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Lista S, Imbimbo BP, Grasso M, Fidilio A, Emanuele E, Minoretti P, López-Ortiz S, Martín-Hernández J, Gabelle A, Caruso G, Malaguti M, Melchiorri D, Santos-Lozano A, Imbimbo C, Heneka MT, Caraci F. Tracking neuroinflammatory biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease: a strategy for individualized therapeutic approaches? J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:187. [PMID: 39080712 PMCID: PMC11289964 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03163-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent trials of anti-amyloid-β (Aβ) monoclonal antibodies, including lecanemab and donanemab, in early Alzheimer disease (AD) showed that these drugs have limited clinical benefits and their use comes with a significant risk of serious adverse events. Thus, it seems crucial to explore complementary therapeutic approaches. Genome-wide association studies identified robust associations between AD and several AD risk genes related to immune response, including but not restricted to CD33 and TREM2. Here, we critically reviewed the current knowledge on candidate neuroinflammatory biomarkers and their role in characterizing the pathophysiology of AD. MAIN BODY Neuroinflammation is recognized to be a crucial and contributing component of AD pathogenesis. The fact that neuroinflammation is most likely present from earliest pre-stages of AD and co-occurs with the deposition of Aβ reinforces the need to precisely define the sequence and nature of neuroinflammatory events. Numerous clinical trials involving anti-inflammatory drugs previously yielded unfavorable outcomes in early and mild-to-moderate AD. Although the reasons behind these failures remain unclear, these may include the time and the target selected for intervention. Indeed, in our review, we observed a stage-dependent neuroinflammatory process in the AD brain. While the initial activation of glial cells counteracts early brain Aβ deposition, the downregulation in the functional state of microglia occurs at more advanced disease stages. To address this issue, personalized neuroinflammatory modulation therapy is required. The emergence of reliable blood-based neuroinflammatory biomarkers, particularly glial fibrillary acidic protein, a marker of reactive astrocytes, may facilitate the classification of AD patients based on the ATI(N) biomarker framework. This expands upon the traditional classification of Aβ ("A"), tau ("T"), and neurodegeneration ("N"), by incorporating a novel inflammatory component ("I"). CONCLUSIONS The present review outlines the current knowledge on potential neuroinflammatory biomarkers and, importantly, emphasizes the role of longitudinal analyses, which are needed to accurately monitor the dynamics of cerebral inflammation. Such a precise information on time and place will be required before anti-inflammatory therapeutic interventions can be considered for clinical evaluation. We propose that an effective anti-neuroinflammatory therapy should specifically target microglia and astrocytes, while considering the individual ATI(N) status of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Lista
- i+HeALTH Strategic Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Miguel de Cervantes European University (UEMC), 47012, Valladolid, Spain.
| | - Bruno P Imbimbo
- Department of Research and Development, Chiesi Farmaceutici, 43122, Parma, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Susana López-Ortiz
- i+HeALTH Strategic Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Miguel de Cervantes European University (UEMC), 47012, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Juan Martín-Hernández
- i+HeALTH Strategic Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Miguel de Cervantes European University (UEMC), 47012, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Audrey Gabelle
- CMRR, Memory Resources and Research Center, Montpellier University of Excellence i-site, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - Giuseppe Caruso
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018, Troina, Italy
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Malaguti
- Department for Life Quality Studies, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Melchiorri
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Alejandro Santos-Lozano
- i+HeALTH Strategic Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Miguel de Cervantes European University (UEMC), 47012, Valladolid, Spain
- Physical Activity and Health Research Group (PaHerg), Research Institute of the Hospital, 12 de Octubre ('imas12'), 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Camillo Imbimbo
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Michael T Heneka
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, 4367, Esch-Belval, Luxembourg.
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018, Troina, Italy.
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy.
