1
|
Deutsch AJ, Elbasiouny SM. Dysregulation of persistent inward and outward currents in spinal motoneurons of symptomatic SOD1-G93A mice. J Physiol 2024. [PMID: 38924530 DOI: 10.1113/jp286032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Persistent inward currents (PICs) and persistent outward currents (POCs) regulate the excitability and firing behaviours of spinal motoneurons (MNs). Given their potential role in MN excitability dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), PICs have been previously studied in superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1)-G93A mice (the standard animal model of ALS); however, conflicting results have been reported on how the net PIC changes during disease progression. Also, individual PICs and POCs have never been examined before in symptomatic ALS. To fill this gap, we measured the net and individual PIC and POC components of wild-type (WT) and SOD MNs in current clamp and voltage clamp during disease progression (assessed by neuroscores). We show that SOD MNs of symptomatic mice experience a much larger net PIC, relative to WT cells from age-matched littermates. Specifically, the Na+ and Ca2+ PICs are larger, whereas the lasting SK-mediated (SKL) POC is smaller than WT (Na+ PIC is the largest and SKL POC is the smallest components in SOD MNs). We also show that PIC dysregulation is present at symptom onset, is sustained throughout advanced disease stages and is proportional to SOD MN cell size (largest dysregulation is in the largest SOD cells, the most vulnerable in ALS). Additionally, we show that studying disease progression using neuroscores is more accurate than using SOD mouse age, which could lead to misleading statistics and age-based trends. Collectively, this study contributes novel PIC and POC data, reveals ionic mechanisms contributing to the vulnerability differential among MN types/sizes, and provides insights on the roles PIC and POC mechanisms play in MN excitability dysfunction in ALS. KEY POINTS: Individual persistent inward currents (PICs) and persistent outward currents (POCs) have never been examined before in spinal motoneurons (MNs) of symptomatic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mice. Thus, we contribute novel PIC and POC data to the ALS literature. Male SOD MNs of symptomatic mice have elevated net PIC, with larger Na+ and Ca2+ PICs but reduced SKL POC vs. wild-type littermates. Na+ PIC is the largest and SKL POC is the smallest current in SOD cells. The PIC/POC dysregulation is present at symptom onset. PIC dysregulation is sustained throughout advanced disease, and is proportional to SOD MN size (largest dysregulation is in the largest cells, the most vulnerable in ALS). Thus, we reveal ionic mechanisms contributing to the vulnerability differential among MN types/sizes in ALS. Studying disease progression using SOD mice neuroscores is more accurate than using age, which could distort the statistical differences between SOD and WT PIC/POC data and the trends during disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Deutsch
- Department of Biomedical, Industrial, and Human Factors Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Sherif M Elbasiouny
- Department of Biomedical, Industrial, and Human Factors Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, College of Science and Mathematics, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wang H, Zeng R. Aberrant protein aggregation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12485-z. [PMID: 38869826 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12485-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease. As its pathological mechanisms are not well understood, there are no efficient therapeutics for it at present. While it is highly heterogenous both etiologically and clinically, it has a common salient hallmark, i.e., aberrant protein aggregation (APA). The upstream pathogenesis and the downstream effects of APA in ALS are sophisticated and the investigation of this pathology would be of consequence for understanding ALS. In this paper, the pathomechanism of APA in ALS and the candidate treatment strategies for it are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huaixiu Wang
- Department Neurology, Shanxi Provincial Peoples Hospital: Fifth Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China.
- Beijing Ai-Si-Kang Medical Technology Co. Ltd., No. 18 11th St Economical & Technological Development Zone, Beijing, 100176, China.
| | - Rong Zeng
- Department Neurology, Shanxi Provincial Peoples Hospital: Fifth Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Castelli L, Vasta R, Allen SP, Waller R, Chiò A, Traynor BJ, Kirby J. From use of omics to systems biology: Identifying therapeutic targets for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:209-268. [PMID: 38802176 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a heterogeneous progressive neurodegenerative disorder with available treatments such as riluzole and edaravone extending survival by an average of 3-6 months. The lack of highly effective, widely available therapies reflects the complexity of ALS. Omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomic and proteomics have contributed to the identification of biological pathways dysregulated and targeted by therapeutic strategies in preclinical and clinical trials. Integrating clinical, environmental and neuroimaging information with omics data and applying a systems biology approach can further improve our understanding of the disease with the potential to stratify patients and provide more personalised medicine. This chapter will review the omics technologies that contribute to a systems biology approach and how these components have assisted in identifying therapeutic targets. Current strategies, including the use of genetic screening and biosampling in clinical trials, as well as the future application of additional technological advances, will also be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Castelli
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Rosario Vasta
- ALS Expert Center,'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Neuromuscular Diseases Research Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Scott P Allen
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Waller
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Adriano Chiò
- ALS Expert Center,'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Neurology 1, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Bryan J Traynor
- Neuromuscular Diseases Research Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States; RNA Therapeutics Laboratory, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Rockville, MD, United States; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, United States; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, United States; Reta Lila Weston Institute, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology,University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janine Kirby
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Arnold FJ, Putka AF, Raychaudhuri U, Hsu S, Bedlack RS, Bennett CL, La Spada AR. Revisiting Glutamate Excitotoxicity in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Age-Related Neurodegeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5587. [PMID: 38891774 PMCID: PMC11171854 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common motor neuron disorder. While there are five FDA-approved drugs for treating this disease, each has only modest benefits. To design new and more effective therapies for ALS, particularly for sporadic ALS of unknown and diverse etiologies, we must identify key, convergent mechanisms of disease pathogenesis. This review focuses on the origin and effects of glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity in ALS (the cortical hyperexcitability hypothesis), in which increased glutamatergic signaling causes motor neurons to become hyperexcitable and eventually die. We characterize both primary and secondary contributions to excitotoxicity, referring to processes taking place at the synapse and within the cell, respectively. 'Primary pathways' include upregulation of calcium-permeable AMPA receptors, dysfunction of the EAAT2 astrocytic glutamate transporter, increased release of glutamate from the presynaptic terminal, and reduced inhibition by cortical interneurons-all of which have been observed in ALS patients and model systems. 'Secondary pathways' include changes to mitochondrial morphology and function, increased production of reactive oxygen species, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. By identifying key targets in the excitotoxicity cascade, we emphasize the importance of this pathway in the pathogenesis of ALS and suggest that intervening in this pathway could be effective for developing therapies for this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frederick J. Arnold
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
- Department of Neurology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (A.F.P.)
| | - Alexandra F. Putka
- Department of Neurology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (A.F.P.)
| | - Urmimala Raychaudhuri
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Solomon Hsu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Richard S. Bedlack
- Department of Neurology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (A.F.P.)
| | - Craig L. Bennett
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Albert R. La Spada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
- Department of Neurology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (A.F.P.)
- Department of Neurology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- UCI Center for Neurotherapeutics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Salzinger A, Ramesh V, Das Sharma S, Chandran S, Thangaraj Selvaraj B. Neuronal Circuit Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Cells 2024; 13:792. [PMID: 38786016 PMCID: PMC11120636 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The primary neural circuit affected in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients is the corticospinal motor circuit, originating in upper motor neurons (UMNs) in the cerebral motor cortex which descend to synapse with the lower motor neurons (LMNs) in the spinal cord to ultimately innervate the skeletal muscle. Perturbation of these neural circuits and consequent loss of both UMNs and LMNs, leading to muscle wastage and impaired movement, is the key pathophysiology observed. Despite decades of research, we are still lacking in ALS disease-modifying treatments. In this review, we document the current research from patient studies, rodent models, and human stem cell models in understanding the mechanisms of corticomotor circuit dysfunction and its implication in ALS. We summarize the current knowledge about cortical UMN dysfunction and degeneration, altered excitability in LMNs, neuromuscular junction degeneration, and the non-cell autonomous role of glial cells in motor circuit dysfunction in relation to ALS. We further highlight the advances in human stem cell technology to model the complex neural circuitry and how these can aid in future studies to better understand the mechanisms of neural circuit dysfunction underpinning ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Salzinger
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; (A.S.); (V.R.); (S.D.S.); (S.C.)
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Vidya Ramesh
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; (A.S.); (V.R.); (S.D.S.); (S.C.)
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Shreya Das Sharma
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; (A.S.); (V.R.); (S.D.S.); (S.C.)
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Siddharthan Chandran
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; (A.S.); (V.R.); (S.D.S.); (S.C.)
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic (ARRNC), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Bhuvaneish Thangaraj Selvaraj
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; (A.S.); (V.R.); (S.D.S.); (S.C.)
