1
|
Li JZ, Ramalingam N, Li S. Targeting epigenetic mechanisms in amyloid-β-mediated Alzheimer's pathophysiology: unveiling therapeutic potential. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:54-66. [PMID: 38767476 PMCID: PMC11246147 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a prominent chronic neurodegenerative condition characterized by a gradual decline in memory leading to dementia. Growing evidence suggests that Alzheimer's disease is associated with accumulating various amyloid-β oligomers in the brain, influenced by complex genetic and environmental factors. The memory and cognitive deficits observed during the prodromal and mild cognitive impairment phases of Alzheimer's disease are believed to primarily result from synaptic dysfunction. Throughout life, environmental factors can lead to enduring changes in gene expression and the emergence of brain disorders. These changes, known as epigenetic modifications, also play a crucial role in regulating the formation of synapses and their adaptability in response to neuronal activity. In this context, we highlight recent advances in understanding the roles played by key components of the epigenetic machinery, specifically DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNAs, in the development of Alzheimer's disease, synaptic function, and activity-dependent synaptic plasticity. Moreover, we explore various strategies, including enriched environments, exposure to non-invasive brain stimulation, and the use of pharmacological agents, aimed at improving synaptic function and enhancing long-term potentiation, a process integral to epigenetic mechanisms. Lastly, we deliberate on the development of effective epigenetic agents and safe therapeutic approaches for managing Alzheimer's disease. We suggest that addressing Alzheimer's disease may require distinct tailored epigenetic drugs targeting different disease stages or pathways rather than relying on a single drug.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennie Z Li
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bian J, Luo M, Tian Y, Zhang X, Zhang B, Yin L, Zhang Y. BMP10 accelerated spinal astrocytic activation in neuropathic pain via ALK2/smad1/5/8 signaling. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1426121. [PMID: 39188955 PMCID: PMC11345179 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1426121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Astrocytic activation in the spinal dorsal horn contributes to the central sensitization of neuropathic pain. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 10, one of the BMPs highly expressed in the central nervous system, has been demonstrated to have an accelerated effect on astrocytic activation. This study aimed to investigate the functional effects of BMP10 on the activation of astrocytes in the spinal dorsal horn of animal model of neuropathic pain and to explore potential mechanisms involved in this process. Methods A neuropathic pain mice model was established using the spared nerve injury (SNI). Western blot analysis was performed to detect the expressional levels of BMP10, activin receptor-like receptor 2 (ALK2), Smad1/5/8, phosphorylated Smad1/5/8, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect BMP10, ALK2, and GFAP distribution and expression. The behavioral changes in mice were evaluated using paw withdrawal threshold (PWT), thermal withdrawal latency (TWL), and open field test (OFT). The BMP10 siRNA, Smad1 siRNA, BMP10 peptide, and ALK2-IN-2 (ALK2 inhibitor) were intrathecally administrated to mice. A model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated astrocytes was established to investigate the effect of Smad1. The transfection efficiency of siRNAs was detected by western blot and qRT-PCR analysis. Results BMP10 levels were increased in the L4-6 ipsilateral spinal dorsal horn of SNI mice and particularly elevated in astrocytes. Consistently, GFAP and phosphorylated Smad1/5/8 were upregulated in the L4-6 ipsilateral spinal dorsal horn after SNI, indicating the activation of astrocytes and Smad1/5/8 signaling. An intrathecal injection of BMP10 siRNA abrogated pain hypersensitivity and astrocytic activation in SNI mice. In addition, intrathecal administration of BMP10 peptide evoked pain hypersensitivity and astrocytic activation in normal mice, and this action was reversed by inhibiting the ALK2. Furthermore, targeting Smad1 in vitro with the help of siRNA inhibited the activation of astrocytes induced by LPS. Finally, targeting Smad1 abrogated BMP10-induced hypersensitivity and activation of astrocytes. Conclusion These findings indicate that the BMP10/ALK2/Smad1/5/8 axis plays a key role in pain hypersensitivity after peripheral nerve injury, which indicates its stimulative ability toward astrocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Bian
- Department of Anesthesiology, Panzhihua Central Hospital, Panzhihua, Sichuan, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China
| | - Min Luo
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Yunyun Tian
- Scientific Research and Discipline Construction Office, Panzhihua Central Hospital, Panzhihua, Sichuan, China
| | - Xuejuan Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Panzhihua Central Hospital, Panzhihua, Sichuan, China
| | - Bangjian Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Panzhihua Central Hospital, Panzhihua, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Yin