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Timmerman R, Burm SM, Bajramovic JJ. Tissue-specific features of microglial innate immune responses. Neurochem Int 2020; 142:104924. [PMID: 33248205 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2020.104924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As tissue-resident macrophages of the brain, microglia are increasingly considered as cellular targets for therapeutical intervention. Innate immune responses in particular have been implicated in central nervous system (CNS) infections, neuro-oncology, neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. We here review the impact of 'nature and nurture' on microglial innate immune responses and summarize documented tissue-specific adaptations. Overall, such adaptations are associated with regulatory processes rather than with overt differences in the expressed repertoire of activating receptors of different tissue-resident macrophages. Microglial responses are characterized by slower kinetics, by a more persistent nature and by a differential usage of downstream enzymes and accessory receptors. We further consider factors like aging, previous exposure to inflammatory stimuli, and differences in the microenvironment that can modulate innate immune responses. The long-life span of microglia in the metabolically active CNS renders them susceptible to the phenomenon of 'inflammaging', and major challenges lie in the unraveling of the factors that underlie age-related alterations in microglial behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Timmerman
- Alternatives Unit, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, the Netherlands
| | - S M Burm
- Genmab, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J J Bajramovic
- Alternatives Unit, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, the Netherlands.
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TGF-β Signaling in Cellular Senescence and Aging-Related Pathology. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205002. [PMID: 31658594 PMCID: PMC6834140 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is broadly defined as the functional decline that occurs in all body systems. The accumulation of senescent cells is considered a hallmark of aging and thought to contribute to the aging pathologies. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a pleiotropic cytokine that regulates a myriad of cellular processes and has important roles in embryonic development, physiological tissue homeostasis, and various pathological conditions. TGF-β exerts potent growth inhibitory activities in various cell types, and multiple growth regulatory mechanisms have reportedly been linked to the phenotypes of cellular senescence and stem cell aging in previous studies. In addition, accumulated evidence has indicated a multifaceted association between TGF-β signaling and aging-associated disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, muscle atrophy, and obesity. The findings regarding these diseases suggest that the impairment of TGF-β signaling in certain cell types and the upregulation of TGF-β ligands contribute to cell degeneration, tissue fibrosis, inflammation, decreased regeneration capacity, and metabolic malfunction. While the biological roles of TGF-β depend highly on cell types and cellular contexts, aging-associated changes are an important additional context which warrants further investigation to better understand the involvement in various diseases and develop therapeutic options. The present review summarizes the relationships between TGF-β signaling and cellular senescence, stem cell aging, and aging-related diseases.
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Zhu A, Wu Z, Zhong X, Ni J, Li Y, Meng J, Du C, Zhao X, Nakanishi H, Wu S. Brazilian Green Propolis Prevents Cognitive Decline into Mild Cognitive Impairment in Elderly People Living at High Altitude. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 63:551-560. [PMID: 29630549 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic inflammation is known as a risk factor of cognitive decline. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of propolis on cognitive decline and systemic inflammation in elderly people living at high altitude. METHODS Sixty participants (average 72.8 years) living at altitude (2,260 meters) were randomized to receive propolis (0.83 g, n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 24 months. Cognitive outcomes were assessed using MMSE and serum cytokine levels were measured for 24 months in a double-blind study. RESULTS MMSE scores were 26.17 at baseline and 23.87 at 24 months in placebo group. Compared to placebo group, improvements of MMSE scores were significant in propolis-treated subjects (p = 0.007) with a response emerging over time (time points×group interaction, p = 0.016). In addition, the serum IL-1β and IL-6 levels were significantly different across treatments (p < 0.0001) showing upward and downward trends in placebo- and propolis-treated subjects, respectively (p < 0.0001). Serum levels of TNF-α were not significantly different across treatment (p = 0.0528) but with a response emerging over time (time points×group interaction, p = 0.016). In contrast, serum levels of TGFβ1 were significantly different across treatments (p < 0.0001) showing downward and upward trends in placebo- and propolis-treated subjects, respectively. Serum levels of IL-10 were significant for the effect of groups (p = 0.0411). Furthermore, MMSE scores correlated with the decrease in IL-1β and the increase in TGFβ1 in serum. CONCLUSION Elderly people living at high altitude developed to MCI in 24 months with exacerbation of systemic inflammation. Ingestion of propolis (>12 months) protected against cognitive decline after systemic inflammation was reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiqin Zhu
- Institution of Geriatric Qinghai Provincial Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Zhou Wu
- Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.,OBT Research Center, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Xin Zhong
- Institution of Geriatric Qinghai Provincial Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Junjun Ni
- Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yinglan Li
- Institution of Geriatric Qinghai Provincial Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Jie Meng
- Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Can Du
- Institution of Geriatric Qinghai Provincial Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Xue Zhao
