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Gomez N, Hsieh C, Li X, Dykstra M, Waksmacki J, Altheim C, Bechar Y, Klim J, Zaepfel B, Rothstein J, Tank EE, Barmada SJ. Counter-regulation of RNA stability by UPF1 and TDP43. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.31.578310. [PMID: 38352350 PMCID: PMC10862862 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.31.578310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
RNA quality control is crucial for proper regulation of gene expression. Disruption of nonsense mediated mRNA decay (NMD), the primary RNA decay pathway responsible for the degradation of transcripts containing premature termination codons (PTCs), can disrupt development and lead to multiple diseases in humans and other animals. Similarly, therapies targeting NMD may have applications in hematological, neoplastic and neurological disorders. As such, tools capable of accurately quantifying NMD status could be invaluable for investigations of disease pathogenesis and biomarker identification. Toward this end, we assemble, validate, and apply a next-generation sequencing approach (NMDq) for identifying and measuring the abundance of PTC-containing transcripts. After validating NMDq performance and confirming its utility for tracking RNA surveillance, we apply it to determine pathway activity in two neurodegenerative diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) characterized by RNA misprocessing and abnormal RNA stability. Despite the genetic and pathologic evidence implicating dysfunctional RNA metabolism, and NMD in particular, in these conditions, we detected no significant differences in PTC-encoding transcripts in ALS models or disease. Contrary to expectations, overexpression of the master NMD regulator UPF1 had little effect on the clearance of transcripts with PTCs, but rather restored RNA homeostasis through differential use and decay of alternatively poly-adenylated isoforms. Together, these data suggest that canonical NMD is not a significant contributor to ALS/FTD pathogenesis, and that UPF1 promotes neuronal survival by regulating transcripts with abnormally long 3'UTRs.
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2
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Prajjwal P, Shashank S, Al-Ezzi SMS, Sharma B, Aubourg O, Kaushish A, Marsool MDM, Nagre A, Asharaf S. Frontotemporal dementia: Addressing the scattered harbingers of genetics and its relationship with glucose metabolism, bipolar disorder, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Dis Mon 2023; 69:101545. [PMID: 36925418 DOI: 10.1016/j.disamonth.2023.101545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
Frontotemporal Dementia, also known by the name Pick's disease, is a rare form of dementia that can run for several generations. The two key characteristics are argyrophilic, spherical intraneuronal inclusions, which most frequently impact the frontal and temporal poles, and localized cortical atrophy (Pick bodies). Although personality decline and memory loss are frequently more severe than the visuospatial and apraxia disorders that are common in Alzheimer's disease, clinical overlap with other non-Alzheimer degenerative disorders is being increasingly recognized. The limbic system, which includes the hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, and amygdala, typically experiences the greatest levels of neuronal loss and degeneration. In the hippocampus's dentate fascia, several Pick bodies are frequently seen. Leukoencephalopathy and inflated cortical neurons are less specific symptoms (Pick cells). In this paper, we review the factors leading to Picks disease along with its pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, imaging, treatment, prognosis, and a comprehensive discussion on the same. We have also discussed the relationship of frontotemporal dementia with glucose metabolism, bipolar disorder, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, all of which are emerging fields of interest and need more studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyadarshi Prajjwal
- Department of Neurology, Bharati Vidyapeeth University Medical College, Pune, India
| | - Singam Shashank
- Department of Neurology, Shadan Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, India
| | | | - Bhavya Sharma
- Medical Student, Department of Medicine, Medical College, Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
| | - Obed Aubourg
- Doctor of Medicine, University of Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Akshita Kaushish
- MSc Biochemistry, Dolphin Institute of Biomedical and Natural Sciences, Dehradun, India
| | | | - Abhijit Nagre
- Medical Student, Department of Medicine, Topiwala National Medical College, Mumbai, India
| | - Shahnaz Asharaf
- Department of Neurology, Travancore Medical College, Kollam, Kerala, India
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3
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Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarker Profile in TDP-43-Related Genetic Frontotemporal Dementia. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12101747. [PMID: 36294886 PMCID: PMC9605286 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12101747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers, namely total tau, phospho-tau and amyloid beta peptides, have received much attention specifically regarding Alzheimer’s disease (AD), since they can detect the biochemical fingerprint of AD and serve as a diagnostic tool for accurate and early diagnosis during life. In the same way, biomarkers for other neurodegenerative disease pathologies are also needed. We present a case series of six patients with genetic frontotemporal dementia (FTD), with TDP-43 underlying proteinopathy, in an attempt to assess TDP-43 as a novel biomarker alone and in combination with established AD biomarkers for this specific patient group, based on the principles of personalized and precision medicine. Our results indicate that genetic TDP-43-FTD is characterized by increased CSF TPD-43 and increased TDP-43 × τΤ/τP-181 combination. Hence, TDP-43 combined with tau proteins could be a useful tool for the diagnosis of genetic FTD with TDP-43 underling histopathology, supplementing clinical, neuropsychological and imaging data.
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4
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Interface of G-quadruplex with both stabilizing and destabilizing ligands for targeting various diseases. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 219:414-427. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.07.248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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5
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Kirola L, Mukherjee A, Mutsuddi M. Recent Updates on the Genetics of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:5673-5694. [PMID: 35768750 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02934-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) primarily affect the motor and frontotemporal areas of the brain, respectively. These disorders share clinical, genetic, and pathological similarities, and approximately 10-15% of ALS-FTD cases are considered to be multisystemic. ALS-FTD overlaps have been linked to families carrying an expansion in the intron of C9orf72 along with inclusions of TDP-43 in the brain. Other overlapping genes (VCP, FUS, SQSTM1, TBK1, CHCHD10) are also involved in similar functions that include RNA processing, autophagy, proteasome response, protein aggregation, and intracellular trafficking. Recent advances in genome sequencing have identified new genes that are involved in these disorders (TBK1, CCNF, GLT8D1, KIF5A, NEK1, C21orf2, TBP, CTSF, MFSD8, DNAJC7). Additional risk factors and modifiers have been also identified in genome-wide association studies and array-based studies. However, the newly identified genes show higher disease frequencies in combination with known genes that are implicated in pathogenesis, thus indicating probable digenetic/polygenic inheritance models, along with epistatic interactions. Studies suggest that these genes play a pleiotropic effect on ALS-FTD and other diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Ataxia, and Parkinsonism. Besides, there have been numerous improvements in the genotype-phenotype correlations as well as clinical trials on stem cell and gene-based therapies. This review discusses the possible genetic models of ALS and FTD, the latest therapeutics, and signaling pathways involved in ALS-FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laxmi Kirola
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ashim Mukherjee
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mousumi Mutsuddi
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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6
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Zhang S, Shen L, Jiao B. Cognitive Dysfunction in Repeat Expansion Diseases: A Review. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:841711. [PMID: 35478698 PMCID: PMC9036481 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.841711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
With the development of the sequencing technique, more than 40 repeat expansion diseases (REDs) have been identified during the past two decades. Moreover, the clinical features of these diseases show some commonality, and the nervous system, especially the cognitive function was affected in part by these diseases. However, the specific cognitive domains impaired in different diseases were inconsistent. Here, we survey literature on the cognitive consequences of the following disorders presenting cognitive dysfunction and summarizing the pathogenic genes, epidemiology, and different domains affected by these diseases. We found that the cognitive domains affected in neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (NIID) were widespread including the executive function, memory, information processing speed, attention, visuospatial function, and language. Patients with C9ORF72-frontotemporal dementia (FTD) showed impairment in executive function, memory, language, and visuospatial function. While in Huntington's disease (HD), the executive function, memory, and information processing speed were affected, in the fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), executive function, memory, information processing speed, and attention were impaired. Moreover, the spinocerebellar ataxias showed broad damage in almost all the cognitive domains except for the relatively intact language ability. Some other diseases with relatively rare clinical data also indicated cognitive dysfunction, such as myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), progressive myoclonus epilepsy (PME), Friedreich ataxia (FRDA), Huntington disease like-2 (HDL2), and cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy, vestibular areflexia syndrome (CANVAS). We drew a cognitive function landscape of the related REDs that might provide an aspect for differential diagnosis through cognitive domains and effective non-specific interventions for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sizhe Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lu Shen
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Engineering Research Center of Hunan Province in Cognitive Impairment Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Neurodegenerative and Neurogenetic Diseases, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bin Jiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Engineering Research Center of Hunan Province in Cognitive Impairment Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Neurodegenerative and Neurogenetic Diseases, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Jiao
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7
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Krishnarjuna B, Ivanova MI, Ramamoorthy A. Aggregation and the Intrinsic Structural Disorder of Dipeptide Repeat Peptides of C9orf72-Related Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia Characterized by NMR. J Phys Chem B 2021; 125:12446-12456. [PMID: 34751579 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.1c08149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Dipeptide repeats (DPRs) are known to play important roles in C9ORF72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Studies on DPRs have reported on the kinetics of aggregation, toxicity, and low-resolution morphology of the aggregates of these peptides. While the dipeptide hexa-repeats of Gly-Pro [(GP)6] have been shown to be nonaggregating, Gly-Ala [(GA)6] and Gly-Arg [(GR)6] exhibited the formation of neurotoxic aggregates. However, structural studies of these DPRs have been elusive. In this study, we explored the feasibility of a high-resolution monitoring of a real-time aggregation of these peptides in a solution by using NMR experiments. Although (GP)6 is disordered and nonaggregating, the existence of cis and trans conformations was observed from NMR spectra. It was remarkable that the (GR)6 exhibited the formation of multiple conformations, whereas the hydrophobic and low-soluble (GA)6 aggregated fast in a temperature-dependent manner. These results demonstrate the feasibility of monitoring the minor conformational changes from highly disordered peptides, aggregation kinetics, and the formation of small molecular weight aggregates by solution NMR experiments. The ability to detect cis and trans local isomerizations in (GP)6 is noteworthy and could be valuable to study intrinsically disordered proteins/peptides by NMR. The early detection of minor conformational changes could be valuable in better understanding the mechanistic insights into the formation of toxic intermediates and the development of approaches to inhibit them and, potentially, aid in the development of compounds to treat the devastating C9ORF72-related ALS and FTD diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Magdalena I Ivanova
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109 United States
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8