- Scientific Research and Discipline Construction Office, Panzhihua Central Hospital, Panzhihua, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuehui Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Panzhihua Central Hospital, Panzhihua, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Osaki T, Delepine C, Osako Y, Kranz D, Levin A, Nelson C, Fagiolini M, Sur M. Early differential impact of MeCP2 mutations on functional networks in Rett syndrome patient-derived human cerebral organoids. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.10.607464. [PMID: 39149328 PMCID: PMC11326256 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.10.607464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Human cerebral organoids derived from induced pluripotent stem cells can recapture early developmental processes and reveal changes involving neurodevelopmental disorders. Mutations in the X-linked methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene are associated with Rett syndrome, and disease severity varies depending on the location and type of mutation. Here, we focused on neuronal activity in Rett syndrome patient-derived organoids, analyzing two types of MeCP2 mutations - a missense mutation (R306C) and a truncating mutation (V247X) - using calcium imaging with three-photon microscopy. Compared to isogenic controls, we found abnormal neuronal activity in Rett organoids and altered network function based on graph theoretic analyses, with V247X mutations impacting functional responses and connectivity more severely than R306C mutations. These changes paralleled EEG data obtained from patients with comparable mutations. Labeling DLX promoter-driven inhibitory neurons demonstrated differences in activity and functional connectivity of inhibitory and excitatory neurons in the two types of mutation. Transcriptomic analyses revealed HDAC2-associated impairment in R306C organoids and decreased GABAA receptor expression in excitatory neurons in V247X organoids. These findings demonstrate mutation-specific mechanisms of vulnerability in Rett syndrome and suggest targeted strategies for their treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Osaki
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Chloe Delepine
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Yuma Osako
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Devorah Kranz
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Brookline, MA 02445, USA
- Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - April Levin
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Brookline, MA 02445, USA
| | - Charles Nelson
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Brookline, MA 02445, USA
- Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Michela Fagiolini
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Brookline, MA 02445, USA
- Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Mriganka Sur
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bracken CP, Goodall GJ, Gregory PA. RNA regulatory mechanisms controlling TGF-β signaling and EMT in cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2024; 102-103:4-16. [PMID: 38917876 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2024.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a major contributor to metastatic progression and is prominently regulated by TGF-β signalling. Both EMT and TGF-β pathway components are tightly controlled by non-coding RNAs - including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) - that collectively have major impacts on gene expression and resulting cellular states. While miRNAs are the best characterised regulators of EMT and TGF-β signaling and the miR-200-ZEB1/2 feedback loop plays a central role, important functions for lncRNAs and circRNAs are also now emerging. This review will summarise our current understanding of the roles of non-coding RNAs in EMT and TGF-β signaling with a focus on their functions in cancer progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cameron P Bracken
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
| | - Gregory J Goodall
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
| | - Philip A Gregory
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shboul M, Bani Domi A, Abu Zahra A, Khasawneh AG, Darweesh R. Plasma miRNAs as potential biomarkers for schizophrenia in a Jordanian cohort. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:350-358. [PMID: 38511065 PMCID: PMC10950580 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.01.018] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Schizophrenia (SZ), a complex and chronic neuropsychiatric disorder affecting approximately 1 % of the general population, presents diagnostic challenges due to the absence of reliable biomarkers, and relying mainly on clinical observations. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) signatures in a wide range of diseases, including psychiatric disorders, hold immense potential for serving as biomarkers. This study aimed to analyze the expression levels of specific microRNAs (miRNAs) namely miR-29b-3p, miR-106b-5p, and miR-199a-3p and explore their diagnostic potential for SZ in Jordanian patients. Methods Small RNAs (miRNAs) were extracted from plasma samples of 30 SZ patients and 35 healthy controls. RNA was reverse transcribed and quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The expression levels of three miRNAs (miR-29b-3p, miR-106b-5p and miR-199a-3p) were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analysis was performed to evaluate diagnostic value of these miRNAs. Target genes prediction, functional enrichment and pathway analyses were done using miRWalk and Metascape. STRING database was used to construct protein-protein network and identify hub genes. Results Notably, miR-106b-5p and miR-199a-3p were significantly upregulated (p < 0.0001), while miRNA-29b-3p was downregulated (p < 0.0001) in SZ patients compared to controls. The diagnostic potential was assessed through ROC curves, revealing substantial diagnostic value for miR-199a-3p (AUC: 0.979) followed by miR-106b-5p (AUC: 0.774), with limited diagnostic efficacy for miR-29b-3p. Additionally, bioinformatic analyses for the predicted target genes of the diagnostically significant miRNAs uncovered Gene Ontology (GO) terms related to neurological development, including morphogenesis, which is involved in neuron differentiation, brain development, head development, and neuron projection morphogenesis. These findings highlight a potential connection between the identified miRNAs and SZ pathophysiology in the studied Jordanian population. Furthermore, a protein-protein interaction network from the target genes identified in association with neurological development in the Gene Ontology (GO) terms deepens our comprehension of the molecular landscape of the regulated target genes. Conclusions This comprehensive exploration highlights the promising role of miRNAs in unraveling intricate molecular pathways associated with SZ in the Jordanian cohort and suggests that plasma miRNAs could serve as reliable biomarkers for SZ diagnosis and disease progression. Remarkably, this study represents the first investigation into the role of circulating miRNA expression among Jordanian patients with SZ, providing valuable insights into the diagnostic landscape of this disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Shboul
