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Mostafavi Abdolmaleky H, Alam R, Nohesara S, Deth RC, Zhou JR. iPSC-Derived Astrocytes and Neurons Replicate Brain Gene Expression, Epigenetic, Cell Morphology and Connectivity Alterations Found in Autism. Cells 2024; 13:1095. [PMID: 38994948 PMCID: PMC11240613 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131095] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Excessive inflammatory reactions and oxidative stress are well-recognized molecular findings in autism and these processes can affect or be affected by the epigenetic landscape. Nonetheless, adequate therapeutics are unavailable, as patient-specific brain molecular markers for individualized therapies remain challenging. METHODS We used iPSC-derived neurons and astrocytes of patients with autism vs. controls (5/group) to examine whether they replicate the postmortem brain expression/epigenetic alterations of autism. Additionally, DNA methylation of 10 postmortem brain samples (5/group) was analyzed for genes affected in PSC-derived cells. RESULTS We found hyperexpression of TGFB1, TGFB2, IL6 and IFI16 and decreased expression of HAP1, SIRT1, NURR1, RELN, GPX1, EN2, SLC1A2 and SLC1A3 in the astrocytes of patients with autism, along with DNA hypomethylation of TGFB2, IL6, TNFA and EN2 gene promoters and a decrease in HAP1 promoter 5-hydroxymethylation in the astrocytes of patients with autism. In neurons, HAP1 and IL6 expression trended alike. While HAP1 promoter was hypermethylated in neurons, IFI16 and SLC1A3 promoters were hypomethylated and TGFB2 exhibited increased promoter 5-hydroxymethlation. We also found a reduction in neuronal arborization, spine size, growth rate, and migration, but increased astrocyte size and a reduced growth rate in autism. In postmortem brain samples, we found DNA hypomethylation of TGFB2 and IFI16 promoter regions, but DNA hypermethylation of HAP1 and SLC1A2 promoters in autism. CONCLUSION Autism-associated expression/epigenetic alterations in iPSC-derived cells replicated those reported in the literature, making them appropriate surrogates to study disease pathogenesis or patient-specific therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Mostafavi Abdolmaleky
- Nutrition/Metabolism Laboratory, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Reza Alam
- Nutrition/Metabolism Laboratory, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Shabnam Nohesara
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Richard C Deth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Jin-Rong Zhou
- Nutrition/Metabolism Laboratory, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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2
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Ohki CMY, Benazzato C, van der Linden V, França JV, Toledo CM, Machado RRG, Araujo DB, Oliveira DBL, Neris RS, Assunção-Miranda I, de Oliveira Souza IN, Nogueira CO, Leite PEC, van der Linden H, Figueiredo CP, Durigon EL, Clarke JR, Russo FB, Beltrão-Braga PCB. Zika virus infection impairs synaptogenesis, induces neuroinflammation, and could be an environmental risk factor for autism spectrum disorder outcome. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167097. [PMID: 38408544 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167097] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) infection was first associated with Central Nervous System (CNS) infections in Brazil in 2015, correlated with an increased number of newborns with microcephaly, which ended up characterizing the Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS). Here, we investigated the impact of ZIKV infection on the functionality of iPSC-derived astrocytes. Besides, we extrapolated our findings to a Brazilian cohort of 136 CZS children and validated our results using a mouse model. Interestingly, ZIKV infection in neuroprogenitor cells compromises cell migration and causes apoptosis but does not interfere in astrocyte generation. Moreover, infected astrocytes lost their ability to uptake glutamate while expressing more glutamate transporters and secreted higher levels of IL-6. Besides, infected astrocytes secreted factors that impaired neuronal synaptogenesis. Since these biological endophenotypes were already related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), we extrapolated these results to a cohort of children, now 6-7 years old, and found seven children with ASD diagnosis (5.14 %). Additionally, mice infected by ZIKV revealed autistic-like behaviors, with a significant increase of IL-6 mRNA levels in the brain. Considering these evidence, we inferred that ZIKV infection during pregnancy might lead to synaptogenesis impairment and neuroinflammation, which could increase the risk for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cecília Benazzato
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Julia V França
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carmen M Toledo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Romulo S Neris
- Institute of Microbiology Paulo de Goes, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Iranaia Assunção-Miranda
- Institute of Microbiology Paulo de Goes, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Clara O Nogueira
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Paulo Emilio Corrêa Leite
- Clinical Research Unit of the Antonio Pedro Hospital, Federal Fluminense University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Claudia P Figueiredo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Edison Luiz Durigon
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Institut Pasteur de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julia R Clarke
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Pall ML. Central Causation of Autism/ASDs via Excessive [Ca 2+]i Impacting Six Mechanisms Controlling Synaptogenesis during the Perinatal Period: The Role of Electromagnetic Fields and Chemicals and the NO/ONOO(-) Cycle, as Well as Specific Mutations. Brain Sci 2024; 14:454. [PMID: 38790433 PMCID: PMC11119459 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14050454] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The roles of perinatal development, intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i, and synaptogenesis disruption are not novel in the autism/ASD literature. The focus on six mechanisms controlling synaptogenesis, each regulated by [Ca2+]i, and each aberrant in ASDs is novel. The model presented here predicts that autism epidemic causation involves central roles of both electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and chemicals. EMFs act via voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) activation and [Ca2+]i elevation. A total of 15 autism-implicated chemical classes each act to produce [Ca2+]i elevation, 12 acting via NMDA receptor activation, and three acting via other mechanisms. The chronic nature of ASDs is explained via NO/ONOO(-) vicious cycle elevation and MeCP2 epigenetic dysfunction. Genetic causation often also involves [Ca2+]i elevation or other impacts on synaptogenesis. The literature examining each of these steps is systematically examined and found to be consistent with predictions. Approaches that may be sed for ASD prevention or treatment are discussed in connection with this special issue: The current situation and prospects for children with ASDs. Such approaches include EMF, chemical avoidance, and using nutrients and other agents to raise the levels of Nrf2. An enriched environment, vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3s in fish oil may also be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin L Pall
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
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4
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Long J, Dang H, Su W, Moneruzzaman M, Zhang H. Interactions between circulating inflammatory factors and autism spectrum disorder: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study in European population. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1370276. [PMID: 38742104 PMCID: PMC11089225 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1370276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Extensive observational studies have reported an association between inflammatory factors and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but their causal relationships remain unclear. This study aims to offer deeper insight into causal relationships between circulating inflammatory factors and ASD. Methods Two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis method was used in this study. The genetic variation of 91 circulating inflammatory factors was obtained from the genome-wide association study (GWAS) database of European ancestry. The germline GWAS summary data for ASD were also obtained (18,381 ASD cases and 27,969 controls). Single nucleotide polymorphisms robustly associated with the 91 inflammatory factors were used as instrumental variables. The random-effects inverse-variance weighted method was used as the primary analysis, and the Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons was applied. Sensitivity tests were carried out to assess the validity of the causal relationship. Results The forward MR analysis results suggest that levels of sulfotransferase 1A1, natural killer cell receptor 2B4, T-cell surface glycoprotein CD5, Fms-related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand, and tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand are positively associated with the occurrence of ASD, while levels of interleukin-7, interleukin-2 receptor subunit beta, and interleukin-2 are inversely associated with the occurrence of ASD. In addition, matrix metalloproteinase-10, caspase 8, tumor necrosis factor-related activation-induced cytokine, and C-C motif chemokine 19 were considered downstream consequences of ASD. Conclusion This MR study identified additional inflammatory factors in patients with ASD relative to previous studies, and raised a possibility of ASD-caused immune abnormalities. These identified inflammatory factors may be potential biomarkers of immunologic dysfunction in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junzi Long
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Division of Brain Sciences, Changping Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Dang
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wenlong Su
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Md. Moneruzzaman
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Division of Brain Sciences, Changping Laboratory, Beijing, China
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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5
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Zhuang H, Liang Z, Ma G, Qureshi A, Ran X, Feng C, Liu X, Yan X, Shen L. Autism spectrum disorder: pathogenesis, biomarker, and intervention therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e497. [PMID: 38434761 PMCID: PMC10908366 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has become a common neurodevelopmental disorder. The heterogeneity of ASD poses great challenges for its research and clinical translation. On the basis of reviewing the heterogeneity of ASD, this review systematically summarized the current status and progress of pathogenesis, diagnostic markers, and interventions for ASD. We provided an overview of the ASD molecular mechanisms identified by multi-omics studies and convergent mechanism in different genetic backgrounds. The comorbidities, mechanisms associated with important physiological and metabolic abnormalities (i.e., inflammation, immunity, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction), and gut microbial disorder in ASD were reviewed. The non-targeted omics and targeting studies of diagnostic markers for ASD were also reviewed. Moreover, we summarized the progress and methods of behavioral and educational interventions, intervention methods related to technological devices, and research on medical interventions and potential drug targets. This review highlighted the application of high-throughput omics methods in ASD research and emphasized the importance of seeking homogeneity from heterogeneity and exploring the convergence of disease mechanisms, biomarkers, and intervention approaches, and proposes that taking into account individuality and commonality may be the key to achieve accurate diagnosis and treatment of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbin Zhuang
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Zhiyuan Liang
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Guanwei Ma
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Ayesha Qureshi
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Xiaoqian Ran
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Chengyun Feng
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of BaoanShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Xukun Liu
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Xi Yan
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Liming Shen
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
- Shenzhen‐Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science‐Shenzhen Fundamental Research InstitutionsShenzhenP. R. China
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6
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Kovacheva E, Gevezova M, Maes M, Sarafian V. Mast Cells in Autism Spectrum Disorder-The Enigma to Be Solved? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2651. [PMID: 38473898 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a disturbance of neurodevelopment with a complicated pathogenesis and unidentified etiology. Many children with ASD have a history of "allergic symptoms", often in the absence of mast cell (MC)-positive tests. Activation of MCs by various stimuli may release molecules related to inflammation and neurotoxicity, contributing to the development of ASD. The aim of the present paper is to enrich the current knowledge on the relationship between MCs and ASD by discussing key molecules and immune pathways associated with MCs in the pathogenesis of autism. Cytokines, essential marker molecules for MC degranulation and therapeutic targets, are also highlighted. Understanding the relationship between ASD and the activation of MCs, as well as the involved molecules and interactions, are the main points contributing to solving the enigma. Key molecules, associated with MCs, may provide new insights to the discovery of drug targets for modeling inflammation in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Kovacheva
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Gevezova
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Michael Maes
- Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Key Laboratory of Psychosomatic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610072, China
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Cognitive Fitness and Technology Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University-Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Victoria Sarafian
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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7
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Vacharasin JM, Ward JA, McCord MM, Cox K, Imitola J, Lizarraga SB. Neuroimmune mechanisms in autism etiology - untangling a complex problem using human cellular models. OXFORD OPEN NEUROSCIENCE 2024; 3:kvae003. [PMID: 38665176 PMCID: PMC11044813 DOI: 10.1093/oons/kvae003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 36 people and is more often diagnosed in males than in females. Core features of ASD are impaired social interactions, repetitive behaviors and deficits in verbal communication. ASD is a highly heterogeneous and heritable disorder, yet its underlying genetic causes account only for up to 80% of the cases. Hence, a subset of ASD cases could be influenced by environmental risk factors. Maternal immune activation (MIA) is a response to inflammation during pregnancy, which can lead to increased inflammatory signals to the fetus. Inflammatory signals can cross the placenta and blood brain barriers affecting fetal brain development. Epidemiological and animal studies suggest that MIA could contribute to ASD etiology. However, human mechanistic studies have been hindered by a lack of experimental systems that could replicate the impact of MIA during fetal development. Therefore, mechanisms altered by inflammation during human pre-natal brain development, and that could underlie ASD pathogenesis have been largely understudied. The advent of human cellular models with induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) and organoid technology is closing this gap in knowledge by providing both access to molecular manipulations and culturing capability of tissue that would be otherwise inaccessible. We present an overview of multiple levels of evidence from clinical, epidemiological, and cellular studies that provide a potential link between higher ASD risk and inflammation. More importantly, we discuss how stem cell-derived models may constitute an ideal experimental system to mechanistically interrogate the effect of inflammation during the early stages of brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janay M Vacharasin
- Department of Biological Sciences, and Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, Univ. of South Carolina, 715 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Francis Marion University, 4822 East Palmetto Street, Florence, S.C. 29506, USA
| | - Joseph A Ward
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, & Biochemistry, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Center for Translational Neuroscience, Carney Institute of Brain Science, Brown University, 70 Ship Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Mikayla M McCord
- Department of Biological Sciences, and Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, Univ. of South Carolina, 715 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Kaitlin Cox
- Department of Biological Sciences, and Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, Univ. of South Carolina, 715 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Jaime Imitola
- Laboratory of Neural Stem Cells and Functional Neurogenetics, UConn Health, Departments of Neuroscience, Neurology, Genetics and Genome Sciences, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030-5357, USA
| | - Sofia B Lizarraga
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, & Biochemistry, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Center for Translational Neuroscience, Carney Institute of Brain Science, Brown University, 70 Ship Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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8
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Sharma D, Khan H, Kumar A, Grewal AK, Dua K, Singh TG. Pharmacological modulation of HIF-1 in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2023; 130:1523-1535. [PMID: 37740098 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02698-3] [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: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 has been identified as an important therapeutic target in psychiatric illnesses. Hypoxia is a condition in which tissues do not receive enough oxygen, resulting in less oxidative energy production. HIF-1, the master regulator of molecular response to hypoxia, is destabilized when oxygen levels fall. HIF-1, when activated, increases the gene transcription factors that promote adaptive response and longevity in hypoxia. HIF-regulated genes encode proteins involved in cell survival, energy metabolism, angiogenesis, erythropoiesis, and vasomotor control. Multiple genetic and environmental variables contribute to the pathophysiology of psychiatric disease. This review focuses on the most recent findings indicating the role of oxygen deprivation in CNS damage, with strong attention on HIF-mediated pathways. Several pieces of evidence suggested that, in the case of hypoxia, induction and maintenance of HIF-1 target genes may help reduce nerve damage. Major new insights into the molecular mechanisms that control HIF's sensitivity to oxygen are used to make drugs that can change the way HIF works as a therapeutic target for some CNS diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Heena Khan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Amit Kumar
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Amarjot Kaur Grewal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Kamal Dua
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, The University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Thakur Gurjeet Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India.