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Bonet LFS, Loureiro JP, Pereira GRC, Da Silva ANR, De Mesquita JF. Molecular dynamics and protein frustration analysis of human fused in Sarcoma protein variants in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis type 6: An In Silico approach. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258061. [PMID: 34587215 PMCID: PMC8480726 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most frequent adult-onset motor neuron disorder. The disease is characterized by degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons, leading to death usually within five years after the onset of symptoms. While most cases are sporadic, 5%-10% of cases can be associated with familial inheritance, including ALS type 6, which is associated with mutations in the Fused in Sarcoma (FUS) gene. This work aimed to evaluate how the most frequent ALS-related mutations in FUS, R521C, R521H, and P525L affect the protein structure and function. We used prediction algorithms to analyze the effects of the non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms and performed evolutionary conservation analysis, protein frustration analysis, and molecular dynamics simulations. Most of the prediction algorithms classified the three mutations as deleterious. All three mutations were predicted to reduce protein stability, especially the mutation R521C, which was also predicted to increase chaperone binding tendency. The protein frustration analysis showed an increase in frustration in the interactions involving the mutated residue 521C. Evolutionary conservation analysis showed that residues 521 and 525 of human FUS are highly conserved sites. The molecular dynamics results indicate that protein stability could be compromised in all three mutations. They also affected the exposed surface area and protein compactness. The analyzed mutations also displayed high flexibility in most residues in all variants, most notably in the interaction site with the nuclear import protein of FUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. F. S. Bonet
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - J. P. Loureiro
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - G. R. C. Pereira
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - A. N. R. Da Silva
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - J. F. De Mesquita
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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9
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Källstig E, McCabe BD, Schneider BL. The Links between ALS and NF-κB. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3875. [PMID: 33918092 PMCID: PMC8070122 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease wherein motor neuron degeneration leads to muscle weakness, progressive paralysis, and death within 3-5 years of diagnosis. Currently, the cause of ALS is unknown but, as with several neurodegenerative diseases, the potential role of neuroinflammation has become an increasingly popular hypothesis in ALS research. Indeed, upregulation of neuroinflammatory factors have been observed in both ALS patients and animal models. One such factor is the inflammatory inducer NF-κB. Besides its connection to inflammation, NF-κB activity can be linked to several genes associated to familial forms of ALS, and many of the environmental risk factors of the disease stimulate NF-κB activation. Collectively, this has led many to hypothesize that NF-κB proteins may play a role in ALS pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss the genetic and environmental connections between NF-κB and ALS, as well as how this pathway may affect different CNS cell types, and finally how this may lead to motor neuron degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bernard L. Schneider
- Brain Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Station 19, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; (E.K.); (B.D.M.)
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10
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Martier R, Konstantinova P. Gene Therapy for Neurodegenerative Diseases: Slowing Down the Ticking Clock. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:580179. [PMID: 33071748 PMCID: PMC7530328 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.580179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is an emerging and powerful therapeutic tool to deliver functional genetic material to cells in order to correct a defective gene. During the past decades, several studies have demonstrated the potential of AAV-based gene therapies for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. While some clinical studies have failed to demonstrate therapeutic efficacy, the use of AAV as a delivery tool has demonstrated to be safe. Here, we discuss the past, current and future perspectives of gene therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. We also discuss the current advances on the newly emerging RNAi-based gene therapies which has been widely studied in preclinical model and recently also made it to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raygene Martier
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure Biopharma B.V., Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Pavlina Konstantinova
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure Biopharma B.V., Amsterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Paul S, Bravo Vázquez LA, Pérez Uribe S, Roxana Reyes-Pérez P, Sharma A. Current Status of microRNA-Based Therapeutic Approaches in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Cells 2020; 9:cells9071698. [PMID: 32679881 PMCID: PMC7407981 DOI: 10.3390/cells9071698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a key gene regulator and play essential roles in several biological and pathological mechanisms in the human system. In recent years, plenty of miRNAs have been identified to be involved in the development of neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), thus making them an attractive option for therapeutic approaches. Hence, in this review, we provide an overview of the current research of miRNA-based therapeutics for a selected set of NDDs, either for their high prevalence or lethality, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Friedreich's Ataxia, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and Frontotemporal Dementia. We also discuss the relevant delivery techniques, pertinent outcomes, their limitations, and their potential to become a new generation of human therapeutic drugs in the near future.
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12
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Ranganathan R, Haque S, Coley K, Shepheard S, Cooper-Knock J, Kirby J. Multifaceted Genes in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-Frontotemporal Dementia. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:684. [PMID: 32733193 PMCID: PMC7358438 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia are two progressive, adult onset neurodegenerative diseases, caused by the cell death of motor neurons in the motor cortex and spinal cord and cortical neurons in the frontal and temporal lobes, respectively. Whilst these have previously appeared to be quite distinct disorders, in terms of areas affected and clinical symptoms, identification of cognitive dysfunction as a component of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), with some patients presenting with both ALS and FTD, overlapping features of neuropathology and the ongoing discoveries that a significant proportion of the genes underlying the familial forms of the disease are the same, has led to ALS and FTD being described as a disease spectrum. Many of these genes encode proteins in common biological pathways including RNA processing, autophagy, ubiquitin proteasome system, unfolded protein response and intracellular trafficking. This article provides an overview of the ALS-FTD genes before summarizing other known ALS and FTD causing genes where mutations have been found primarily in patients of one disease and rarely in the other. In discussing these genes, the review highlights the similarity of biological pathways in which the encoded proteins function and the interactions that occur between these proteins, whilst recognizing the distinctions of MAPT-related FTD and SOD1-related ALS. However, mutations in all of these genes result in similar pathology including protein aggregation and neuroinflammation, highlighting that multiple different mechanisms lead to common downstream effects and neuronal loss. Next generation sequencing has had a significant impact on the identification of genes associated with both diseases, and has also highlighted the widening clinical phenotypes associated with variants in these ALS and FTD genes. It is hoped that the large sequencing initiatives currently underway in ALS and FTD will begin to uncover why different diseases are associated with mutations within a single gene, especially as a personalized medicine approach to therapy, based on a patient's genetics, approaches the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramya Ranganathan
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Shaila Haque
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Barishal, Barishal, Bangladesh
| | - Kayesha Coley
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie Shepheard
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Johnathan Cooper-Knock
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Janine Kirby
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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13
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Zhang L, Chen Y, Liu M, Wang Y, Peng G. TDP-43 and Limbic-Predominant Age-Related TDP-43 Encephalopathy. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 11:376. [PMID: 31992981 PMCID: PMC6971113 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2019.00376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Through a number of an extensive autopsy, biomarker, and genomics studies, researchers have recently defined a novel type of dementia known as limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (LATE). LATE is perhaps best characterized by the presence of hyperphosphorylated TDP-43, which plays multi-functional roles through interactions with DNA and RNA, leading to significant alterations in the transcription and translation of particular genes. As individuals of advanced age represent a rapidly growing demographic group globally, there is a steadily increasing rate of LATE incidence that has to date received insufficient recognition despite its serious implications for public health. TDP-43 is the common pathology of various age-related dementia, therefore, it may be a potential and promising therapeutic target for such diseases. In the present review, we discuss the pathways regulating TDP-43 expression, metabolism, and disease activity in order to better understand the link between TDP-43 proteinopathy and LATE at the genetic, pathological, and clinical levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lumi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Neurology, Zhejiang University ShuLan International Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunyun Wang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Neurology, Shengzhou People's Hospital, Shengzhou, China
| | - Guoping Peng
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Tang FL, Zhao L, Zhao Y, Sun D, Zhu XJ, Mei L, Xiong WC. Coupling of terminal differentiation deficit with neurodegenerative pathology in Vps35-deficient pyramidal neurons. Cell Death Differ 2020; 27:2099-2116. [PMID: 31907392 PMCID: PMC7308361 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-019-0487-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vps35 (vacuolar protein sorting 35) is a key component of retromer that regulates transmembrane protein trafficking. Dysfunctional Vps35 is a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Vps35 is highly expressed in developing pyramidal neurons, and its physiological role in developing neurons remains to be explored. Here, we provide evidence that Vps35 in embryonic neurons is necessary for axonal and dendritic terminal differentiation. Loss of Vps35 in embryonic neurons results in not only terminal differentiation deficits, but also neurodegenerative pathology, such as cortical brain atrophy and reactive glial responses. The atrophy of neocortex appears to be in association with increases in neuronal death, autophagosome proteins (LC3-II and P62), and neurodegeneration associated proteins (TDP43 and ubiquitin-conjugated proteins). Further studies reveal an increase of retromer cargo protein, sortilin1 (Sort1), in lysosomes of Vps35-KO neurons, and lysosomal dysfunction. Suppression of Sort1 diminishes Vps35-KO-induced dendritic defects. Expression of lysosomal Sort1 recapitulates Vps35-KO-induced phenotypes. Together, these results demonstrate embryonic neuronal Vps35’s function in terminal axonal and dendritic differentiation, reveal an association of terminal differentiation deficit with neurodegenerative pathology, and uncover an important lysosomal contribution to both events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Lei Tang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, 30912, Georgia
| | - Lu Zhao
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, 30912, Georgia.,Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Epigenetics of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Epigenetics of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China
| | - Dong Sun
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, 30912, Georgia.,Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Xiao-Juan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Epigenetics of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China
| | - Lin Mei
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, 30912, Georgia.,Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Wen-Cheng Xiong
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, 30912, Georgia. .,Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
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15