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Amal Bani Domi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Abdulmalek Abu Zahra
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Aws G. Khasawneh
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Reem Darweesh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zito A, Lee JT. Variable expression of MECP2, CDKL5, and FMR1 in the human brain: Implications for gene restorative therapies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2312757121. [PMID: 38386709 PMCID: PMC10907246 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2312757121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
MECP2, CDKL5, and FMR1 are three X-linked neurodevelopmental genes associated with Rett, CDKL5-, and fragile-X syndrome, respectively. These syndromes are characterized by distinct constellations of severe cognitive and neurobehavioral anomalies, reflecting the broad but unique expression patterns of each of the genes in the brain. As these disorders are not thought to be neurodegenerative and may be reversible, a major goal has been to restore expression of the functional proteins in the patient's brain. Strategies have included gene therapy, gene editing, and selective Xi-reactivation methodologies. However, tissue penetration and overall delivery to various regions of the brain remain challenging for each strategy. Thus, gaining insights into how much restoration would be required and what regions/cell types in the brain must be targeted for meaningful physiological improvement would be valuable. As a step toward addressing these questions, here we perform a meta-analysis of single-cell transcriptomics data from the human brain across multiple developmental stages, in various brain regions, and in multiple donors. We observe a substantial degree of expression variability for MECP2, CDKL5, and FMR1 not only across cell types but also between donors. The wide range of expression may help define a therapeutic window, with the low end delineating a minimum level required to restore physiological function and the high end informing toxicology margin. Finally, the inter-cellular and inter-individual variability enable identification of co-varying genes and will facilitate future identification of biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Zito
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA02114
- Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02114
| | - Jeannie T. Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA02114
- Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02114
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pramanik S, Bala A, Pradhan A. Zebrafish in understanding molecular pathophysiology, disease modeling, and developing effective treatments for Rett syndrome. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3677. [PMID: 38380785 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3677] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare but dreadful X-linked genetic disease that mainly affects young girls. It is a neurological disease that affects nerve cell development and function, resulting in severe motor and intellectual disabilities. To date, no cure is available for treating this disease. In 90% of the cases, RTT is caused by a mutation in methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2), a transcription factor involved in the repression and activation of transcription. MECP2 is known to regulate several target genes and is involved in different physiological functions. Mouse models exhibit a broad range of phenotypes in recapitulating human RTT symptoms; however, understanding the disease mechanisms remains incomplete, and many potential RTT treatments developed in mouse models have not shown translational effectiveness in human trials. Recent data hint that the zebrafish model emulates similar disrupted neurological functions following mutation of the mecp2 gene. This suggests that zebrafish can be used to understand the onset and progression of RTT pathophysiology and develop a possible cure. In this review, we elaborate on the molecular basis of RTT pathophysiology in humans and model organisms, including rodents and zebrafish, focusing on the zebrafish model to understand the molecular pathophysiology and the development of therapeutic strategies for RTT. Finally, we propose a rational treatment strategy, including antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNA technology and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cell therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subrata Pramanik
- Jyoti and Bhupat Mehta School of Health Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Asis Bala
- Pharmacology and Drug Discovery Research Laboratory, Division of Life Sciences; Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), An Autonomous Institute Under - Department of Science & Technology (Govt. of India) Vigyan Path, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Ajay Pradhan
- Biology, The Life Science Center, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Siqueira E, Kim BH, Reser L, Chow R, Delaney K, Esteller M, Ross MM, Shabanowitz J, Hunt DF, Guil S, Ausió J. Analysis of the interplay between MeCP2 and histone H1 during in vitro differentiation of human ReNCell neural progenitor cells. Epigenetics 2023; 18:2276425. [PMID: 37976174 PMCID: PMC10769555 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2023.2276425] [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: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