- Institution of Geriatric Qinghai Provincial Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Hiroshi Nakanishi
- Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shizheng Wu
- Institution of Geriatric Qinghai Provincial Hospital, Xining, China
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Ferri E, Gussago C, Casati M, Mari D, Rossi PD, Ciccone S, Cesari M, Arosio B. Apolipoprotein E gene in physiological and pathological aging. Mech Ageing Dev 2019; 178:41-45. [PMID: 30658061 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The genetic background plays a role on longevity. The distribution of the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) variants (ε2, ε3, ε4) may differ across age groups, especially in the oldest old and despite geographical and ethnic specificities. Since the ε4 variant is associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD), it might represent an opportunity for exploring the relationship of APOE with physiological and pathological aging. AIM To explore the role played by APOE genotype/alleles on physiological and pathological brain aging. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was conducted in a cohort of centenarians (n = 106), and two cohorts of octogenarians (without cognitive decline, n = 351 controls; and with AD, n = 294). RESULTS No significant differences in genotype/allele distributions were observed comparing controls to centenarians. The prevalence of ε2/ε3, ε3/ε3, ε3/ε4 and ε4/ε4 genotypes were significantly different in centenarians compared to AD. The prevalence of ε2 and ε3 alleles were significantly higher in centenarians, whereas the ε4 was less frequent. The ε4 allele was positively associated with AD, whereas a negative association was found for ε2 and ε3 alleles. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicates that ε4 allele is strongly associated with AD. APOE significantly affects AD risk, but apparently not longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Ferri
- Geriatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - C Gussago
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - M Casati
- Geriatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - D Mari
- Geriatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - P D Rossi
- Geriatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - S Ciccone
- Geriatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - M Cesari
- Geriatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - B Arosio
- Geriatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via Pace 9, 20122 Milan, Italy.
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Neurobiological links between depression and AD: The role of TGF-β1 signaling as a new pharmacological target. Pharmacol Res 2018; 130:374-384. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 02/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Kotlarz D, Marquardt B, Barøy T, Lee WS, Konnikova L, Hollizeck S, Magg T, Lehle AS, Walz C, Borggraefe I, Hauck F, Bufler P, Conca R, Wall SM, Schumacher EM, Misceo D, Frengen E, Bentsen BS, Uhlig HH, Hopfner KP, Muise AM, Snapper SB, Strømme P, Klein C. Human TGF-β1 deficiency causes severe inflammatory bowel disease and encephalopathy. Nat Genet 2018; 50:344-348. [PMID: 29483653 PMCID: PMC6309869 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-018-0063-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 (encoded by TGFB1) is the prototypic member of the TGF-β family of 33 proteins that orchestrate embryogenesis, development and tissue homeostasis1,2. Following its discovery 3 , enormous interest and numerous controversies have emerged about the role of TGF-β in coordinating the balance of pro- and anti-oncogenic properties4,5, pro- and anti-inflammatory effects 6 , or pro- and anti-fibrinogenic characteristics 7 . Here we describe three individuals from two pedigrees with biallelic loss-of-function mutations in the TGFB1 gene who presented with severe infantile inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and central nervous system (CNS) disease associated with epilepsy, brain atrophy and posterior leukoencephalopathy. The proteins encoded by the mutated TGFB1 alleles were characterized by impaired secretion, function or stability of the TGF-β1-LAP complex, which is suggestive of perturbed bioavailability of TGF-β1. Our study shows that TGF-β1 has a critical and nonredundant role in the development and homeostasis of intestinal immunity and the CNS in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Kotlarz
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Benjamin Marquardt
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tuva Barøy
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Way S Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University Malaya Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Liza Konnikova
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatric and Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sebastian Hollizeck
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Magg
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna S Lehle
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christoph Walz
- Institute of Pathology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ingo Borggraefe
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Fabian Hauck
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Philip Bufler
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Raffaele Conca
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sarah M Wall
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eva M Schumacher
- Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Doriana Misceo
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eirik Frengen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Beint S Bentsen
- Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pediatric Research, Pediatric Liver Kidney Alimentary Nutrition and Transplantation Research Group, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Holm H Uhlig
- Translational Gastroenterology Unit and Department of Pediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Karl-Peter Hopfner
- Department of Biochemistry and Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Aleixo M Muise
- SickKids Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center and Cell Biology Program, Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Scott B Snapper
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Petter Strømme
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Christoph Klein
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.
