrophy, and hippocampal perfusion. We hypothesize that progenitor depletion contributes to, or is triggered by, cognitive decline and cortical atrophy. Further study of progenitor cell depletion in older adults may benefit efforts to prevent or delay dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A. Nation
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Alick Tan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles CA
| | - Shubir Dutt
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Elissa C. McIntosh
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Belinda Yew
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jean K. Ho
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Anna E. Blanken
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jung Yun Jang
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Kathleen E. Rodgers
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles CA
| | - Aimée Gaubert
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
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Bridel C, Hoffmann T, Meyer A, Durieux S, Koel-Simmelink MA, Orth M, Scheltens P, Lues I, Teunissen CE. Glutaminyl cyclase activity correlates with levels of Aβ peptides and mediators of angiogenesis in cerebrospinal fluid of Alzheimer's disease patients. ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH & THERAPY 2017; 9:38. [PMID: 28587659 PMCID: PMC5461753 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-017-0266-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Pyroglutamylation of truncated Aβ peptides, which is catalysed by enzyme glutaminyl cyclase (QC), generates pE-Aβ species with enhanced aggregation propensities and resistance to most amino-peptidases and endo-peptidases. pE-Aβ species have been identified as major constituents of Aβ plaques and reduction of pE-Aβ species is associated with improvement of cognitive tasks in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Pharmacological inhibition of QC has thus emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for AD. Here, we question whether cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) QC enzymatic activity differs between AD patients and controls and whether inflammatory or angiogenesis mediators, some of which are potential QC substrates, and/or Aβ peptides may serve as pharmacodynamic read-outs for QC inhibition. Methods QC activity, Aβ peptides and inflammatory or angiogenesis mediators were measured in CSF of a clinically well-characterized cohort of 20 mild AD patients, 20 moderate AD patients and 20 subjective memory complaints (SMC) controls. Correlation of these parameters with core diagnostic CSF AD biomarkers (Aβ42, tau and p-tau) and clinical features was evaluated. Results QC activity shows a tendency to decrease with AD progression (p = 0.129). The addition of QC activity to biomarkers tau and p-tau significantly increases diagnostic power (ROC-AUCTAU = 0.878, ROC-AUCTAU&QC = 0.939 and ROC-AUCpTAU = 0.820, ROC-AUCpTAU&QC = 0.948). In AD and controls, QC activity correlates with Aβ38 (r = 0.83, p < 0.0001) and Aβ40 (r = 0.84, p < 0.0001), angiogenesis mediators (Flt1, Tie2, VEGFD, VCAM-1 and ICAM-1, r > 0.5, p < 0.0001) and core diagnostic biomarkers (r > 0.35, p = <0.0057). QC activity does not correlate with MMSE or ApoE genotype. Conclusions Aβ38, Aβ40 and angiogenesis mediators (Flt1, Tie2, VEGFD, VCAM-1 and ICAM-1) are potential pharmacodynamic markers of QC inhibition, because their levels closely correlate with QC activity in AD patients. The addition of QC activity to core diagnostic CSF biomarkers may be of specific interest in clinical cases with discordant imaging and biochemical biomarker results. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13195-017-0266-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Bridel
- Neurochemistry Lab and Biobank, Department of Clinical Chemistry, VU University Medical Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | - Sisi Durieux
- Neurochemistry Lab and Biobank, Department of Clinical Chemistry, VU University Medical Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marleen A Koel-Simmelink
- Neurochemistry Lab and Biobank, Department of Clinical Chemistry, VU University Medical Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Philip Scheltens
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer Center, VU University Medical Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inge Lues
- Probiodrug AG, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Charlotte E Teunissen
- Neurochemistry Lab and Biobank, Department of Clinical Chemistry, VU University Medical Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Thomas R, Morris AW, Tai LM. Epidermal growth factor prevents APOE4-induced cognitive and cerebrovascular deficits in female mice. Heliyon 2017; 3:e00319. [PMID: 28626809 PMCID: PMC5463012 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2017.e00319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebrovascular dysfunction is re-emerging as a major component of aging, and may contribute to the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). Two important risk factors for cerebrovascular dysfunction are APOE and female sex, which are primarily researched in the context of high amyloid-β (Aβ) levels as found in AD. However, APOE4 and sex modulate Aβ-independent pathways that may induce cerebrovascular dysfunction as a downstream consequence. Therefore, testing the activity of factors that target cerebrovascular dysfunction in Aβ-independent models that incorporate APOE4 and female sex is crucial. We have previously demonstrated that peripheral administration of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) prevents cognitive dysfunction, cerebrovascular leakiness, and cerebrovascular coverage deficits in female mice that express APOE4 and overproduce Aβ, without affecting Aβ levels. These data raise the question of whether EGF protects the cerebrovasculature from general stress-induced damage. Therefore, the goal of this study was to determine whether EGF prevents Aβ-independent cerebrovascular dysfunction. In eight-month old mice that express human APOE, the interaction of APOE4 and female sex induced cognitive dysfunction, increased cerebrovascular leakiness and lowered vessel coverage. Importantly, in a prevention paradigm (from six to eight and a half months of age), EGF ameliorated cognitive decline and cerebrovascular deficits in female mice that express APOE4. Thus, developing treatment strategies based on EGF signaling could provide alternative therapeutic options for age-related cerebrovascular dysfunction and reduce AD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Leon M. Tai
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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S 38093, a histamine H 3 antagonist/inverse agonist, promotes hippocampal neurogenesis and improves context discrimination task in aged mice. Sci Rep 2017; 7:42946. [PMID: 28218311 PMCID: PMC5317168 DOI: 10.1038/srep42946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Strategies designed to increase adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) may have therapeutic potential for reversing memory impairments. H3 receptor antagonists/inverse agonists also may be useful for treating cognitive deficits. However, it remains unclear whether these ligands have effects on AHN. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of a 28-day treatment with S 38093, a novel brain-penetrant antagonist/inverse agonist of H3 receptors, on AHN (proliferation, maturation and survival) in 3-month-old and in aged 16-month-old mice. In addition, the effects of S 38093 treatment on 7-month-old APPSWE Tg2576 transgenic mice, a model of Alzheimer's disease, were also assessed. In all tested models, chronic treatment with S 38093 stimulated all steps of AHN. In aged animals, S 38093 induced a reversal of age-dependent effects on hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) BDNF-IX, BDNF-IV and BDNF-I transcripts and increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. Finally, the effects of chronic administration of S 38093 were assessed on a neurogenesis-dependent "context discrimination (CS) test" in aged mice. While ageing altered mouse CS, chronic S 38093 treatment significantly improved CS. Taken together, these results provide evidence that chronic S 38093 treatment increases adult hippocampal neurogenesis and may provide an innovative strategy to improve age-associated cognitive deficits.