An immortalized neural cell line derived from the human ventral mesencephalon, called ReNCell, and its MeCP2 knock out were used. With it, we characterized the chromatin compositional transitions undergone during differentiation, with special emphasis on linker histones. While the WT cells displayed the development of dendrites and axons the KO cells did not, despite undergoing differentiation as monitored by NeuN. ReNCell expressed minimal amounts of histone H1.0 and their linker histone complement consisted mainly of histone H1.2, H1.4 and H1.5. The overall level of histone H1 exhibited a trend to increase during the differentiation of MeCP2 KO cells. The phosphorylation levels of histone H1 proteins decreased dramatically during ReNCell's cell differentiation independently of the presence of MeCP2. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that MeCP2 exhibits an extensive co-localization with linker histones. Interestingly, the average size of the nucleus decreased during differentiation but in the MeCP2 KO cells, the smaller size of the nuclei at the start of differentiation increased by almost 40% after differentiation by 8 days (8 DIV). In summary, our data provide a compelling perspective on the dynamic changes of H1 histones during neural differentiation, coupled with the intricate interplay between H1 variants and MeCP2.Abbreviations: ACN, acetonitrile; A230, absorbance at 230 nm; bFGF, basic fibroblast growth factor; CM, chicken erythrocyte histone marker; CNS, central nervous system; CRISPR, clustered regulated interspaced short palindromic repeatsDAPI, 4,'6-diaminidino-2-phenylindole; DIV, days in vitro (days after differentiation is induced); DMEM, Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium; EGF, epidermal growth factor; ESC, embryonic stem cell; GAPDH, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase; GFAP, glial fibrillary acidic proteinHPLC, high-performance liquid chromatography; IF, immunofluorescence; iPSCs, induced pluripotent stem cells; MAP2, microtubule-associated protein 2; MBD, methyl-binding domain; MeCP2, methyl-CpG binding protein 2; MS, mass spectrometry; NCP, nucleosome core particle; NeuN, neuron nuclear antigen; NPC, neural progenitor cellPAGE, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; PBS, phosphate buffered saline; PFA, paraformaldehyde; PTM, posttranslational modification; RP-HPLC, reversed phase HPLC; ReNCells, ReNCells VM; RPLP0, ribosomal protein lateral stalk subunit P0; RT-qPCR, reverse transcription quantitative polymerase-chain reaction; RTT, Rett Syndrome; SDS, sodium dodecyl sulphate; TAD, topologically associating domain; Triple KO, triple knockout.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edilene Siqueira
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), Brasilia, Federal District, Brazil
| | - Bo-Hyun Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Larry Reser
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Robert Chow
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Kerry Delaney
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Manel Esteller
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Physiological Sciences Department, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Mark M. Ross
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Jeffrey Shabanowitz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Donald F. Hunt
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Sonia Guil
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- GermansTrias i Pujol Health Science Research Institute, Badalona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Juan Ausió
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xie F, Li L, Peng M, Zhang H. Overexpression of miR-199a-5p improves brain injury in newborn rats with intrauterine infection via inhibition of astrocyte activation. Brain Res 2023; 1820:148560. [PMID: 37648092 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
White matter injury is the most common form of brain injury in preterm infants. In addition to hypoxia ischemia, intrauterine infection is most closely related to brain white matter injury. Our study aimed to explore the mechanism of the miR-199a-5p/HIF-1α axis on astrocyte activation and brain injury in newborn rats caused by intrauterine infection. The animal/cell model was established via escherichia coli infection/lipopolysaccharide induction, followed by the measurement of body weight, brain weight, and the pathological changes in brain tissues of newborn rats, and the pathological changes in placenta and uterus wall of pregnant rats. Also, the levels of GFAP, TNF-α, MDA, GSH, SOD, miR-199a-5p, and HIF-1α were detected though corresponding assays or kits. In vitro, cell viability and apoptosis and the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were evaluated in astrocytes. Moreover, the targeting relationship between miR-199a-5p and HIF-1α was verified. miR-199a-5p was lowly expressed in the brain tissues of newborn rats with intrauterine infection. Overexpression of miR-199a-5p relieved the injury of placenta and uterus wall in pregnant rats and brain injury in newborn rats, accompanied by decreased HIF-1α, GFAP, TNF-α, and MDA levels and increased GSH and SOD levels. Results from cell models showed that miR-199a-5p overexpression inhibited astrocyte activation, shown by enhanced cell viability, weakened cell apoptosis, and decreased GFAP, IL-6, and TNF-α. Mechanistically, miR-199a-5p targeted HIF-1α to decrease its expression. Collectively, miR-199a-5p inhibited astrocyte activation and alleviated brain injury in newborn rats with intrauterine infection by reducing HIF-1α expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Xie
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, NO.745 Wuluo Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, PR China
| | - Li Li
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, NO.745 Wuluo Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, PR China
| | - Min Peng
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, NO.745 Wuluo Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, PR China.