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic (ARRNC), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Odierna GL, Vucic S, Dyer M, Dickson T, Woodhouse A, Blizzard C. How do we get from hyperexcitability to excitotoxicity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis? Brain 2024; 147:1610-1621. [PMID: 38408864 PMCID: PMC11068114 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a devastating neurodegenerative disease that, at present, has no effective cure. Evidence of increased circulating glutamate and hyperexcitability of the motor cortex in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis have provided an empirical support base for the 'dying forward' excitotoxicity hypothesis. The hypothesis postulates that increased activation of upper motor neurons spreads pathology to lower motor neurons in the spinal cord in the form of excessive glutamate release, which triggers excitotoxic processes. Many clinical trials have focused on therapies that target excitotoxicity via dampening neuronal activation, but not all are effective. As such, there is a growing tension between the rising tide of evidence for the 'dying forward' excitotoxicity hypothesis and the failure of therapies that target neuronal activation. One possible solution to these contradictory outcomes is that our interpretation of the current evidence requires revision in the context of appreciating the complexity of the nervous system and the limitations of the neurobiological assays we use to study it. In this review we provide an evaluation of evidence relevant to the 'dying forward' excitotoxicity hypothesis and by doing so, identify key gaps in our knowledge that need to be addressed. We hope to provide a road map from hyperexcitability to excitotoxicity so that we can better develop therapies for patients suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We conclude that studies of upper motor neuron activity and their synaptic output will play a decisive role in the future of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Lorenzo Odierna
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia
| | - Marcus Dyer
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Tracey Dickson
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Adele Woodhouse
- The Wicking Dementia Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Catherine Blizzard
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hu Y, Chen W, Wei C, Jiang S, Li S, Wang X, Xu R. Pathological mechanisms of amyotrophic lateral Sclerosis. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1036-1044. [PMID: 37862206 PMCID: PMC10749610 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.382985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis refers to a neurodegenerative disease involving the motor system, the cause of which remains unexplained despite several years of research. Thus, the journey to understanding or treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is still a long one. According to current research, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is likely not due to a single factor but rather to a combination of mechanisms mediated by complex interactions between molecular and genetic pathways. The progression of the disease involves multiple cellular processes and the interaction between different complex mechanisms makes it difficult to identify the causative factors of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Here, we review the most common amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-associated pathogenic genes and the pathways involved in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, as well as summarize currently proposed potential mechanisms responsible for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease and their evidence for involvement in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In addition, we discuss current emerging strategies for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Studying the emergence of these new therapies may help to further our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yushu Hu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wenzhi Chen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Caihui Wei
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shishi Jiang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Renshi Xu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College; The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
De Marchi F, Venkatesan S, Saraceno M, Mazzini L, Grossini E. Acetyl-L-carnitine and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Current Evidence and Potential use. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2024; 23:588-601. [PMID: 36998125 DOI: 10.2174/1871527322666230330083757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The management of neurodegenerative diseases can be frustrating for clinicians, given the limited progress of conventional medicine in this context. AIM For this reason, a more comprehensive, integrative approach is urgently needed. Among various emerging focuses for intervention, the modulation of central nervous system energetics, oxidative stress, and inflammation is becoming more and more promising. METHODS In particular, electrons leakage involved in the mitochondrial energetics can generate reactive oxygen-free radical-related mitochondrial dysfunction that would contribute to the etiopathology of many disorders, such as Alzheimer's and other dementias, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). RESULTS In this context, using agents, like acetyl L-carnitine (ALCAR), provides mitochondrial support, reduces oxidative stress, and improves synaptic transmission. CONCLUSION This narrative review aims to update the existing literature on ALCAR molecular profile, tolerability, and translational clinical potential use in neurodegeneration, focusing on ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola De Marchi
- ALS Center, Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Sakthipriyan Venkatesan
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Massimo Saraceno
- ALS Center, Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- ALS Center, Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Elena Grossini
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale 28100, Novara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Arslan BT, Görkem Özyurt M, İşak B, Cecen S, Türker KS. Single motor unit estimation of the cutaneous silent period in ALS. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 157:110-119. [PMID: 38096766 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2023.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recent evidence indicated that amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) also impairs spinal circuits, including those mediating cutaneous silent period (CSP). However, most studies utilised surface electromyography (sEMG), which needs more resolution to pinpoint changes at the single motoneuron level. We aimed to investigate CSP properties using single motor unit discharges in ALS. METHODS In mild and severe ALS patients and controls, CSP was recorded in the first dorsal interosseus and analysed using the discharge rate method, which accurately shows the inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs) profile. RESULTS Our findings confirmed that the CSP latency was prolonged only in severe ALS patients. Moreover, the CSP duration was similar in each group, but late-stage ALS patients tend to have a longer CSP duration. The discharge rate method revealed a significantly longer duration (up to 150 ms) than the duration detected using sEMG. Strikingly, the motoneuron discharge rate - IPSP duration inverse relationship is lost in ALS patients, indicating a possible impairment in the motoneuron integrative properties. CONCLUSIONS Our data support previous findings of prolonged latency, presented input-output modifications of motoneurons, and revealed the entire course of the CSP, representing a much stronger inhibitory event than previously thought. SIGNIFICANCE Motoneuron integrative property modification assessed by CSP could be a new biomarker for ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - M Görkem Özyurt
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Barış İşak
- Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Serpil Cecen
- Health Science University, Hamidiye Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kemal S Türker
- Istanbul Gelisim University, Faculty of Dentistry, Physiology, Istanbul, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Stringer RN, Weiss N. Pathophysiology of ion channels in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Mol Brain 2023; 16:82. [PMID: 38102715 PMCID: PMC10722804 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-023-01070-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) stands as the most prevalent and severe form of motor neuron disease, affecting an estimated 2 in 100,000 individuals worldwide. It is characterized by the progressive loss of cortical, brainstem, and spinal motor neurons, ultimately resulting in muscle weakness and death. Although the etiology of ALS remains poorly understood in most cases, the remodelling of ion channels and alteration in neuronal excitability represent a hallmark of the disease, manifesting not only during the symptomatic period but also in the early pre-symptomatic stages. In this review, we delve into these alterations observed in ALS patients and preclinical disease models, and explore their consequences on neuronal activities. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of ion channels as therapeutic targets in the context of ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin N Stringer
- Department of Pathophysiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Norbert Weiss
- Department of Pathophysiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
- Center of Biosciences, Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lunghi G, Di Biase E, Carsana EV, Henriques A, Callizot N, Mauri L, Ciampa MG, Mari L, Loberto N, Aureli M, Sonnino S, Spedding M, Chiricozzi E, Fazzari M. GM1 ganglioside exerts protective effects against glutamate-excitotoxicity via its oligosaccharide in wild-type and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis motor neurons. FEBS Open Bio 2023; 13:2324-2341. [PMID: 37885330 PMCID: PMC10699117 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Alterations in glycosphingolipid metabolism have been linked to the pathophysiological mechanisms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons. Accordingly, administration of GM1, a sialic acid-containing glycosphingolipid, is protective against neuronal damage and supports neuronal homeostasis, with these effects mediated by its bioactive component, the oligosaccharide head (GM1-OS). Here, we add new evidence to the therapeutic efficacy of GM1 in ALS: Its administration to WT and SOD1G93A motor neurons affected by glutamate-induced excitotoxicity significantly increased neuronal survival and preserved neurite networks, counteracting intracellular protein accumulation and mitochondria impairment. Importantly, the GM1-OS faithfully replicates GM1 activity, emphasizing that even in ALS the protective function of GM1 strictly depends on its pentasaccharide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Lunghi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Erika Di Biase
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Emma Veronica Carsana
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | | | | | - Laura Mauri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Maria Grazia Ciampa
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Luigi Mari
- Department of ImmunologySt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTNUSA
| | - Nicoletta Loberto
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Massimo Aureli
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Sandro Sonnino
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | | | - Elena Chiricozzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Maria Fazzari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Firstenfeld AJ, Listorti J, Jalaff N, Loaiza Orozco CP, Navarrete Gosdenovich F, Schurr T. Add-on treatment with Cerebrolysin improves clinical symptoms in patients with ALS: results from a prospective, single-center, placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind, phase II study. J Med Life 2023; 16:1750-1755. [PMID: 38585517 PMCID: PMC10994623 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2023-0459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating and progressive neurodegenerative disease with limited treatment options available. Cerebrolysin is a drug candidate for the treatment of ALS because of its neuroprotective and neuroregenerative effects. We initiated a pilot clinical study of a combination of Cerebrolysin and riluzole to assess the therapeutic benefit of Cerebrolysin as an add-on treatment on clinical signs and symptoms in outpatients with ALS. Twenty patients with a clinically definitive diagnosis of ALS were enrolled and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive Cerebrolysin or placebo. All patients received 50 mg of riluzole PO twice daily as a standard treatment. Patients in the Cerebrolysin group received intravenous injections of 10 mL of Cerebrolysin once daily, five days a week for the first month and three days a week for the next two months. Analysis of the ALS Functional Rating Scale - revised at Month 1 (primary outcome measure), showed a significant treatment effect in favor of Cerebrolysin with a 2.3-point improvement from baseline to Month 1 compared to a 0.9-point decrease in patients on placebo (P=0.005). The effect was maintained over the three-month study period, and the beneficial effect of Cerebrolysin over placebo was also evident in the secondary outcome measures. The safety analysis showed that the combination of riluzole and Cerebrolyisn was well tolerated. Our results demonstrate for the first time a significant clinical effect of Cerebrolysin in improving functional outcomes in patients with ALS and suggest that Cerebrolysin has potential as a novel therapeutic option for ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo José Firstenfeld
- Servicio de Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto Cardiológico Banfield, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jorge Listorti
- Servicio de Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto Cardiológico Banfield, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nasser Jalaff
- Servicio de Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto Cardiológico Banfield, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Timo Schurr
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Division of Psychiatry I, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Provenzano F, Torazza C, Bonifacino T, Bonanno G, Milanese M. The Key Role of Astrocytes in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Their Commitment to Glutamate Excitotoxicity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15430. [PMID: 37895110 PMCID: PMC10607805 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, there has been increasing evidence supporting non-neuronal cells as active contributors to neurodegenerative disorders. Among glial cells, astrocytes play a pivotal role in driving amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) progression, leading the scientific community to focus on the "astrocytic signature" in ALS. Here, we summarized the main pathological mechanisms characterizing astrocyte contribution to MN damage and ALS progression, such as neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, energy metabolism impairment, miRNAs and extracellular vesicles contribution, autophagy dysfunction, protein misfolding, and altered neurotrophic factor release. Since glutamate excitotoxicity is one of the most relevant ALS features, we focused on the specific contribution of ALS astrocytes in this aspect, highlighting the known or potential molecular mechanisms by which astrocytes participate in increasing the extracellular glutamate level in ALS and, conversely, undergo the toxic effect of the excessive glutamate. In this scenario, astrocytes can behave as "producers" and "targets" of the high extracellular glutamate levels, going through changes that can affect themselves and, in turn, the neuronal and non-neuronal surrounding cells, thus actively impacting the ALS course. Moreover, this review aims to point out knowledge gaps that deserve further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Provenzano
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, 16148 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (C.T.); (G.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Carola Torazza
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, 16148 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (C.T.); (G.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Tiziana Bonifacino
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, 16148 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (C.T.); (G.B.); (M.M.)