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Foster AD, Rea SL. The role of sequestosome 1/p62 protein in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia pathogenesis. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:2186-2194. [PMID: 32594029 PMCID: PMC7749485 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.284977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal lobar degeneration are multifaceted diseases with genotypic, pathological and clinical overlap. One such overlap is the presence of SQSTM1/p62 mutations. While traditionally mutations manifesting in the ubiquitin-associated domain of p62 were associated with Paget’s disease of bone, mutations affecting all functional domains of p62 have now been identified in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal lobar degeneration patients. p62 is a multifunctional protein that facilitates protein degradation through autophagy and the ubiquitin-proteasome system, and also regulates cell survival via the Nrf2 antioxidant response pathway, the nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathway and apoptosis. Dysfunction in these signaling and protein degradation pathways have been observed in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal lobar degeneration, and mutations that affect the role of p62 in these pathways may contribute to disease pathogenesis. In this review we discuss the role of p62 in these pathways, the effects of p62 mutations and the effect of mutations in the p62 modulator TANK-binding kinase 1, in relation to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-frontotemporal lobar degeneration pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Delice Foster
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia; Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sarah Lyn Rea
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia; Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
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16
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Branco LMT, Zanao TA, de Rezende TJR, Paraguay IBB, Leoni TB, Balthazar MLF, FranÇa MC. Behavioral manifestations in a Brazilian non-demented C9orf72-negative ALS population. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2019; 21:100-106. [PMID: 31873036 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2019.1704014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive decline and behavioral changes are common features in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and imply worse prognosis as well as increased disease burden for patients and caregivers. Currently, there is a lack of studies regarding behavioral profile in Brazilian ALS cohorts. We assessed the prevalence and profile of behavioral impairment (ALSbi) in a Brazilian non-demented C9orf72-negative ALS cohort according to broad behavioral assessment and the latest consensus. Among 76 initially recruited consecutive ALS patients, 70 were included, including seven ALS type 8 (VAPB-related ALS) individuals. Patients with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) diagnosis were excluded. Sixteen ALS patients (23%) were diagnosed as ALSbi. Among ALS type 8 individuals, 2 (28.6%) were diagnosed as ALSbi. Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI) total scores did positively correlate with age, but not with other demographic or clinical data. Apathy was the most prevalent finding in the ALSbi subgroup, although the prevalence (20%) was smaller than reported in previous literature. Dysphoria and anxiety were also prevalent findings in the whole ALS cohort. Future studies with larger cohorts and validated ALS-specific tools are needed in order to expand our knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas M T Branco
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Tamires A Zanao
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Thiago J R de Rezende
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Isabela B B Paraguay
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Tauana B Leoni
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Marcio Luiz F Balthazar
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Marcondes C FranÇa
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
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17
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Cobos SN, Bennett SA, Torrente MP. The impact of histone post-translational modifications in neurodegenerative diseases. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2019; 1865:1982-1991. [PMID: 30352259 PMCID: PMC6475498 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Every year, neurodegenerative disorders take more than 5000 lives in the US alone. Cures have not yet been found for many of the multitude of neuropathies. The majority of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) cases have no known genetic basis. Thus, it is evident that contemporary genetic approaches have failed to explain the etiology or etiologies of ALS/FTD and PD. Recent investigations have explored the potential role of epigenetic mechanisms in disease development. Epigenetics comprises heritable changes in gene utilization that are not derived from changes in the genome. A main epigenetic mechanism involves the post-translational modification of histones. Increased knowledge of the epigenomic landscape of neurodegenerative diseases would not only further our understanding of the disease pathologies, but also lead to the development of treatments able to halt their progress. Here, we review recent advances on the association of histone post-translational modifications with ALS, FTD, PD and several ataxias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha N Cobos
- Chemistry Department of Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States; Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Seth A Bennett
- Chemistry Department of Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States; Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Mariana P Torrente
- Chemistry Department of Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States; Ph.D. Programs in Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Biology, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York 10016, United States.
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18
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Taylor LM, McMillan PJ, Kraemer BC, Liachko NF. Tau tubulin kinases in proteinopathy. FEBS J 2019; 286:2434-2446. [PMID: 31034749 PMCID: PMC6936727 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A number of neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by deposition of abnormally phosphorylated tau or TDP-43 in disease-affected neurons. These diseases include Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. No disease-modifying therapeutics is available to treat these disorders, and we have a limited understanding of the cellular and molecular factors integral to disease initiation or progression. Phosphorylated tau and TDP-43 are important markers of pathology in dementia disorders and directly contribute to tau- and TDP-43-related neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration. Here, we review the scope of tau and TDP-43 phosphorylation in neurodegenerative disease and discuss recent work demonstrating the kinases TTBK1 and TTBK2 phosphorylate both tau and TDP-43, promoting neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Taylor
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Pamela J McMillan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Brian C Kraemer
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nicole F Liachko
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
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19
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Pereira GRC, Tellini GHAS, De Mesquita JF. In silico analysis of PFN1 related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215723. [PMID: 31216283 PMCID: PMC6583998 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Profilin 1 (PFN1) protein plays key roles in neuronal growth and differentiation, membrane trafficking, and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. Four natural variants of PFN1 were described as related to ALS, the most common adult-onset motor neuron disorder. However, the pathological mechanism of PFN1 in ALS is not yet completely understood. The goal of this work is to thoroughly analyze the effects of the ALS-related mutations on PFN1 structure and function using computational simulations. Here, PhD-SNP, PMUT, PolyPhen-2, SIFT, SNAP, SNPS&GO, SAAP, nsSNPAnalyzer, SNPeffect4.0 and I-Mutant2.0 were used to predict the functional and stability effects of PFN1 mutations. ConSurf was used for the evolutionary conservation analysis, and GROMACS was used to perform the MD simulations. The mutations C71G, M114T, and G118V, but not E117G, were predicted as deleterious by most of the functional prediction algorithms that were used. The stability prediction indicated that the ALS-related mutations could destabilize PFN1. The ConSurf analysis indicated that the mutation C71G, M114T, E117G, and G118V occur in highly conserved positions. The MD results indicated that the studied mutations could affect the PFN1 flexibility at the actin and PLP-binding domains, and consequently, their intermolecular interactions. It may be therefore related to the functional impairment of PFN1 upon C71G, M114T, E117G and G118V mutations, and their involvement in ALS development. We also developed a database, SNPMOL (http://www.snpmol.org/), containing the results presented on this paper for biologists and clinicians to exploit PFN1 and its natural variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Rodrigues Coutinho Pereira
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Laboratory, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Giovanni Henrique Almeida Silva Tellini
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Laboratory, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Joelma Freire De Mesquita
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Laboratory, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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20
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Xu B, Zheng C, Chen X, Zhang Z, Liu J, Spencer P, Yang X. Dysregulation of Myosin Complex and Striated Muscle Contraction Pathway in the Brains of ALS-SOD1 Model Mice. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:2408-2417. [PMID: 30889949 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and fatal disease characterized by cortical and spinal motor neuron degeneration, some inherited cases of which are caused by mutations in the gene coding for copper-zinc superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1). The SOD1G93A mutant model mouse, which expresses large amounts of mutant SOD1, develops adult-onset neurodegeneration of spinal motor neurons and progressive motor deficits leading to paralysis. We used the Tandem Mass Tag technique to investigate the proteome profile of hippocampus, cerebral cortex, and medulla oblongata of the SOD1G93A mutant model mice as compared with that of wild-type (WT) mice. Fifteen proteins were significantly increased or decreased (i.e., changed) in all three tissues. Gene ontology analysis revealed that the changed proteins were mainly enriched in negative regulation of reactive oxygen species, myosin complex and copper ion binding. In the Striated Muscle Contraction Pathway, most of the identified proteins were decreased in the SOD1G93A mice compared with the WT mice. Myosin-1 (MYH1), fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase TIGAR (TIGAR), and sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase 1 (ATP2A1) were significantly reduced in mutant vs WT mice, as confirmed by Western blot analysis. Since myosins and tropomyosins are specific for synapse function and drive actin dynamics in the maturation of dendritic spines, changes in these proteins may contribute to perturbations of brain neuronal circuitry in addition to spinal motor neuron disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benhong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Shenzhen, Institute of Toxicology, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chengyou Zheng
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Graduate School, Peking University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Shenzhen, Institute of Toxicology, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zaijun Zhang
- Institute of New Drug Research and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases, Jinan University College of Pharmacy, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Shenzhen, Institute of Toxicology, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Peter Spencer
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Xifei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Shenzhen, Institute of Toxicology, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen 518055, China
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21
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Haukedal H, Freude K. Implications of Microglia in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia. J Mol Biol 2019; 431:1818-1829. [PMID: 30763568 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are neurodegenerative disorders with clear similarities regarding their clinical, genetic and pathological features. Both are progressive, lethal disorders, with no current curative treatment available. Several genes that correlated with ALS and FTD are implicated in the same molecular pathways. Strikingly, many of these genes are not exclusively expressed in neurons, but also in glial cells, suggesting a multicellular pathogenesis. Moreover, chronic inflammation is a common feature observed in ALS and FTD, indicating an essential role of microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system, in disease development and progression. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the implications of microglia in ALS and FTD. Specifically, we will focus on the role of impaired phagocytosis and increased inflammatory responses and their impact on microglial function. Several genes associated with the disorders can directly be linked to microglial activation, phagocytosis and neuroinflammation. Other genes associated with the disorders are implicated in biological pathways involved in protein degradation and autophagy. In general such mutations have been shown to cause abnormal protein accumulation and impaired autophagy. These impairments have previously been linked to affect the innate immune system in the central nervous system through inappropriate activation of microglia and neuroinflammation, highlighted in this review. Although it has been well established that microglia play essential roles in neurodegenerative disorders, the precise underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriette Haukedal
- Group of Stem Cells and Modeling of Neurodegeneration, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 7, 1870C, Denmark
| | - Kristine Freude
- Group of Stem Cells and Modeling of Neurodegeneration, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 7, 1870C, Denmark.