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9
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Maric DM, Vojvodic D, Maric DL, Velikic G, Radomir M, Sokolovac I, Stefik D, Ivkovic N, Susnjevic S, Puletic M, Dulic O, Abazovic D. Cytokine Dynamics in Autism: Analysis of BMAC Therapy Outcomes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15080. [PMID: 37894761 PMCID: PMC10606637 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has recently been linked to neuroinflammation and an aberrant immune response within the central nervous system. The intricate relationship between immune response and ASD remains elusive, with a gap in understanding the connection between specific immune mechanisms and neural manifestations in autism. In this study, we employed a comprehensive statistical approach, fusing both overarching and granular methods to examine the concentration of 16 cytokines in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) across each autologous bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) intrathecal administration in 63 male and 17 female autism patients. Following a six-month period post the third administration, patients were stratified into three categories based on clinical improvement: Group 1- no/mild (28 subjects), Group 2-moderate (16 subjects), and Group 3-major improvement (15 subjects). Our integrated analysis revealed pronounced disparities in CSF cytokine patterns and clinical outcomes in autism subjects pre- and post-BMAC transplantation. Crucially, our results suggest that these cytokine profiles hold promise as predictive markers, pinpointing ASD individuals who might not exhibit notable clinical amelioration post-BMAC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dusan M. Maric
- Department for Research and Development, Clinic Orto MD-Parks Dr Dragi Hospital, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (D.M.M.); (M.R.)
- Faculty of Stomatology Pancevo, University Business Academy, 26101 Pancevo, Serbia;
| | - Danilo Vojvodic
- Institute for Medical Research, Military Medical Academy, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (D.V.); (D.S.)
- Medical Faculty of Military Medical Academy, University of Defense, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dusica L. Maric
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Gordana Velikic
- Department for Research and Development, Clinic Orto MD-Parks Dr Dragi Hospital, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (D.M.M.); (M.R.)
- Hajim School of Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA
| | - Mihajlo Radomir
- Department for Research and Development, Clinic Orto MD-Parks Dr Dragi Hospital, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (D.M.M.); (M.R.)
| | | | - Debora Stefik
- Institute for Medical Research, Military Medical Academy, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (D.V.); (D.S.)
| | - Nemanja Ivkovic
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Sonja Susnjevic
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Statistics with Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Miljan Puletic
- Faculty of Stomatology Pancevo, University Business Academy, 26101 Pancevo, Serbia;
| | - Oliver Dulic
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
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10
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Ferencova N, Visnovcova Z, Ondrejka I, Hrtanek I, Bujnakova I, Kovacova V, Macejova A, Tonhajzerova I. Peripheral Inflammatory Markers in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder at Adolescent Age. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11710. [PMID: 37511467 PMCID: PMC10380731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are associated with immune dysregulation. We aimed to estimate the pro- and anti-inflammatory activity/balance in ASD and ADHD patients at a little-studied adolescent age with respect to sex. We evaluated 20 ASD patients (5 girls, average age: 12.4 ± 1.9 y), 20 ADHD patients (5 girls, average age: 13.4 ± 1.8 y), and 20 age- and gender-matched controls (average age: 13.2 ± 1.9 y). The evaluated parameters included (1) white blood cells (WBCs), neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, platelets, platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume, and derived ratios, as well as (2) cytokines-interferon-gamma, interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and derived profiles and ratios. ASD adolescents showed higher levels of WBC, monocytes, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, macrophages (M)1 profile, and anti-inflammatory profile than the controls, with ASD males showing higher monocytes, IL-6 and IL-10, anti-inflammatory profile, and a lower T-helper (Th)1/Th2+T-regulatory cell ratio than control males. The ADHD adolescents showed higher levels of PDW, IL-1β and IL-6, TNF-α, M1 profile, proinflammatory profile, and pro-/anti-inflammatory ratio than the controls, with ADHD females showing a higher TNF-α and pro-/anti-inflammatory ratio than the control females and ADHD males showing higher levels of IL-1β and IL-6, TNF-α, and M1 profile than the control males. Immune dysregulation appeared to be different for both neurodevelopmental disorders in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Ferencova
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Visnovcova
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Igor Ondrejka
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Igor Hrtanek
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Iveta Bujnakova
- Society to Help People with Autism (SPOSA-Turiec), 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Kovacova
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Andrea Macejova
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Ingrid Tonhajzerova
- Department of Physiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
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Santos JX, Sampaio P, Rasga C, Martiniano H, Faria C, Café C, Oliveira A, Duque F, Oliveira G, Sousa L, Nunes A, Vicente AM. Evidence for an association of prenatal exposure to particulate matter with clinical severity of Autism Spectrum Disorder. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 228:115795. [PMID: 37028534 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Early-life exposure to air pollutants, including ozone (O3), particulate matter (PM2.5 or PM10, depending on diameter of particles), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) has been suggested to contribute to the etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In this study, we used air quality monitoring data to examine whether mothers of children with ASD were exposed to high levels of air pollutants during critical periods of pregnancy, and if higher exposure levels may lead to a higher clinical severity in their offspring. We used public data from the Portuguese Environment Agency to estimate exposure to these pollutants during the first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy, full pregnancy and first year of life of the child, for 217 subjects with ASD born between 2003 and 2016. These subjects were stratified in two subgroups according to clinical severity, as defined by the Autism Diagnostic Observational Schedule (ADOS). For all time periods, the average levels of PM2.5, PM10 and NO2 to which the subjects were exposed were within the admissible levels defined by the European Union. However, a fraction of these subjects showed exposure to levels of PM2.5 and PM10 above the admissible threshold. A higher clinical severity was associated with higher exposure to PM2.5 (p = 0.001), NO2 (p = 0.011) and PM10 (p = 0.041) during the first trimester of pregnancy, when compared with milder clinical severity. After logistic regression, associations with higher clinical severity were identified for PM2.5 exposure during the first trimester (p = 0.002; OR = 1.14, 95%CI: 1.05-1.23) and full pregnancy (p = 0.04; OR = 1.07, 95%CI: 1.00-1.15) and for PM10 (p = 0.02; OR = 1.07, 95%CI: 1.01-1.14) exposure during the third trimester. Exposure to PM is known to elicit neuropathological mechanisms associated with ASD, including neuroinflammation, mitochondrial disruptions, oxidative stress and epigenetic changes. These results offer new insights on the impact of early-life exposure to PM in ASD clinical severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Xavier Santos
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016, Lisboa, Portugal; BioISI - Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Pedro Sampaio
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016, Lisboa, Portugal; BioISI - Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Célia Rasga
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016, Lisboa, Portugal; BioISI - Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Hugo Martiniano
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016, Lisboa, Portugal; BioISI - Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Clarissa Faria
- Unidade de Neurodesenvolvimento e Autismo, Serviço Do Centro de Desenvolvimento da Criança, Centro de Investigação e Formação Clínica, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Cátia Café
- Unidade de Neurodesenvolvimento e Autismo, Serviço Do Centro de Desenvolvimento da Criança, Centro de Investigação e Formação Clínica, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University Clinic of Pediatrics and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Alexandra Oliveira
- Unidade de Neurodesenvolvimento e Autismo, Serviço Do Centro de Desenvolvimento da Criança, Centro de Investigação e Formação Clínica, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University Clinic of Pediatrics and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Frederico Duque
- Unidade de Neurodesenvolvimento e Autismo, Serviço Do Centro de Desenvolvimento da Criança, Centro de Investigação e Formação Clínica, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University Clinic of Pediatrics and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Guiomar Oliveira
- Unidade de Neurodesenvolvimento e Autismo, Serviço Do Centro de Desenvolvimento da Criança, Centro de Investigação e Formação Clínica, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University Clinic of Pediatrics and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Lisete Sousa
- Departamento de Estatística e Investigação Operacional e Centro de Estatística e Aplicações, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Ana Nunes
- BioISI - Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal; Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Astrid Moura Vicente
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016, Lisboa, Portugal; BioISI - Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal.
