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Sak K. High intake of sunflower seeds and low mortality from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia: is there a correlation? EXPLORATION OF FOODS AND FOODOMICS 2024; 2:101-106. [DOI: 10.37349/eff.2024.00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive and irreversible neurodegenerative disorder, is the most prevalent form of dementia with an increasingly growing incidence rate worldwide. As no effective therapeutic modalities are still available for the treatment of this serious disabling condition, lifestyle modifications, especially nutritional interventions, have been shown to be important in its prevention and symptomatic alleviation. In this short perspective article, an inverse association between the intake of sunflower seeds and the mortality from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia is proposed, showing that in the countries with the highest consumption of sunflower seeds, the death rate from this neurodegenerative disorder is low. The bioactive ingredients of sunflower seeds and their possible neuroprotective mechanisms are further unraveled, highlighting the potent antioxidant, antiinflammatory and neurotrophic effects of tocopherols, unsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols. Among the latter agents, β-sitosterol might be particularly important in combating Alzheimer’s disease by enhancing the levels of nerve growth factor and thereby promoting neurite formation. If future epidemiological studies will confirm the proposed inverse association between the intake of sunflower seeds and the development of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, it is easy to include appropriate sunflower seed products in the everyday diet to protect against the pathogenesis and progression of this neurodegenerative disorder, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition. Considering the rather long latency period before clinical manifestation of Alzheimer’s disease, nutritional approaches with specific foods might be a promising strategy for fighting against dementia.
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Zuin M, Brombo G, Polastri M, Romagnoli T, Cervellati C, Zuliani G. Variability in Alzheimer's disease mortality from European vital statistics, 2012-2020. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2024; 39:e6068. [PMID: 38429957 DOI: 10.1002/gps.6068] [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: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Data regarding the trends in Alzheimer's disease (AD) mortality in the modern European Union (EU-27) member states are lacking. We assess the sex- and age-specific trends in AD mortality in the EU-27 member states between years 2012 and 2020. METHODS Data on cause-specific deaths and population numbers by sex for each country of the EU-27 were retrieved through publicly available European Statistical Office (EUROSTAT) dataset from 2012 to 2020. AD-related deaths were ascertained when the ICD-10 code G30 was listed as the primary cause of death in the medical death certificate. To calculate annual trends, we assessed the average annual percent change (AAPC) with relative 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using Joinpoint regression. RESULTS During the study period, 751,493 deaths (1.7%, 233,271 males and 518,222 females) occurred in the EU-27 because of AD. Trends in the proportion of AD-related deaths per 1000 total deaths slightly increased from 16.8% to 17.5% (p for trend <0.001). The age-adjusted mortality rate was higher in women over the entire study period. Joinpoint regression analysis revealed a stagnation in age-adjusted AD-related mortality from 2012 to 2020 among EU-27 Member States (AAMR: -0.1% [95% CI: -1.8-1.79], p = 0.94). Stratification by Country showed relevant regional disparities, especially in the Northern and Eastern EU-27 member states. CONCLUSIONS Over the last decade, the age-adjusted AD-related mortality rate has plateaued in EU-27. Important disparities still exist between Western and Eastern European countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Zuin
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gloria Brombo
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Michele Polastri
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tommaso Romagnoli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Zuliani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Li N, Yao CY, Diao J, Liu XL, Tang EJ, Huang QS, Zhou YM, Hu YG, Li XK, Long JY, Xiao H, Li DW, Du N, Li YF, Luo P, Cai TJ. The role of MAPK/NF-κB-associated microglial activation in T-2 toxin-induced mouse learning and memory impairment. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 174:113663. [PMID: 36775139 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
T-2 toxin is a mycotoxin with multiple toxic effects and has emerged as an important food pollutant. Microglia play a significant role in the toxicity of various neurotoxins. However, whether they participate in the neurotoxicity of T-2 toxin has not been reported. To clarify this point, an in vivo mouse model of T-2 toxin (4 mg/kg) poisoning was established. The results of Morris water maze and open-field showed that T-2 toxin induced learning and memory impairment and locomotor inhibition. Meanwhile, T-2 toxin induced microglial activation, while inhibiting microglia activation by minocycline (50 mg/kg) suppressed the toxic effect of the T-2 toxin. To further unveil the potential mechanisms involved in T-2 toxin-induced microglial activation, an in vitro model of T-2 toxin (0, 2.5, 5, 10 ng/mL) poisoning was established using BV-2 cells. Transcriptomic sequencing revealed lots of differentially expressed genes related to MAPK/NF-κB pathway. Western blotting results further confirmed that T-2 toxin (5 ng/mL) induced the activation of MAPKs and their downstream NF-κB. Moreover, the addition of inhibitors of NF-κB and MAPKs reversed the microglial activation induced by T-2 toxin. Overall, microglial activation may contribute a considerable role in T-2 toxin-induced behavioral abnormalities, which could be MAPK/NF-κB pathway dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Chun-Yan Yao