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giambattista Bonanno
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, 16148 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (C.T.); (G.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Marco Milanese
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, 16148 Genova, Italy; (F.P.); (C.T.); (G.B.); (M.M.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Song J, Dikwella N, Sinske D, Roselli F, Knöll B. SRF deletion results in earlier disease onset in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e167694. [PMID: 37339001 PMCID: PMC10445689 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.167694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes in neuronal activity modulate the vulnerability of motoneurons (MNs) in neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). So far, the molecular basis of neuronal activity's impact in ALS is poorly understood. Herein, we investigated the impact of deleting the neuronal activity-stimulated transcription factor (TF) serum response factor (SRF) in MNs of SOD1G93A mice. SRF was present in vulnerable MMP9+ MNs. Ablation of SRF in MNs induced an earlier disease onset starting around 7-8 weeks after birth, as revealed by enhanced weight loss and decreased motor ability. This earlier disease onset in SRF-depleted MNs was accompanied by a mild elevation of neuroinflammation and neuromuscular synapse degeneration, whereas overall MN numbers and mortality were unaffected. In SRF-deficient mice, MNs showed impaired induction of autophagy-encoding genes, suggesting a potentially new SRF function in transcriptional regulation of autophagy. Complementary, constitutively active SRF-VP16 enhanced autophagy-encoding gene transcription and autophagy progression in cells. Furthermore, SRF-VP16 decreased ALS-associated aggregate induction. Chemogenetic modulation of neuronal activity uncovered SRF as having important TF-mediating activity-dependent effects, which might be beneficial to reduce ALS disease burden. Thus, our data identify SRF as a gene regulator connecting neuronal activity with the cellular autophagy program initiated in degenerating MNs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jialei Song
- Institute of Neurobiochemistry and
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Natalie Dikwella
- Institute of Neurobiochemistry and
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Francesco Roselli
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases-Ulm (DZNE-Ulm), Ulm, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Torazza C, Provenzano F, Gallia E, Cerminara M, Balbi M, Bonifacino T, Tessitore S, Ravera S, Usai C, Musante I, Puliti A, Van Den Bosch L, Jafar-nejad P, Rigo F, Milanese M, Bonanno G. Genetic Downregulation of the Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor Type 5 Dampens the Reactive and Neurotoxic Phenotype of Adult ALS Astrocytes. Cells 2023; 12:1952. [PMID: 37566031 PMCID: PMC10416852 DOI: 10.3390/cells12151952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons (MNs). Astrocytes display a toxic phenotype in ALS, which results in MN damage. Glutamate (Glu)-mediated excitotoxicity and group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) play a pathological role in the disease progression. We previously demonstrated that in vivo genetic ablation or pharmacological modulation of mGluR5 reduced astrocyte activation and MN death, prolonged survival and ameliorated the clinical progression in the SOD1G93A mouse model of ALS. This study aimed to investigate in vitro the effects of mGluR5 downregulation on the reactive spinal cord astrocytes cultured from adult late symptomatic SOD1G93A mice. We observed that mGluR5 downregulation in SOD1G93A astrocytes diminished the cytosolic Ca2+ overload under resting conditions and after mGluR5 simulation and reduced the expression of the reactive glial markers GFAP, S100β and vimentin. In vitro exposure to an anti-mGluR5 antisense oligonucleotide or to the negative allosteric modulator CTEP also ameliorated the altered reactive astrocyte phenotype. Downregulating mGluR5 in SOD1G93A mice reduced the synthesis and release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α and ameliorated the cellular bioenergetic profile by improving the diminished oxygen consumption and ATP synthesis and by lowering the excessive lactate dehydrogenase activity. Most relevantly, mGluR5 downregulation hampered the neurotoxicity of SOD1G93A astrocytes co-cultured with spinal cord MNs. We conclude that selective reduction in mGluR5 expression in SOD1G93A astrocytes positively modulates the astrocyte reactive phenotype and neurotoxicity towards MNs, further supporting mGluR5 as a promising therapeutic target in ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carola Torazza
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (C.T.); (F.P.); (E.G.); (M.B.); (T.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Francesca Provenzano
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (C.T.); (F.P.); (E.G.); (M.B.); (T.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Elena Gallia
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (C.T.); (F.P.); (E.G.); (M.B.); (T.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Maria Cerminara
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Largo Paolo Daneo, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (M.C.); (A.P.)
- UOC Genetica Medica, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Matilde Balbi
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (C.T.); (F.P.); (E.G.); (M.B.); (T.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Tiziana Bonifacino
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (C.T.); (F.P.); (E.G.); (M.B.); (T.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.)
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Tessitore
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (C.T.); (F.P.); (E.G.); (M.B.); (T.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Silvia Ravera
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Via Alberti L.B. 2, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| | - Cesare Usai
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council (CNR), Via De Marini 6, 16149 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Ilaria Musante
- UOC Genetica Medica, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Aldamaria Puliti
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Largo Paolo Daneo, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (M.C.); (A.P.)
- UOC Genetica Medica, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- VIB-Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Frank Rigo
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, CA 92010, USA; (P.J.-n.); (F.R.)
| | - Marco Milanese
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (C.T.); (F.P.); (E.G.); (M.B.); (T.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Giambattista Bonanno
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (C.T.); (F.P.); (E.G.); (M.B.); (T.B.); (S.T.); (G.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hosaka T, Tsuji H, Kwak S. Roles of Aging, Circular RNAs, and RNA Editing in the Pathogenesis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Potential Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets. Cells 2023; 12:1443. [PMID: 37408276 DOI: 10.3390/cells12101443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable motor neuron disease caused by upper and lower motor neuron death. Despite advances in our understanding of ALS pathogenesis, effective treatment for this fatal disease remains elusive. As aging is a major risk factor for ALS, age-related molecular changes may provide clues for the development of new therapeutic strategies. Dysregulation of age-dependent RNA metabolism plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of ALS. In addition, failure of RNA editing at the glutamine/arginine (Q/R) site of GluA2 mRNA causes excitotoxicity due to excessive Ca2+ influx through Ca2+-permeable α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptors, which is recognized as an underlying mechanism of motor neuron death in ALS. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a circular form of cognate RNA generated by back-splicing, are abundant in the brain and accumulate with age. Hence, they are assumed to play a role in neurodegeneration. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that age-related dysregulation of RNA editing and changes in circRNA expression are involved in ALS pathogenesis. Herein, we review the potential associations between age-dependent changes in circRNAs and RNA editing, and discuss the possibility of developing new therapies and biomarkers for ALS based on age-related changes in circRNAs and dysregulation of RNA editing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Hosaka
- Department of Neurology, Division of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
- University of Tsukuba Hospital/Jichi Medical University Joint Ibaraki Western Regional Clinical Education Center, Chikusei 308-0813, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ibaraki Western Medical Center, Chikusei 308-0813, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tsuji
- Department of Neurology, Division of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Shin Kwak
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Antonioni A, Govoni V, Brancaleoni L, Donà A, Granieri E, Bergamini M, Gerdol R, Pugliatti M. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Air Pollutants in the Province of Ferrara, Northern Italy: An Ecological Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20085591. [PMID: 37107873 PMCID: PMC10138704 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The etiopathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is still largely unknown, but likely depends on gene-environment interactions. Among the putative sources of environmental exposure are air pollutants and especially heavy metals. We aimed to investigate the relationship between ALS density and the concentration of air pollution heavy metals in Ferrara, northern Italy. An ecological study was designed to correlate the map of ALS distribution and that of air pollutants. All ALS cases diagnosed between 2000 and 2017 (Ferrara University Hospital administrative data) were plotted by residency in 100 sub-areas, and grouped in 4 sectors: urban, rural, northwestern and along the motorway. The concentrations of silver, aluminium, cadmium, chrome, copper, iron, manganese, lead, and selenium in moss and lichens were measured and monitored in 2006 and 2011. Based on 62 ALS patients, a strong and direct correlation of ALS density was observed only with copper concentrations in all sectors and in both sexes (Pearson coefficient (ρ) = 0.758; p = 0.000002). The correlation was higher in the urban sector (ρ = 0.767; p = 0.000128), in women for the overall population (ρ = 0.782, p = 0.000028) and in the urban (ρ = 0.872, p = 0.000047) population, and for the older cohort of diagnosed patients (2000-2009) the assessment correlated with the first assessment of air pollutants in 2006 (ρ = 0.724, p = 0.008). Our data is, in part, consistent with a hypothesis linking copper pollution to ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annibale Antonioni
- Unit of Clinical Neurology, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (A.A.); (E.G.)
- Doctoral Program in Translational Neurosciences and Neurotechnologies, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Vittorio Govoni
- Unit of Clinical Neurology, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (A.A.); (E.G.)
| | - Lisa Brancaleoni
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Donà
- Unit of Clinical Neurology, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (A.A.); (E.G.)
| | - Enrico Granieri
- Unit of Clinical Neurology, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (A.A.); (E.G.)
| | - Mauro Bergamini
- Preventive Medicine and Risk Assessment, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Renato Gerdol
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maura Pugliatti
- Unit of Clinical Neurology, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (A.A.); (E.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0532-239309
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Balbi M, Bonanno G, Bonifacino T, Milanese M. The Physio-Pathological Role of Group I Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors Expressed by Microglia in Health and Disease with a Focus on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065240. [PMID: 36982315 PMCID: PMC10048889 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia cells are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system. They act as the first-line immune guardians of nervous tissue and central drivers of neuroinflammation. Any homeostatic alteration that can compromise neuron and tissue integrity could activate microglia. Once activated, microglia exhibit highly diverse phenotypes and functions related to either beneficial or harmful consequences. Microglia activation is associated with the release of protective or deleterious cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors that can in turn determine defensive or pathological outcomes. This scenario is complicated by the pathology-related specific phenotypes that microglia can assume, thus leading to the so-called disease-associated microglia phenotypes. Microglia express several receptors that regulate the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory features, sometimes exerting opposite actions on microglial functions according to specific conditions. In this context, group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are molecular structures that may contribute to the modulation of the reactive phenotype of microglia cells, and this is worthy of exploration. Here, we summarize the role of group I mGluRs in shaping microglia cells' phenotype in specific physio-pathological conditions, including some neurodegenerative disorders. A significant section of the review is specifically focused on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) since it represents an entirely unexplored topic of research in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matilde Balbi
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
| | - Giambattista Bonanno
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bonifacino
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Milanese
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mead RJ, Shan N, Reiser HJ, Marshall F, Shaw PJ. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a neurodegenerative disorder poised for successful therapeutic translation. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:185-212. [PMID: 36543887 PMCID: PMC9768794 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-022-00612-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 89.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating disease caused by degeneration of motor neurons. As with all major neurodegenerative disorders, development of disease-modifying therapies has proven challenging for multiple reasons. Nevertheless, ALS is one of the few neurodegenerative diseases for which disease-modifying therapies are approved. Significant discoveries and advances have been made in ALS preclinical models, genetics, pathology, biomarkers, imaging and clinical readouts over the last 10-15 years. At the same time, novel therapeutic paradigms are being applied in areas of high unmet medical need, including neurodegenerative disorders. These developments have evolved our knowledge base, allowing identification of targeted candidate therapies for ALS with diverse mechanisms of action. In this Review, we discuss how this advanced knowledge, aligned with new approaches, can enable effective translation of therapeutic agents from preclinical studies through to clinical benefit for patients with ALS. We anticipate that this approach in ALS will also positively impact the field of drug discovery for neurodegenerative disorders more broadly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Mead
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Keapstone Therapeutics, The Innovation Centre, Broomhall, Sheffield, UK
| | - Ning Shan
- Aclipse Therapeutics, Radnor, PA, US
| | | | - Fiona Marshall
- MSD UK Discovery Centre, Merck, Sharp and Dohme (UK) Limited, London, UK
| | - Pamela J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
- Keapstone Therapeutics, The Innovation Centre, Broomhall, Sheffield, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
de Oliveira LMG, Carreira RB, de Oliveira JVR, do Nascimento RP, Dos Santos Souza C, Trias E, da Silva VDA, Costa SL. Impact of Plant-Derived Compounds on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurotox Res 2023; 41:288-309. [PMID: 36800114 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-022-00632-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal illness characterized by progressive motor neuron degeneration. Conventional therapies for ALS are based on treatment of symptoms, and the disease remains incurable. Molecular mechanisms are unclear, but studies have been pointing to involvement of glia, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and glutamate excitotoxicity as a key factor. Nowadays, we have few treatments for this disease that only delays death, but also does not stop the neurodegenerative process. These treatments are based on glutamate blockage (riluzole), tyrosine kinase inhibition (masitinib), and antioxidant activity (edaravone). In the past few years, plant-derived compounds have been studied for neurodegenerative disorder therapies based on neuroprotection and glial cell response. In this review, we describe mechanisms of action of natural compounds associated with neuroprotective effects, and the possibilities for new therapeutic strategies in ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Matheus Gonçalves de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, 40110-100, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Barreto Carreira
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, 40110-100, Brazil
| | - Juciele Valeria Ribeiro de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, 40110-100, Brazil
| | - Ravena Pereira do Nascimento
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, 40110-100, Brazil
| | - Cleide Dos Santos Souza
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Victor Diogenes Amaral da Silva
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, 40110-100, Brazil.