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12
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Influence of Immune System Abnormalities Caused by Maternal Immune Activation in the Postnatal Period. Cells 2023; 12:cells12050741. [PMID: 36899877 PMCID: PMC10001371 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) indicate that fetal tissues and organs in critical and sensitive periods of development are susceptible to structural and functional changes due to the adverse environment in utero. Maternal immune activation (MIA) is one of the phenomena in DOHaD. Exposure to maternal immune activation is a risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders, psychosis, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic diseases, and human immune disorders. It has been associated with increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines transferred from mother to fetus in the prenatal period. Abnormal immunity induced by MIA includes immune overreaction or immune response failure in offspring. Immune overreaction is a hypersensitivity response of the immune system to pathogens or allergic factor. Immune response failure could not properly fight off various pathogens. The clinical features in offspring depend on the gestation period, inflammatory magnitude, inflammatory type of MIA in the prenatal period, and exposure to prenatal inflammatory stimulation, which might induce epigenetic modifications in the immune system. An analysis of epigenetic modifications caused by adverse intrauterine environments might allow clinicians to predict the onset of diseases and disorders before or after birth.
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13
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Gonzalez NA, Sakhamuri N, Athiyaman S, Randhi B, Gutlapalli SD, Pu J, Zaidi MF, Khan S. A Systematic Review of Mixed Studies Exploring the Effects of Probiotics on Gut-Microbiome to Modulate Therapy in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Cureus 2022; 14:e32313. [PMID: 36632246 PMCID: PMC9828007 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.32313] [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: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder(ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social deficits, repetitive typical behaviors, insistence on the same routines, and communication impairments. The prevalence of ASD has increased in the past decade. While we are aware that there is no cure for ASD, attempts are being made to reduce its symptoms and improve the learning, overall growth, and well-being of ASD patients. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are frequent occurrences in patients with ASD, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Recent studies show that the microbiota-gut-brain axis is the key modulator of neuropsychiatric health. Although fecal transplants have shown positive outcomes in treating dysbiosis and symptoms of autism, lifestyle modifications such as dietary intervention will prevent and treat this disorder without causing major adverse effects. Probiotics enhance the microbiome to provide necessary metabolites, which help in gut permeability, cognitive function, and immunity. In some studies, children with increased GI symptoms have also shown increased behavioral disturbances. In this study, a systematic review of mixed studies is conducted to obtain more robust and conclusive results. We included randomized controlled studies with larger sample sizes and specifications on probiotics.
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14
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The role of maternal immune activation in the immunological and neurological pathogenesis of autism. JOURNAL OF NEURORESTORATOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnrt.2022.100030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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15
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Nour-Eldine W, Ltaief SM, Abdul Manaph NP, Al-Shammari AR. In search of immune cellular sources of abnormal cytokines in the blood in autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review of case-control studies. Front Immunol 2022; 13:950275. [PMID: 36268027 PMCID: PMC9578337 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.950275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal cytokine levels in circulating blood have been repeatedly reported in autism; however, the underlying cause remains unclear. This systematic review aimed to investigate cytokine levels in peripheral blood compartments and identify their potential immune cellular sources in subjects with autism through comparison with controls. We conducted an electronic database search (PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest Central, Ovid, SAGE Journals, and Wiley Online Library) from inception (no time limits) to July 9, 2020, and identified 75 relevant articles. Our qualitative data synthesis focused on results consistently described in at least three independent studies, and we reported the results according to the PRISMA protocol. We found that compared with controls, in subjects with autism, cytokines IL-6, IL-17, TNF-α, and IL-1β increased in the plasma and serum. We also identified monocytes, neutrophils, and CD4+ T cells as potential sources of these elevated cytokines in autism. Cytokines IFN-γ, TGF-β, RANTES, and IL-8 were increased in the plasma/serum of subjects with autism, and IFN-γ was likely produced by CD4+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, although conflicting evidence is present for IFN-γ and TGF-β. Other cytokines—IL-13, IL-10, IL-5, and IL-4—were found to be unaltered in the plasma/serum and post-stimulated blood immune cells in autistic individuals as compared with controls. The frequencies of T cells, monocytes, B cells, and NK cells were unchanged in subjects with autism as opposed to controls, suggesting that abnormal cytokines were unlikely due to altered cell numbers but might be due to altered functioning of these cells in autism. Our results support existing studies of abnormal cytokines in autism and provide comprehensive evidence of potential cellular sources of these altered cytokines in the context of autism.
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Tartaglione AM, Villani A, Ajmone-Cat MA, Minghetti L, Ricceri L, Pazienza V, De Simone R, Calamandrei G. Maternal immune activation induces autism-like changes in behavior, neuroinflammatory profile and gut microbiota in mouse offspring of both sexes. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:384. [PMID: 36104346 PMCID: PMC9474453 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02149-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a sex-biased neurodevelopmental disorder with a male to female prevalence of 4:1, characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction and restricted-repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities. Microbiota alterations as well as signs of neuroinflammation have been also reported in ASD. The involvement of immune dysregulation in ASD is further supported by evidence suggesting that maternal immune activation (MIA), especially during early pregnancy, may be a risk factor for ASD. The present study was aimed at characterizing the effects of MIA on behavior, gut microbiota and neuroinflammation in the mouse offspring also considering the impact of MIA in the two sexes. MIA offspring exhibited significant ASD-like behavioral alterations (i.e., deficits in sociability and sensorimotor gating, perseverative behaviors). The analysis of microbiota revealed changes in specific microbial taxa that recapitulated those seen in ASD children. In addition, molecular analyses indicated sex-related differences in the neuroinflammatory responses triggered by MIA, with a more prominent effect in the cerebellum. Our data suggest that both sexes should be included in the experimental designs of preclinical studies in order to identify those mechanisms that confer different vulnerability to ASD to males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Tartaglione
- Centre for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy.
| | - Annacandida Villani
- grid.413503.00000 0004 1757 9135Gastroenterology Unit IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, Hospital San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Ajmone-Cat
- grid.416651.10000 0000 9120 6856National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Minghetti
- grid.416651.10000 0000 9120 6856Research Coordination and Support Service, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Ricceri
- grid.416651.10000 0000 9120 6856Centre for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Pazienza
- grid.413503.00000 0004 1757 9135Gastroenterology Unit IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, Hospital San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Roberta De Simone
- grid.416651.10000 0000 9120 6856National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Gemma Calamandrei
- grid.416651.10000 0000 9120 6856Centre for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy
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17
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Dougnon G, Matsui H. Modelling Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Using Mice and Zebrafish. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147550. [PMID: 35886894 PMCID: PMC9319972 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are two debilitating neurodevelopmental disorders. The former is associated with social impairments whereas the latter is associated with inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. There is recent evidence that both disorders are somehow related and that genes may play a large role in these disorders. Despite mounting human and animal research, the neurological pathways underlying ASD and ADHD are still not well understood. Scientists investigate neurodevelopmental disorders by using animal models that have high similarities in genetics and behaviours with humans. Mice have been utilized in neuroscience research as an excellent animal model for a long time; however, the zebrafish has attracted much attention recently, with an increasingly large number of studies using this model. In this review, we first discuss ASD and ADHD aetiology from a general point of view to their characteristics and treatments. We also compare mice and zebrafish for their similarities and discuss their advantages and limitations in neuroscience. Finally, we summarize the most recent and existing research on zebrafish and mouse models of ASD and ADHD. We believe that this review will serve as a unique document providing interesting information to date about these models, thus facilitating research on ASD and ADHD.
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18
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Cai C, Yin Z, Liu A, Wang H, Zeng S, Wang Z, Qiu H, Li S, Zhou J, Wang M. Identifying Rare Genetic Variants of Immune Mediators as Risk Factors for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:1098. [PMID: 35741860 PMCID: PMC9223212 DOI: 10.3390/genes13061098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects more than 1% of children, and there is no viable pharmacotherapeutic agent to treat the core symptoms of ASD. Studies have shown that children with ASD show changes in their levels of immune response molecules. Our previous studies have shown that ASD is more common in children with folate receptor autoantibodies. We also found that children with ASD have abnormal gut immune function, which was characterized by a significant increase in the content of immunoglobulin A and an increase in gut-microbiota-associated epitope diversity. These studies suggest that the immune mechanism plays an important role in the occurrence of ASD. The present study aims to systematically assess gene mutations in immune mediators in patients with ASD. We collected genetic samples from 72 children with ASD (2−12 years old) and 107 healthy controls without ASD (20−78 years old). We used our previously-designed immune gene panel, which can capture cytokine and receptor genes, the coding regions of MHC genes, and genes of innate immunity. Target region sequencing (500×) and bioinformatics analytical methods were used to identify variants in immune response genes associated with patients with ASD. A total of 4 rare variants were found to be associated with ASD, including HLA-B: p.A93G, HLA-DQB1: p.S229N, LILRB2: p.R322H, and LILRB2: c.956-4C>T. These variants were present in 44.44% (32/72) of the ASD patients and were detected in 3.74% (4/107) of the healthy controls. We expect these genetic variants will serve as new targets for the clinical genetic assessment of ASD, and our findings suggest that immune abnormalities in children with ASD may have a genetic basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunquan Cai
- Tianjin Pediatric Research Institute, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and Treatment, Tianjin Children’s Hospital (Children’s Hospital of Tianjin University), No. 238 Longyan Road, Beichen District, Tianjin 300134, China;
| | - Zhaoqing Yin
- Division of Neonatology, The People’s Hospital of Dehong Autonomous Prefecture, Mangshi 678400, China;
| | - Aiping Liu
- The Department of Laboratory, Public Health Service Center of Bao’an District, Bao’an District, Shenzhen 518018, China;
| | - Hui Wang
- Xiamen Branch of Children’s Hospital of Fudan University (Xiamen Children’s Hospital), Xiamen 361006, China;
| | - Shujuan Zeng
- Division of Neonatology, Longgang Central Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518116, China; (S.Z.); (H.Q.)
| | - Zhangxing Wang
- Division of Neonatology, Shenzhen Longhua People’s Hospital, Shenzhen 518109, China;
| | - Huixian Qiu
- Division of Neonatology, Longgang Central Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518116, China; (S.Z.); (H.Q.)