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jun Diao
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China; Chongqing Jiulongpo District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chongqing, 400050, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - En-Jie Tang
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Qing-Song Huang
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yu-Meng Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yue-Gu Hu
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xiu-Kuan Li
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jin-Yun Long
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Hua Xiao
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Da-Wei Li
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Ning Du
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Ya-Fei Li
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Peng Luo
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Tong-Jian Cai
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Department of Epidemiology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
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Sehar U, Rawat P, Reddy AP, Kopel J, Reddy PH. Amyloid Beta in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12924. [PMID: 36361714 PMCID: PMC9655207 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects behavior, thinking, learning, and memory in elderly individuals. AD occurs in two forms, early onset familial and late-onset sporadic; genetic mutations in PS1, PS2, and APP genes cause early onset familial AD, and a combination of lifestyle, environment and genetic factors causes the late-onset sporadic form of the disease. However, accelerated disease progression is noticed in patients with familial AD. Disease-causing pathological changes are synaptic damage, and mitochondrial structural and functional changes, in addition to increased production and accumulation of phosphorylated tau (p-tau), and amyloid beta (Aβ) in the affected brain regions in AD patients. Aβ is a peptide derived from amyloid precursor protein (APP) by proteolytic cleavage of beta and gamma secretases. APP is a glycoprotein that plays a significant role in maintaining neuronal homeostasis like signaling, neuronal development, and intracellular transport. Aβ is reported to have both protective and toxic effects in neurons. The purpose of our article is to summarize recent developments of Aβ and its association with synapses, mitochondria, microglia, astrocytes, and its interaction with p-tau. Our article also covers the therapeutic strategies that reduce Aβ toxicities in disease progression and discusses the reasons for the failures of Aβ therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ujala Sehar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Priyanka Rawat
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Arubala P. Reddy
- Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Jonathan Kopel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - P. Hemachandra Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
- Neurology, Departments of School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Public Health Department of Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, School Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
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Saiyasit N, Butlig EAR, Chaney SD, Traylor MK, Hawley NA, Randall RB, Bobinger HV, Frizell CA, Trimm F, Crook ED, Lin M, Hill BD, Keller JL, Nelson AR. Neurovascular Dysfunction in Diverse Communities With Health Disparities-Contributions to Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:915405. [PMID: 35844216 PMCID: PMC9279126 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.915405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) are an expanding worldwide crisis. In the absence of scientific breakthroughs, the global prevalence of ADRD will continue to increase as more people are living longer. Racial or ethnic minority groups have an increased risk and incidence of ADRD and have often been neglected by the scientific research community. There is mounting evidence that vascular insults in the brain can initiate a series of biological events leading to neurodegeneration, cognitive impairment, and ADRD. We are a group of researchers interested in developing and expanding ADRD research, with an emphasis on vascular contributions to dementia, to serve our local diverse community. Toward this goal, the primary objective of this review was to investigate and better understand health disparities in Alabama and the contributions of the social determinants of health to those disparities, particularly in the context of vascular dysfunction in ADRD. Here, we explain the neurovascular dysfunction associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) as well as the intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors contributing to dysfunction of the neurovascular unit (NVU). Next, we ascertain ethnoregional health disparities of individuals living in Alabama, as well as relevant vascular risk factors linked to AD. We also discuss current pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical treatment options for neurovascular dysfunction, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD, including relevant studies and ongoing clinical trials. Overall, individuals in Alabama are adversely affected by social and structural determinants of health leading to health disparities, driven by rurality, ethnic minority status, and lower socioeconomic status (SES). In general, these communities have limited access to healthcare and healthy food and other amenities resulting in decreased opportunities for early diagnosis of and pharmaceutical treatments for ADRD. Although this review is focused on the current state of health disparities of ADRD patients in Alabama, future studies must include diversity of race, ethnicity, and region to best be able to treat all individuals affected by ADRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Napatsorn Saiyasit