| | - Huan Zhang
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, NO.745 Wuluo Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Odabasi Y, Yanasik S, Saglam-Metiner P, Kaymaz Y, Yesil-Celiktas O. Comprehensive Transcriptomic Investigation of Rett Syndrome Reveals Increasing Complexity Trends from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Neurons with Implications for Enriched Pathways. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:44148-44162. [PMID: 38027357 PMCID: PMC10666228 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c06448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder that has no cure apart from symptomatic treatments. While intense research efforts are required to fulfill this unmet need, the fundamental challenge is to obtain sufficient patient data. In this study, we used human transcriptomic data of four different sample types from RTT patients including induced pluripotent stem cells, differentiated neural progenitor cells, differentiated neurons, and postmortem brain tissues with an increasing in vivo-like complexity to unveil specific trends in gene expressions across the samples. Based on DEG analysis, we identified F8A3, CNTN6, RPE65, and COL19A1 to have differential expression levels in three sample types and also observed previously reported genes such as MECP2, FOXG1, CACNA1G, SATB2, GABBR2, MEF2C, KCNJ10, and CUX2 in our study. Considering the significantly enriched pathways for each sample type, we observed a consistent increase in numbers from iPSCs to NEUs where MECP2 displayed profound effects. We also validated our GSEA results by using single-cell RNA-seq data. In WGCNA, we elicited a connection among MECP2, TNRC6A, and HOXA5. Our findings highlight the utility of transcriptomic analyses to determine genes that might lead to therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf
Caglar Odabasi
- Department of Bioengineering,
Faculty of Engineering, Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Sena Yanasik
- Department of Bioengineering,
Faculty of Engineering, Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Pelin Saglam-Metiner
- Department of Bioengineering,
Faculty of Engineering, Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Yasin Kaymaz
- Department of Bioengineering,
Faculty of Engineering, Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Yesil-Celiktas
- Department of Bioengineering,
Faculty of Engineering, Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hong H, Yoon SB, Park JE, Lee JI, Kim HY, Nam HJ, Cho H. MeCP2 dysfunction prevents proper BMP signaling and neural progenitor expansion in brain organoid. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2023. [PMID: 37302988 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sporadic mutations in MeCP2 are a hallmark of Rett syndrome (RTT). Many RTT brain organoid models have exhibited pathogenic phenotypes such as decreased spine density and small size of soma with altered electrophysiological signals. However, previous models are mainly focused on the phenotypes observed in the late phase and rarely provide clues for the defect of neural progenitors which generate different types of neurons and glial cells. METHODS We newly established the RTT brain organoid model derived from MeCP2-truncated iPS cells which were genetically engineered by CRISPR/Cas9 technology. By immunofluorescence imaging, we studied the development of NPC pool and its fate specification into glutamatergic neurons or astrocytes in RTT organoids. By total RNA sequencing, we investigated which signaling pathways were altered during the early brain development in RTT organoids. RESULTS Dysfunction of MeCP2 caused the defect of neural rosette formation in the early phase of cortical development. In total transcriptome analysis, BMP pathway-related genes are highly associated with MeCP2 depletion. Moreover, levels of pSMAD1/5 and BMP target genes are excessively increased, and treatment of BMP inhibitors partially rescues the cell cycle progression of neural progenitors. Subsequently, MeCP2 dysfunction reduced the glutamatergic neurogenesis and induced overproduction of astrocytes. Nevertheless, early inhibition of BMP pathway rescued VGLUT1 expression and suppressed astrocyte maturation. INTERPRETATION Our results demonstrate that MeCP2 is required for the expansion of neural progenitor cells by modulating BMP pathway at early stages of development, and this influence persists during neurogenesis and gliogenesis at later stages of brain organoid development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyowon Hong
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sae-Bom Yoon
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Eun Park
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung In Lee
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Young Kim
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jin Nam
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Heeyeong Cho
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Parajuli B, Koizumi S. Strategies for Manipulating Microglia to Determine Their Role in the Healthy and Diseased Brain. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:1066-1076. [PMID: 36085395 PMCID: PMC9462627 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03742-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Microglia are the specialized macrophages of the central nervous system and play an important role in neural circuit development, modulating neurotransmission, and maintaining brain homeostasis. Microglia in normal brain is quiescent and show ramified morphology with numerous branching processes. They constantly survey their surrounding microenvironment through the extension and retraction of their processes and interact with neurons, astrocytes, and blood vessels using these processes. Microglia respond quickly to any pathological event in the brain by assuming ameboid morphology devoid of branching processes and restore homeostasis. However, when there is chronic inflammation, microglia may lose their homeostatic functions and secrete various proinflammatory cytokines and mediators that initiate neural dysfunction and neurodegeneration. In this article, we review the role of microglia in the normal brain and in various pathological brain conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis. We describe strategies to manipulate microglia, focusing on depletion, repopulation, and replacement, and we discuss their therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bijay Parajuli
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi, 409-3898, Japan
- GLIA Center, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi, 409-3898, Japan
| | - Schuichi Koizumi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi, 409-3898, Japan.