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22
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Borroni B, Alberici A, Buratti E. Review: Molecular pathology of frontotemporal lobar degenerations. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2019; 45:41-57. [DOI: 10.1111/nan.12534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- B. Borroni
- Neurology Clinic; Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences; University of Brescia; Brescia Italy
| | - A. Alberici
- Neurology Clinic; Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences; University of Brescia; Brescia Italy
| | - E. Buratti
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB); Trieste Italy
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23
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Liou CJ, Tong M, Vonsattel JP, de la Monte SM. Altered Brain Expression of Insulin and Insulin-Like Growth Factors in Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration: Another Degenerative Disease Linked to Dysregulation of Insulin Metabolic Pathways. ASN Neuro 2019; 11:1759091419839515. [PMID: 31081340 PMCID: PMC6535914 DOI: 10.1177/1759091419839515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is the third most common dementing neurodegenerative disease with nearly 80% having no known etiology. OBJECTIVE Growing evidence that neurodegeneration can be linked to dysregulated metabolism prompted us to measure a panel of trophic factors, receptors, and molecules that modulate brain metabolic function in FTLD. METHODS Postmortem frontal (Brodmann's area [BA]8/9 and BA24) and temporal (BA38) lobe homogenates were used to measure immunoreactivity to Tau, phosphorylated tau (pTau), ubiquitin, 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and its receptor (TGF-β1R), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor, neurotrophin-3, neurotrophin-4, tropomyosin receptor kinase, and insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2) and their receptors by direct-binding enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS FTLD brains had significantly elevated pTau, ubiquitin, TGF-β1, and HNE immunoreactivity relative to control. In addition, BDNF and neurotrophin-4 were respectively reduced in BA8/9 and BA38, while neurotrophin-3 and nerve growth factor were upregulated in BA38, and tropomyosin receptor kinase was elevated in BA24. Lastly, insulin and insulin receptor expressions were elevated in the frontal lobe, IGF-1 was increased in BA24, IGF-1R was upregulated in all three brain regions, and IGF-2 receptor was reduced in BA24 and BA38. CONCLUSIONS Aberrantly increased levels of pTau, ubiquitin, HNE, and TGF-β1, marking neurodegeneration, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, overlap with altered expression of insulin/IGF signaling ligand and receptors in frontal and temporal lobe regions targeted by FTLD. Dysregulation of insulin-IGF signaling networks could account for brain hypometabolism and several characteristic neuropathologic features that characterize FTLD but overlap with Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Dementia with Lewy Body Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connie J. Liou
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Ming Tong
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Division of Neuropathology, Departments of Pathology, Medicine, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, the Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jean P. Vonsattel
- New York Brain Bank, Taub Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Suzanne M. de la Monte
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Division of Neuropathology, Departments of Pathology, Medicine, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, the Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI, USA
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24
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Oeckl P, Weydt P, Steinacker P, Anderl-Straub S, Nordin F, Volk AE, Diehl-Schmid J, Andersen PM, Kornhuber J, Danek A, Fassbender K, Fliessbach K, Jahn H, Lauer M, Müller K, Knehr A, Prudlo J, Schneider A, Thal DR, Yilmazer-Hanke D, Weishaupt JH, Ludolph AC, Otto M. Different neuroinflammatory profile in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia is linked to the clinical phase. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2019; 90:4-10. [PMID: 30224549 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2018-318868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of neuroinflammation in asymptomatic and symptomatic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) mutation carriers. METHODS The neuroinflammatory markers chitotriosidase 1 (CHIT1), YKL-40 and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood samples from asymptomatic and symptomatic ALS/FTD mutation carriers, sporadic cases and controls by ELISA. RESULTS CSF levels of CHIT1, YKL-40 and GFAP were unaffected in asymptomatic mutation carriers (n=16). CHIT1 and YKL-40 were increased in gALS (p<0.001, n=65) whereas GFAP was not affected. Patients with ALS carrying a CHIT1 polymorphism had lower CHIT1 concentrations in CSF (-80%) whereas this polymorphism had no influence on disease severity. In gFTD (n=23), increased YKL-40 and GFAP were observed (p<0.05), whereas CHIT1 was nearly not affected. The same profile as in gALS and gFTD was observed in sALS (n=64/70) and sFTD (n=20/26). CSF and blood concentrations correlated moderately (CHIT1, r=0.51) to weak (YKL-40, r=0.30, GFAP, r=0.39). Blood concentrations of these three markers were not significantly altered in any of the groups except CHIT1 in gALS of the Ulm cohort (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Our data indicate that neuroinflammation is linked to the symptomatic phase of ALS/FTD and shows a similar pattern in sporadic and genetic cases. ALS and FTD are characterised by a different neuroinflammatory profile, which might be one driver of the diverse presentations of the ALS/FTD syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Oeckl
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Patrick Weydt
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | | | | | - Frida Nordin
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Alexander E Volk
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Peter M Andersen
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany.,Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Johannes Kornhuber
- Department of Psychiatry, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Adrian Danek
- Department of Neurology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Klaus Fliessbach
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases and Geriatric Psychiatry, University of Bonn and DZNE Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Holger Jahn
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Lauer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Müller
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Antje Knehr
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Johannes Prudlo
- Department of Neurology, University of Rostock, and German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Rostock, Germany
| | - Anja Schneider
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases and Geriatric Psychiatry, University of Bonn and DZNE Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dietmar R Thal
- Department of Neuroscience, KU Leuven and Department of Pathology, UZ Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Markus Otto
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
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25
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Clayton EL, Milioto C, Muralidharan B, Norona FE, Edgar JR, Soriano A, Jafar-nejad P, Rigo F, Collinge J, Isaacs AM. Frontotemporal dementia causative CHMP2B impairs neuronal endolysosomal traffic-rescue by TMEM106B knockdown. Brain 2018; 141:3428-3442. [PMID: 30496365 PMCID: PMC6262218 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awy284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the endosome-associated protein CHMP2B cause frontotemporal dementia and lead to lysosomal storage pathology in neurons. We here report that physiological levels of mutant CHMP2B causes reduced numbers and significantly impaired trafficking of endolysosomes within neuronal dendrites, accompanied by increased dendritic branching. Mechanistically, this is due to the stable incorporation of mutant CHMP2B onto neuronal endolysosomes, which we show renders them unable to traffic within dendrites. This defect is due to the inability of mutant CHMP2B to recruit the ATPase VPS4, which is required for release of CHMP2B from endosomal membranes. Strikingly, both impaired trafficking and the increased dendritic branching were rescued by treatment with antisense oligonucleotides targeting the well validated frontotemporal dementia risk factor TMEM106B, which encodes an endolysosomal protein. This indicates that reducing TMEM106B levels can restore endosomal health in frontotemporal dementia. As TMEM106B is a risk factor for frontotemporal dementia caused by both C9orf72 and progranulin mutations, and antisense oligonucleotides are showing promise as therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases, our data suggests a potential new strategy for treating the wide range of frontotemporal dementias associated with endolysosomal dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Clayton
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Carmelo Milioto
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Bhavana Muralidharan
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Frances E Norona
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - James R Edgar
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Frank Rigo
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, California, USA
| | - John Collinge
- MRC Prion Unit at UCL, Institute of Prion Diseases, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Adrian M Isaacs
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
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Neurodegeneration of brain networks in the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-frontotemporal lobar degeneration (ALS-FTLD) continuum: evidence from MRI and MEG studies. CNS Spectr 2018; 23:378-387. [PMID: 29076800 DOI: 10.1017/s109285291700075x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Brain imaging techniques, especially those based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetoencephalography (MEG), have been increasingly applied to study multiple large-scale distributed brain networks in healthy people and neurological patients. With regard to neurodegenerative disorders, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), clinically characterized by the predominant loss of motor neurons and progressive weakness of voluntary muscles, and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), the second most common early-onset dementia, have been proven to share several clinical, neuropathological, genetic, and neuroimaging features. Specifically, overlapping or mildly diverging brain structural and functional connectivity patterns, mostly evaluated by advanced MRI techniques-such as diffusion tensor and resting-state functional MRI (DT-MRI, RS-fMRI)-have been described comparing several ALS and FTLD populations. Moreover, though only pioneering, promising clues on connectivity patterns in the ALS-FTLD continuum may derive from MEG investigations. We will herein overview the current state of knowledge concerning the most advanced neuroimaging findings associated with clinical and genetic patterns of neurodegeneration across the ALS-FTLD continuum, underlying the possibility that network-based approaches may be useful to develop novel biomarkers of disease for adequately designing and monitoring more appropriate treatment strategies.