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Evan-Angelo R. Butlig
- Department of Neurology, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Samantha D. Chaney
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Miranda K. Traylor
- Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Sport, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Nanako A. Hawley
- Department of Psychology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Ryleigh B. Randall
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Hanna V. Bobinger
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Carl A. Frizell
- Department of Physician Assistant Studies, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Franklin Trimm
- College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Errol D. Crook
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Mike Lin
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Benjamin D. Hill
- Department of Psychology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Joshua L. Keller
- Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Sport, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Amy R. Nelson
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
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Alzheimer’s Disease and Toxins Produced by Marine Dinoflagellates: An Issue to Explore. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20040253. [PMID: 35447926 PMCID: PMC9029327 DOI: 10.3390/md20040253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper examined the toxins naturally produced by marine dinoflagellates and their effects on increases in β-amyloid plaques along with tau protein hyperphosphorylation, both major drivers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This approach is in line with the demand for certain natural compounds, namely those produced by marine invertebrates that have the potential to be used in the treatment of AD. Current advances in AD treatment are discussed as well as the main factors that potentially affect the puzzling global AD pattern. This study focused on yessotoxins (YTXs), gymnodimine (GYM), spirolides (SPXs), and gambierol, all toxins that have been shown to reduce β-amyloid plaques and tau hyperphosphorylation, thus preventing the neuronal or synaptic dysfunction that ultimately causes the cell death associated with AD (or other neurodegenerative diseases). Another group of toxins described, okadaic acid (OA) and its derivatives, inhibit protein phosphatase activity, which facilitates the presence of phosphorylated tau proteins. A few studies have used OA to trigger AD in zebrafish, providing an opportunity to test in vivo the effectiveness of new drugs in treating or attenuating AD. Constraints on the production of marine toxins for use in these tests have been considered. Different lines of research are anticipated regarding the action of the two groups of toxins.
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Ramos H, Moreno L, Gil M, García-Lluch G, Sendra-Lillo J, Alacreu M. Pharmacists' Knowledge of Factors Associated with Dementia: The A-to-Z Dementia Knowledge List. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9934. [PMID: 34639242 PMCID: PMC8508463 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18199934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Dementia is a neurodegenerative disease with no cure that can begin up to 20 years before its diagnosis. A key priority in patients with dementia is the identification of early modifiable factors that can slow the progression of the disease. Community pharmacies are suitable points for cognitive-impairment screening because of their proximity to patients. Therefore, the continuous training of professionals working in pharmacies directly impacts the public health of the population. The main purpose of this study was to assess community pharmacists' knowledge of dementia-related factors. Thus, we conducted a cross-sectional study of 361 pharmacists via an online questionnaire that quizzed their knowledge of a list of dementia-related factors, which we later arranged into the A-to-Z Dementia Knowledge List. We found that younger participants had a better knowledge of risk factors associated with dementia. The risk factors most often identified were a family history of dementia followed by social isolation. More than 40% of the respondents did not identify herpes labialis, sleep more than 9 h per day, and poor hearing as risk factors. A higher percentage of respondents were better able to identify protective factors than risk factors. The least known protective factors were internet use, avoidance of pollution, and the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. Pharmacists' knowledge of dementia-related factors should be renewed with the aim of enhancing their unique placement to easily implement cognitive-impairment screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hernán Ramos
- Cátedra DeCo MICOF-CEU UCH, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, 46115 Valencia, Spain; (H.R.); (L.M.); (M.G.); (G.G.-L.); (J.S.-L.)
- Muy Ilustre Colegio Oficial de Farmacéuticos, 46003 Valencia, Spain
| | - Lucrecia Moreno
- Cátedra DeCo MICOF-CEU UCH, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, 46115 Valencia, Spain; (H.R.); (L.M.); (M.G.); (G.G.-L.); (J.S.-L.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Valencia, Spain
| | - María Gil
- Cátedra DeCo MICOF-CEU UCH, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, 46115 Valencia, Spain; (H.R.); (L.M.); (M.G.); (G.G.-L.); (J.S.-L.)