| | - Shijun Li
- Department of Radiology, Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Jiaxiu Zhou
- Division of Psychology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen 518038, China
| | - Mingbang Wang
- Microbiome Therapy Center, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518111, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 201102, China
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19
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Dash S, Syed YA, Khan MR. Understanding the Role of the Gut Microbiome in Brain Development and Its Association With Neurodevelopmental Psychiatric Disorders. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:880544. [PMID: 35493075 PMCID: PMC9048050 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.880544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome has a tremendous influence on human physiology, including the nervous system. During fetal development, the initial colonization of the microbiome coincides with the development of the nervous system in a timely, coordinated manner. Emerging studies suggest an active involvement of the microbiome and its metabolic by-products in regulating early brain development. However, any disruption during this early developmental process can negatively impact brain functionality, leading to a range of neurodevelopment and neuropsychiatric disorders (NPD). In this review, we summarize recent evidence as to how the gut microbiome can influence the process of early human brain development and its association with major neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and schizophrenia. Further, we discuss how gut microbiome alterations can also play a role in inducing drug resistance in the affected individuals. We propose a model that establishes a direct link of microbiome dysbiosis with the exacerbated inflammatory state, leading to functional brain deficits associated with NPD. Based on the existing research, we discuss a framework whereby early diet intervention can boost mental wellness in the affected subjects and call for further research for a better understanding of mechanisms that govern the gut-brain axis may lead to novel approaches to the study of the pathophysiology and treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somarani Dash
- Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Yasir Ahmed Syed
- School of Biosciences and Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Mojibur R. Khan
- Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, India
- *Correspondence: Mojibur R. Khan,
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20
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Zhang L, Xu Y, Li H, Li B, Duan G, Zhu C. The role of probiotics in children with autism spectrum disorders: A study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263109. [PMID: 35202432 PMCID: PMC8870536 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental condition that begins in infancy or earlier and lasts through the individual’s lifetime. The aetiology and mechanisms of ASD are not yet fully understood, and current treatment comprises mainly education and rehabilitation, without significant improvement in the core symptoms. Recent studies suggest that microbiota change in children with ASD after the ingestion of probiotics may improve the balance of microbiota and thus ASD symptoms. Objective The objectives of this study are to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics on the symptoms of children with ASD and the possible mechanisms involved. Methods This is a prospective controlled trial. A total of 160 children with ASD will be stratified and allocated to placebo and probiotics groups randomised according to the severity of their ASD symptoms. The probiotics group will be given probiotics supplements orally twice a day for 3 months and the control group will be given a placebo at the same amount, in addition to the baseline therapy of education and rehabilitation. All the children will be evaluated systematically by using different scales, questionnaires before, during, and after 3 months’ treatment, as well as 3 months after discontinuation. The potential impact of probiotics on immunity and inflammation, metabolism, and metagenome will also be investigated. Discussion Our previous study showed that the abundance of intestinal flora was greatly different in children with ASD, and that Bifidobacterium was associated with the severity of ASD. In the present study, we will investigate the impact of probiotics supplementation on the symptoms of Children with ASD, with the purpose of evaluating the possible therapeutic effects of additives on ASD and of providing a reference for clinical treatment. The results will help to disclose as yet unknown relationship between probiotics and ASD. Trial registration This study has been registered with Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR-2000037941).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Clinical Research Center for Child Neurological Disorders, Institute of Neuroscience and The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiran Xu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Clinical Research Center for Child Neurological Disorders, Institute of Neuroscience and The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongwei Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Clinical Research Center for Child Neurological Disorders, Institute of Neuroscience and The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bingbing Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Clinical Research Center for Child Neurological Disorders, Institute of Neuroscience and The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guiqin Duan
- Center for Child Behavioral Development, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Changlian Zhu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Clinical Research Center for Child Neurological Disorders, Institute of Neuroscience and The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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21
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Eve M, Gandawijaya J, Yang L, Oguro-Ando A. Neuronal Cell Adhesion Molecules May Mediate Neuroinflammation in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:842755. [PMID: 35492721 PMCID: PMC9051034 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.842755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by restrictive and repetitive behaviors, alongside deficits in social interaction and communication. The etiology of ASD is largely unknown but is strongly linked to genetic variants in neuronal cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), cell-surface proteins that have important roles in neurodevelopment. A combination of environmental and genetic factors are believed to contribute to ASD pathogenesis. Inflammation in ASD has been identified as one of these factors, demonstrated through the presence of proinflammatory cytokines, maternal immune activation, and activation of glial cells in ASD brains. Glial cells are the main source of cytokines within the brain and, therefore, their activity is vital in mediating inflammation in the central nervous system. However, it is unclear whether the aforementioned neuronal CAMs are involved in modulating neuroimmune signaling or glial behavior. This review aims to address the largely unexplored role that neuronal CAMs may play in mediating inflammatory cascades that underpin neuroinflammation in ASD, primarily focusing on the Notch, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades. We will also evaluate the available evidence on how neuronal CAMs may influence glial activity associated with inflammation. This is important when considering the impact of environmental factors and inflammatory responses on ASD development. In particular, neural CAM1 (NCAM1) can regulate NF-κB transcription in neurons, directly altering proinflammatory signaling. Additionally, NCAM1 and contactin-1 appear to mediate astrocyte and oligodendrocyte precursor proliferation which can alter the neuroimmune response. Importantly, although this review highlights the limited information available, there is evidence of a neuronal CAM regulatory role in inflammatory signaling. This warrants further investigation into the role other neuronal CAM family members may have in mediating inflammatory cascades and would advance our understanding of how neuroinflammation can contribute to ASD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline Eve
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Josan Gandawijaya
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Liming Yang
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Asami Oguro-Ando
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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22
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Erbescu A, Papuc SM, Budisteanu M, Arghir A, Neagu M. Re-emerging concepts of immune dysregulation in autism spectrum disorders. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1006612. [PMID: 36339838 PMCID: PMC9626859 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1006612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by communication and social interaction deficits, and by restricted interests and stereotyped, repetitive behavior patterns. ASD has a strong genetic component and a complex architecture characterized by the interplay of rare and common genetic variants. Recently, increasing evidence suggest a significant contribution of immune system dysregulation in ASD. The present paper reviews the latest updates regarding the altered immune landscape of this complex disorder highlighting areas with potential for biomarkers discovery as well as personalization of therapeutic approaches. Cross-talk between the central nervous system and immune system has long been envisaged and recent evidence brings insights into the pathways connecting the brain to the immune system. Disturbance of cytokine levels plays an important role in the establishment of a neuroinflammatory milieu in ASD. Several other immune molecules involved in antigen presentation and inflammatory cellular phenotypes are also at play in ASD. Maternal immune activation, the presence of brain-reactive antibodies and autoimmunity are other potential prenatal and postnatal contributors to ASD pathophysiology. The molecular players involved in oxidative-stress response and mitochondrial system function, are discussed as contributors to the pro-inflammatory pattern. The gastrointestinal inflammation pathways proposed to play a role in ASD are also discussed. Moreover, the body of evidence regarding some of the genetic factors linked to the immune system dysregulation is reviewed and discussed. Last, but not least, the epigenetic traits and their interactions with the immune system are reviewed as an expanding field in ASD research. Understanding the immune-mediated pathways that influence brain development and function, metabolism, and intestinal homeostasis, may lead to the identification of robust diagnostic or predictive biomarkers for ASD individuals. Thus, novel therapeutic approaches could be developed, ultimately aiming to improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Erbescu
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania.,Faculty of Biology, Doctoral School, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Magdalena Budisteanu
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania.,Prof. Dr. Alex. Obregia Clinical Hospital of Psychiatry, Bucharest, Romania.,Faculty of Medicine, Titu Maiorescu University, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aurora Arghir
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania.,Faculty of Biology, Doctoral School, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania.,Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
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23
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Carter M, Casey S, O'Keeffe GW, Gibson L, Gallagher L, Murray DM. Maternal Immune Activation and Interleukin 17A in the Pathogenesis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder and Why It Matters in the COVID-19 Era. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:823096. [PMID: 35250672 PMCID: PMC8891512 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.823096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the commonest neurodevelopmental disability. It is a highly complex disorder with an increasing prevalence and an unclear etiology. Consensus indicates that ASD arises as a genetically modulated, and environmentally influenced condition. Although pathogenic rare genetic variants are detected in around 20% of cases of ASD, no single factor is responsible for the vast majority of ASD cases or that explains their characteristic clinical heterogeneity. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that ASD susceptibility involves an interplay between genetic factors and environmental exposures. One such environmental exposure which has received significant attention in this regard is maternal immune activation (MIA) resulting from bacterial or viral infection during pregnancy. Reproducible rodent models of ASD are well-established whereby induction of MIA in pregnant dams, leads to offspring displaying neuroanatomical, functional, and behavioral changes analogous to those seen in ASD. Blockade of specific inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-17A during gestation remediates many of these observed behavioral effects, suggesting a causative or contributory role. Here, we review the growing body of animal and human-based evidence indicating that interleukin-17A may mediate the observed effects of MIA on neurodevelopmental outcomes in the offspring. This is particularly important given the current corona virus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection during pregnancy is a potent stimulator of the maternal immune response, however the long-term effects of maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection on neurodevelopmental outcomes is unclear. This underscores the importance of monitoring neurodevelopmental outcomes in children exposed to SARS-CoV-2-induced MIA during gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Carter
- INFANT Research Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,National Children's Research Centre, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sophie Casey
- INFANT Research Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Gerard W O'Keeffe
- INFANT Research Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Louise Gibson
- INFANT Research Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Louise Gallagher
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St. James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Deirdre M Murray
- INFANT Research Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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24
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Samsami M, Fatemi A, Jalili Khoshnoud R, Kohansal K, Hussen BM, Soghala S, Taheri M, Ghafouri-Fard S. Abnormal Transcript Levels of Cytokines Among Iranian COVID-19 Patients. J Mol Neurosci 2021; 72:27-36. [PMID: 34855144 PMCID: PMC8636578 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-021-01941-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and the related disorder i.e. “coronavirus disease 2019” (COVID-19) has encouraged researchers to unravel the molecular mechanism of disease severity. Several lines of evidence support the impact of “cytokine storm” in the pathogenesis of severe forms of the disorder. We aimed to assess expression levels of nine cytokine coding genes in COVID-19 patients admitted in a hospital. We collected clinical data of patients from their medical reports. Then, we assessed expression of genes using real-time PCR. Expression levels of IFN-G, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-17, TGF-B, IL-8, and IL-1B were significantly higher in COVID-19 patients compared with healthy controls and in both female and male patients compared with sex-matched controls. However, expression level of TNF-A was not different between COVID-19 patients and healthy controls. Expression of none of these cytokines was different between ICU-admitted patients and other patients except for IL-6 whose expression was lower in the former group compared with the latter (ratio of means = 0.33, P value = 4.82E-02). Then, we assessed diagnostic power of cytokine coding genes in differentiating between COVID-19 patients and controls. The area under curve (AUC) values ranged from 0.94 for IFN-G to 1.0 for IL-2 and IL-1B. After combining the transcript levels of all cytokines, AUC, sensitivity, and specificity values reached 100%, 100%, and 99%, respectively. For differentiation between ICU-admitted patients and other patients, IL-4 with AUC value of 0.68 had the best diagnostic power among cytokine coding genes. Expression of none of cytokine coding genes was correlated with the available clinical/demographic data including age, gender, ICU admission, or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)/C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. This study provides further evidence for contribution of “cytokine storm” in the pathobiology of moderate/severe forms of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Samsami
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Fatemi
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Jalili Khoshnoud
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Karim Kohansal
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Shabnam Soghala
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Skull Base Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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25
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Carter M, Casey S, O’Keeffe GW, Gibson L, Murray DM. Mid-gestation cytokine profiles in mothers of children affected by autism spectrum disorder: a case-control study. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22315. [PMID: 34785716 PMCID: PMC8595633 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01662-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum disorder is one of the commonest and most important neurodevelopmental conditions affecting children today. With an increasing prevalence and an unclear aetiology, it is imperative we find early markers of autism, which may facilitate early identification and intervention. Alterations of gestational cytokine profiles have been reported in mothers of autistic children. Increasing evidence suggests that the intrauterine environment is an important determinant of autism risk. This study aims to examine the mid-gestational serum cytokine profiles of the mothers of autistic children from a well-characterised birth cohort. A nested sub-cohort within a large mother-child birth cohort were identified based on a confirmed multi-disciplinary diagnosis of autism before the age 10 years and neuro-typical matched controls in a 2:1 ratio. IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17A, GMCSF and TNFα were measured in archived maternal 20-week serum using MesoScale Diagnostics multiplex technology and validation of our IL-17A measurements was performed using an ultrasensitive assay. From a cohort of 2137 children, 25 had confirmed autism before 10 years and stored maternal serum from mid-gestation. We examined the sera of these 25 cases and 50 matched controls. The sex ratio was 4:1 males to females in each group, and the mean age at diagnosis was 5.09 years (SD 2.13). We found that concentrations of IL-4 were significantly altered between groups. The other analytes did not differ significantly using either multiplex or ultra-sensitive assays. In our well-characterised prospective cohort of autistic children, we confirmed mid-gestational alterations in maternal IL-4 concentrations in autism affected pregnancies versus matched controls. These findings add to promising evidence from animal models and retrospective screening programmes and adds to the knowledge in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Carter
- The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland. .,National Children's Research Centre, Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland. .,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork (UCC), Cork, Ireland.