| | - Silvia Lima Costa
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, 40110-100, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Giovannelli I, Higginbottom A, Kirby J, Azzouz M, Shaw PJ. Prospects for gene replacement therapies in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Nat Rev Neurol 2023; 19:39-52. [PMID: 36481799 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-022-00751-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating and incurable neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive loss of upper and lower motor neurons. ALS causes death, usually within 2-5 years of diagnosis. Riluzole, the only drug currently approved in Europe for the treatment of this condition, offers only a modest benefit, increasing survival by 3 months on average. Recent advances in our understanding of causative or disease-modifying genetic variants and in the development of genetic therapy strategies present exciting new therapeutic opportunities for ALS. In addition, the approval of adeno-associated virus-mediated delivery of functional copies of the SMN1 gene to treat spinal muscular atrophy represents an important therapeutic milestone and demonstrates the potential of gene replacement therapies for motor neuron disorders. In this Review, we describe the current landscape of genetic therapies in ALS, highlighting achievements and critical challenges. In particular, we discuss opportunities for gene replacement therapy in subgroups of people with ALS, and we describe loss-of-function mutations that are known to contribute to the pathophysiology of ALS and could represent novel targets for gene replacement therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Giovannelli
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Adrian Higginbottom
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Janine Kirby
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Mimoun Azzouz
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Pamela J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ng W, Ng SY. Remodeling of astrocyte secretome in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: uncovering novel targets to combat astrocyte-mediated toxicity. Transl Neurodegener 2022; 11:54. [PMID: 36567359 PMCID: PMC9791755 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-022-00332-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult-onset paralytic disease characterized by progressive degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons in the motor cortex, brainstem and spinal cord. Motor neuron degeneration is typically caused by a combination of intrinsic neuronal (cell autonomous) defects as well as extrinsic (non-cell autonomous) factors such as astrocyte-mediated toxicity. Astrocytes are highly plastic cells that react to their microenvironment to mediate relevant responses. In neurodegeneration, astrocytes often turn reactive and in turn secrete a slew of factors to exert pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic effects. Various efforts have been carried out to characterize the diseased astrocyte secretome over the years, revealing that pro-inflammatory chemokines, cytokines and microRNAs are the main players in mediating neuronal death. As metabolomic technologies mature, these studies begin to shed light on neurotoxic metabolites such as secreted lipids. In this focused review, we will discuss changes in the astrocyte secretome during ALS. In particular, we will discuss the components of the reactive astrocyte secretome that contribute to neuronal death in ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Winanto Ng
- grid.418812.60000 0004 0620 9243Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A*STAR Research Entities, Singapore, 138673 Singapore
| | - Shi-Yan Ng
- grid.418812.60000 0004 0620 9243Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A*STAR Research Entities, Singapore, 138673 Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Gelon PA, Dutchak PA, Sephton CF. Synaptic dysfunction in ALS and FTD: anatomical and molecular changes provide insights into mechanisms of disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1000183. [PMID: 36263379 PMCID: PMC9575515 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1000183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic loss is a pathological feature of all neurodegenerative diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). ALS is a disease of the cortical and spinal motor neurons resulting in fatal paralysis due to denervation of muscles. FTD is a form of dementia that primarily affects brain regions controlling cognition, language and behavior. Once classified as two distinct diseases, ALS and FTD are now considered as part of a common disease spectrum based on overlapping clinical, pathological and genetic evidence. At the cellular level, aggregation of common proteins and overlapping gene susceptibilities are shared in both ALS and FTD. Despite the convergence of these two fields of research, the underlying disease mechanisms remain elusive. However, recent discovers from ALS and FTD patient studies and models of ALS/FTD strongly suggests that synaptic dysfunction is an early event in the disease process and a unifying hallmark of these diseases. This review provides a summary of the reported anatomical and cellular changes that occur in cortical and spinal motor neurons in ALS and FTD tissues and models of disease. We also highlight studies that identify changes in the proteome and transcriptome of ALS and FTD models and provide a conceptual overview of the processes that contribute to synaptic dysfunction in these diseases. Due to space limitations and the vast number of publications in the ALS and FTD fields, many articles have not been discussed in this review. As such, this review focuses on the three most common shared mutations in ALS and FTD, the hexanucleuotide repeat expansion within intron 1 of chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9ORF72), transactive response DNA binding protein 43 (TARDBP or TDP-43) and fused in sarcoma (FUS), with the intention of highlighting common pathways that promote synaptic dysfunction in the ALS-FTD disease spectrum.
Collapse
|
24
|
Shi G, Zhou J, Huang K, Bi FF. Trends in global amyotrophic lateral sclerosis research from 2000 to 2022: A bibliometric analysis. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:965230. [PMID: 36033620 PMCID: PMC9399758 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.965230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a relentlessly progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting the motor neurons. Although much research has been conducted in this field, few bibliometric studies have been conducted. This study aimed to provide an overview of publishing characteristics and trends in ALS research since 2000 using a bibliometric analysis. Methods We conducted a comprehensive literature search in the Web of Science (WOS) Core Collection database for scientific output related to ALS from 2000 to 2022. The retrieved dataset was refined using Google OpenRefine and analyzed using bibliometrix. Results A total of 29,391 articles published since 2000 were retrieved, with an average annual growth rate of 6.35%. Ninety-six countries and regions contributed to ALS research, among which the United States had the dominant position with the highest number of publications (n = 8,202) and citations (n = 558,561). An association analysis was performed to form networks of country collaboration and keyword co-occurrence. The evolution of topic trends was demonstrated in terms of both frequency and proportion. Conclusion The output of ALS research has increased steadily over the years, and the United States and Western Europe are leaders in this field. There is an upgradation in the pathomechanism and clinical research on ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guanzhong Shi
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jinxia Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fang-Fang Bi
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Collins JM, Atkinson RAK, Matthews LM, Murray IC, Perry SE, King AE. Sarm1 knockout modifies biomarkers of neurodegeneration and spinal cord circuitry but not disease progression in the mSOD1 G93A mouse model of ALS. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 172:105821. [PMID: 35863521 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying the loss of motor neuron axon integrity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are unclear. SARM1 has been identified as a genetic risk variant in sporadic ALS, and the SARM1 protein is a key mediator of axon degeneration. To investigate the role of SARM1 in ALS-associated axon degeneration, we knocked out Sarm1 (Sarm1KO) in mSOD1G93ATg (mSOD1) mice. Animals were monitored for ALS disease onset and severity, with motor function assessed at pre-symptomatic and late-stage disease and lumbar spinal cord and sciatic nerve harvested for immunohistochemistry at endpoint (20 weeks). Serum was collected monthly to assess protein concentrations of biomarkers linked to axon degeneration (neurofilament light (NFL) and tau), and astrogliosis (glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)), using single molecule array (Simoa®) technology. Overall, loss of Sarm1 in mSOD1 mice did not slow or delay symptom onset, failed to improve functional declines, and failed to protect motor neurons. Serum NFL levels in mSOD1 mice increased between 8 -12 and 16-20 weeks of age, with the later increase significantly reduced by loss of SARM1. Similarly, loss of SARM1 significantly reduced an increase in serum GFAP between 16 and 20 weeks of age in mSOD1 mice, indicating protection of both global axon degeneration and astrogliosis. In the spinal cord, Sarm1 deletion protected against loss of excitatory VGluT2-positive puncta and attenuated astrogliosis in mSOD1 mice. In the sciatic nerve, absence of SARM1 in mSOD1 mice restored the average area of phosphorylated neurofilament reactivity towards WT levels. Together these data suggest that Sarm1KO in mSOD1 mice is not sufficient to ameliorate functional decline or motor neuron loss but does alter serum biomarker levels and provide protection to axons and glutamatergic synapses. This indicates that treatments targeting SARM1 could warrant further investigation in ALS, potentially as part of a combination therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Collins
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 143, Hobart, Tas, 7001, Australia.
| | - Rachel A K Atkinson
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 143, Hobart, Tas, 7001, Australia.
| | - Lyzette M Matthews
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 143, Hobart, Tas, 7001, Australia.
| | - Isabella C Murray
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 143, Hobart, Tas, 7001, Australia.
| | - Sharn E Perry
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 143, Hobart, Tas, 7001, Australia.