- Muy Ilustre Colegio Oficial de Farmacéuticos, 46003 Valencia, Spain
| | - Gemma García-Lluch
- Cátedra DeCo MICOF-CEU UCH, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, 46115 Valencia, Spain; (H.R.); (L.M.); (M.G.); (G.G.-L.); (J.S.-L.)
| | - José Sendra-Lillo
- Cátedra DeCo MICOF-CEU UCH, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, 46115 Valencia, Spain; (H.R.); (L.M.); (M.G.); (G.G.-L.); (J.S.-L.)
- Muy Ilustre Colegio Oficial de Farmacéuticos, 46003 Valencia, Spain
| | - Mónica Alacreu
- Cátedra DeCo MICOF-CEU UCH, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, 46115 Valencia, Spain; (H.R.); (L.M.); (M.G.); (G.G.-L.); (J.S.-L.)
- Embedded Systems and Artificial Intelligence Group, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Valencia, Spain
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Nguyen VTT, König S, Eggert S, Endres K, Kins S. The role of mycotoxins in neurodegenerative diseases: current state of the art and future perspectives of research. Biol Chem 2021; 403:3-26. [PMID: 34449171 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2021-0214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Mycotoxins are fungal metabolites that can cause various diseases in humans and animals. The adverse health effects of mycotoxins such as liver failure, immune deficiency, and cancer are well-described. However, growing evidence suggests an additional link between these fungal metabolites and neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the wealth of these initial reports, reliable conclusions are still constrained by limited access to human patients and availability of suitable cell or animal model systems. This review summarizes knowledge on mycotoxins associated with neurodegenerative diseases and the assumed underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. The limitations of the common in vivo and in vitro experiments to identify the role of mycotoxins in neurotoxicity and thereby in neurodegenerative diseases are elucidated and possible future perspectives to further evolve this research field are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vu Thu Thuy Nguyen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Str. 8, D-55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Svenja König
- Department of Human Biology and Human Genetics, University of Kaiserslautern, Erwin-Schrödinger-Straße 13, D-67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Simone Eggert
- Department of Human Biology and Human Genetics, University of Kaiserslautern, Erwin-Schrödinger-Straße 13, D-67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Kristina Endres
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Str. 8, D-55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefan Kins
- Department of Human Biology and Human Genetics, University of Kaiserslautern, Erwin-Schrödinger-Straße 13, D-67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany
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Bergeron-Boucher MP, Aburto JM, van Raalte A. Diversification in causes of death in low-mortality countries: emerging patterns and implications. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 5:bmjgh-2020-002414. [PMID: 32694219 PMCID: PMC7375425 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-002414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION An important role of public health organisations is to monitor indicators of variation, so as to disclose underlying inequality in health improvement. In industrialised societies, more individuals than ever are reaching older ages and have become more homogeneous in their age at death. This has led to a decrease in lifespan variation, with substantial implications for the reduction of health inequalities. We focus on a new form of variation to shed further light on our understanding of population health and ageing: variation in causes of death. METHODS Data from the WHO Mortality Database and the Human Mortality Database are used to estimate cause-of-death distributions and life tables in 15 low-mortality countries. Cause-of-death variation, using 19 groups of causes, is quantified using entropy measures and analysed from 1994 to 2017. RESULTS The last two decades have seen increasing diversity in causes of death in low-mortality countries. There have been important reductions in the share of deaths from diseases of the circulatory system, while the share of a range of other causes, such as diseases of the genitourinary system, mental and behavioural disorders, and diseases of the nervous system, has been increasing, leading to a more complex cause-of-death distribution. CONCLUSIONS The diversification in causes of death witnessed in recent decades is most likely a result of the increase in life expectancy, together with better diagnoses and awareness of certain diseases. Such emerging patterns bring additional challenges to healthcare systems, such as the need to research, monitor and treat a wider range of diseases. It also raises new questions concerning the distribution of health resources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Manuel Aburto
- Interdisciplinary Centre on Population Dynamics, Syddansk Universitet, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Sociology and Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK.,Max-Planck-Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany
| | - Alyson van Raalte
- Max-Planck-Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany
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The neurotoxicity of trichothecenes T-2 toxin and deoxynivalenol (DON): Current status and future perspectives. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 145:111676. [PMID: 32805342 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