| | - Sophie Casey
- grid.7872.a0000000123318773The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland ,grid.7872.a0000000123318773Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork (UCC), Cork, Ireland
| | - Gerard W. O’Keeffe
- grid.7872.a0000000123318773The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland ,grid.7872.a0000000123318773Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork (UCC), Cork, Ireland
| | - Louise Gibson
- grid.7872.a0000000123318773The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland ,grid.7872.a0000000123318773Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork (UCC), Cork, Ireland
| | - Deirdre M. Murray
- grid.7872.a0000000123318773The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland ,grid.7872.a0000000123318773Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork (UCC), Cork, Ireland
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26
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Strekalova T, Svirin E, Veniaminova E, Kopeikina E, Veremeyko T, Yung AWY, Proshin A, Walitza S, Anthony DC, Lim LW, Lesch KP, Ponomarev ED. ASD-like behaviors, a dysregulated inflammatory response and decreased expression of PLP1 characterize mice deficient for sialyltransferase ST3GAL5. Brain Behav Immun Health 2021; 16:100306. [PMID: 34589798 PMCID: PMC8474501 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Gangliosides are glycosphingolipids, which are abundant in brain, are known to modulate ion channels and cell-to-cell communication. Deficiencies can result in aberrant myelination and altered immune responses, which can give rise to neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders. However, to date, little mechanistic data is available on how ganglioside deficiencies contribute to the behavioural disorders. In humans, the loss of lactosylceramide-alpha-2,3-sialyltransferase (ST3Gal5) leads to a severe neuropathology, but in ST3Gal5 knock-out (St3gal5−/−) mice the absence of GM3 and associated a-, b- and c-series gangliosides is partially compensated by 0-series gangliosides and there is no overt behavioural phenotype. Here, we sought to examine the behavioural and molecular consequences of GM3 loss more closely. Mutants of both sexes exhibited impaired conditioned taste aversion in an inhibitory learning task and anxiety-like behaviours in the open field, moderate motor deficits, abnormal social interactions, excessive grooming and rearing behaviours. Taken together, the aberrant behaviours are suggestive of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-like syndrome. Molecular analysis showed decreased gene and protein expression of proteolipid protein-1 (Plp1) and over expression of proinflammatory cytokines, which has been associated with ASD-like syndromes. The inflammatory and behavioural responses to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were also altered in the St3gal5−/− mice compared to wild-type, which is indicative of the importance of GM3 gangliosides in regulating immune responses. Together, the St3gal5−/− mice display ASD-like behavioural features, altered response to systemic inflammation, signs of hypomyelination and neuroinflammation, which suggests that deficiency in a- and b-series gangliosides could contribute to the development of an ASD-like pathology in humans. St3gal5−/− mice exhibit aberrant social, motor and cognitive behavior that is reminiscent of ASD-like syndrome. Interleukin1β is upregulated in the brain and spleen of St3gal5−/− of both sexes. Mutants display reduced gene and protein expression of the myelin protein Plp1. LPS induces sex-dependent abnormalities in the inflammatory response and social behavior in the St3gal5−/− mice. St3gal5−/− mice can be used to study the behavioural consequence of a- and b-series ganglioside deficiency
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana Strekalova
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Laboratory of Psychiatric Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Department of Normal Physiology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia.,Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Center of Mental Health, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Evgeniy Svirin
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Laboratory of Psychiatric Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Department of Normal Physiology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia.,Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Center of Mental Health, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ekaterina Veniaminova
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Laboratory of Psychiatric Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Department of Normal Physiology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Kopeikina
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Tatyana Veremeyko
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Amanda W Y Yung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Andrey Proshin
- P.K. Anokhin Research Institute of Normal Physiology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Susanne Walitza
- Department for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy of the University of Zurich and the University Hospital of Psychiatry, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel C Anthony
- Laboratory of Psychiatric Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Department of Normal Physiology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Pharmacology, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lee Wei Lim
- Neuromodulation Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Klaus-Peter Lesch
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Laboratory of Psychiatric Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Department of Normal Physiology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia.,Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Center of Mental Health, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Eugene D Ponomarev
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.,Kunmin Institute of Zoology, Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research of Common Diseases, Kunmin-Hong Kong, China
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27
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Dong H, Wang B, Feng J, Yue X, Jia F. Correlation Between Serum Concentrations of Menaquinone-4 and Developmental Quotients in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Nutr 2021; 8:748513. [PMID: 34660670 PMCID: PMC8514626 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.748513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The vitamin K family has a wide range of effects in the body, including the central nervous system. Menaquinone-4 (MK-4), a form of vitamin K2, is converted from phylloquinone (PK), which is the main source of dietary vitamin K and is the main form of vitamin K in the brain. We conducted this study to investigate the serum concentration of MK-4 and the correlations between MK-4 and developmental quotients in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods: We selected 731 children with ASD who were diagnosed for the first time. During the same period, 332 neurotypical children who underwent regular physical examinations in our outpatient department were selected as the TD group. We investigated the general situation of children, including gender and age. Children in ASD group were assessed for autistic symptoms and development quotients, including Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), ADOS-2, and Griffiths Development Scales-Chinese Language Edition (GDS-C). Both groups of children were tested for serum menaquinone-4. We compared serum menaquinone-4 levels of ASD group and TD group. We then conducted a correlation analysis between the level of menaquinone-4 and the developmental quotient of children with ASD. Results: The results of this study indicate that the serum concentration of MK-4 in children with ASD is lower than that in children with typical development (t = -2.702, P = 0.007). The serum concentration of MK-4 is related to the developmental quotients of several subscales in ASD children, and this correlation is more obvious in males. Conclusion: we conclude that MK-4 is present in lower concentrations in children with ASD, which may affect cognition and developmental quotients. The role of MK-4 in ASD needs to be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Feiyong Jia
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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28
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Ebstein F, Küry S, Papendorf JJ, Krüger E. Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDD) Caused by Genomic Alterations of the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System (UPS): the Possible Contribution of Immune Dysregulation to Disease Pathogenesis. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:733012. [PMID: 34566579 PMCID: PMC8455891 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.733012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Over thirty years have passed since the first description of ubiquitin-positive structures in the brain of patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Meanwhile, the intracellular accumulation of ubiquitin-modified insoluble protein aggregates has become an indisputable hallmark of neurodegeneration. However, the role of ubiquitin and a fortiori the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) is much less described. In this article, we review all reported monogenic forms of NDD caused by lesions in genes coding for any component of the UPS including ubiquitin-activating (E1), -conjugating (E2) enzymes, ubiquitin ligases (E3), ubiquitin hydrolases, and ubiquitin-like modifiers as well as proteasome subunits. Strikingly, our analysis revealed that a vast majority of these proteins have a described function in the negative regulation of the innate immune response. In this work, we hypothesize a possible involvement of autoinflammation in NDD pathogenesis. Herein, we discuss the parallels between immune dysregulation and neurodevelopment with the aim at improving our understanding the biology of NDD and providing knowledge required for the design of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Ebstein
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sébastien Küry
- CHU Nantes, Service de Génétique Médicale, Nantes, France.,l'Institut du Thorax, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Nantes, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Jonas Johannes Papendorf
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Elke Krüger
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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29
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Human iPSC-Derived Glia as a Tool for Neuropsychiatric Research and Drug Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910254. [PMID: 34638595 PMCID: PMC8508580 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia or autism spectrum disorder represent a leading and growing burden on worldwide mental health. Fundamental lack in understanding the underlying pathobiology compromises efficient drug development despite the immense medical need. So far, antipsychotic drugs reduce symptom severity and enhance quality of life, but there is no cure available. On the molecular level, schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders correlate with compromised neuronal phenotypes. There is increasing evidence that aberrant neuroinflammatory responses of glial cells account for synaptic pathologies through deregulated communication and reciprocal modulation. Consequently, microglia and astrocytes emerge as central targets for anti-inflammatory treatment to preserve organization and homeostasis of the central nervous system. Studying the impact of neuroinflammation in the context of neuropsychiatric disorders is, however, limited by the lack of relevant human cellular test systems that are able to represent the dynamic cellular processes and molecular changes observed in human tissue. Today, patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells offer the opportunity to study neuroinflammatory mechanisms in vitro that comprise the genetic background of affected patients. In this review, we summarize the major findings of iPSC-based microglia and astrocyte research in the context of neuropsychiatric diseases and highlight the benefit of 2D and 3D co-culture models for the generation of efficient in vitro models for target screening and drug development.