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Administrations of human adult ischemia-tolerant mesenchymal stem cells and factors reduce amyloid beta pathology in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2016; 51:83-96. [PMID: 28056358 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2016.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The impact of human adult ischemia-tolerant mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and factors (stem cell factors) on cerebral amyloid beta (Aβ) pathology was investigated in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). To this end, hMSCs were administered intravenously to APPPS1 transgenic mice that normally develop cerebral Aβ. Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction biodistribution revealed that intravenously delivered hMSCs were readily detected in APPPS1 brains 1 hour following administration, and dropped to negligible levels after 1 week. Notably, intravenously injected hMSCs that migrated to the brain region were localized in the cerebrovasculature, but they also could be observed in the brain parenchyma particularly in the hippocampus, as revealed by immunohistochemistry. A single hMSC injection markedly reduced soluble cerebral Aβ levels in APPPS1 mice after 1 week, although increasing several Aβ-degrading enzymes and modulating a panel of cerebral cytokines, suggesting an amyloid-degrading and anti-inflammatory impact of hMSCs. Furthermore, 10 weeks of hMSC treatment significantly reduced cerebral Aβ plaques and neuroinflammation in APPPS1 mice, without increasing cerebral amyloid angiopathy or microhemorrhages. Notably, a repeated intranasal delivery of soluble factors secreted by hMSCs in culture, in the absence of intravenous hMSC injection, was also sufficient to diminish cerebral amyloidosis in the mice. In conclusion, this preclinical study strongly underlines that cerebral amyloidosis is amenable to therapeutic intervention based on peripheral applications of hMSC or hMSC factors, paving the way for a novel therapy for Aβ amyloidosis and associated pathologies observed in AD.
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Thomas R, Zuchowska P, Morris AWJ, Marottoli FM, Sunny S, Deaton R, Gann PH, Tai LM. Epidermal growth factor prevents APOE4 and amyloid-beta-induced cognitive and cerebrovascular deficits in female mice. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2016; 4:111. [PMID: 27788676 PMCID: PMC5084423 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-016-0387-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebrovascular (CV) dysfunction is emerging as a critical component of Alzheimer's disease (AD), including altered CV coverage. Angiogenic growth factors (AGFs) are key for controlling CV coverage, especially during disease pathology. Therefore, evaluating the effects of AGFs in vivo can provide important information on the role of CV coverage in AD. We recently demonstrated that epidermal growth factor (EGF) prevents amyloid-beta (Aβ)-induced damage to brain endothelial cells in vitro. Here, our goal was to assess the protective effects of EGF on cognition, CV coverage and Aβ levels using an AD-Tg model that incorporates CV relevant AD risk factors. APOE4 is the greatest genetic risk factor for sporadic AD especially in women and is associated with CV dysfunction. EFAD mice express human APOE3 (E3FAD) or APOE4 (E4FAD), overproduce human Aβ42 and are a well characterized model of APOE pathology. Thus, initially the role of APOE and sex in cognitive and CV dysfunction was assessed in EFAD mice in order to identify a group for EGF treatment. At 8 months E4FAD female mice were cognitively impaired, had low CV coverage, high microbleeds and low plasma EGF levels. Therefore, E4FAD female mice were selected for an EGF prevention paradigm (300 μg/kg/wk, 6 to 8.5 months). EGF prevented cognitive decline and was associated with lower microbleeds and higher CV coverage, but not changes in Aβ levels. Collectively, these data suggest that EGF can prevent Aβ-induced damage to the CV. Developing therapeutic strategies based on AGFs may be particularly efficacious for APOE4-induced AD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riya Thomas
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Paulina Zuchowska
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Alan W. J. Morris
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Felecia M. Marottoli
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Sangeeta Sunny
- Research Histology and Tissue Imaging Core (RHTIC), University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Ryan Deaton
- Research Histology and Tissue Imaging Core (RHTIC), University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Peter H. Gann
- Research Histology and Tissue Imaging Core (RHTIC), University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Leon M. Tai
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
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