- GLIA Center, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi, 409-3898, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xu YJ, Liu PP, Yan ZZ, Mi TW, Wang YY, Li Q, Teng ZQ, Liu CM. KW-2449 and VPA exert therapeutic effects on human neurons and cerebral organoids derived from MECP2-null hESCs. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:534. [PMID: 36575558 PMCID: PMC9795779 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03216-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome (RTT), mainly caused by mutations in methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2), is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders in girls. However, the underlying mechanism of MECP2 remains largely unknown and currently there is no effective treatment available for RTT. METHODS We generated MECP2-KO human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), and differentiated them into neurons and cerebral organoids to investigate phenotypes of MECP2 loss-of-function, potential therapeutic agents, and the underlying mechanism by transcriptome sequencing. RESULTS We found that MECP2 deletion caused reduced number of hESCs-derived neurons and simplified dendritic morphology. Moreover, MECP2-KO cortical organoids exhibited fewer neural progenitor cells and neurons at day 60. Electrophysiological recordings showed that MECP2 deletion altered synaptic activity in organoids. Transcriptome analysis of organoids identified many genes in the PI3K-AKT pathway downregulated following MECP2 deletion. Treatment with either KW-2449 or VPA, small molecules for the activation of PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, alleviated neuronal deficits and transcriptome changes in MECP2-KO human neuronal models. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that KW-2449 and VPA might be promising drugs for RTT treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Jie Xu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China ,grid.9227.e0000000119573309Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.512959.3Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Pei-Pei Liu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China ,grid.9227.e0000000119573309Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.512959.3Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Zhong-Ze Yan
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China ,grid.9227.e0000000119573309Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.512959.3Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Ting-Wei Mi
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Ying-Ying Wang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China ,grid.9227.e0000000119573309Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.512959.3Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Qian Li
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China ,grid.9227.e0000000119573309Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.512959.3Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Zhao-Qian Teng
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China ,grid.9227.e0000000119573309Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.512959.3Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Chang-Mei Liu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China ,grid.9227.e0000000119573309Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China ,grid.512959.3Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, 100101 China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Tsujimura K, Shiohama T, Takahashi E. microRNA Biology on Brain Development and Neuroimaging Approach. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12101366. [PMID: 36291300 PMCID: PMC9599180 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12101366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Proper brain development requires the precise coordination and orchestration of various molecular and cellular processes and dysregulation of these processes can lead to neurological diseases. In the past decades, post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression has been shown to contribute to various aspects of brain development and function in the central nervous system. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), short non-coding RNAs, are emerging as crucial players in post-transcriptional gene regulation in a variety of tissues, such as the nervous system. In recent years, miRNAs have been implicated in multiple aspects of brain development, including neurogenesis, migration, axon and dendrite formation, and synaptogenesis. Moreover, altered expression and dysregulation of miRNAs have been linked to neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful imaging technology to obtain high-quality, detailed structural and functional information from the brains of human and animal models in a non-invasive manner. Because the spatial expression patterns of miRNAs in the brain, unlike those of DNA and RNA, remain largely unknown, a whole-brain imaging approach using MRI may be useful in revealing biological and pathological information about the brain affected by miRNAs. In this review, we highlight recent advancements in the research of miRNA-mediated modulation of neuronal processes that are important for brain development and their involvement in disease pathogenesis. Also, we overview each MRI technique, and its technological considerations, and discuss the applications of MRI techniques in miRNA research. This review aims to link miRNA biological study with MRI analytical technology and deepen our understanding of how miRNAs impact brain development and pathology of neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keita Tsujimura
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Group of Brain Function and Development, Nagoya University Neuroscience Institute of the Graduate School of Science, Nagoya 4648602, Japan
- Research Unit for Developmental Disorders, Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya 4648602, Japan
- Correspondence: (K.T.); (E.T.)