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30
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Gevezova M, Sarafian V, Anderson G, Maes M. Inflammation and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorder. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2021; 19:320-333. [PMID: 32600237 DOI: 10.2174/1871527319666200628015039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a severe childhood psychiatric condition with an array of cognitive, language and social impairments that can significantly impact family life. ASD is classically characterized by reduced communication skills and social interactions, with limitations imposed by repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. The pathophysiology of ASD is thought to arise from complex interactions between environmental and genetic factors within the context of individual development. A growing body of research has raised the possibility of identifying the aetiological causes of the disorder. This review highlights the roles of immune-inflammatory pathways, nitro-oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunctions in ASD pathogenesis and symptom severity. The role of NK-cells, T helper, T regulatory and B-cells, coupled with increased inflammatory cytokines, lowered levels of immune-regulatory cytokines, and increased autoantibodies and microglial activation is elucidated. It is proposed that alterations in mitochondrial activity and nitrooxidative stress are intimately associated with activated immune-inflammatory pathways. Future research should determine as to whether the mitochondria, immune-inflammatory activity and nitrooxidative stress changes in ASD affect the development of amygdala-frontal cortex interactions. A number of treatment implications may arise, including prevention-orientated prenatal interventions, treatment of pregnant women with vitamin D, and sodium butyrate. Treatments of ASD children and adults with probiotics, sodium butyrate and butyrate-inducing diets, antipurinergic therapy with suramin, melatonin, oxytocin and taurine are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gevezova
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria,Research Institute at Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Victoria Sarafian
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria,Research Institute at Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | | | - Michael Maes
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand,IMPACT Strategic Research Center, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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31
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Peng G, Peng X, Tong T, Zhang X, Xu M, Peng X. Correlation analysis of expression of CC and CXC chemokines in children with autism spectrum disorder. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e26391. [PMID: 34128902 PMCID: PMC8213293 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000026391] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
To investigate the relationship between the expression of CC and CXC chemokines and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).A total of 62 children with ASD (ASD group) and 60 gender- and age-matched normal children (control group) admitted to our hospital from January 2019 to January 2020 were included in the study. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α), macrophage inflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β), regulated upon activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), interleukin-8 (IL-8), monokine induced by interferon (IFN)-γ (MIG), and purified human interferon-γ-induced protein-10 (IP-10) were detected in the ASD group. The correlation between the above indexes and the severity of the ASD group was analyzed.Significantly increased MCP-1 levels (P < .01) along with the markedly decreased MIP-1α and MIP-1β levels (P < .01) were detected in the venous blood of the ASD group compared with the control group. In addition, they exhibited no significant difference (yet a downward trend) in the level of RANTES (P > .05). Children in the ASD group showed significantly decreased IP-10 levels (P < .01); however, they had no noticeable change (yet a decreasing trend) in the levels of IL-8 and MIG (P > .05). MCP-1 level was positively related to the Module 1 scores of Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-second edition (ADOS-2), whereas the levels of Childhood Autism Rating Scale MIP-1α, MIP-1β, IL-8, IP-10, and MIG were negatively correlated with the ADOS-2 Module 1 scores (P < .01). However, no significant correlation was found between RANTES and the ADOS-2 Module 1 scores (P > .05).The levels of CC chemokines (MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, and RANTES) and CXC chemokines (IL-8, IP-10, and MIG) are positively correlated with the pathogenesis of ASD. Inflammation is an important contributing factor to ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangyang Peng
- Department of Child Rehabilitation, Huanggang Pingan and Rehabilitation Hospital
| | - Xiaofei Peng
- Department of Child Rehabilitation, Huanggang Pingan and Rehabilitation Hospital
| | - Tingting Tong
- Department of Child Rehabilitation, Huanggang Pingan and Rehabilitation Hospital
| | - Xiuyun Zhang
- Department of Child Rehabilitation, Huanggang Pingan and Rehabilitation Hospital
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Child Rehabilitation, Huanggang Pingan and Rehabilitation Hospital
| | - Xiaofang Peng
- Huanggang Central Hospital, Huanggang, Hubei 438000, China
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Ye J, Wang H, Cui L, Chu S, Chen N. The progress of chemokines and chemokine receptors in autism spectrum disorders. Brain Res Bull 2021; 174:268-280. [PMID: 34077795 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders and the main symptoms of ASD are impairments in social communication and abnormal behavioral patterns. Studies have shown that immune dysfunction and neuroinflammation play a key role in ASD patients and experimental models. Chemokines are groups of small proteins that regulate cell migration and mediate inflammation responses via binding to chemokine receptors. Thus, chemokines/chemokine receptors may be involved in neurodevelopmental disorders and associated with ASD. In this review, we summarize the research progress of chemokine aberrations in ASD and also review the recent progress of clinical treatment of ASD and pharmacological research related to chemokines/chemokine receptors. This review highlights the possible connection between chemokines/chemokine receptors and ASD, and provides novel potential targets for drug discovery of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junrui Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica and Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Hongyun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica and Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Liyuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica and Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Shifeng Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica and Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Naihong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica and Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
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Zimmerman AW, Singh K, Connors SL, Liu H, Panjwani AA, Lee LC, Diggins E, Foley A, Melnyk S, Singh IN, James SJ, Frye RE, Fahey JW. Randomized controlled trial of sulforaphane and metabolite discovery in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mol Autism 2021; 12:38. [PMID: 34034808 PMCID: PMC8146218 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-021-00447-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sulforaphane (SF), an isothiocyanate in broccoli, has potential benefits relevant to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through its effects on several metabolic and immunologic pathways. Previous clinical trials of oral SF demonstrated positive clinical effects on behavior in young men and changes in urinary metabolomics in children with ASD.
Methods We conducted a 15-week randomized parallel double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial with 15-week open-label treatment and 6-week no-treatment extensions in 57 children, ages 3–12 years, with ASD over 36 weeks. Twenty-eight were assigned SF and 29 received placebo (PL). Clinical effects, safety and tolerability of SF were measured as were biomarkers to elucidate mechanisms of action of SF in ASD. Results Data from 22 children taking SF and 23 on PL were analyzed. Treatment effects on the primary outcome measure, the Ohio Autism Clinical Impressions Scale (OACIS), in the general level of autism were not significant between SF and PL groups at 7 and 15 weeks. The effect sizes on the OACIS were non-statistically significant but positive, suggesting a possible trend toward greater improvement in those on treatment with SF (Cohen’s d 0.21; 95% CI − 0.46, 0.88 and 0.10; 95% CI − 0.52, 0.72, respectively). Both groups improved in all subscales when on SF during the open-label phase. Caregiver ratings on secondary outcome measures improved significantly on the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) at 15 weeks (Cohen’s d − 0.96; 95% CI − 1.73, − 0.15), but not on the Social Responsiveness Scale-2 (SRS-2). Ratings on the ABC and SRS-2 improved with a non-randomized analysis of the length of exposure to SF, compared to the pre-treatment baseline (p < 0.001). There were significant changes with SF compared to PL in biomarkers of glutathione redox status, mitochondrial respiration, inflammatory markers and heat shock proteins. Clinical laboratory studies confirmed product safety. SF was very well tolerated and side effects of treatment, none serious, included rare insomnia, irritability and intolerance of the taste and smell. Limitations The sample size was limited to 45 children with ASD and we did not impute missing data. We were unable to document significant changes in clinical assessments during clinical visits in those taking SF compared to PL. The clinical results were confounded by placebo effects during the open-label phase. Conclusions SF led to small yet non-statistically significant changes in the total and all subscale scores of the primary outcome measure, while for secondary outcome measures, caregivers’ assessments of children taking SF showed statistically significant improvements compared to those taking PL on the ABC but not the SRS-2. Clinical effects of SF were less notable in children compared to our previous trial of a SF-rich preparation in young men with ASD. Several of the effects of SF on biomarkers correlated to clinical improvements. SF was very well tolerated and safe and effective based on our secondary clinical measures. Trial registration: This study was prospectively registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02561481) on September 28, 2015. Funding was provided by the U.S. Department of Defense. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13229-021-00447-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew W Zimmerman
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 N. Lake Ave., Worcester, MA, 01655, USA.
| | - Kanwaljit Singh
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 N. Lake Ave., Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Susan L Connors
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 N. Lake Ave., Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, and The Cullman Chemoprotection Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Anita A Panjwani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and iMIND Hopkins, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.,Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, 703 3rd St., West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Li-Ching Lee
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Eileen Diggins
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 N. Lake Ave., Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Ann Foley
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 N. Lake Ave., Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Stepan Melnyk
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Indrapal N Singh
- Barrow Neurologic Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital and Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, 475 N. 5th St., Phoenix, AZ, 85004, USA
| | - S Jill James
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Richard E Frye
- Barrow Neurologic Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital and Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, 475 N. 5th St., Phoenix, AZ, 85004, USA
| | - Jed W Fahey
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, and The Cullman Chemoprotection Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and iMIND Hopkins, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.,Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
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Manjeese W, Mvubu NE, Steyn AJC, Mpofana T. Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes a leaky blood-brain barrier and neuroinflammation in the prefrontal cortex and cerebellum regions of infected mice offspring. Int J Dev Neurosci 2021; 81:428-437. [PMID: 33932039 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The maternal system's exposure to pathogens influences foetal brain development through the influx of maternal cytokines and activation of the foetal immune status to a persistent inflammatory state characterised by glia cell activation. Neuroinflammation influences the blood-brain barrier's (BBB) permeability allowing peripheral immune cell trafficking into the brain. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is a pathogen that causes Tuberculosis (TB), a global pandemic responsible for health and economic burdens. Although it is known that maternal infections increase the risk of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it is not known whether gestational Mtb infections also contribute to impaired foetal neurodevelopment. Here we infect pregnant Balb/c mice with Mtb H37Rv and Valproic acid (VPA) individually and in combination. Neuroinflammation was measured by assessing microglia and astrocyte population in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and cerebellum (CER) of pups. Mtb infection increased the microglia population and caused morphological changes to a reactive phenotype in the PFC. Also, the astrocyte population was significantly increased in the PFC of Mtb pups. The BBB permeability was determined by measuring the Evans Blue (EB) dye concentration in the PFC and CER 1 hr post receiving intravenous EB-dye injection. We found that prenatal Mtb exposure significantly increased the BBB's permeability in the PFC and CER of pups versus saline. Overall, our data demonstrate that prenatal exposure to Mtb predisposes offspring to a higher risk of BBB damage while inducing persistent neuroinflammation, which could lead to impaired neuronal development and function. These findings implicate a potential role of gestational Mtb infections in the aetiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wadzanai Manjeese
- Department of Human Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Kwazulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nontobeko E Mvubu
- Discipline of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of Kwazulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Adrie J C Steyn
- Discipline of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of Kwazulu Natal, Durban, South Africa.,Africa Health Research Institute, K-Rith Tower Building, Nelson Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, South Africa.,Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Thabisile Mpofana
- Department of Human Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Kwazulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
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35
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Rahmani Z, Fayyazi Bordbar MR, Dibaj M, Alimardani M, Moghbeli M. Genetic and molecular biology of autism spectrum disorder among Middle East population: a review. Hum Genomics 2021; 15:17. [PMID: 33712060 PMCID: PMC7953769 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-021-00319-2] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disease, characterized by impaired social communication, executive dysfunction, and abnormal perceptual processing. It is more frequent among males. All of these clinical manifestations are associated with atypical neural development. Various genetic and environmental risk factors are involved in the etiology of autism. Genetic assessment is essential for the early detection and intervention which can improve social communications and reduce abnormal behaviors. Although, there is a noticeable ASD incidence in Middle East countries, there is still a lack of knowledge about the genetic and molecular biology of ASD among this population to introduce efficient diagnostic and prognostic methods. MAIN BODY In the present review, we have summarized all of the genes which have been associated with ASD progression among Middle East population. We have also categorized the reported genes based on their cell and molecular functions. CONCLUSIONS This review clarifies the genetic and molecular biology of ASD among Middle East population and paves the way of introducing an efficient population based panel of genetic markers for the early detection and management of ASD in Middle East countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Rahmani
- Department of Medical Genetics, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | | | - Mohsen Dibaj
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maliheh Alimardani
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Meysam Moghbeli
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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36
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Shuid AN, Jayusman PA, Shuid N, Ismail J, Kamal Nor N, Mohamed IN. Association between Viral Infections and Risk of Autistic Disorder: An Overview. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:2817. [PMID: 33802042 PMCID: PMC7999368 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18062817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition of the central nervous system (CNS) that presents with severe communication problems, impairment of social interactions, and stereotypic behaviours. Emerging studies indicate possible associations between viral infections and neurodegenerative and neurobehavioural conditions including autism. Viral infection during critical periods of early in utero neurodevelopment may lead to increased risk of autism in the offspring. This review is aimed at highlighting the association between viral infections, including viruses similar to COVID-19, and the aetiology of autism. A literature search was conducted using Pubmed, Ovid/Medline, and Google Scholar database. Relevant search terms included "rubella and autism", "cytomegalovirus and autism", "influenza virus and autism", "Zika virus and autism", "COVID-19 and autism". Based on the search terms, a total of 141 articles were obtained and studies on infants or children with congenital or perinatal viral infection and autistic behaviour were evaluated. The possible mechanisms by which viral infections could lead to autism include direct teratogenic effects and indirect effects of inflammation or maternal immune activation on the developing brain. Brain imaging studies have shown that the ensuing immune response from these viral infections could lead to disruption of the development of brain regions and structures. Hence, long-term follow up is necessary for infants whose mothers report an inflammatory event due to viral infection at any time during pregnancy to monitor for signs of autism. Research into the role of viral infection in the development of ASD may be one avenue of improving ASD outcomes in the future. Early screening and diagnosis to detect, and maybe even prevent ASD are essential to reduce the burden of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Naqib Shuid
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kepala Batas 13200, Malaysia;
| | - Putri Ayu Jayusman
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Nazrun Shuid
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sg Buloh 47000, Malaysia
| | - Juriza Ismail
- Autism Research Group, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (J.I.); (N.K.N.)