During the last decade, the neurotoxicity of the trichothecenes T-2 toxin and deoxynivalenol (DON) has been a major concern, and many important findings have been reported on this topic. Through a summary of relevant research reports in recent years, we discuss the potential neurotoxic mechanisms of T-2 toxin and DON. In neuronal cells, T-2 toxin induces mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress through a series of signalling pathways, including Nrf2/HO-1 and p53. This toxin crosses the blood-brain barrier (BBB) by altering permeability and induces oxidative stress responses, including ROS generation, lipid peroxidation, and protein carbonyl formation. Cellular metabolites (for example, HT-2 toxin) further promote neurotoxic effects. The type B trichothecene DON induces neuronal cell apoptosis via the MAPK and mitochondrial apoptosis pathways. This molecule induces inflammation of the central nervous system, increasing the expression of proinflammatory molecules. DON directly affects brain neurons and glial cells after passing through the BBB and affects the vitality and function of astrocytes and microglia. Exposure to trichothecenes alters brain dopamine levels, decreases ganglion area, and further induces brain damage. In this review, we mainly discuss the neurotoxicity of T-2 toxin and DON. However, our main goal was to reveal the potential mechanism(s) and offer new topics, including the potential of hypoxia-inducible factors, immune evasion, and exosomes, for future research in this context. This review should help elucidate the neurotoxic mechanism of trichothecenes and provides some potential inspiration for the follow-up study of neurotoxicity of mycotoxins.
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The Proposed Neurotoxin β- N-Methylamino-l-Alanine (BMAA) Is Taken up through Amino-Acid Transport Systems in the Cyanobacterium Anabaena PCC 7120. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12080518. [PMID: 32823543 PMCID: PMC7472364 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12080518] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Produced by cyanobacteria and some plants, BMAA is considered as an important environmental factor in the occurrence of some neurodegenerative diseases. Neither the underlying mechanism of its toxicity, nor its biosynthetic or metabolic pathway in cyanobacteria is understood. Interestingly, BMAA is found to be toxic to some cyanobacteria, making it possible to dissect the mechanism of BMAA metabolism by genetic approaches using these organisms. In this study, we used the cyanobacterium Anabaena PCC 7120 to isolate BMAA-resistant mutants. Following genomic sequencing, several mutations were mapped to two genes involved in amino acids transport, suggesting that BMAA was taken up through amino acid transporters. This conclusion was supported by the protective effect of several amino acids against BMAA toxicity. Furthermore, targeted inactivation of genes encoding different amino acid transport pathways conferred various levels of resistance to BMAA. One mutant inactivating all three major amino acid transport systems could no longer take up BMAA and gained full resistance to BMAA toxicity. Therefore, BMAA is a substrate of amino acid transporters, and cyanobacteria are interesting models for genetic analysis of BMAA transport and metabolism.
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Wu Q, Wu W, Kuca K. From hypoxia and hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF) to oxidative stress: A new understanding of the toxic mechanism of mycotoxins. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 135:110968. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2019.110968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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The Diversity of Cyanobacterial Toxins on Structural Characterization, Distribution and Identification: A Systematic Review. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11090530. [PMID: 31547379 PMCID: PMC6784007 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11090530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The widespread distribution of cyanobacteria in the aquatic environment is increasing the risk of water pollution caused by cyanotoxins, which poses a serious threat to human health. However, the structural characterization, distribution and identification techniques of cyanotoxins have not been comprehensively reviewed in previous studies. This paper aims to elaborate the existing information systematically on the diversity of cyanotoxins to identify valuable research avenues. According to the chemical structure, cyanotoxins are mainly classified into cyclic peptides, alkaloids, lipopeptides, nonprotein amino acids and lipoglycans. In terms of global distribution, the amount of cyanotoxins are unbalanced in different areas. The diversity of cyanotoxins is more obviously found in many developed countries than that in undeveloped countries. Moreover, the threat of cyanotoxins has promoted the development of identification and detection technology. Many emerging methods have been developed to detect cyanotoxins in the environment. This communication provides a comprehensive review of the diversity of cyanotoxins, and the detection and identification technology was discussed. This detailed information will be a valuable resource for identifying the various types of cyanotoxins which threaten the environment of different areas. The ability to accurately identify specific cyanotoxins is an obvious and essential aspect of cyanobacterial research.