| | - Anna E King
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 143, Hobart, Tas, 7001, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhang J, Wen A, Chai W, Liang H, Tang C, Gan W, Xu R. Potential proteomic alteration in the brain of Tg(SOD1*G93A)1Gur mice: A new pathogenesis insight of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cell Biol Int 2022; 46:1378-1398. [PMID: 35801511 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remains unclear. The recent studies have suggested that the protein abnormalities could play some important roles in ALS because several protein mutations were found in individuals with this disease. However, proteins that are currently known to be associated with ALS only explain the pathogenesis of this disease in a minority of cases, thus, further screening is needed to identify other ALS-related proteins. In this study, we systematically analyzed and compared the brain proteomic alterations between a mouse model of ALS, the Tg(SOD1*G93A)1Gur model, and wild-type mice using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) as well as bioinformatics methods. The results revealed some significant up- and downregulated proteins at the different developmental stages in the ALS-like mice as well as the possibly related cellular components, molecular functions, biological processes, and pathways in the development of ALS. Our results identified some possible proteins that participate in the pathogenesis of ALS as well as the cellular components that are damaged by these proteins, we additionally identified the molecular functions, the biological processes, and the pathways of these proteins as well as the molecules that are associated with these pathways. This study represents an important preliminary investigation of the role of proteomic abnormalities in the pathogenesis of ALS, both in human patients and other animal models. We present some novel findings that may serve as a basis for further investigation of abnormal proteins that are involved in the pathogenesis of ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - An Wen
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Affiliated People's Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wen Chai
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Affiliated People's Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Huiting Liang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chunyan Tang
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Affiliated People's Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Weiming Gan
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Renshi Xu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Affiliated People's Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating motor neuron disease for which there is currently no robust therapy. Recent progress in understanding ALS disease mechanisms and genetics in combination with innovations in gene modulation strategies creates promising new options for the development of ALS therapies. In recent years, six gene modulation therapies have been tested in ALS patients. These target gain-of-function pathology of the most common ALS genes, SOD1, C9ORF72, FUS, and ATXN2, using adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated microRNAs and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). Here, we review the latest clinical and preclinical advances in gene modulation approaches for ALS, including gene silencing, gene correction, and gene augmentation. These techniques have the potential to positively impact the direction of future research trials and transform ALS treatments for this grave disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina E Meijboom
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Robert H Brown
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Liang B, Thapa R, Zhang G, Moffitt C, Zhang Y, Zhang L, Johnston A, Ruby HP, Barbera G, Wong PC, Zhang Z, Chen R, Lin DT, Li Y. Aberrant Neural Activity in Prefrontal Pyramidal Neurons Lacking TDP-43 Precedes Neuron loss. Prog Neurobiol 2022; 215:102297. [PMID: 35667630 PMCID: PMC9258405 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2022.102297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mislocalization of TAR DNA binding protein 43 kDa (TARDBP, or TDP-43) is a principal pathological hallmark identified in cases of neurodegenerative disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). As an RNA binding protein, TDP-43 serves in the nuclear compartment to repress non-conserved cryptic exons to ensure the normal transcriptome. Multiple lines of evidence from animal models and human studies support the view that loss of TDP-43 leads to neuron loss, independent of its cytosolic aggregation. However, the underlying pathogenic pathways driven by the loss-of-function mechanism are still poorly defined. We employed a genetic approach to determine the impact of TDP-43 loss in pyramidal neurons of the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Using a custom-built miniscope imaging system, we performed repetitive in vivo calcium imaging from freely behaving mice for up to 7 months. By comparing calcium activity in PFC pyramidal neurons between TDP-43 depleted and TDP-43 intact mice, we demonstrated remarkably increased numbers of pyramidal neurons exhibiting hyperactive calcium activity after short-term TDP-43 depletion, followed by rapid activity declines prior to neuron loss. Our results suggest aberrant neural activity driven by loss of TDP-43 as the pathogenic pathway at early stage in ALS and FTD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Liang
- School of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, College of Engineering & Mines, University of North Dakota, 243 Centennial Drive Stop 7165, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA.
| | - Rashmi Thapa
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, 1000 E University Avenue, Laramie, WY 82071, USA.
| | - Gracie Zhang
- Laramie High School, 1710 Boulder Drive, Laramie, WY 82070, USA.
| | - Casey Moffitt
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
| | - Lifeng Zhang
- School of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, College of Engineering & Mines, University of North Dakota, 243 Centennial Drive Stop 7165, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA; Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, 1000 E University Avenue, Laramie, WY 82071, USA; Laramie High School, 1710 Boulder Drive, Laramie, WY 82070, USA; Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 100N. Greene St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Amanda Johnston
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, 1000 E University Avenue, Laramie, WY 82071, USA.
| | - Hyrum P Ruby
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, 1000 E University Avenue, Laramie, WY 82071, USA.
| | - Giovanni Barbera
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
| | - Philip C Wong
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Zhaojie Zhang
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, 1000 E University Avenue, Laramie, WY 82071, USA.
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 100N. Greene St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
| | - Da-Ting Lin
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, 1000 E University Avenue, Laramie, WY 82071, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Budgett RF, Bakker G, Sergeev E, Bennett KA, Bradley SJ. Targeting the Type 5 Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor: A Potential Therapeutic Strategy for Neurodegenerative Diseases? Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:893422. [PMID: 35645791 PMCID: PMC9130574 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.893422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The type 5 metabotropic glutamate receptor, mGlu5, has been proposed as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of several neurodegenerative diseases. In preclinical neurodegenerative disease models, novel allosteric modulators have been shown to improve cognitive performance and reduce disease-related pathology. A common pathological hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases is a chronic neuroinflammatory response, involving glial cells such as astrocytes and microglia. Since mGlu5 is expressed in astrocytes, targeting this receptor could provide a potential mechanism by which neuroinflammatory processes in neurodegenerative disease may be modulated. This review will discuss current evidence that highlights the potential of mGlu5 allosteric modulators to treat neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Furthermore, this review will explore the role of mGlu5 in neuroinflammatory responses, and the potential for this G protein-coupled receptor to modulate neuroinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca F Budgett
- The Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Sophie J Bradley
- The Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom.,Sosei Heptares, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Acute Colon Inflammation Triggers Primary Motor Cortex Glial Activation, Neuroinflammation, Neuronal Hyperexcitability, and Motor Coordination Deficits. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105347. [PMID: 35628158 PMCID: PMC9141031 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation underlies neurodegenerative diseases. Herein, we test whether acute colon inflammation activates microglia and astrocytes, induces neuroinflammation, disturbs neuron intrinsic electrical properties in the primary motor cortex, and alters motor behaviors. We used a rat model of acute colon inflammation induced by dextran sulfate sodium. Inflammatory mediators and microglial activation were assessed in the primary motor cortex by PCR and immunofluorescence assays. Electrophysiological properties of the motor cortex neurons were determined by whole-cell patch-clamp recordings. Motor behaviors were examined using open-field and rotarod tests. We show that the primary motor cortex of rats with acute colon inflammation exhibited microglial and astrocyte activation and increased mRNA abundance of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and both inducible and neuronal nitric oxide synthases. These changes were accompanied by a reduction in resting membrane potential and rheobase and increased input resistance and action potential frequency, indicating motor neuron hyperexcitability. In addition, locomotion and motor coordination were impaired. In conclusion, acute colon inflammation induces motor cortex microglial and astrocyte activation and inflammation, which led to neurons’ hyperexcitability and reduced motor coordination performance. The described disturbances resembled some of the early features found in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients and animal models, suggesting that colon inflammation might be a risk factor for developing this disease.
Collapse
|
31
|
Matuz-Mares D, González-Andrade M, Araiza-Villanueva MG, Vilchis-Landeros MM, Vázquez-Meza H. Mitochondrial Calcium: Effects of Its Imbalance in Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11050801. [PMID: 35624667 PMCID: PMC9138001 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11050801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcium is used in many cellular processes and is maintained within the cell as free calcium at low concentrations (approximately 100 nM), compared with extracellular (millimolar) concentrations, to avoid adverse effects such as phosphate precipitation. For this reason, cells have adapted buffering strategies by compartmentalizing calcium into mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In mitochondria, the calcium concentration is in the millimolar range, as it is in the ER. Mitochondria actively contribute to buffering cellular calcium, but if matrix calcium increases beyond physiological demands, it can promote the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) and, consequently, trigger apoptotic or necrotic cell death. The pathophysiological implications of mPTP opening in ischemia-reperfusion, liver, muscle, and lysosomal storage diseases, as well as those affecting the central nervous system, for example, Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Huntington’s disease (HD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have been reported. In this review, we present an updated overview of the main cellular mechanisms of mitochondrial calcium regulation. We specially focus on neurodegenerative diseases related to imbalances in calcium homeostasis and summarize some proposed therapies studied to attenuate these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deyamira Matuz-Mares
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 3000, Cd. Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (D.M.-M.); (M.G.-A.); (M.M.V.-L.)
| | - Martin González-Andrade
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 3000, Cd. Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (D.M.-M.); (M.G.-A.); (M.M.V.-L.)
| | | | - María Magdalena Vilchis-Landeros
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 3000, Cd. Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (D.M.-M.); (M.G.-A.); (M.M.V.-L.)
| | - Héctor Vázquez-Meza
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 3000, Cd. Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (D.M.-M.); (M.G.-A.); (M.M.V.-L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52-55-5623-2168
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Shadfar S, Brocardo M, Atkin JD. The Complex Mechanisms by Which Neurons Die Following DNA Damage in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052484. [PMID: 35269632 PMCID: PMC8910227 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Human cells are exposed to numerous exogenous and endogenous insults every day. Unlike other molecules, DNA cannot be replaced by resynthesis, hence damage to DNA can have major consequences for the cell. The DNA damage response contains overlapping signalling networks that repair DNA and hence maintain genomic integrity, and aberrant DNA damage responses are increasingly described in neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, DNA repair declines during aging, which is the biggest risk factor for these conditions. If unrepaired, the accumulation of DNA damage results in death to eliminate cells with defective genomes. This is particularly important for postmitotic neurons because they have a limited capacity to proliferate, thus they must be maintained for life. Neuronal death is thus an important process in neurodegenerative disorders. In addition, the inability of neurons to divide renders them susceptible to senescence or re-entry to the cell cycle. The field of cell death has expanded significantly in recent years, and many new mechanisms have been described in various cell types, including neurons. Several of these mechanisms are linked to DNA damage. In this review, we provide an overview of the cell death pathways induced by DNA damage that are relevant to neurons and discuss the possible involvement of these mechanisms in neurodegenerative conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sina Shadfar
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; (S.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Mariana Brocardo
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; (S.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Julie D. Atkin
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; (S.S.); (M.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Zakharova MN, Bakulin IS, Abramova AA. Toxic Damage to Motor Neurons. NEUROCHEM J+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712421040164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract—Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a multifactor disease in the development of which both genetic and environmental factors play a role. Specifically, the effects of organic and inorganic toxic substances can result in an increased risk of ALS development and the acceleration of disease progression. It was described that some toxins can induce potentially curable ALS-like syndromes. In this case, the specific treatment for the prevention of the effects of the toxic factor may result in positive clinical dynamics. In this article, we review the main types of toxins that can damage motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord leading to the development of the clinical manifestation of ALS, briefly present historical data on studies on the role of toxic substances, and describe the main mechanisms of the pathogenesis of motor neuron disease associated with their action.