| | - Norazlin Kamal Nor
- Autism Research Group, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (J.I.); (N.K.N.)
| | - Isa Naina Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
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Moradi K, Ashraf-Ganjouei A, Tavolinejad H, Bagheri S, Akhondzadeh S. The interplay between gut microbiota and autism spectrum disorders: A focus on immunological pathways. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110091. [PMID: 32891667 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairments in social and cognitive activities, stereotypical and repetitive behaviors and restricted areas of interest. A remarkable proportion of ASD patients represent immune dysregulation as well as gastrointestinal complications. Hence, a novel concept has recently emerged, addressing the possible intercommunication between the brain, the immune system, the gut and its commensals. Here, we provide an overview of how gut microbes and their metabolites are associated with neurobehavioral features of ASD through various immunologic mechanisms. Moreover, we discuss the potential therapeutic options that could modify these features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamyar Moradi
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Ashraf-Ganjouei
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Tavolinejad
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sayna Bagheri
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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38
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Autism spectrum disorder and severe social impairment associated with elevated plasma interleukin-8. Pediatr Res 2021; 89:591-597. [PMID: 32330928 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-0910-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with an unclear etiology and pathophysiology. Previous studies have indicated that the dysregulation of cytokines may be involved in the pathogenesis of ASD and that the levels of cytokines may serve as potential biomarkers of this disorder. METHODS The current study employed a family triad-based case-control design to study the levels of plasma cytokines in families with ASD (n = 45 triads) and controls (n = 38 triads) with a Human Cytokine Twenty-Five-Plex Kit. The Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) was used to measure social impairment of ASD children. RESULTS After controlling for the levels of parental cytokines, we identified that interferon-α (IFN-α), interleukin-7 (IL-7), IL-8, IFN-γ-inducible protein-10, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1β were associated with ASD, and IL-8 was the only cytokine also associated with the levels of both parental cytokines in the offspring-parents regression analysis and three subdomains of SRS (social awareness, cognition, and motivations) in the children with ASD. The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the log-transformed IL-8 level discriminated children with autism from controls with an area under the curve of 0.858 (95% confidence interval: 0.777-0.939). CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that IL-8 is a potential biomarker for ASD and may be involved in the pathogenesis of ASD. IMPACT The study suggests that IL-8 is a promising biomarker for ASD and may be involved in the pathogenesis of ASD. Only a very few studies have reported the parental cytokine levels. The significant strength of this article is that we applied the family triad-based approach to explore cytokine levels in families with autism and controls. There are no objective biomarkers, making the accurate diagnosis, prognostic prediction and effective treatment difficult, and our study provides promising results.
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Şimşek F, Işık Ü, Aktepe E, Kılıç F, Şirin FB, Bozkurt M. Comparison of Serum VEGF, IGF-1, and HIF-1α Levels in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Healthy Controls. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:3564-3574. [PMID: 33389301 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04820-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine whether serum VEGF, IGF-1, and HIF-1α levels differed between Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) patients and healthy controls. A total of 40 children with ASD and 40 healthy controls aged 4-12 years were included. Serum levels of VEGF, IGF-1, and HIF-1α were measured using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Serum IGF-1 levels were found to be statistically significantly higher in the ASD group than in the control group. Serum HIF-1α levels were borderline significantly lower in the ASD group. There was no statistically significant difference in serum VEGF levels between the two groups. IGF-1 and HIF-1α may play a potential role in the etiopathogenesis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fulya Şimşek
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Suleyman Demirel University Medicine Faculty, Çünür, East Campus, Isparta, 32260, Turkey
| | - Ümit Işık
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Suleyman Demirel University Medicine Faculty, Çünür, East Campus, Isparta, 32260, Turkey.
| | - Evrim Aktepe
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Suleyman Demirel University Medicine Faculty, Çünür, East Campus, Isparta, 32260, Turkey
| | - Faruk Kılıç
- Department of Psychiatry, Suleyman Demirel University Medicine Faculty, Isparta, Turkey
| | - Fevziye Burcu Şirin
- Department of Biochemistry, Suleyman Demirel University Medicine Faculty, Isparta, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Bozkurt
- Department of Biochemistry, Suleyman Demirel University Medicine Faculty, Isparta, Turkey
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40
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Healing autism spectrum disorder with cannabinoids: a neuroinflammatory story. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 121:128-143. [PMID: 33358985 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with a multifactorial etiology. Latest researches are raising the hypothesis of a link between the onset of the main behavioral symptoms of ASD and the chronic neuroinflammatory condition of the autistic brain; increasing evidence of this connection is shedding light on new possible players in the pathogenesis of ASD. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has a key role in neurodevelopment as well as in normal inflammatory responses and it is not surprising that many preclinical and clinical studies account for alterations of the endocannabinoid signaling in ASD. These findings lay the foundation for a better understanding of the neurochemical mechanisms underlying ASD and for new therapeutic attempts aimed at exploiting the renowned anti-inflammatory properties of cannabinoids to treat pathologies encompassed in the autistic spectrum. This review discusses the current preclinical and clinical evidence supporting a key role of the ECS in the neuroinflammatory state that characterizes ASD, providing hints to identify new biomarkers in ASD and promising therapies for the future.
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41
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Maternal immune activation induces sustained changes in fetal microglia motility. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21378. [PMID: 33288794 PMCID: PMC7721716 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78294-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal infection or inflammation causes abnormalities in brain development associated with subsequent cognitive impairment and in an increased susceptibility to schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders. Maternal immune activation (MIA) and increases in serum cytokine levels mediates this association via effects on the fetal brain, and microglia can respond to maternal immune status, but consensus on how microglia may respond is lacking and no-one has yet examined if microglial process motility is impaired. In this study we investigated how MIA induced at two different gestational ages affected microglial properties at different developmental stages. Immune activation in mid-pregnancy increased IL-6 expression in embryonic microglia, but failed to cause any marked changes in morphology either at E18 or postnatally. In contrast MIA, particularly when induced earlier (at E12), caused sustained alterations in the patterns of microglial process motility and behavioral deficits. Our research has identified an important microglial property that is altered by MIA and which may contribute to the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms linking maternal immune status to subsequent risks for cognitive disease.
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Lungba RM, Khan SZA, Ajibawo-Aganbi U, Perez Bastidas MV, Veliginti S, Saleem S, Cancarevic I. The Role of the Gut Microbiota and the Immune System in the Development of Autism. Cureus 2020; 12:e11226. [PMID: 33269154 PMCID: PMC7707059 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.11226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental disorders that present with social skills and communication challenges, restricted interest, and repetitive behavior. The specific cause of autism is not well understood yet. However, numerous studies indicated that environmental and genetic factors, dysregulated immune response, and alterations to the balance and content of the gut microbiota are implemented in the development of autism. Many non-pharmacological interventions are nominated to manage autism, including family support services and psychoeducational methods. Moreover, different pharmacological therapy modalities are recommended for children with ASD. Learning more about the brain, immune system, and gut connections could assist in early diagnosis and treatment of this devastating neurodevelopmental disorders as an early intervention in ASD could improve a child's overall development. We gathered data from relevant previously published articles on PubMed to evaluate the role of the gut microbiota and the immune system on the development of autism..
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayan M Lungba
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Seyad Zulficar Ali Khan
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
- Family Medicine, Ministry of Health Oman, Salalah, OMN
| | - Uvie Ajibawo-Aganbi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | | | - Swathi Veliginti
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Sania Saleem
- Research and Development, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Ivan Cancarevic
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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Kim YS, Choi J, Yoon BE. Neuron-Glia Interactions in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102176. [PMID: 32992620 PMCID: PMC7601502 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed synaptic dysfunction to be a hallmark of various psychiatric diseases, and that glial cells participate in synapse formation, development, and plasticity. Glial cells contribute to neuroinflammation and synaptic homeostasis, the latter being essential for maintaining the physiological function of the central nervous system (CNS). In particular, glial cells undergo gliotransmission and regulate neuronal activity in tripartite synapses via ion channels (gap junction hemichannel, volume regulated anion channel, and bestrophin-1), receptors (for neurotransmitters and cytokines), or transporters (GLT-1, GLAST, and GATs) that are expressed on glial cell membranes. In this review, we propose that dysfunction in neuron-glia interactions may contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders. Understanding the mechanisms of neuron-glia interaction for synapse formation and maturation will contribute to the development of novel therapeutic targets of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoo Sung Kim
- Department of Molecular Biology, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea; (Y.S.K.); (J.C.)
| | - Juwon Choi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea; (Y.S.K.); (J.C.)
| | - Bo-Eun Yoon
- Department of Molecular Biology, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea; (Y.S.K.); (J.C.)
- Department of Nanobiomedical science, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-41-529-6085
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Carpita B, Marazziti D, Palego L, Giannaccini G, Betti L, Dell'Osso L. Microbiota, Immune System and Autism Spectrum Disorders: An Integrative Model towards Novel Treatment Options. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:5119-5136. [PMID: 31448708 DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666190328151539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition strongly associated with genetic predisposition and familial aggregation. Among ASD patients, different levels of symptoms severity are detectable, while the presence of intermediate autism phenotypes in close relatives of ASD probands is also known in literature. Recently, increasing attention has been paid to environmental factors that might play a role in modulating the relationship between genomic risk and development and severity of ASD. Within this framework, an increasing body of evidence has stressed a possible role of both gut microbiota and inflammation in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopment. The aim of this paper is to review findings about the link between microbiota dysbiosis, inflammation and ASD. METHODS Articles ranging from 1990 to 2018 were identified on PUBMED and Google Scholar databases, with keyword combinations as: microbiota, immune system, inflammation, ASD, autism, broad autism phenotype, adult. RESULTS Recent evidence suggests that microbiota alterations, immune system and neurodevelopment may be deeply intertwined, shaping each other during early life. However, results from both animal models and human samples are still heterogeneous, while few studies focused on adult patients and ASD intermediate phenotypes. CONCLUSION A better understanding of these pathways, within an integrative framework between central and peripheral systems, might not only shed more light on neural basis of ASD symptoms, clarifying brain pathophysiology, but it may also allow to develop new therapeutic strategies for these disorders, still poorly responsive to available treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Carpita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 6756100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Donatella Marazziti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 6756100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Lionella Palego
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 6756100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Gino Giannaccini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 6756100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Betti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 6756100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 6756100 Pisa, Italy
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45
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Kutuk MO, Tufan E, Gokcen C, Kilicaslan F, Karadag M, Mutluer T, Yektas C, Coban N, Kandemir H, Buber A, Coskun S, Acikbas U, Guler G, Topal Z, Celik F, Altintas E, Giray A, Aka Y, Kutuk O. Cytokine expression profiles in Autism spectrum disorder: A multi-center study from Turkey. Cytokine 2020; 133:155152. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2020.155152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Maternal Immunity in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Questions of Causality, Validity, and Specificity. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9082590. [PMID: 32785127 PMCID: PMC7464885 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9082590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complex neurodevelopmental disorders with unknown heterogeneous aetiologies. Epidemiological studies have found an association between maternal infection and development of ASD in the offspring, and clinical findings reveal a state of immune dysregulation in the pre- and postnatal period of affected subjects. Maternal immune activation (MIA) has been proposed to mediate this association by altering fetal neurodevelopment and leading to autism. Although animal models have supported a causal link between MIA and development of ASD, their validity needs to be explored. Moreover, considering that only a small proportion of affected offspring develop autism, and that MIA has been implicated in related diseases such as schizophrenia, a key unsolved question is how disease specificity and phenotypic outcome are determined. Here, we have integrated preclinical and clinical evidence, including the use of animal models for establishing causality, to explore the role of maternal infections in ASD. A proposed priming/multi-hit model may offer insights into the clinical heterogeneity of ASD, its convergence with related disorders, and therapeutic strategies.
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47
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Xie Q, Li Z, Wang Y, Zaidi S, Baranova A, Zhang F, Cao H. Preeclampsia Drives Molecular Networks to Shift Toward Greater Vulnerability to the Development of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Neurol 2020; 11:590. [PMID: 32760337 PMCID: PMC7373751 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) confers a significant risk for subsequent diagnosis with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with the mechanisms underlying this observation being largely unknown. To identify molecular networks affected by both PE and ASD, we conducted a large-scale literature data mining and a gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), followed by an expression mega-analysis in 13 independently profiled ASD datasets. Sets of genes implicated in ASD and in PE significantly overlap (156 common genes; p = 3.14E−67), with many biological pathways shared (94 pathways; p < 1.00E−21). A set of PE-driven molecular triggers possibly contributing to worsening the risk of subsequent ASD was identified, possibly representing a regulatory shift toward greater vulnerability to the development of ASD. Mega-analysis of expression highlighted RPS4Y1, an inhibitor of STAT3 that is expressed in a sexually dimorphic manner, as a contributor to both PE and ASD, which should be evaluated as a possible contributor to male predominance in ASD. A set of PE-driven molecular triggers may shift the developing brain toward a greater risk of ASD. One of these triggers, chromosome Y encoded gene RPS4Y1, an inhibitor of STAT3 signaling, warrants evaluation as a possible contributor to male predominance in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinglian Xie
- Department of Outpatient, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhe Li
- Mental Health Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Outpatient, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shan Zaidi
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States
| | - Ancha Baranova
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States.,Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
| | - Fuquan Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongbao Cao
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, First Hospital/First Clinical Medical College of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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48
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Shmarina GV, Ershova ES, Simashkova NV, Nikitina SG, Chudakova JM, Veiko NN, Porokhovnik LN, Basova AY, Shaposhnikova AF, Pukhalskaya DA, Pisarev VM, Korovina NJ, Gorbachevskaya NL, Dolgikh OA, Bogush M, Kutsev SI, Kostyuk SV. Oxidized cell-free DNA as a stress-signaling factor activating the chronic inflammatory process in patients with autism spectrum disorders. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:212. [PMID: 32677958 PMCID: PMC7364812 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01881-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are known to be associated with an inflammatory process related to immune system dysfunction. This study's aim was to investigate the role of cell-free DNA in chronic inflammatory process in ASD patients. METHODS The study included 133 ASD patients and 27 healthy controls. Sixty-two ASD patients were demonstrated to have mild-to-moderate disease severity (group I) and 71 individuals to have severe ASD (group II). Plasma cell-free (cf) DNA characteristics, plasma cytokine concentrations, expression of the genes for NFкB1 transcription factor and pro-inflammatory cytokines TNFα, IL-1β and IL-8 in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) of ASD patients, and unaffected controls were investigated. Additionally, in vitro experiments with oxidized DNA supplementation to PBL cultures derived from ASD patients and healthy controls were performed. RESULTS The data indicates that ASD patients have demonstrated increased cfDNA concentration in their circulation. cfDNA of patients with severe ASD has been characterized by a high abundance of oxidative modification. Furthermore, ASD patients of both groups have shown elevated plasma cytokine (IL-1β, IL-8, IL-17A) levels and heightened expression of genes for NFкB1 nuclear factor and pro-inflammatory cytokines TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-8 in PBL. In vitro experiments have shown that NF-κB/cytokine mRNA expression profiles of ASD patient PBL treated with oxidized DNA fragments were significantly different from those of healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS It may be proposed that oxidized cfDNA plays a role of stress-signaling factor activating the chronic inflammatory process in patients with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina V Shmarina
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia.
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia.
- G.N. Gabrichevsky Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Elizaveta S Ershova
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Anna Y Basova
- G.E. Sukhareva Scientific-Practical Centre for Mental Health of Children and Adolescents, Moscow, Russia
| | - Antonina F Shaposhnikova
- G.E. Sukhareva Scientific-Practical Centre for Mental Health of Children and Adolescents, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Vladimir M Pisarev
- V. A. Negovsky Research Institute of General Reanimatology, Federal Research and Clinical Center of Intensive Care Medicine and Rehabilitology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalia J Korovina
- G.E. Sukhareva Scientific-Practical Centre for Mental Health of Children and Adolescents, Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalia L Gorbachevskaya
- G.E. Sukhareva Scientific-Practical Centre for Mental Health of Children and Adolescents, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Marina Bogush
- Rowan University Biological Sciences Department, Science Hall, Glassboro, NJ, USA
| | | | - Svetlana V Kostyuk
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
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Drakulic D, Djurovic S, Syed YA, Trattaro S, Caporale N, Falk A, Ofir R, Heine VM, Chawner SJRA, Rodriguez-Moreno A, van den Bree MBM, Testa G, Petrakis S, Harwood AJ. Copy number variants (CNVs): a powerful tool for iPSC-based modelling of ASD. Mol Autism 2020; 11:42. [PMID: 32487215 PMCID: PMC7268297 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-020-00343-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients diagnosed with chromosome microdeletions or duplications, known as copy number variants (CNVs), present a unique opportunity to investigate the relationship between patient genotype and cell phenotype. CNVs have high genetic penetrance and give a good correlation between gene locus and patient clinical phenotype. This is especially effective for the study of patients with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), including those falling within the autism spectrum disorders (ASD). A key question is whether this correlation between genetics and clinical presentation at the level of the patient can be translated to the cell phenotypes arising from the neurodevelopment of patient induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).Here, we examine how iPSCs derived from ASD patients with an associated CNV inform our understanding of the genetic and biological mechanisms underlying the aetiology of ASD. We consider selection of genetically characterised patient iPSCs; use of appropriate control lines; aspects of human neurocellular biology that can capture in vitro the patient clinical phenotype; and current limitations of patient iPSC-based studies. Finally, we consider how future research may be enhanced to maximise the utility of CNV patients for research of pathological mechanisms or therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danijela Drakulic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, 11042 Belgrade, 152, Serbia
| | - Srdjan Djurovic
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, 0424, Oslo, Norway
- NORMENT, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5007, Bergen, Norway
| | - Yasir Ahmed Syed
- Neuroscience & Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Sebastiano Trattaro
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 20146, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicolò Caporale
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 20146, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Falk
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rivka Ofir
- BGU-iPSC Core Facility, The Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell (RMSC) Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Vivi M Heine
- Complex Trait Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Samuel J R A Chawner
- Neuroscience & Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Antonio Rodriguez-Moreno
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Pablo de Olavide, Ctra. de Utrera, Km 1, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Marianne B M van den Bree
- Neuroscience & Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Giuseppe Testa
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 20146, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Human Technopole, Via Cristina Belgioioso 171, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Spyros Petrakis
- Institute of Applied Biosciences/Centre for Research and Technology Hellas, 57001, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Adrian J Harwood
- Neuroscience & Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK.
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50
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Nadeem A, Ahmad SF, Attia SM, Al-Ayadhi LY, Al-Harbi NO, Bakheet SA. Dysregulation in IL-6 receptors is associated with upregulated IL-17A related signaling in CD4+ T cells of children with autism. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 97:109783. [PMID: 31655158 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.109783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous syndrome characterized by dysregulations in speech and social interactions as well as repetitive and stereotypical behavioral patterns in which immune system plays a significant role. IL-6, an essential cytokine for polarization of Th0 cells into Th17 cells has been demonstrated to be crucial in the etiology of ASD in past studies both in humans and mice. Th17 cells are also believed to be central players in the pathogenesis of ASD through release of IL-17A. However, there is still insufficient data regarding identification of Th17 cells with respect to IL-6 signaling in ASD subjects. Therefore, this study explored IL-6 receptors (IL-6R/sIL-6R) and Th17 (p-STAT3/IL-17A/IL-23R) related markers comprehensively in the blood of typically-developing control (TDC, n = 35) and ASD children (n = 45). Our data show that there is enhanced sIL-6R levels in plasma and CD4+ T cells of ASD subjects as compared to TDC group. Increased sIL-6R signaling is associated with upregulated Th17 development in ASD subjects. Further, severe ASD subjects have higher inflammation in terms of IL-6/IL-17A related signaling as compared to moderate ASD patients. Furthermore, treatment of CD4 + T cells in vitro with IL-6 leads to much greater upregulation of p-STAT3, and IL-17A in ASD subjects than similarly treated CD4+ T cells in TDC group. Antagonism of IL-6 signaling by SC144 in vitro led to blockade of IL-6 mediated effects on CD4+ T cells. These data display unequivocally that IL-6 signaling components are dysregulated which play a crucial in enhancement of Th17 development in ASD subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Y Al-Ayadhi
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, AL-Amodi Autism Research Chair, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif O Al-Harbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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