| | - Tadashi Shiohama
- Department of Pediatrics, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba 2608677, Japan
| | - Emi Takahashi
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Correspondence: (K.T.); (E.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lu S, Chen Y, Wang Z. Advances in the pathogenesis of Rett syndrome using cell models. Animal Model Exp Med 2022; 5:532-541. [PMID: 35785421 PMCID: PMC9773312 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a progressive neurodevelopmental disorder that occurs mainly in girls with a range of typical symptoms of autism spectrum disorders. MeCP2 protein loss-of-function in neural lineage cells is the main cause of RTT pathogenicity. As it is still hard to understand the mechanism of RTT on the basis of only clinical patients or animal models, cell models cultured in vitro play indispensable roles. Here we reviewed the research progress in the pathogenesis of RTT at the cellular level, summarized the preclinical-research-related applications, and prospected potential future development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational MedicineKunming University of Science and TechnologyKunmingChina,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical ResearchKunmingChina
| | - Yongchang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational MedicineKunming University of Science and TechnologyKunmingChina,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical ResearchKunmingChina
| | - Zhengbo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational MedicineKunming University of Science and TechnologyKunmingChina,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical ResearchKunmingChina
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Akaba Y, Shiohama T, Komaki Y, Seki F, Ortug A, Sawada D, Uchida W, Kamagata K, Shimoji K, Aoki S, Takahashi S, Suzuki T, Natsume J, Takahashi E, Tsujimura K. Comprehensive Volumetric Analysis of Mecp2-Null Mouse Model for Rett Syndrome by T2-Weighted 3D Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:885335. [PMID: 35620663 PMCID: PMC9127869 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.885335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe progressive neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by various neurological symptoms. Almost all RTT cases are caused by mutations in the X-linked methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) gene, and several mouse models have been established to understand the disease. However, the neuroanatomical abnormalities in each brain region of RTT mouse models have not been fully understood. Here, we investigated the global and local neuroanatomy of the Mecp2 gene-deleted RTT model (Mecp2-KO) mouse brain using T2-weighted 3D magnetic resonance imaging with different morphometry to clarify the brain structural abnormalities that are involved in the pathophysiology of RTT. We found a significant reduction in global and almost all local volumes in the brain of Mecp2-KO mice. In addition, a detailed comparative analysis identified specific volume reductions in several brain regions in the Mecp2-deficient brain. Our analysis also revealed that the Mecp2-deficient brain shows changes in hemispheric asymmetry in several brain regions. These findings suggest that MeCP2 affects not only the whole-brain volume but also the region-specific brain structure. Our study provides a framework for neuroanatomical studies of a mouse model of RTT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuichi Akaba
- Group of Brain Function and Development, Nagoya University Neuroscience Institute of the Graduate School of Science, Nagoya, Japan
- Research Unit for Developmental Disorders, Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Tadashi Shiohama
- Department of Pediatrics, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuji Komaki
- Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Kawasaki, Japan
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumiko Seki
- Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Kawasaki, Japan
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Alpen Ortug
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Daisuke Sawada
- Department of Pediatrics, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Wataru Uchida
- Department of Radiology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Kamagata
- Department of Radiology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keigo Shimoji
- Department of Radiology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigeki Aoki
- Department of Radiology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoru Takahashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Takeshi Suzuki
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Jun Natsume
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Developmental Disability Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Emi Takahashi
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Keita Tsujimura
- Group of Brain Function and Development, Nagoya University Neuroscience Institute of the Graduate School of Science, Nagoya, Japan
- Research Unit for Developmental Disorders, Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Keita Tsujimura,
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Okano H, Morimoto S. iPSC-based disease modeling and drug discovery in cardinal neurodegenerative disorders. Cell Stem Cell 2022; 29:189-208. [PMID: 35120619 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
It has been 15 years since the birth of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology in 2007, and the scope of its application has been expanding. In addition to the development of cell therapies using iPSC-derived cells, pathological analyses using disease-specific iPSCs and clinical trials to confirm the safety and efficacy of drugs developed using iPSCs are progressing. With the innovation of related technologies, iPSC applications are about to enter a new stage. This review outlines advances in iPSC modeling and therapeutic development for cardinal neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Laboratory for Marmoset Neural Architecture, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako-shi, Saitama 351-0198, Japan.
| | - Satoru Morimoto
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Akol I, Gather F, Vogel T. Paving Therapeutic Avenues for FOXG1 Syndrome: Untangling Genotypes and Phenotypes from a Molecular Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020954. [PMID: 35055139 PMCID: PMC8780739 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Development of the central nervous system (CNS) depends on accurate spatiotemporal control of signaling pathways and transcriptional programs. Forkhead Box G1 (FOXG1) is one of the master regulators that play fundamental roles in forebrain development; from the timing of neurogenesis, to the patterning of the cerebral cortex. Mutations in the FOXG1 gene cause a rare neurodevelopmental disorder called FOXG1 syndrome, also known as congenital form of Rett syndrome. Patients presenting with FOXG1 syndrome manifest a spectrum of phenotypes, ranging from severe cognitive dysfunction and microcephaly to social withdrawal and communication deficits, with varying severities. To develop and improve therapeutic interventions, there has been considerable progress towards unravelling the multi-faceted functions of FOXG1 in the neurodevelopment and pathogenesis of FOXG1 syndrome. Moreover, recent advances in genome editing and stem cell technologies, as well as the increased yield of information from high throughput omics, have opened promising and important new avenues in FOXG1 research. In this review, we provide a summary of the clinical features and emerging molecular mechanisms underlying FOXG1 syndrome, and explore disease-modelling approaches in animals and human-based systems, to highlight the prospects of research and possible clinical interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ipek Akol
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; (I.A.); (F.G.)