Collapse
|
34
|
Anoar S, Woodling NS, Niccoli T. Mitochondria Dysfunction in Frontotemporal Dementia/Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Lessons From Drosophila Models. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:786076. [PMID: 34899176 PMCID: PMC8652125 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.786076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are neurodegenerative disorders characterized by declining motor and cognitive functions. Even though these diseases present with distinct sets of symptoms, FTD and ALS are two extremes of the same disease spectrum, as they show considerable overlap in genetic, clinical and neuropathological features. Among these overlapping features, mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with both FTD and ALS. Recent studies have shown that cells derived from patients' induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)s display mitochondrial abnormalities, and similar abnormalities have been observed in a number of animal disease models. Drosophila models have been widely used to study FTD and ALS because of their rapid generation time and extensive set of genetic tools. A wide array of fly models have been developed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of toxicity for mutations associated with FTD/ALS. Fly models have been often instrumental in understanding the role of disease associated mutations in mitochondria biology. In this review, we discuss how mutations associated with FTD/ALS disrupt mitochondrial function, and we review how the use of Drosophila models has been pivotal to our current knowledge in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharifah Anoar
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, Institute of Healthy Ageing, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nathaniel S Woodling
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, Institute of Healthy Ageing, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Teresa Niccoli
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, Institute of Healthy Ageing, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
New perspectives on cytoskeletal dysregulation and mitochondrial mislocalization in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Transl Neurodegener 2021; 10:46. [PMID: 34789332 PMCID: PMC8597313 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-021-00272-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by selective, early degeneration of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Motor neurons have long axonal projections, which rely on the integrity of neuronal cytoskeleton and mitochondria to regulate energy requirements for maintaining axonal stability, anterograde and retrograde transport, and signaling between neurons. The formation of protein aggregates which contain cytoskeletal proteins, and mitochondrial dysfunction both have devastating effects on the function of neurons and are shared pathological features across several neurodegenerative conditions, including ALS, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Furthermore, it is becoming increasingly clear that cytoskeletal integrity and mitochondrial function are intricately linked. Therefore, dysregulations of the cytoskeletal network and mitochondrial homeostasis and localization, may be common pathways in the initial steps of neurodegeneration. Here we review and discuss known contributors, including variants in genetic loci and aberrant protein activities, which modify cytoskeletal integrity, axonal transport and mitochondrial localization in ALS and have overlapping features with other neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, we explore some emerging pathways that may contribute to this disruption in ALS.
Collapse
|
36
|
Jia R, Chen Q, Zhou Q, Zhang R, Jin J, Hu F, Liu X, Qin X, Kang L, Zhao S, Dang Y, Dang J. Characteristics of serum metabolites in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20786. [PMID: 34675267 PMCID: PMC8531355 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00312-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
To identify differential metabolites and metabolic pathways and provide guidance for the novel biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS patients and people without nervous diseases were recruited. Metabolomic analysis was performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were used to identify differential metabolites. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and MetaboAnalyst were used to identify metabolic pathways. 75 metabolites were detected and aligned. The OPLS-DA showed the metabolomic profile of ALS patients and those in the fast-progression and slow-progression ALS groups differed from that of CTRL (p < 0.05). The levels of maltose, glyceric acid, lactic acid, beta-alanine, phosphoric acid, glutamic acid, ethanolamine and glycine in ALS were significantly higher, while 2,4,6-tri-tert-butylbenzenethiol was lower. Glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, beta-alanine metabolism, and pyruvate metabolism were significantly altered metabolic pathways in ALS. ROC was used to discriminate ALS from CTRL with an AUC of 0.898 (p < 0.001) using 2,4,6-tri-tert-butylbenzenethiol, beta-alanine, glycine, and ethanolamine. The serum metabolites and metabolic pathways in ALS patients are significantly altered compared with CTRL. These findings may contribute to the early diagnosis of ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Jia
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Western Yanta Rd, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Qiaoyi Chen
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Xian Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Qingqing Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Western Yanta Rd, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Ronghua Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Western Yanta Rd, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Jiaoting Jin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Western Yanta Rd, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Fangfang Hu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Western Yanta Rd, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Western Yanta Rd, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Xing Qin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Western Yanta Rd, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Li Kang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Western Yanta Rd, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Songzhen Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Western Yanta Rd, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Yonghui Dang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases of the Education Ministry, Key Laboratory of the Health Ministry for Forensic Medicine, College of Medicine and Forensics, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China.
| | - Jingxia Dang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Western Yanta Rd, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hosaka T, Tsuji H, Kwak S. RNA Editing: A New Therapeutic Target in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Other Neurological Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222010958. [PMID: 34681616 PMCID: PMC8536083 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222010958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The conversion of adenosine to inosine in RNA editing (A-to-I RNA editing) is recognized as a critical post-transcriptional modification of RNA by adenosine deaminases acting on RNAs (ADARs). A-to-I RNA editing occurs predominantly in mammalian and human central nervous systems and can alter the function of translated proteins, including neurotransmitter receptors and ion channels; therefore, the role of dysregulated RNA editing in the pathogenesis of neurological diseases has been speculated. Specifically, the failure of A-to-I RNA editing at the glutamine/arginine (Q/R) site of the GluA2 subunit causes excessive permeability of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) receptors to Ca2+, inducing fatal status epilepticus and the neurodegeneration of motor neurons in mice. Therefore, an RNA editing deficiency at the Q/R site in GluA2 due to the downregulation of ADAR2 in the motor neurons of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients suggests that Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors and the dysregulation of RNA editing are suitable therapeutic targets for ALS. Gene therapy has recently emerged as a new therapeutic opportunity for many heretofore incurable diseases, and RNA editing dysregulation can be a target for gene therapy; therefore, we reviewed neurological diseases associated with dysregulated RNA editing and a new therapeutic approach targeting dysregulated RNA editing, especially one that is effective in ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Hosaka
- Department of Neurology, Division of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Ibaraki, Japan; (T.H.); (H.T.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tsukuba University Hospital Kensei Area Medical Education Center, Chikusei 308-0813, Ibaraki, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ibaraki Western Medical Center, Chikusei 308-0813, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tsuji
- Department of Neurology, Division of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Ibaraki, Japan; (T.H.); (H.T.)
| | - Shin Kwak
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-3342-6111
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Gento-Caro Á, Vilches-Herrando E, Portillo F, González-Forero D, Moreno-López B. Targeting autotaxin impacts disease advance in the SOD1-G93A mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Brain Pathol 2021; 32:e13022. [PMID: 34585475 PMCID: PMC9048519 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
A preclinical strategy to broaden the search of potentially effective treatments in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) relies on identifying factors controlling motor neuron (MN) excitability. These partners might be part of still unknown pathogenic pathways and/or useful for the design of new interventions to affect disease progression. In this framework, the bioactive membrane‐derived phospholipid lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) affects MN excitability through LPA receptor 1 (LPA1). Furthermore, LPA1 knockdown is neuroprotective in transgenic ALS SOD1‐G93A mice. On this basis, we raised the hypothesis that the major LPA‐synthesizing ectoenzyme, autotaxin (ATX), regulates MN excitability and is a potential target to modulate disease development in ALS mice. We show here that PF‐8380, a specific ATX inhibitor, reduced intrinsic membrane excitability (IME) of hypoglossal MNs in brainstem slices, supporting that baseline ATX activity regulates MN IME. PF‐8380‐induced alterations were prevented by a small‐interfering RNA directed against mRNA for lpa1. These outcomes support that impact of ATX‐originated lysophospholipids on MN IME engages, at least, the G‐protein‐coupled receptor LPA1. Interestingly, mRNAatx levels increased in the spinal cord of pre‐symptomatic (1–2 months old) SOD1‐G93A mice, thus preceding MN loss. The rise in transcripts levels also occurred in cultured spinal cord MNs from SOD1‐G93A embryos, suggesting that mRNAatx upregulation in MNs is an etiopathogenic event in the ALS cell model. Remarkably, chronic administration in the drinking water of the orally bioavailable ATX inhibitor PF‐8380 delayed MN loss, motor deterioration and prolonged life span in ALS mice. Treatment also led to a reduction in LPA1‐immunoreactive patches in transgenic animals mostly in MNs. These outcomes support that neuroprotective effects of interfering with ATX in SOD1‐G93A mice rely, at least in part, on LPA1 knockdown in MNs. Therefore, we propose ATX as a potential target and/or a biomarker in ALS and highlight ATX inhibitors as reasonable tools with therapeutic usefulness for this lethal pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ángela Gento-Caro
- GRUpo de NEuroDEgeneración y NeurorREparación (GRUNEDERE), Área de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cádiz-Instituto de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica de Cádiz (INiBICA), Cádiz, Spain
| | - Esther Vilches-Herrando
- GRUpo de NEuroDEgeneración y NeurorREparación (GRUNEDERE), Área de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cádiz-Instituto de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica de Cádiz (INiBICA), Cádiz, Spain
| | - Federico Portillo
- GRUpo de NEuroDEgeneración y NeurorREparación (GRUNEDERE), Área de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cádiz-Instituto de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica de Cádiz (INiBICA), Cádiz, Spain
| | - David González-Forero
- GRUpo de NEuroDEgeneración y NeurorREparación (GRUNEDERE), Área de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cádiz-Instituto de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica de Cádiz (INiBICA), Cádiz, Spain
| | - Bernardo Moreno-López
- GRUpo de NEuroDEgeneración y NeurorREparación (GRUNEDERE), Área de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cádiz-Instituto de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica de Cádiz (INiBICA), Cádiz, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Holton KF. Micronutrients May Be a Unique Weapon Against the Neurotoxic Triad of Excitotoxicity, Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation: A Perspective. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:726457. [PMID: 34630015 PMCID: PMC8492967 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.726457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Excitotoxicity has been implicated in many neurological disorders and is a leading cause of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the nervous system. Most of the research to date has focused on each of these conditions individually; however, excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation have the ability to influence one another in a self-sustaining manner, thus functioning as a "neurotoxic triad." This perspective article re-introduces the concept of the neurotoxic triad and reviews how specific dietary micronutrients have been shown to protect against not only oxidative stress, but also excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation. Future dietary interventions for neurological disorders could focus on the effects on all three aspects of the neurotoxic triad.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen F Holton
- Nutritional Neuroscience Lab, Department of Health Studies, Center for Neuroscience and Behavior, American University, Washington, DC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Jiménez-Villegas J, Ferraiuolo L, Mead RJ, Shaw PJ, Cuadrado A, Rojo AI. NRF2 as a therapeutic opportunity to impact in the molecular roadmap of ALS. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 173:125-141. [PMID: 34314817 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating heterogeneous disease with still no convincing therapy. To identify the most strategically significant hallmarks for therapeutic intervention, we have performed a comprehensive transcriptomics analysis of dysregulated pathways, comparing datasets from ALS patients and healthy donors. We have identified crucial alterations in RNA metabolism, intracellular transport, vascular system, redox homeostasis, proteostasis and inflammatory responses. Interestingly, the transcription factor NRF2 (nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2) has significant effects in modulating these pathways. NRF2 has been classically considered as the master regulator of the antioxidant cellular response, although it is currently considered as a key component of the transduction machinery to maintain coordinated control of protein quality, inflammation, and redox homeostasis. Herein, we will summarize the data from NRF2 activators in ALS pre-clinical models as well as those that are being studied in clinical trials. As we will discuss, NRF2 is a promising target to build a coordinated transcriptional response to motor neuron injury, highlighting its therapeutic potential to combat ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Jiménez-Villegas
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - L Ferraiuolo
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - R J Mead
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - P J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - A Cuadrado
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - A I Rojo
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" (CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Shah JS, Pedraza O, Festic E, Oskarsson B. The relationship between ventilatory function and cognitive and behavioral impairment in ALS. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2021; 22:62-67. [PMID: 34348534 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2021.1924206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To study the association between ventilatory function and cognitive and behavioral impairment in ALS patients accounting for the effects of pertinent covariates. Methods: Four hundred and eighty-one patients were identified from the Mayo Clinic Florida ALS registry who had concurrent forced vital capacity (FVC) and cognitive and behavioral testing using the ALS Cognitive Behavioral Screen (ALS-CBS). Multiple linear regression analysis was used to study the effects of FVC and relevant covariates on the ALS-CBS cognition score, subscores, and caregiver behavioral inventory. Results: FVC was positively correlated to the cognitive and behavioral subscores on the ALS-CBS (p < 0.001), and the correlation was independent of the effects of site of ALS onset, age, and years of education. Conclusion: Cognitive and behavioral function may be adversely affected by ventilatory impairment in ALS. The presence of cognitive and behavioral impairment warrants a detailed assessment of ventilatory function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Otto Pedraza
- Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Emir Festic
- Allergy and Pulmonary Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Milanese M, Bonifacino T, Torazza C, Provenzano F, Kumar M, Ravera S, Zerbo AR, Frumento G, Balbi M, Nguyen TPN, Bertola N, Ferrando S, Viale M, Profumo A, Bonanno G. Blocking glutamate mGlu 5 receptors with the negative allosteric modulator CTEP improves disease course in SOD1 G93A mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:3747-3764. [PMID: 33931856 PMCID: PMC8457068 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is not fully clarified, although excessive glutamate (Glu) transmission and the downstream cytotoxic cascades are major mechanisms for motor neuron death. Two metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGlu1 and mGlu5 ) are overexpressed in ALS and regulate cellular disease processes. Expression and function of mGlu5 receptors are altered at early symptomatic stages in the SOD1G93A mouse model of ALS and knockdown of mGlu5 receptors in SOD1G93A mice improved disease progression. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We treated male and female SOD1G93A mice with 2-chloro-4-((2,5-dimethyl-1-(4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)-1H-imidazol-4-yl)ethynyl)pyridine (CTEP), an orally available mGlu5 receptor negative allosteric modulator (NAM), using doses of 2 mg·kg-1 per 48 h or 4 mg·kg-1 per 24 h from Day 90, an early symptomatic disease stage. Disease progression was studied by behavioural and histological approaches. KEY RESULTS CTEP dose-dependently ameliorated clinical features in SOD1G93A mice. The lower dose increased survival and improved motor skills in female mice, with barely positive effects in male mice. Higher doses significantly ameliorated disease symptoms and survival in both males and females, females being more responsive. CTEP also reduced motor neuron death, astrocyte and microglia activation, and abnormal glutamate release in the spinal cord, with equal effects in male and female mice. No differences were also observed in CTEP access to the brain. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our results suggest that mGlu5 receptors are promising targets for the treatment of ALS and highlight mGlu5 receptor NAMs as effective pharmacological tools with translational potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Milanese
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), Genoa, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bonifacino
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), Genoa, Italy
| | - Carola Torazza
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Provenzano
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen and German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Mandeep Kumar
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvia Ravera
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Arianna Roberta Zerbo
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giulia Frumento
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Matilde Balbi
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - T P Nhung Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Nadia Bertola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Sara Ferrando
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Life Science, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Aldo Profumo
- IRCCS Ospedale policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giambattista Bonanno
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,IRCCS Ospedale policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Giagnorio E, Malacarne C, Mantegazza R, Bonanno S, Marcuzzo S. MyomiRs and their multifaceted regulatory roles in muscle homeostasis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:269129. [PMID: 34137441 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.258349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [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 fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by loss of both upper and lower motor neurons (MNs). The main clinical features of ALS are motor function impairment, progressive muscle weakness, muscle atrophy and, ultimately, paralysis. Intrinsic skeletal muscle deterioration plays a crucial role in the disease and contributes to ALS progression. Currently, there are no effective treatments for ALS, highlighting the need to obtain a deeper understanding of the molecular events underlying degeneration of both MNs and muscle tissue, with the aim of developing successful therapies. Muscle tissue is enriched in a group of microRNAs called myomiRs, which are effective regulators of muscle homeostasis, plasticity and myogenesis in both physiological and pathological conditions. After providing an overview of ALS pathophysiology, with a focus on the role of skeletal muscle, we review the current literature on myomiR network dysregulation as a contributing factor to myogenic perturbations and muscle atrophy in ALS. We argue that, in view of their critical regulatory function at the interface between MNs and skeletal muscle fiber, myomiRs are worthy of further investigation as potential molecular targets of therapeutic strategies to improve ALS symptoms and counteract disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Giagnorio
- Neurology IV - Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan 20133, Italy.,PhD program in Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Claudia Malacarne
- Neurology IV - Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan 20133, Italy.,PhD program in Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neurology IV - Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Silvia Bonanno
- Neurology IV - Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Stefania Marcuzzo
- Neurology IV - Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan 20133, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Nishimura AL, Arias N. Synaptopathy Mechanisms in ALS Caused by C9orf72 Repeat Expansion. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:660693. [PMID: 34140881 PMCID: PMC8203826 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.660693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a complex neurodegenerative disease caused by degeneration of motor neurons (MNs). ALS pathogenic features include accumulation of misfolded proteins, glutamate excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction at distal axon terminals, and neuronal cytoskeleton changes. Synergies between loss of C9orf72 functions and gain of function by toxic effects of repeat expansions also contribute to C9orf72-mediated pathogenesis. However, the impact of haploinsufficiency of C9orf72 on neurons and in synaptic functions requires further examination. As the motor neurons degenerate, the disease symptoms will lead to neurotransmission deficiencies in the brain, spinal cord, and neuromuscular junction. Altered neuronal excitability, synaptic morphological changes, and C9orf72 protein and DPR localization at the synapses, suggest a potential involvement of C9orf72 at synapses. In this review article, we provide a conceptual framework for assessing the putative involvement of C9orf72 as a synaptopathy, and we explore the underlying and common disease mechanisms with other neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, we reflect on the major challenges of understanding C9orf72-ALS as a synaptopathy focusing on integrating mitochondrial and neuronal cytoskeleton degeneration as biomarkers and potential targets to treat ALS neurodegeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnes L Nishimura
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, UK Dementia Research Institute, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Natalia Arias
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, UK Dementia Research Institute, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.,INEUROPA, Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Huang X, Roet KCD, Zhang L, Brault A, Berg AP, Jefferson AB, Klug-McLeod J, Leach KL, Vincent F, Yang H, Coyle AJ, Jones LH, Frost D, Wiskow O, Chen K, Maeda R, Grantham A, Dornon MK, Klim JR, Siekmann MT, Zhao D, Lee S, Eggan K, Woolf CJ. Human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis excitability phenotype screen: Target discovery and validation. Cell Rep 2021; 35:109224. [PMID: 34107252 PMCID: PMC8209673 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug development is hampered by poor target selection. Phenotypic screens using neurons differentiated from patient stem cells offer the possibility to validate known and discover novel disease targets in an unbiased fashion. To identify targets for managing hyperexcitability, a pathological feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), we design a multi-step screening funnel using patient-derived motor neurons. High-content live cell imaging is used to evaluate neuronal excitability, and from a screen against a chemogenomic library of 2,899 target-annotated compounds, 67 reduce the hyperexcitability of ALS motor neurons carrying the SOD1(A4V) mutation, without cytotoxicity. Bioinformatic deconvolution identifies 13 targets that modulate motor neuron excitability, including two known ALS excitability modulators, AMPA receptors and Kv7.2/3 ion channels, constituting target validation. We also identify D2 dopamine receptors as modulators of ALS motor neuron excitability. This screen demonstrates the power of human disease cell-based phenotypic screens for identifying clinically relevant targets for neurological disorders. Motor neuron hyperexcitability is observed in both ALS patients and their iPSC-derived neurons. Combining a high-content live imaging excitability phenotypic assay, high-throughput screening against a cross-annotated chemogenomic library, and bioinformatic enrichment analysis, Huang et al. identify targets modulating the hyperexcitability of ALS patient-derived motor neurons in an unbiased manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Huang
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kasper C D Roet
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Liying Zhang
- Medicine Design, Pfizer, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Amy Brault
- Medicine Design, Pfizer, Groton, CT 06340, USA
| | - Allison P Berg
- Rare Disease Research Unit, Pfizer, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Anne B Jefferson
- Pfizer Centers for Therapeutic Innovation (CTI), San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | | | - Karen L Leach
- Pfizer Centers for Therapeutic Innovation (CTI), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Hongying Yang