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27
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Fourier A, Escal J, Bernard E, Lachman I, Perret-Liaudet A, Leblanc P, Quadrio I. Development of an automated capillary nano-immunoassay-Simple Western assay-to quantify total TDP43 protein in human platelet samples. Anal Bioanal Chem 2018; 411:267-275. [PMID: 30374726 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-018-1437-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Frontotemporal lobar degeneration syndrome is the second cause of young-onset dementia. Unfortunately, reliable biomarkers are currently lacking for the diagnosis of this disease. As TDP43 protein is one of the proteins pathologically involved in frontotemporal lobar degeneration, many studies have been performed to assess TDP43 protein diagnostic performances. Mixed results were obtained using cerebrospinal fluid and plasma samples so far. The aim of the study was to develop an automated capillary nano-immunoassay-Simple Western assay-to detect and quantify TDP43 protein simultaneously in human blood-based samples. Simple Western assay was developed with two different cell lysates used as positive controls and was compared to Western blot. TDP43 protein profiles in plasma samples were disappointing, as they were discordant to our positive controls. On the contrary, similar TDP43 patterns were obtained between platelet samples and cell lysates using both assays. Simple Western assay provided good quantitative performances in platelet samples: a linearity of signals could be observed (r2 = 0.994), associated to a within-run variability at 5.7%. Preliminary results based on a cohort of patients suffering from frontotemporal lobar degeneration showed large inter-individual variations superior to Simple Western's analytical variability. Simple Western assay seems to be suitable for detecting and quantifying TDP43 protein in platelet samples, providing a potential candidate biomarker in this disease. Further confirmation studies should now be performed on larger cohorts of patients to assess diagnostic performances of TDP43 protein in platelet samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Fourier
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Centre de Biologie et Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 59 Bd Pinel, 69677, Bron, France. .,BIORAN Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, CNRS UMR 5292 - INSERM U1028, Université de Lyon - Université Claude Bernard, 95 Bd Pinel, 69675, Bron, France.
| | - Jean Escal
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Centre de Biologie et Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 59 Bd Pinel, 69677, Bron, France.,BIORAN Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, CNRS UMR 5292 - INSERM U1028, Université de Lyon - Université Claude Bernard, 95 Bd Pinel, 69675, Bron, France
| | - Emilien Bernard
- Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, 59 Bd Pinel, 69677, Bron, France
| | - Ingolf Lachman
- AJ Roboscreen GmbH, Hohmannstraße 7, 04129, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Armand Perret-Liaudet
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Centre de Biologie et Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 59 Bd Pinel, 69677, Bron, France.,BIORAN Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, CNRS UMR 5292 - INSERM U1028, Université de Lyon - Université Claude Bernard, 95 Bd Pinel, 69675, Bron, France.,Center for Memory Resources and Research, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Charpennes Hospital, Lyon 1 University, 69100, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Pascal Leblanc
- Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), CNRS UMR5310 - INSERM U1217, Université de Lyon - Université Claude Bernard, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - Isabelle Quadrio
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Centre de Biologie et Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 59 Bd Pinel, 69677, Bron, France.,BIORAN Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, CNRS UMR 5292 - INSERM U1028, Université de Lyon - Université Claude Bernard, 95 Bd Pinel, 69675, Bron, France.,Center for Memory Resources and Research, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Charpennes Hospital, Lyon 1 University, 69100, Villeurbanne, France
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28
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Iannitti T, Scarrott JM, Likhite S, Coldicott IRP, Lewis KE, Heath PR, Higginbottom A, Myszczynska MA, Milo M, Hautbergue GM, Meyer K, Kaspar BK, Ferraiuolo L, Shaw PJ, Azzouz M. Translating SOD1 Gene Silencing toward the Clinic: A Highly Efficacious, Off-Target-free, and Biomarker-Supported Strategy for fALS. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2018; 12:75-88. [PMID: 30195799 PMCID: PMC6023790 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (fALS) cases, 20% are caused by mutations in the gene encoding human cytosolic Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (hSOD1). Efficient translation of the therapeutic potential of RNAi for the treatment of SOD1-ALS patients requires the development of vectors that are free of significant off-target effects and with reliable biomarkers to discern sufficient target engagement and correct dosing. Using adeno-associated virus serotype 9 to deliver RNAi against hSOD1 in the SOD1G93A mouse model, we found that intrathecal injection of the therapeutic vector via the cisterna magna delayed onset of disease, decreased motor neuron death at end stage by up to 88%, and prolonged the median survival of SOD1G93A mice by up to 42%. To our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate no significant off-target effects linked to hSOD1 silencing, providing further confidence in the specificity of this approach. We also report the measurement of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hSOD1 protein levels as a biomarker of effective dosing and efficacy of hSOD1 knockdown. Together, these data provide further confidence in the safety of the clinical therapeutic vector. The CSF biomarker will be a useful measure of biological activity for translation into human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Iannitti
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK
| | - Joseph M Scarrott
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK
| | - Shibi Likhite
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ian R P Coldicott
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK
| | - Katherine E Lewis
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK
| | - Paul R Heath
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK
| | - Adrian Higginbottom
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK
| | - Monika A Myszczynska
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK
| | - Marta Milo
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK
| | - Guillaume M Hautbergue
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK
| | - Kathrin Meyer
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Brian K Kaspar
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Laura Ferraiuolo
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK
| | - Pamela J Shaw
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Mimoun Azzouz
- University of Sheffield, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield, UK.
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29
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Tiloca C, Sorosina M, Esposito F, Peroni S, Colombrita C, Ticozzi N, Ratti A, Martinelli-Boneschi F, Silani V. No C9orf72 repeat expansion in patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2018; 25:192-195. [PMID: 30099204 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2018.07.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pathological repeat expansion (RE) of the C9orf72 hexanucleotide sequence is associated to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia disease continuum, although other heterogeneous clinical phenotypes have been documented. The occurrence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in some C9orf72 carriers with a more severe ALS disease course has suggested a possible modifying role for MS. However, C9orf72 RE seems not to play a role in MS pathogenesis. In this study, we screened C9orf72 in 189 Italian patients with primary progressive MS (PPMS), a rare clinical form characterized by less inflammation over neurodegenerative features. We failed to detect C9orf72 RE, but a significant representation of intermediate alleles (≥ 20 units) was observed in our PPMS cohort (2.1%) compared to healthy controls (0%, p < 0.05). In the normal range, allele distribution showed a trimodal pattern (2,5,8-repeat units) in PPMS and healthy controls with no significant difference. Our findings further demonstrate that C9orf72 RE is not genetically associated to MS spectrum, but suggest that intermediate alleles may represent risk factors as already reported for Parkinson disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Tiloca
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Department of Neurology-Stroke Unit and Laboratory of Neuroscience, Milan 20145, Italy
| | - Melissa Sorosina
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSpe), Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Federica Esposito
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSpe), Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy; Department of Neurology and Neuro-rehabilitation, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Silvia Peroni
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSpe), Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Claudia Colombrita
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Department of Neurology-Stroke Unit and Laboratory of Neuroscience, Milan 20145, Italy
| | - Nicola Ticozzi
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Department of Neurology-Stroke Unit and Laboratory of Neuroscience, Milan 20145, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, "Dino Ferrari" Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Antonia Ratti
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Department of Neurology-Stroke Unit and Laboratory of Neuroscience, Milan 20145, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, "Dino Ferrari" Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Filippo Martinelli-Boneschi
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSpe), Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan 20132, Italy; Laboratory of Genomics of Neurological Diseases and Department of Neurology, Policlinico San Donato Hospital and Scientific Institute, San Donato Milanese 20097, Italy; Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Silani
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Department of Neurology-Stroke Unit and Laboratory of Neuroscience, Milan 20145, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, "Dino Ferrari" Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan 20122, Italy.