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Fraga VG, Guimarães HC, Teixeira AL, Barbosa MT, Carvalho MG, Caramelli P, Gomes KB. Polymorphisms in cytokine genes influence cognitive and functional performance in a population aged 75 years and above. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2017; 32:1401-1410. [PMID: 27891653 DOI: 10.1002/gps.4627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Revised: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the frequency of the cytokine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α -308G > A, tumor growth factor (TGF)-β1 codon +10C > T, TGF-β1 codon +25G > C, interleukin (IL)-10 -1082A > G, IL-10 -819C > T, IL-10 -592C > A, IL-6 -174G > C, and IFN-γ +874T > A in a sample of healthy and cognitively impaired elderlies and to verify the probable association between these SNPs and cognitive and functional performance of subjects aged 75 years and above. METHODS 259 Brazilian subjects were included, comprising 81 with cognitive impairment no dementia (CIND) and 54 demented seniors (together made up the cognitively impaired group, CI) and 124 age-matched and gender-matched cognitively healthy controls (CHS). The genotyping was performed by multiplex polymerase chain reaction. The cognitive performance was evaluated by Mini-Mental State Examination Brief Cognitive Screening Battery. The functional performance was accessed by Functional Activities Questionnaire. RESULTS The CClower genotype of TGF-β1 codon +25G > C was frequent in both patient groups. The TThigher genotype of INF-γ +874T > A was less frequent in the dementia group. IL-10 haplotypes of lower expression were more frequent among CIND and demented patients. In CI, individuals with genetic variants that produce higher expression of TGF-β1, INF-γ, and IL-10 showed better normalized cognitive performance. Additionally, the Alower allele of INF-γ +874T > A was related to worse functional performance in CI, while the Alower allele of TNF-α -308G > A was associated with better cognitive and functional scores in the CIND group. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest a potential role for certain cytokine SNPs in the development of CIND and dementia, which may influence the functional and cognitive performance of these patients. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa G Fraga
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Henrique C Guimarães
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Antônio L Teixeira
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Maira T Barbosa
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Maria G Carvalho
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Paulo Caramelli
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Karina B Gomes
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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A systematic review on the association between inflammatory genes and cognitive decline in non-demented elderly individuals. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2017; 27:568-588. [PMID: 26718789 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Revised: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment, or decline, is not only a feature of Alzheimer׳s disease and other forms of dementia but also normal ageing. Abundant evidence from epidemiological studies points towards perturbed inflammatory mechanisms in aged individuals, though the cause-effect nature of this apparent relationship is difficult to establish. Genetic association studies focusing on polymorphism in and around inflammatory genes represent a viable approach to establish whether inflammatory mechanisms might play a causal role in cognitive decline, whilst also enabling the identification of specific genes potentially influencing specific cognitive facets. Thus, here we provide a review of published genetic association studies investigating inflammatory genes in the context of cognitive decline in elderly, non-demented, samples. Numerous candidate gene association studies have been performed to date, focusing almost exclusively on genes encoding major cytokines. Some of these studies report significant cognitive domain-specific associations implicating Interleukin 1β (IL1β) (rs16944), Tumour Necrosis Factor α (TNFα) (rs1800629) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in various domains of cognitive function. However, the majority of these studies are lacking in statistical power and have other methodological limitations, suggesting some of them may have yielded false positive results. Genome-wide association studies have implicated less direct and less obvious regulators of inflammatory processes (i.e., PDE7A, HS3ST4, SPOCK3), indicating that a shift away from the major cytokine-encoding genes in future studies will be important. Furthermore, better cohesion across studies with regards to the cognitive test batteries administered to participants along with the continued application of longitudinal designs will be vital.
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Inflammatory Cytokines and Alzheimer's Disease: A Review from the Perspective of Genetic Polymorphisms. Neurosci Bull 2016; 32:469-80. [PMID: 27568024 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-016-0055-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammatory processes are a central feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in which microglia are over-activated, resulting in the increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, deficiencies in the anti-inflammatory system may also contribute to neuroinflammation. Recently, advanced methods for the analysis of genetic polymorphisms have further supported the relationship between neuroinflammatory factors and AD risk because a series of polymorphisms in inflammation-related genes have been shown to be associated with AD. In this review, we summarize the polymorphisms of both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines related to AD, primarily interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, IL-4, IL-10, and transforming growth factor beta, as well as their functional activity in AD pathology. Exploration of the relationship between inflammatory cytokine polymorphisms and AD risk may facilitate our understanding of AD pathogenesis and contribute to improved treatment strategies.
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11
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Liu L, Watanabe N, Akatsu H, Nishimura M. Neuronal expression of ILEI/FAM3C and its reduction in Alzheimer's disease. Neuroscience 2016; 330:236-46. [PMID: 27256505 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.05.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Revised: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Decrease in brain amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation is a leading strategy for treating Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the intrinsic mechanism of the regulation of brain Aβ production is largely unknown. Previously, we reported that ILEI (also referred to as FAM3C) binds to the γ-secretase complex and suppresses Aβ production without inhibiting γ-secretase activity. In this study, we examined ILEI expression in mouse brain using immunohistochemistry and subcellular fractionation. Brain ILEI showed widespread expression in neurons and ependymal cells but not in glial and vascular endothelial cells. Neuronal ILEI resided in perinuclear vesicular structures, which were positive for a marker protein of the trans-Golgi network. Although ILEI immunostaining was negative at synaptic terminals, synaptosome fractionation analysis suggested that ILEI was enriched in presynaptic terminals, particularly in the active zone-docked synaptic vesicles. ILEI expression levels in brain peaked during the postnatal period and declined with age. In comparison with age-matched control brains, the number of ILEI-immunoreactive neurons decreased in AD brains, although the subcellular localization was unaltered. Our results suggest that a decline of ILEI expression may cause accumulation of Aβ in the brain and the eventual development of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Liu
- Molecular Neuroscience Research Center, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192, Japan
| | - Naoki Watanabe
- Molecular Neuroscience Research Center, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192, Japan
| | - Hiroyasu Akatsu
- Choju Medical Institute, Fukushimura Hospital, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8124, Japan
| | - Masaki Nishimura
- Molecular Neuroscience Research Center, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192, Japan.
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Bruno V, Caraci F, Copani A, Matrisciano F, Nicoletti F, Battaglia G. The impact of metabotropic glutamate receptors into active neurodegenerative processes: A "dark side" in the development of new symptomatic treatments for neurologic and psychiatric disorders. Neuropharmacology 2016; 115:180-192. [PMID: 27140693 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.04.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Revised: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptor ligands are under clinical development for the treatment of CNS disorders with high social and economic burden, such as schizophrenia, major depressive disorder (MDD), and Parkinson's disease (PD), and are promising drug candidates for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). So far, clinical studies have shown symptomatic effects of mGlu receptor ligands, but it is unknown whether these drugs act as disease modifiers or, at the opposite end, they accelerate disease progression by enhancing neurodegeneration. This is a fundamental issue in the treatment of PD and AD, and is also an emerging theme in the treatment of schizophrenia and MDD, in which neurodegeneration is also present and contribute to disease progression. Moving from in vitro data and preclinical studies, we discuss the potential impact of drugs targeting mGlu2, mGlu3, mGlu4 and mGlu5 receptor ligands on active neurodegeneration associated with AD, PD, schizophrenia, and MDD. We wish to highlight that our final comments on the best drug candidates are not influenced by commercial interests or by previous or ongoing collaborations with drug companies. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors, 5 years on'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Bruno
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy.
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; I.R.C.C.S. Associazione Oasi Maria S.S., Institute for Research on Mental Retardation and Brain Aging, 94018 Troina, Italy
| | - Agata Copani
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; National Research Council, Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging (IBB-CNR), 95126 Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Matrisciano
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, USA
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
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Fraga VG, Guimarães HC, Lara VP, Teixeira AL, Barbosa MT, Carvalho MG, