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Pavlou A, Mulenge F, Gern OL, Busker LM, Greimel E, Waltl I, Kalinke U. Orchestration of antiviral responses within the infected central nervous system. Cell Mol Immunol 2024:10.1038/s41423-024-01181-7. [PMID: 38997413 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-024-01181-7] [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: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Many newly emerging and re-emerging viruses have neuroinvasive potential, underscoring viral encephalitis as a global research priority. Upon entry of the virus into the CNS, severe neurological life-threatening conditions may manifest that are associated with high morbidity and mortality. The currently available therapeutic arsenal against viral encephalitis is rather limited, emphasizing the need to better understand the conditions of local antiviral immunity within the infected CNS. In this review, we discuss new insights into the pathophysiology of viral encephalitis, with a focus on myeloid cells and CD8+ T cells, which critically contribute to protection against viral CNS infection. By illuminating the prerequisites of myeloid and T cell activation, discussing new discoveries regarding their transcriptional signatures, and dissecting the mechanisms of their recruitment to sites of viral replication within the CNS, we aim to further delineate the complexity of antiviral responses within the infected CNS. Moreover, we summarize the current knowledge in the field of virus infection and neurodegeneration and discuss the potential links of some neurotropic viruses with certain pathological hallmarks observed in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Pavlou
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research and the Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Felix Mulenge
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research and the Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Olivia Luise Gern
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research and the Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Lena Mareike Busker
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research and the Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Greimel
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research and the Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Inken Waltl
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research and the Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ulrich Kalinke
- Institute for Experimental Infection Research, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research and the Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence RESIST (EXC 2155), Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
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Schreiber CS, Wiesweg I, Stanelle-Bertram S, Beck S, Kouassi NM, Schaumburg B, Gabriel G, Richter F, Käufer C. Sex-specific biphasic alpha-synuclein response and alterations of interneurons in a COVID-19 hamster model. EBioMedicine 2024; 105:105191. [PMID: 38865747 PMCID: PMC11293593 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105191] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) frequently leads to neurological complications after recovery from acute infection, with higher prevalence in women. However, mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 disrupts brain function remain unclear and treatment strategies are lacking. We previously demonstrated neuroinflammation in the olfactory bulb of intranasally infected hamsters, followed by alpha-synuclein and tau accumulation in cortex, thus mirroring pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease. METHODS To uncover the sex-specific spatiotemporal profiles of neuroinflammation and neuronal dysfunction following intranasal SARS-CoV-2 infection, we quantified microglia cell density, alpha-synuclein immunoreactivity and inhibitory interneurons in cortical regions, limbic system and basal ganglia at acute and late post-recovery time points. FINDINGS Unexpectedly, microglia cell density and alpha-synuclein immunoreactivity decreased at 6 days post-infection, then rebounded to overt accumulation at 21 days post-infection. This biphasic response was most pronounced in amygdala and striatum, regions affected early in Parkinson's disease. Several brain regions showed altered densities of parvalbumin and calretinin interneurons which are involved in cognition and motor control. Of note, females appeared more affected. INTERPRETATION Our results demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2 profoundly disrupts brain homeostasis without neuroinvasion, via neuroinflammatory and protein regulation mechanisms that persist beyond viral clearance. The regional patterns and sex differences are in line with neurological deficits observed after SARS-CoV-2 infection. FUNDING Federal Ministry of Health, Germany (BMG; ZMV I 1-2520COR501 to G.G.), Federal Ministry of Education and Research, Germany (BMBF; 03COV06B to G.G.), Ministry of Science and Culture of Lower Saxony in Germany (14-76403-184, to G.G. and F.R.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara Sophie Schreiber
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover (ZSN), Germany
| | - Ivo Wiesweg
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian Beck
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nancy Mounogou Kouassi
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Berfin Schaumburg
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gülsah Gabriel
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany; Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Franziska Richter
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover (ZSN), Germany.
| | - Christopher Käufer
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover (ZSN), Germany.
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Al-Musawi I, Dennis BH, Clowry GJ, LeBeau FEN. Evidence for prodromal changes in neuronal excitability and neuroinflammation in the hippocampus in young alpha-synuclein (A30P) transgenic mice. FRONTIERS IN DEMENTIA 2024; 3:1404841. [PMID: 39081599 PMCID: PMC11285622 DOI: 10.3389/frdem.2024.1404841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Neuronal hyperexcitability and neuroinflammation are thought to occur at early stages in a range of neurodegenerative diseases. Neuroinflammation, notably activation of microglia, has been identified as a potential prodromal marker of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Using a transgenic mouse model of DLB that over-expresses human mutant (A30P) alpha-synuclein (hα-syn) we have investigated whether early neuroinflammation is evident in the hippocampus in young pre-symptomatic animals. Methods Previous studies have shown early hyperexcitability in the hippocampal CA3 region in male A30P mice at 2-4 months of age, therefore, in the current study we have immunostained this region for markers of neuronal activity (c-Fos), reactive astrocytes (glial fibrillary acidic protein, GFAP), microglia (ionizing calcium binding adapter protein 1, Iba-1) and reactive microglia (inducible nitric oxide synthase, iNOS). Results We found an interesting biphasic change in the expression of c-Fos in A30P mice with high expression at 1 month, consistent with early onset of hyperexcitability, but lower expression from 2-4 months in male A30P mice compared to wild-type (WT) controls, possibly indicating chronic hyperexcitability. Neuroinflammation was indicated by significant increases in the % area of GFAP and the number of Iba-1+ cells that expressed iNOS immunoreactivity in the CA3 region in 2-4 months A30P male mice compared to WT controls. A similar increase in % area of GFAP was observed in female A30P mice, however, the Iba-1 count was not different between female WT and A30P mice. In WT mice aged 2-4 months only 4.6% of Iba-1+ cells co-expressed iNOS. In contrast, in age matched A30P mice 87% of cells co-expressed Iba-1 and iNOS. Although there was no difference in GFAP immunoreactivity at 1 month, Iba-1/iNOS co-expression was also increased in a cohort of 1 month old A30P mice. Discussion Abnormal hα-syn expression in A30P mice caused early changes in network excitability, as indicated by c-Fos expression, and neuroinflammation which might contribute to disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fiona E. N. LeBeau
- Biosciences Institute and Centre for Transformative Neuroscience, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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Zhao Y, Xu K, Shu F, Zhang F. Neurotropic virus infection and neurodegenerative diseases: Potential roles of autophagy pathway. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14548. [PMID: 38082503 PMCID: PMC11163195 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) constitute a group of disorders characterized by the progressive deterioration of nervous system functionality. Currently, the precise etiological factors responsible for NDs remain incompletely elucidated, although it is probable that a combination of aging, genetic predisposition, and environmental stressors participate in this process. Accumulating evidence indicates that viral infections, especially neurotropic viruses, can contribute to the onset and progression of NDs. In this review, emerging evidence supporting the association between viral infection and NDs is summarized, and how the autophagy pathway mediated by viral infection can cause pathological aggregation of cellular proteins associated with various NDs is discussed. Furthermore, autophagy-related genes (ARGs) involved in Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) infection and NDs are analyzed, and whether these genes could link HSV-1 infection to NDs is discussed. Elucidating the mechanisms underlying NDs is critical for developing targeted therapeutic approaches that prevent the onset and slow the progression of NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu‐jia Zhao
- Laboratory Animal CentreZunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
| | - Kai‐fei Xu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Guizhou ProvinceZunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
| | - Fu‐xing Shu
- Bioresource Institute for Healthy UtilizationZunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
| | - Feng Zhang
- Laboratory Animal CentreZunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Guizhou ProvinceZunyi Medical UniversityZunyiGuizhouChina
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Rocha SM, Kirkley KS, Chatterjee D, Aboellail TA, Smeyne RJ, Tjalkens RB. Microglia-specific knock-out of NF-κB/IKK2 increases the accumulation of misfolded α-synuclein through the inhibition of p62/sequestosome-1-dependent autophagy in the rotenone model of Parkinson's disease. Glia 2023; 71:2154-2179. [PMID: 37199240 PMCID: PMC10330367 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the most common neurodegenerative movement disorder worldwide, with a greater prevalence in men than women. The etiology of PD is largely unknown, although environmental exposures and neuroinflammation are linked to protein misfolding and disease progression. Activated microglia are known to promote neuroinflammation in PD, but how environmental agents interact with specific innate immune signaling pathways in microglia to stimulate conversion to a neurotoxic phenotype is not well understood. To determine how nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling dynamics in microglia modulate neuroinflammation and dopaminergic neurodegeneration, we generated mice deficient in NF-κB activation in microglia (CX3CR1-Cre::IKK2fl/fl ) and exposed them to 2.5 mg/kg/day of rotenone for 14 days, followed by a 14-day post-lesioning incubation period. We postulated that inhibition of NF-κB signaling in microglia would reduce overall inflammatory injury in lesioned mice. Subsequent analysis indicated decreased expression of the NF-κB-regulated autophagy gene, sequestosome 1 (p62), in microglia, which is required for targeting ubiquitinated α-synuclein (α-syn) for lysosomal degradation. Knock-out animals had increased accumulation of misfolded α-syn within microglia, despite an overall reduction in neurodegeneration. Interestingly, this occurred more prominently in males. These data suggest that microglia play key biological roles in the degradation and clearance of misfolded α-syn and this process works in concert with the innate immune response associated with neuroinflammation. Importantly, the accumulation of misfolded α-syn protein aggregates alone did not increase neurodegeneration following exposure to rotenone but required the NF-κB-dependent inflammatory response in microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savannah M. Rocha
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523
| | - Kelly S. Kirkley
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523
| | - Debotri Chatterjee
- Jefferson Comprehensive Parkinson’s Center, Vickie & Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Tawfik A. Aboellail
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523
| | - Richard J. Smeyne
- Jefferson Comprehensive Parkinson’s Center, Vickie & Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Ronald B. Tjalkens
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523
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Davé VA, Klein RS. The multitaskers of the brain: Glial responses to viral infections and associated post-infectious neurologic sequelae. Glia 2023; 71:803-818. [PMID: 36334073 PMCID: PMC9931640 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Many viral infections cause acute and chronic neurologic diseases which can lead to degeneration of cortical functions. While neurotropic viruses that gain access to the central nervous system (CNS) may induce brain injury directly via infection of neurons or their supporting cells, they also alter brain function via indirect neuroimmune mechanisms that may disrupt the blood-brain barrier (BBB), eliminate synapses, and generate neurotoxic astrocytes and microglia that prevent recovery of neuronal circuits. Non-neuroinvasive, neurovirulent viruses may also trigger aberrant responses in glial cells, including those that interfere with motor and sensory behaviors, encoding of memories and executive function. Increasing evidence from human and animal studies indicate that neuroprotective antiviral responses that amplify levels of innate immune molecules dysregulate normal neuroimmune processes, even in the absence of neuroinvasion, which may persist after virus is cleared. In this review, we discuss how select emerging and re-emerging RNA viruses induce neuroimmunologic responses that lead to dysfunction of higher order processes including visuospatial recognition, learning and memory, and motor control. Identifying therapeutic targets that return the neuroimmune system to homeostasis is critical for preventing virus-induced neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica A Davé
- Center for Neuroimmunology & Neuroinfectious Diseases, Departments of Medicine, Pathology & Immunology, Neurosciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Robyn S Klein
- Center for Neuroimmunology & Neuroinfectious Diseases, Departments of Medicine, Pathology & Immunology, Neurosciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Behnia M, Bradfute SB. The Host Non-Coding RNA Response to Alphavirus Infection. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020562. [PMID: 36851776 PMCID: PMC9967650 DOI: 10.3390/v15020562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Alphaviruses are important human and animal pathogens that can cause a range of debilitating symptoms and are found worldwide. These include arthralgic diseases caused by Old-World viruses and encephalitis induced by infection with New-World alphaviruses. Non-coding RNAs do not encode for proteins, but can modulate cellular response pathways in a myriad of ways. There are several classes of non-coding RNAs, some more well-studied than others. Much research has focused on the mRNA response to infection against alphaviruses, but analysis of non-coding RNA responses has been more limited until recently. This review covers what is known regarding host cell non-coding RNA responses in alphavirus infections and highlights gaps in the knowledge that future research should address.
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Immune Functions of Astrocytes in Viral Neuroinfections. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043514. [PMID: 36834929 PMCID: PMC9960577 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinfections of the central nervous system (CNS) can be triggered by various pathogens. Viruses are the most widespread and have the potential to induce long-term neurologic symptoms with potentially lethal outcomes. In addition to directly affecting their host cells and inducing immediate changes in a plethora of cellular processes, viral infections of the CNS also trigger an intense immune response. Regulation of the innate immune response in the CNS depends not only on microglia, which are fundamental immune cells of the CNS, but also on astrocytes. These cells align blood vessels and ventricle cavities, and consequently, they are one of the first cell types to become infected after the virus breaches the CNS. Moreover, astrocytes are increasingly recognized as a potential viral reservoir in the CNS; therefore, the immune response initiated by the presence of intracellular virus particles may have a profound effect on cellular and tissue physiology and morphology. These changes should be addressed in terms of persisting infections because they may contribute to recurring neurologic sequelae. To date, infections of astrocytes with different viruses originating from genetically distinct families, including Flaviviridae, Coronaviridae, Retroviridae, Togaviridae, Paramyxoviridae, Picomaviridae, Rhabdoviridae, and Herpesviridae, have been confirmed. Astrocytes express a plethora of receptors that detect viral particles and trigger signaling cascades, leading to an innate immune response. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on virus receptors that initiate the release of inflammatory cytokines from astrocytes and depict the involvement of astrocytes in immune functions of the CNS.
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Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, Kaushik A, Kujawska M, Ahmed EA, Batiha GES. SARS-COV-2 infection and Parkinson's disease: Possible links and perspectives. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:952-975. [PMID: 36717481 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. The hallmarks are the presence of Lewy bodies composed mainly of aggregated α-synuclein and immune activation and inflammation in the brain. The neurotropism of SARS-CoV-2 with induction of cytokine storm and neuroinflammation can contribute to the development of PD. Interestingly, overexpression of α-synuclein in PD patients may limit SARS-CoV-2 neuroinvasion and degeneration of dopaminergic neurons; however, on the other hand, this virus can speed up the α-synuclein aggregation. The review aims to discuss the potential link between COVID-19 and the risk of PD, highlighting the need for further studies to authenticate the potential association. We have also overviewed the influence of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the PD course and management. In this context, we presented the prospects for controlling the COVID-19 pandemic and related PD cases that, beyond global vaccination and novel anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents, may include the development of graphene-based nanoscale platforms offering antiviral and anti-amyloid strategies against PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M Al-Kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriyia University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ali I Al-Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriyia University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ajeet Kaushik
- NanoBioTech Laboratory, Department of Environmental Engineering, Florida Polytechnic University, Lakeland, Florida, USA
| | - Małgorzata Kujawska
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Eman A Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
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Szego EM, Malz L, Bernhardt N, Rösen-Wolff A, Falkenburger BH, Luksch H. Constitutively active STING causes neuroinflammation and degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in mice. eLife 2022; 11:81943. [PMID: 36314770 PMCID: PMC9767458 DOI: 10.7554/elife.81943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is activated after detection of cytoplasmic dsDNA by cGAS (cyclic GMP-AMP synthase) as part of the innate immunity defence against viral pathogens. STING binds TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1). TBK1 mutations are associated with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and the STING pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of further neurodegenerative diseases. To test whether STING activation is sufficient to induce neurodegeneration, we analysed a mouse model that expresses the constitutively active STING variant N153S. In this model, we focused on dopaminergic neurons, which are particularly sensitive to stress and represent a circumscribed population that can be precisely quantified. In adult mice expressing N153S STING, the number of dopaminergic neurons was smaller than in controls, as was the density of dopaminergic axon terminals and the concentration of dopamine in the striatum. We also observed alpha-synuclein pathology and a lower density of synaptic puncta. Neuroinflammation was quantified by staining astroglia and microglia, by measuring mRNAs, proteins and nuclear translocation of transcription factors. These neuroinflammatory markers were already elevated in juvenile mice although at this age the number of dopaminergic neurons was still unaffected, thus preceding the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. More neuroinflammatory markers were blunted in mice deficient for inflammasomes than in mice deficient for signalling by type I interferons. Neurodegeneration, however, was blunted in both mice. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that chronic activation of the STING pathway is sufficient to cause degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. Targeting the STING pathway could therefore be beneficial in Parkinson's disease and further neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva M Szego
- Department of Neurology, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Laura Malz
- Departments of Neurology & Pediatrics, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | | | - Björn H Falkenburger
- Department of Neurology, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen, Dresden, Germany
| | - Hella Luksch
- Department of Pediatrics, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Rocha SM, Bantle CM, Aboellail T, Chatterjee D, Smeyne RJ, Tjalkens RB. Rotenone induces regionally distinct α-synuclein protein aggregation and activation of glia prior to loss of dopaminergic neurons in C57Bl/6 mice. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 167:105685. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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Markovic M, Yeapuri P, Namminga KL, Lu Y, Saleh M, Olson KE, Gendelman HE, Mosley RL. Interleukin-2 expands neuroprotective regulatory T cells in Parkinson's disease. NEUROIMMUNE PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS 2022; 1:43-50. [PMID: 38407500 PMCID: PMC9254387 DOI: 10.1515/nipt-2022-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Pharmacological approaches that boost neuroprotective regulatory T cell (Treg) number and function lead to neuroprotective activities in neurodegenerative disorders. Objectives We investigated whether low-dose interleukin 2 (IL-2) expands Treg populations and protects nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons in a model of Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods IL-2 at 2.5 × 104 IU/dose/mouse was administered for 5 days. Lymphocytes were isolated and phenotype determined by flow cytometric analyses. To 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) intoxicated mice, 0.5 × 106 of enriched IL-2-induced Tregs were adoptively transferred to assess the effects on nigrostriatal neuron survival. Results IL-2 increased frequencies of CD4+CD25+CD127lowFoxP3+ Tregs that express ICOS and CD39 in blood and spleen. Adoptive transfer of IL-2-induced Tregs to MPTP-treated recipients increased tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)+ nigral dopaminergic neuronal bodies by 51% and TH+ striatal termini by 52% compared to control MPTP-treated animal controls. Conclusions IL-2 expands numbers of neuroprotective Tregs providing a vehicle for neuroprotection of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons in a pre-clinical PD model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milica Markovic
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, Center for Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 68198Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Pravin Yeapuri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Krista L. Namminga
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, Center for Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 68198Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Yaman Lu
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, Center for Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 68198Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Maamoon Saleh
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, Center for Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 68198Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Katherine E. Olson
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, Center for Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 68198Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Howard E. Gendelman
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, Center for Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 68198Omaha, NE, USA
| | - R. Lee Mosley
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, Center for Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 68198Omaha, NE, USA
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Shen S, Zhang C, Xu YM, Shi CH. The Role of Pathogens and Anti-Infective Agents in Parkinson's Disease, from Etiology to Therapeutic Implications. JOURNAL OF PARKINSONS DISEASE 2021; 12:27-44. [PMID: 34719435 PMCID: PMC8842782 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-212929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder whose etiology is still unclear, hampering the development of effective treatments. There is an urgent need to identify the etiology and provide further effective treatments. Recently, accumulating evidence has indicated that infection may play a role in the etiology of Parkinson's disease. The infective pathogens may act as a trigger for Parkinson's disease, the most common of which are hepatitis C virus, influenza virus, and Helicobacter pylori. In addition, gut microbiota is increasingly recognized to influence brain function through the gut-brain axis, showing an important role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Furthermore, a series of anti-infective agents exhibit surprising neuroprotective effects via various mechanisms, such as interfering with α-synuclein aggregation, inhibiting neuroinflammation, attenuating oxidative stress, and preventing from cell death, independent of their antimicrobial effects. The pleiotropic agents affect important events in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Moreover, most of them are less toxic, clinically safe and have good blood-brain penetrability, making them hopeful candidates for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. However, the use of antibiotics and subsequent gut dysbiosis may also play a role in Parkinson's disease, making the long-term effects of anti-infective drugs worthy of further consideration and exploration. This review summarizes the current evidence for the association between infective pathogens and Parkinson's disease and subsequently explores the application prospects of anti-infective drugs in Parkinson's disease treatment, providing novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Shen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yu-Ming Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chang-He Shi
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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