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Spencer PS. Hypothesis: Etiologic and Molecular Mechanistic Leads for Sporadic Neurodegenerative Diseases Based on Experience With Western Pacific ALS/PDC. Front Neurol 2019; 10:754. [PMID: 31417480 PMCID: PMC6685391 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Seventy years of research on Western Pacific amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinsonism-dementia Complex (ALS/PDC) have provided invaluable data on the etiology, molecular pathogenesis and latency of this disappearing, largely environmental neurodegenerative disease. ALS/PDC is linked to genotoxic chemicals (notably methylazoxymethanol, MAM) derived from seed of the cycad plant (Cycas spp.) that were used as a traditional food and/or medicine in all three disease-affected Western Pacific populations. MAM, nitrosamines and hydrazines generate methyl free radicals that damage DNA (in the form of O6-methylguanine lesions) that can induce mutations in cycling cells and degenerative changes in post-mitotic cells, notably neurons. This paper explores exposures to naturally occurring and manmade sources of nitrosamines and hydrazines in association with sporadic forms of ALS (with or without frontotemporal degeneration), progressive supranuclear palsy, and Alzheimer disease. Research approaches are suggested to examine whether these associations might have etiological significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter S Spencer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine and Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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Eiser A. Sauna Bathing and Healthy Sweating: II. Mayo Clin Proc 2019; 94:727. [PMID: 30947837 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2018.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arnold Eiser
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
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Davis DA, Mondo K, Stern E, Annor AK, Murch SJ, Coyne TM, Brand LE, Niemeyer ME, Sharp S, Bradley WG, Cox PA, Mash DC. Cyanobacterial neurotoxin BMAA and brain pathology in stranded dolphins. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0213346. [PMID: 30893348 PMCID: PMC6426197 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Dolphin stranding events occur frequently in Florida and Massachusetts. Dolphins are an excellent sentinel species for toxin exposures in the marine environment. In this report we examine whether cyanobacterial neurotoxin, β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), is present in stranded dolphins. BMAA has been shown to bioaccumulate in the marine food web, including in the muscles and fins of sharks. Dietary exposure to BMAA is associated with the occurrence of neurofibrillary tangles and β-amyloid plaques in nonhuman primates. The findings of protein-bound BMAA in brain tissues from patients with Alzheimer’s disease has advanced the hypothesis that BMAA may be linked to dementia. Since dolphins are apex predators and consume prey containing high amounts of BMAA, we examined necropsy specimens to determine if dietary and environmental exposures may result in the accumulation of BMAA in the brains of dolphins. To test this hypothesis, we measured BMAA in a series of brains collected from dolphins stranded in Florida and Massachusetts using two orthogonal analytical methods: 1) high performance liquid chromatography, and 2) ultra-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. We detected high levels of BMAA (20–748 μg/g) in the brains of 13 of 14 dolphins. To correlate neuropathological changes with toxin exposure, gross and microscopic examinations were performed on cortical brain regions responsible for acoustico-motor navigation. We observed increased numbers of β-amyloid+ plaques and dystrophic neurites in the auditory cortex compared to the visual cortex and brainstem. The presence of BMAA and neuropathological changes in the stranded dolphin brain may help to further our understanding of cyanotoxin exposure and its potential impact on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Davis
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail: (DM); (DD)
| | - Kiyo Mondo
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Erica Stern
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Ama K. Annor
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Susan J. Murch
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Thomas M. Coyne
- Office of the District 21 Medical Examiner, Fort Myers, Florida, United States of America
| | - Larry E. Brand
- Divisions of Marine Biology and Fisheries and NSF/NIEHS Oceans and Human Health Center, Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Misty E. Niemeyer
- Marine Mammal Rescue and Research, International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sarah Sharp
- Marine Mammal Rescue and Research, International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Walter G. Bradley
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Paul Alan Cox
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Deborah C. Mash
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail: (DM); (DD)
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