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Basics in NeuroModulation (NeuroModul Basics), Medical Faculty, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Gather
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; (I.A.); (F.G.)
| | - Tanja Vogel
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; (I.A.); (F.G.)
- Center for Basics in NeuroModulation (NeuroModul Basics), Medical Faculty, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kawai T, Richards JS, Shimada M. Large-scale DNA demethylation occurs in proliferating ovarian granulosa cells during mouse follicular development. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1334. [PMID: 34824385 PMCID: PMC8617273 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02849-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
During ovarian follicular development, granulosa cells proliferate and progressively differentiate to support oocyte maturation and ovulation. To determine the underlying links between proliferation and differentiation in granulosa cells, we determined changes in 1) the expression of genes regulating DNA methylation and 2) DNA methylation patterns, histone acetylation levels and genomic DNA structure. In response to equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG), granulosa cell proliferation increased, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT1) significantly decreased and Tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 2 (TET2) significantly increased in S-phase granulosa cells. Comprehensive MeDIP-seq analyses documented that eCG treatment decreased methylation of promoter regions in approximately 40% of the genes in granulosa cells. The expression of specific demethylated genes was significantly increased in association with specific histone modifications and changes in DNA structure. These epigenetic processes were suppressed by a cell cycle inhibitor. Based on these results, we propose that the timing of sequential epigenetic events is essential for progressive, stepwise changes in granulosa cell differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Kawai
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan
| | - JoAnne S Richards
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Loss of O-GlcNAcylation on MeCP2 at Threonine 203 Leads to Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Neurosci Bull 2021; 38:113-134. [PMID: 34773221 PMCID: PMC8821740 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-021-00784-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations of the X-linked methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene in humans are responsible for most cases of Rett syndrome (RTT), an X-linked progressive neurological disorder. While genome-wide screens in clinical trials have revealed several putative RTT-associated mutations in MECP2, their causal relevance regarding the functional regulation of MeCP2 at the etiologic sites at the protein level requires more evidence. In this study, we demonstrated that MeCP2 was dynamically modified by O-linked-β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) at threonine 203 (T203), an etiologic site in RTT patients. Disruption of the O-GlcNAcylation of MeCP2 specifically at T203 impaired dendrite development and spine maturation in cultured hippocampal neurons, and disrupted neuronal migration, dendritic spine morphogenesis, and caused dysfunction of synaptic transmission in the developing and juvenile mouse cerebral cortex. Mechanistically, genetic disruption of O-GlcNAcylation at T203 on MeCP2 decreased the neuronal activity-induced induction of Bdnf transcription. Our study highlights the critical role of MeCP2 T203 O-GlcNAcylation in neural development and synaptic transmission potentially via brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
Collapse
|
21
|
MicroRNAs 21 and 199a-3p Regulate Axon Growth Potential through Modulation of Pten and mTor mRNAs. eNeuro 2021; 8:ENEURO.0155-21.2021. [PMID: 34326064 PMCID: PMC8362682 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0155-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased mTOR activity has been shown to enhance regeneration of injured axons by increasing neuronal protein synthesis, while PTEN signaling can block mTOR activity to attenuate protein synthesis. MicroRNAs (miRs) have been implicated in regulation of PTEN and mTOR expression, and previous work in spinal cord showed an increase in miR-199a-3p after spinal cord injury (SCI) and increase in miR-21 in SCI animals that had undergone exercise. Pten mRNA is a target for miR-21 and miR-199a-3p is predicted to target mTor mRNA. Here, we show that miR-21 and miR-199a-3p are expressed in adult dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, and we used culture preparations to test functions of the rat miRs in adult DRG and embryonic cortical neurons. miR-21 increases and miR-199a-3p decreases in DRG neurons after in vivo axotomy. In both the adult DRG and embryonic cortical neurons, miR-21 promotes and miR-199a-3p attenuates neurite growth. miR-21 directly bound to Pten mRNA and miR-21 overexpression decreased Pten mRNA levels. Conversely, miR-199a-3p directly bound to mTor mRNA and miR-199a-3p overexpression decreased mTor mRNA levels. Overexpressing miR-21 increased both overall and intra-axonal protein synthesis in cultured DRGs, while miR-199a-3p overexpression decreased this protein synthesis. The axon growth phenotypes seen with miR-21 and miR-199a-3p overexpression were reversed by co-transfecting PTEN and mTOR cDNA expression constructs with the predicted 3′ untranslated region (UTR) miR target sequences deleted. Taken together, these studies indicate that injury-induced alterations in miR-21 and miR-199a-3p expression can alter axon growth capacity by changing overall and intra-axonal protein synthesis through regulation of the PTEN/mTOR pathway.
Collapse
|