- Pfizer Centers for Therapeutic Innovation (CTI), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Anthony J Coyle
- Pfizer Centers for Therapeutic Innovation (CTI), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Lyn H Jones
- Medicine Design, Pfizer, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Devlin Frost
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ole Wiskow
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Kuchuan Chen
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rie Maeda
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alyssa Grantham
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mary K Dornon
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joseph R Klim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Marco T Siekmann
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Dongyi Zhao
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Seungkyu Lee
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kevin Eggan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Clifford J Woolf
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Cheng F, De Luca A, Hogan AL, Rayner SL, Davidson JM, Watchon M, Stevens CH, Muñoz SS, Ooi L, Yerbury JJ, Don EK, Fifita JA, Villalva MD, Suddull H, Chapman TR, Hedl TJ, Walker AK, Yang S, Morsch M, Shi B, Blair IP, Laird AS, Chung RS, Lee A. Unbiased Label-Free Quantitative Proteomics of Cells Expressing Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Mutations in CCNF Reveals Activation of the Apoptosis Pathway: A Workflow to Screen Pathogenic Gene Mutations. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:627740. [PMID: 33986643 PMCID: PMC8111008 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.627740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The past decade has seen a rapid acceleration in the discovery of new genetic causes of ALS, with more than 20 putative ALS-causing genes now cited. These genes encode proteins that cover a diverse range of molecular functions, including free radical scavenging (e.g., SOD1), regulation of RNA homeostasis (e.g., TDP-43 and FUS), and protein degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome system (e.g., ubiquilin-2 and cyclin F) and autophagy (TBK1 and sequestosome-1/p62). It is likely that the various initial triggers of disease (either genetic, environmental and/or gene-environment interaction) must converge upon a common set of molecular pathways that underlie ALS pathogenesis. Given the complexity, it is not surprising that a catalog of molecular pathways and proteostasis dysfunctions have been linked to ALS. One of the challenges in ALS research is determining, at the early stage of discovery, whether a new gene mutation is indeed disease-specific, and if it is linked to signaling pathways that trigger neuronal cell death. We have established a proof-of-concept proteogenomic workflow to assess new gene mutations, using CCNF (cyclin F) as an example, in cell culture models to screen whether potential gene candidates fit the criteria of activating apoptosis. This can provide an informative and time-efficient output that can be extended further for validation in a variety of in vitro and in vivo models and/or for mechanistic studies. As a proof-of-concept, we expressed cyclin F mutations (K97R, S195R, S509P, R574Q, S621G) in HEK293 cells for label-free quantitative proteomics that bioinformatically predicted activation of the neuronal cell death pathways, which was validated by immunoblot analysis. Proteomic analysis of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from patient fibroblasts bearing the S621G mutation showed the same activation of these pathways providing compelling evidence for these candidate gene mutations to be strong candidates for further validation and mechanistic studies (such as E3 enzymatic activity assays, protein-protein and protein-substrate studies, and neuronal apoptosis and aberrant branching measurements in zebrafish). Our proteogenomics approach has great utility and provides a relatively high-throughput screening platform to explore candidate gene mutations for their propensity to cause neuronal cell death, which will guide a researcher for further experimental studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flora Cheng
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Alana De Luca
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Alison L Hogan
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephanie L Rayner
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Jennilee M Davidson
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Maxinne Watchon
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Claire H Stevens
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience and Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Sonia Sanz Muñoz
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience and Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Lezanne Ooi
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience and Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Justin J Yerbury
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience and Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Emily K Don
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Jennifer A Fifita
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria D Villalva
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Hannah Suddull
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Tyler R Chapman
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Thomas J Hedl
- Neurodegeneration Pathobiology Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Adam K Walker
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia.,Neurodegeneration Pathobiology Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Shu Yang
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Marco Morsch
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Bingyang Shi
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Ian P Blair
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Angela S Laird
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Roger S Chung
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| | - Albert Lee
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Neurophysiological Mechanisms Underlying Cortical Hyper-Excitability in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Review. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11050549. [PMID: 33925493 PMCID: PMC8145013 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neuromotor disease characterized by the loss of upper and lower motor neurons (MNs), resulting in muscle paralysis and death. Early cortical hyper-excitability is a common pathological process observed clinically and in animal disease models. Although the mechanisms that underlie cortical hyper-excitability are not completely understood, the molecular and cellular mechanisms that cause enhanced neuronal intrinsic excitability and changes in excitatory and inhibitory synaptic activity are starting to emerge. Here, we review the evidence for an anterograde glutamatergic excitotoxic process, leading to cortical hyper-excitability via intrinsic cellular and synaptic mechanisms and for the role of interneurons in establishing disinhibition in clinical and experimental settings. Understanding the mechanisms that lead to these complex pathological processes will likely produce key insights towards developing novel therapeutic strategies to rescue upper MNs, thus alleviating the impact of this fatal disease.
Collapse
|
48
|
Raffaele S, Boccazzi M, Fumagalli M. Oligodendrocyte Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030565. [PMID: 33807572 PMCID: PMC8000560 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelin is the lipid-rich structure formed by oligodendrocytes (OLs) that wraps the axons in multilayered sheaths, assuring protection, efficient saltatory signal conduction and metabolic support to neurons. In the last few years, the impact of OL dysfunction and myelin damage has progressively received more attention and is now considered to be a major contributing factor to neurodegeneration in several neurological diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Upon OL injury, oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) of adult nervous tissue sustain the generation of new OLs for myelin reconstitution, but this spontaneous regeneration process fails to successfully counteract myelin damage. Of note, the functions of OPCs exceed the formation and repair of myelin, and also involve the trophic support to axons and the capability to exert an immunomodulatory role, which are particularly relevant in the context of neurodegeneration. In this review, we deeply analyze the impact of dysfunctional OLs in ALS pathogenesis. The possible mechanisms underlying OL degeneration, defective OPC maturation, and impairment in energy supply to motor neurons (MNs) have also been examined to provide insights on future therapeutic interventions. On this basis, we discuss the potential therapeutic utility in ALS of several molecules, based on their remyelinating potential or capability to enhance energy metabolism.
Collapse
|
49
|
Ranieri F, Mariotto S, Dubbioso R, Di Lazzaro V. Brain Stimulation as a Therapeutic Tool in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Current Status and Interaction With Mechanisms of Altered Cortical Excitability. Front Neurol 2021; 11:605335. [PMID: 33613416 PMCID: PMC7892772 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.605335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last 20 years, several modalities of neuromodulation, mainly based on non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques, have been tested as a non-pharmacological therapeutic approach to slow disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In both sporadic and familial ALS cases, neurophysiological studies point to motor cortical hyperexcitability as a possible priming factor in neurodegeneration, likely related to dysfunction of both excitatory and inhibitory mechanisms. A trans-synaptic anterograde mechanism of excitotoxicity is thus postulated, causing upper and lower motor neuron degeneration. Specifically, motor neuron hyperexcitability and hyperactivity are attributed to intrinsic cell abnormalities related to altered ion homeostasis and to impaired glutamate and gamma aminobutyric acid gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) signaling. Several neuropathological mechanisms support excitatory and synaptic dysfunction in ALS; additionally, hyperexcitability seems to drive DNA-binding protein 43-kDA (TDP-43) pathology, through the upregulation of unusual isoforms directly contributing to ASL pathophysiology. Corticospinal excitability can be suppressed or enhanced using NIBS techniques, namely, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), as well as invasive brain and spinal stimulation. Experimental evidence supports the hypothesis that the after-effects of NIBS are mediated by long-term potentiation (LTP)-/long-term depression (LTD)-like mechanisms of modulation of synaptic activity, with different biological and physiological mechanisms underlying the effects of tDCS and rTMS and, possibly, of different rTMS protocols. This potential has led to several small trials testing different stimulation interventions to antagonize excitotoxicity in ALS. Overall, these studies suggest a possible efficacy of neuromodulation in determining a slight reduction of disease progression, related to the type, duration, and frequency of treatment, but current evidence remains preliminary. Main limitations are the small number and heterogeneity of recruited patients, the limited “dosage” of brain stimulation that can be delivered in the hospital setting, the lack of a sufficient knowledge on the excitatory and inhibitory mechanisms targeted by specific stimulation interventions, and the persistent uncertainty on the key pathophysiological processes leading to motor neuron loss. The present review article provides an update on the state of the art of neuromodulation in ALS and a critical appraisal of the rationale for the application/optimization of brain stimulation interventions, in the light of their interaction with ALS pathophysiological mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Ranieri
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Sara Mariotto
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Raffaele Dubbioso
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Lazzaro
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology, Neurobiology, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Ghasemi M, Keyhanian K, Douthwright C. Glial Cell Dysfunction in C9orf72-Related Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia. Cells 2021; 10:cells10020249. [PMID: 33525344 PMCID: PMC7912327 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of the chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72) repeat expansion mutation in 2011 as the most common genetic abnormality in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), progress in understanding the signaling pathways related to this mutation can only be described as intriguing. Two major theories have been suggested-(i) loss of function or haploinsufficiency and (ii) toxic gain of function from either C9orf72 repeat RNA or dipeptide repeat proteins (DPRs) generated from repeat-associated non-ATG (RAN) translation. Each theory has provided various signaling pathways that potentially participate in the disease progression. Dysregulation of the immune system, particularly glial cell dysfunction (mainly microglia and astrocytes), is demonstrated to play a pivotal role in both loss and gain of function theories of C9orf72 pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss the pathogenic roles of glial cells in C9orf72 ALS/FTD as evidenced by pre-clinical and clinical studies showing the presence of gliosis in C9orf72 ALS/FTD, pathologic hallmarks in glial cells, including TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) and p62 aggregates, and toxicity of C9orf72 glial cells. A better understanding of these pathways can provide new insights into the development of therapies targeting glial cell abnormalities in C9orf72 ALS/FTD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Ghasemi
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-774-441-7726; Fax: +1-508-856-4485
| | | | | |
Collapse
|