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30
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Toth RP, Atkin JD. Dysfunction of Optineurin in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Glaucoma. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1017. [PMID: 29875767 PMCID: PMC5974248 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia, and glaucoma, affect millions of people worldwide. ALS is caused by the loss of motor neurons in the spinal cord, brainstem, and brain, and genetic mutations are responsible for 10% of all ALS cases. Glaucoma is characterized by the loss of retinal ganglion cells and is the most common cause of irreversible blindness. Interestingly, mutations in OPTN, encoding optineurin, are associated with both ALS and glaucoma. Optineurin is a highly abundant protein involved in a wide range of cellular processes, including the inflammatory response, autophagy, Golgi maintenance, and vesicular transport. In this review, we summarize the role of optineurin in cellular mechanisms implicated in neurodegenerative disorders, including neuroinflammation, autophagy, and vesicular trafficking, focusing in particular on the consequences of expression of mutations associated with ALS and glaucoma. This review, therefore showcases the impact of optineurin dysfunction in ALS and glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reka P Toth
- Motor Neuron Disease Research Centre, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Julie D Atkin
- Motor Neuron Disease Research Centre, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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31
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Tang BL. Patient-Derived iPSCs and iNs-Shedding New Light on the Cellular Etiology of Neurodegenerative Diseases. Cells 2018; 7:cells7050038. [PMID: 29738460 PMCID: PMC5981262 DOI: 10.3390/cells7050038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and induced neuronal (iN) cells are very much touted in terms of their potential promises in therapeutics. However, from a more fundamental perspective, iPSCs and iNs are invaluable tools for the postnatal generation of specific diseased cell types from patients, which may offer insights into disease etiology that are otherwise unobtainable with available animal or human proxies. There are two good recent examples of such important insights with diseased neurons derived via either the iPSC or iN approaches. In one, induced motor neurons (iMNs) derived from iPSCs of Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/Frontotemporal dementia (ALS/FTD) patients with a C9orf72 repeat expansion revealed a haploinsufficiency of protein function resulting from the intronic expansion and deficiencies in motor neuron vesicular trafficking and lysosomal biogenesis that were not previously obvious in knockout mouse models. In another, striatal medium spinal neurons (MSNs) derived directly from fibroblasts of Huntington’s disease (HD) patients recapitulated age-associated disease signatures of mutant Huntingtin (mHTT) aggregation and neurodegeneration that were not prominent in neurons differentiated indirectly via iPSCs from HD patients. These results attest to the tremendous potential for pathologically accurate and mechanistically revealing disease modelling with advances in the derivation of iPSCs and iNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bor Luen Tang
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore.
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore.
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32
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Fernández MV, Kim JH, Budde JP, Black K, Medvedeva A, Saef B, Deming Y, Del-Aguila J, Ibañez L, Dube U, Harari O, Norton J, Chasse R, Morris JC, Goate A, Cruchaga C. Analysis of neurodegenerative Mendelian genes in clinically diagnosed Alzheimer Disease. PLoS Genet 2017; 13:e1007045. [PMID: 29091718 PMCID: PMC5683650 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1007045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD), Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson disease (PD) have a certain degree of clinical, pathological and molecular overlap. Previous studies indicate that causative mutations in AD and FTD/ALS genes can be found in clinical familial AD. We examined the presence of causative and low frequency coding variants in the AD, FTD, ALS and PD Mendelian genes, in over 450 families with clinical history of AD and over 11,710 sporadic cases and cognitive normal participants from North America. Known pathogenic mutations were found in 1.05% of the sporadic cases, in 0.69% of the cognitively normal participants and in 4.22% of the families. A trend towards enrichment, albeit non-significant, was observed for most AD, FTD and PD genes. Only PSEN1 and PINK1 showed consistent association with AD cases when we used ExAC as the control population. These results suggest that current study designs may contain heterogeneity and contamination of the control population, and that current statistical methods for the discovery of novel genes with real pathogenic variants in complex late onset diseases may be inadequate or underpowered to identify genes carrying pathogenic mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Victoria Fernández
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Jong Hun Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Dementia Center, Ilsan hospital, National Health Insurance Service, Goyang, South Korea
| | - John P. Budde
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Kathleen Black
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Alexandra Medvedeva
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Ben Saef
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Yuetiva Deming
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Jorge Del-Aguila
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Laura Ibañez
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Umber Dube
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Division of Biology and Biomedical sciences, School of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Oscar Harari
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Joanne Norton
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Rachel Chasse
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - John C. Morris
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Alison Goate
- Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer’s disease, Dept of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, ICAHN 10–52, New York, NY, United States of America
| | | | | | - Carlos Cruchaga
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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33
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Tang BL. The use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) therapy – a perspective on cell biological mechanisms. Rev Neurosci 2017; 28:725-738. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2017-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AbstractRecent clinical trials of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation have demonstrated procedural safety and clinical proof of principle with a modest indication of benefit in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). While replacement therapy remained unrealistic, the clinical efficacy of this therapeutic option could be potentially enhanced if we could better decipher the mechanisms underlying some of the beneficial effects of transplanted cells, and work toward augmenting or combining these in a strategic manner. Novel ways whereby MSCs could act in modifying disease progression should also be explored. In this review, I discuss the known, emerging and postulated mechanisms of action underlying effects that transplanted MSCs may exert to promote motor neuron survival and/or to encourage regeneration in ALS. I shall also speculate on how transplanted cells may alter the diseased environment so as to minimize non-neuron cell autonomous damages by immune cells and astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bor Luen Tang
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
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34
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Gallardo G, Holtzman DM. Antibody Therapeutics Targeting Aβ and Tau. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2017; 7:cshperspect.a024331. [PMID: 28062555 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a024331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The astonishing findings that active and passive immunization against amyloid-β (Aβ) in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) dramatically decreased amyloid burden led to a rapid initiation of human clinical trials with much enthusiasm. However, methodological issues and adverse effects relating to these clinical trials arose, challenging the effectiveness and safety of these reagents. Efforts are now underway to develop safer immunotherapeutic approaches toward Aβ and the treatment of individuals at risk for AD before or in the earliest stages of cognitive decline with new hopes. Furthermore, several studies have shown tau as a potential immunotherapeutic target for the treatment of tauopathy-related diseases including frontotemporal lobar dementia (FTLD). Both active and passive immunization targeting tau in mouse models of tauopathy effectively decreased tau pathology while improving cognitive performance. These preclinical studies have highlighted tau as an alternative target with much anticipation of clinical trials to be undertaken.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert Gallardo
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, and Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - David M Holtzman
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, and Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
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35
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Giannoccaro MP, Bartoletti-Stella A, Piras S, Pession A, De Massis P, Oppi F, Stanzani-Maserati M, Pasini E, Baiardi S, Avoni P, Parchi P, Liguori R, Capellari S. Multiple variants in families with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia related to C9orf72 repeat expansion: further observations on their oligogenic nature. J Neurol 2017. [PMID: 28620717 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-017-8540-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The C9orf72 repeat expansion (RE) is one of the most frequent causative mutations of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). However, it is still unclear how the C9orf72 RE can lead to a heterogeneous phenotype. Several reports have shown the coexistence of mutations in multiple ALS/FTD causative genes in the same family, suggesting an oligogenic etiology for ALS and FTD. Our aim was to investigate this phenomenon in an Italian group of ALS/FTD pedigrees carrying the C9orf72 RE. We included 11 subjects from 11 pedigrees with ALS/FTD and the C9orf72 RE. Mutation screening of FUS, SOD1 and TARDBP genes was performed by direct sequencing. A dementia-specific custom-designed targeted next-generation sequencing panel was used for screening dementia-associated genes mutations. We found genetic variants in additional ALS or dementia-related genes in four pedigrees, including the p.V47A variant in the TYROBP gene. As a group, double mutation carriers displayed a tendency toward a younger age at onset and a higher frequency of positive familiar history and of parkinsonism. Our observation supports the hypothesis that the co-presence of mutations in different genes may be relevant for the clinical expression of ALS/FTD and of their oligogenic nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pia Giannoccaro
- UOC Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Anna Bartoletti-Stella
- UOC Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento Neuroscienze, psicologia, area del farmaco e salute del bambino, Università di Firenze, Firenze, Italy
| | - Silvia Piras
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Ospedale Bellaria, via Altura, 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Pession
- UOC Anatomia patologica, Dipartimento di Scienze Oncologiche, via Altura, 3, 40136, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Federico Oppi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Ospedale Bellaria, via Altura, 3, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Elena Pasini
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Ospedale Bellaria, via Altura, 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simone Baiardi
- UOC Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrizia Avoni
- UOC Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Ospedale Bellaria, via Altura, 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Piero Parchi
- UOC Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Ospedale Bellaria, via Altura, 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rocco Liguori
- UOC Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Ospedale Bellaria, via Altura, 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sabina Capellari
- UOC Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy. .,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Ospedale Bellaria, via Altura, 3, Bologna, Italy.
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Gaiani A, Martinelli I, Bello L, Querin G, Puthenparampil M, Ruggero S, Toffanin E, Cagnin A, Briani C, Pegoraro E, Sorarù G. Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Neurofilament Light Chain Levels in Definite Subtypes of Disease. JAMA Neurol 2017; 74:525-532. [PMID: 28264096 PMCID: PMC5822207 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2016.5398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Importance A clearer definition of the role of neurofilament light chain (NFL) as a biomarker in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is needed. Objectives To assess the ability of NFL to serve as a diagnostic biomarker in ALS and the prognostic value of cerebrospinal fluid NFL in patients with ALS. Design, Setting, and Participants In this single-center, retrospective, longitudinal study, disease progression was assessed by the ALS Functional Rating Score-Revised and the ALS Milano-Torino Staging system at baseline and 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. Cerebrospinal fluid samples were obtained from 176 patients admitted to the Department of Neurosciences of the University of Padua, Padova, Italy, from January 1, 2010, through February 29, 2016. Patients with ALS underwent ambulatory follow-up at the same department. Main Outcomes and Measures Levels of NFL. Results The study included 94 patients with ALS (64 men [36.4%] and 30 women [17.0%]; median age, 62.5 years), 20 patients with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) (8 men [4.5%] and 12 women [6.8%]; median age, 65 years), 18 patients with motor neuropathies (14 men [8.0%] and 4 women [2.3%]; median age, 63 years), and 44 controls (24 men [13.6%] and 20 women [11.4%]; median age, 54 years). Log-transformed NFL (log[NFL]) concentrations were higher in the ALS and FTD groups compared with the motor neuropathies and control groups (hazard ratio [HR], 2.45; 95% CI, 1.66-3.61; P < .001). Patients with typical ALS (HR, 1.0 [reference]), progressive bulbar palsy (HR, 1.48; 95% CI, 0.58-3.75; P = .41), and upper motor neuron dominant ALS (HR, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.02-0.61; P = .01) had higher levels of NFL than did those with flail arm or leg syndrome (HR, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.08-0.10; P = .049) and progressive muscular atrophy (HR, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.22-1.36; P = .10). There was an inverse correlation between log[NFL] concentration and overall survival (HR, 2.45; 95% CI, 1.66-3.61; P < .001). There was no evidence of different log[NFL] concentrations and survival in genetic ALS. Conclusions and Relevance This study confirms the role of NFL as a biomarker in ALS. Elevation in NFL levels in patients with upper motor neuron involvement and FTD might reflect the corticospinal tract degeneration. Low NFL levels in patients with lower motor neuron signs might be a prognostic indicator of milder phenotypes of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luca Bello
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Giorgia Querin
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Susanna Ruggero
- Department of Neurosciences, General Hospital of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | - Chiara Briani
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Elena Pegoraro
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Gianni Sorarù
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
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Hinz FI, Geschwind DH. Molecular Genetics of Neurodegenerative Dementias. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2017; 9:cshperspect.a023705. [PMID: 27940516 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a023705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative dementias are clinically heterogeneous, progressive diseases with frequently overlapping symptoms, such as cognitive impairments and behavior and movement deficits. Although a majority of cases appear to be sporadic, there is a large genetic component that has yet to be fully explained. Here, we review the recent genetic and genomic findings pertaining to Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, and prion dementia. In this review, we describe causal and susceptibility genes identified for these dementias and discuss recent research pertaining to the molecular function of these genes. Of particular interest, there is a large overlap in clinical phenotypes, genes, and/or aggregating protein products involved in these diseases, as well as frequent comorbid presentation, indicating that these dementias may represent a continuum of syndromes rather than individual diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora I Hinz
- Program in Neurogenetics, Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Daniel H Geschwind
- Program in Neurogenetics, Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095.,Center for Autism Research and Treatment and Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90024
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38
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Ji AL, Zhang X, Chen WW, Huang WJ. Genetics insight into the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia spectrum. J Med Genet 2017; 54:145-154. [DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2016-104271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Revised: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Tang BL. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease modifying therapeutics: a cell biological perspective. Neural Regen Res 2017; 12:407-408. [PMID: 28469654 PMCID: PMC5399717 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.202943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bor Luen Tang
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Health System; NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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40
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Could Sirtuin Activities Modify ALS Onset and Progression? Cell Mol Neurobiol 2016; 37:1147-1160. [PMID: 27942908 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-016-0452-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease with a complex etiology. Sirtuins have been implicated as disease-modifying factors in several neurological disorders, and in the past decade, attempts have been made to check if manipulating Sirtuin activities and levels could confer benefit in terms of neuroprotection and survival in ALS models. The efforts have largely focused on mutant SOD1, and while limited in scope, the results were largely positive. Here, the body of work linking Sirtuins with ALS is reviewed, with discussions on how Sirtuins and their activities may impact on the major etiological mechanisms of ALS. Moving forward, it is important that the potentially beneficial effect of Sirtuins in ALS disease onset and progression are assessed in ALS models with TDP-43, FUS, and C9orf72 mutations.
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41
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Tang BL. C9orf72's Interaction with Rab GTPases-Modulation of Membrane Traffic and Autophagy. Front Cell Neurosci 2016; 10:228. [PMID: 27774051 PMCID: PMC5053994 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2016.00228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hexanucleotide repeat expansion in an intron of Chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72) is the most common genetic cause of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). While functional haploinsufficiency of C9orf72 resulting from the mutation may play a role in ALS/FTD, the actual cellular role of the protein has been unclear. Recent findings have now shown that C9orf72 physically and functionally interacts with multiple members of the Rab small GTPases family, consequently exerting important influences on cellular membrane traffic and the process of autophagy. Loss of C9orf72 impairs endocytosis in neuronal cell lines, and attenuated autophagosome formation. Interestingly, C9orf72 could influence autophagy both as part of a Guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) complex, or as a Rab effector that facilitates transport of the Unc-51-like Autophagy Activating Kinase 1 (Ulk1) autophagy initiation complex. The cellular function of C9orf72 is discussed in the light of these recent findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bor L Tang
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingapore, Singapore; NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of SingaporeSingapore, Singapore
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or motor neuron disease is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disorder. The primary involvement is of motor neurons in the brain, spinal cord and peripherally. There is secondary weakness of muscles and primary involvement of other brain regions, especially involving cognition. SOURCES OF DATA Peer-reviewed journal articles and reviews. PubMed.gov AREAS OF AGREEMENT The pathogenesis of ALS remains largely unknown. There are a wide range of potential mechanisms related to neurodegeneration. An increasing number of genetic factors are recognized. AREAS OF CONTROVERSY There remains controversy, or lack of knowledge, in explaining how cellular events manifest as the complex human disease. There is controversy as to how well cellular and animal models of disease relate to the human disease. GROWING POINTS Large-scale international collaborative genetic epidemiological studies are replacing local studies. Therapies related to pathogenesis remain elusive, with the greatest advances to date relating to provision of care (including multidisciplinary management) and supportive care (nutrition and respiratory support). AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH The identification of C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeats as the most frequent genetic background to ALS, and the association with frontotemporal dementia, gives the potential of a genetic background against which to study other risk factors, triggers and pathogenic mechanisms, and to develop potential therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Morgan
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Richard W Orrell
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Neurology, Rowland Hill Street, London NW3 2PF, UK
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Branco LMT, Zanao T, De Rezende TJ, Casseb RF, Balthazar MF, Woolley SC, França MC. Transcultural validation of the ALS-CBS Cognitive Section for the Brazilian population. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2016; 18:60-67. [DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2016.1211147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas M. T. Branco
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil and
| | - Tamires Zanao
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil and
| | - Thiago J. De Rezende
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil and
| | - Raphael F. Casseb
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil and
| | - Marcio F. Balthazar
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil and
| | - Susan C. Woolley
- Forbes Norris ALS Research Center, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Marcondes C. França
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroimaging Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil and
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Crespi C, Cerami C, Dodich A, Canessa N, Iannaccone S, Corbo M, Lunetta C, Falini A, Cappa SF. Microstructural Correlates of Emotional Attribution Impairment in Non-Demented Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0161034. [PMID: 27513746 PMCID: PMC4981464 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0161034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Impairments in the ability to recognize and attribute emotional states to others have been described in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients and linked to the dysfunction of key nodes of the emotional empathy network. Microstructural correlates of such disorders are still unexplored. We investigated the white-matter substrates of emotional attribution deficits in a sample of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients without cognitive decline. Thirteen individuals with either probable or definite amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and 14 healthy controls were enrolled in a Diffusion Tensor Imaging study and administered the Story-based Empathy Task, assessing the ability to attribute mental states to others (i.e., Intention and Emotion attribution conditions). As already reported, a significant global reduction of empathic skills, mainly driven by a failure in Emotion Attribution condition, was found in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients compared to healthy subjects. The severity of this deficit was significantly correlated with fractional anisotropy along the forceps minor, genu of corpus callosum, right uncinate and inferior fronto-occipital fasciculi. The involvement of frontal commissural fiber tracts and right ventral associative fronto-limbic pathways is the microstructural hallmark of the impairment of high-order processing of socio-emotional stimuli in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These results support the notion of the neurofunctional and neuroanatomical continuum between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Crespi
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Chiara Cerami
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Turro, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandra Dodich
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Nicola Canessa
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
- NeTS Center, Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sandro Iannaccone
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Turro, Milano, Italy
| | - Massimo Corbo
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Casa Cura Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Christian Lunetta
- NEuroMuscolar Omnicentre, Fondazione Serena Onlus, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Falini
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
- CERMAC – Neuroradiology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Stefano F. Cappa
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
- NeTS Center, Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS, Pavia, Italy
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45
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Masuda M, Senda J, Watanabe H, Epifanio B, Tanaka Y, Imai K, Riku Y, Li Y, Nakamura R, Ito M, Ishigaki S, Atsuta N, Koike H, Katsuno M, Hattori N, Naganawa S, Sobue G. Involvement of the caudate nucleus head and its networks in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-frontotemporal dementia continuum. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2016; 17:571-579. [PMID: 27684890 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2016.1211151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
We investigated common structural and network changes across the sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-frontotemporal dementia (FTD) continuum. Based on cluster analysis using the frontotemporal assessment battery, 51 patients with sporadic ALS were subdivided into three groups: 25 patients with ALS with cognitive deficiency (ALS-CD); seven patients who satisfied FTD criteria (ALS-FTD), and 19 patients with ALS with normal cognitive function (ALS-NC). Compared with the controls, gray matter images from patients with ALS-FTD showed atrophic changes in the following order of severity: caudate head, medial frontal gyrus, thalamus, amygdala, putamen, and cingulate gyrus (peak level, uncorrected p < 0.001). The caudate head was significant at the cluster level using FWE correction (p < 0.05). Diffusion tensor imaging with tract-based spatial statistics revealed white matter changes in the areas surrounding the caudate head, the internal capsule, and the anterior horn of the lateral ventricle in the ALS-CD and ALS-FTD. Probabilistic diffusion tractography showed a significant decrease in structural connectivity between the caudate head and the dorsomedial frontal cortex and the lateral orbitofrontal cortex, even in the ALS-NC. Our results indicated that the caudate head and its networks were the most vulnerable to lesion in sporadic ALS-FTD-spectrum patients associated with cognitive decline with FTD features.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hirohisa Watanabe
- a Department of Neurology and.,d Brain and Mind Research Center , Nagoya University , Nagoya
| | | | | | | | | | - Yuanzhe Li
- c Department of Neurology , Juntendo University School of Medicine , Tokyo , Japan , and
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Nobutaka Hattori
- c Department of Neurology , Juntendo University School of Medicine , Tokyo , Japan , and
| | - Shinji Naganawa
- b Department of Radiology , Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine , Nagoya , Japan
| | - Gen Sobue
- a Department of Neurology and.,d Brain and Mind Research Center , Nagoya University , Nagoya
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Picher-Martel V, Valdmanis PN, Gould PV, Julien JP, Dupré N. From animal models to human disease: a genetic approach for personalized medicine in ALS. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2016; 4:70. [PMID: 27400686 PMCID: PMC4940869 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-016-0340-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is the most frequent motor neuron disease in adults. Classical ALS is characterized by the death of upper and lower motor neurons leading to progressive paralysis. Approximately 10 % of ALS patients have familial form of the disease. Numerous different gene mutations have been found in familial cases of ALS, such as mutations in superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43), fused in sarcoma (FUS), C9ORF72, ubiquilin-2 (UBQLN2), optineurin (OPTN) and others. Multiple animal models were generated to mimic the disease and to test future treatments. However, no animal model fully replicates the spectrum of phenotypes in the human disease and it is difficult to assess how a therapeutic effect in disease models can predict efficacy in humans. Importantly, the genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity of ALS leads to a variety of responses to similar treatment regimens. From this has emerged the concept of personalized medicine (PM), which is a medical scheme that combines study of genetic, environmental and clinical diagnostic testing, including biomarkers, to individualized patient care. In this perspective, we used subgroups of specific ALS-linked gene mutations to go through existing animal models and to provide a comprehensive profile of the differences and similarities between animal models of disease and human disease. Finally, we reviewed application of biomarkers and gene therapies relevant in personalized medicine approach. For instance, this includes viral delivering of antisense oligonucleotide and small interfering RNA in SOD1, TDP-43 and C9orf72 mice models. Promising gene therapies raised possibilities for treating differently the major mutations in familial ALS cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Picher-Martel
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Research Centre of Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec, Laval University, 2601 Chemin de la Canardière, Québec, QC, G1J 2G3, Canada.
| | - Paul N Valdmanis
- Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford University, 269 Campus Drive, CCSR 2110, Stanford, CA, 94305-5164, USA
| | - Peter V Gould
- Division of Anatomic Pathology and Neuropathology, Department of Medical Biology, CHU de Québec, Hôpital de l'Enfant-Jésus, 1401, 18th street, Québec, QC, Canada, G1J 1Z4
| | - Jean-Pierre Julien
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Research Centre of Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec, Laval University, 2601 Chemin de la Canardière, Québec, QC, G1J 2G3, Canada
| | - Nicolas Dupré
- Axe Neurosciences & The Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, CHU de Québec, Laval University, 1401, 18th street, Québec, QC, G1J 1Z4, Canada.
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Oeckl P, Steinacker P, Feneberg E, Otto M. Neurochemical biomarkers in the diagnosis of frontotemporal lobar degeneration: an update. J Neurochem 2016; 138 Suppl 1:184-92. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Oeckl
- Department of Neurology; Ulm University Hospital; Ulm Germany
| | | | - Emily Feneberg
- Department of Neurology; Ulm University Hospital; Ulm Germany
| | - Markus Otto
- Department of Neurology; Ulm University Hospital; Ulm Germany
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Patel AN, Sampson JB. Cognitive Profile of C9orf72 in Frontotemporal Dementia and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2016. [PMID: 26198888 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-015-0582-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This review article focuses on the cognitive profile associated with the C9orf72 gene with GGGGCC (G4C2) hexanucleotide repeat expansions that is commonly found in both familial and sporadic forms of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in order to aid clinicians in the screening process. In this growing clinical continuum between FTD and ALS, understanding and recognizing a neurocognitive profile is important for diagnosis. Key features of this profile include executive dysfunction with memory impairment and language deficits as the disease progresses. Behaviorally, patients are prone to disinhibition, apathy, and psychosis. With the discovery of this mutation, studies have begun to characterize the different phenotypes associated with this mutation in terms of epidemiology, clinical presentation, imaging, and pathology. Greater awareness and increased surveillance for this mutation will benefit patients and their families in terms of access to genetic counseling, research studies, and improved understanding of the disease process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali N Patel
- Division of Aging and Dementia, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, PH-19, Room 121, New York, NY, 10032, USA,
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Christodoulou G, Gennings C, Hupf J, Factor-Litvak P, Murphy J, Goetz RR, Mitsumoto H. Telephone based cognitive-behavioral screening for frontotemporal changes in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2016; 17:482-488. [PMID: 27121545 DOI: 10.3109/21678421.2016.1173703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to establish a valid and reliable battery of measures to evaluate frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in patients with ALS over the telephone. Thirty-one subjects were administered either in-person or by telephone-based screening followed by the opposite mode of testing two weeks later, using a modified version of the UCSF Cognitive Screening Battery. Equivalence testing was performed for in-person and telephone based tests. The standard ALS Cognitive Behavioral Screen (ALS-CBS) showed statistical equivalence at the 5% significance level compared to a revised phone version of the ALS-CBS. In addition, the Controlled Oral Word Association Test (COWAT) and Center for Neurologic Study-Lability Scale (CNS-LS) were also found to be equivalent at the 5% and 10% significance level, respectively. Similarly, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the well-established Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS) were also statistically equivalent. Equivalence could not be claimed for the ALS-Frontal Behavioral Inventory (ALS-FBI) caregiver interview and the Written Verbal Fluency Index (WVFI). In conclusion, our study suggests that telephone-based versions of the ALS-CBS, COWAT, and CNS-LS may offer clinicians valid tools to detect frontotemporal changes in the ALS population. Development of telephone based cognitive testing for ALS could become an integral resource for population based research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Christodoulou
- a Columbia MDA/ALS Research Center, Department of Neurology , Columbia University Medical Center
| | | | - Jonathan Hupf
- a Columbia MDA/ALS Research Center, Department of Neurology , Columbia University Medical Center
| | - Pam Factor-Litvak
- c Department of Epidemiology , Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
| | - Jennifer Murphy
- d Department of Neurology , University of California , San Francisco , and
| | - Raymond R Goetz
- e New York State Psychiatric Institute & Department of Psychiatry , Columbia University , New York , USA
| | - Hiroshi Mitsumoto
- a Columbia MDA/ALS Research Center, Department of Neurology , Columbia University Medical Center
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Bambini V, Arcara G, Martinelli I, Bernini S, Alvisi E, Moro A, Cappa SF, Ceroni M. Communication and pragmatic breakdowns in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. BRAIN AND LANGUAGE 2016; 153-154:1-12. [PMID: 26799425 DOI: 10.1016/j.bandl.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Revised: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
While there is increasing attention toward cognitive changes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the domain of pragmatics, defined as the ability to integrate language and context to engage in successful communication, remains unexplored. Here we tested pragmatic abilities in 33 non-demented ALS patients and 33 healthy controls matched for age and education through 6 different tasks, ranging from discourse organization to the comprehension of figurative language, further grouped in three composite measures for pragmatic production, pragmatic comprehension and global pragmatic abilities. For a subgroup of patients, assessment included executive functions and social cognition skills. ALS patients were impaired on all pragmatic tasks relative to controls, with 45% of the patients performing below cut-off in at least one pragmatic task, and 36% impaired on the global pragmatic score. Pragmatic breakdowns were more common than executive deficit as defined by the consensus criteria, and approximately as prevalent as deficits in social cognition. Multiple regression analyses support the idea of an interplay of executive and social cognition abilities in determining the pragmatic performance, although all these domains show some degree of independence. These findings shed light on pragmatic impairment as a relevant dimension of ALS, which deserves further consideration in defining the cognitive profile of the disease, given its vital role for communication and social interaction in daily life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Bambini
- Center for Neurocognition and Theoretical Syntax (NeTS), Institute for Advanced Study (IUSS), Pavia, Italy.
| | | | - Ilaria Martinelli
- Division of General Neurology, National Neurological Institute "C. Mondino", Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Bernini
- Division of General Neurology, National Neurological Institute "C. Mondino", Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Alvisi
- Division of General Neurology, National Neurological Institute "C. Mondino", Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Moro
- Center for Neurocognition and Theoretical Syntax (NeTS), Institute for Advanced Study (IUSS), Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano F Cappa
- Center for Neurocognition and Theoretical Syntax (NeTS), Institute for Advanced Study (IUSS), Pavia, Italy; Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Ceroni
- Division of General Neurology, National Neurological Institute "C. Mondino", Pavia, Italy; Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy
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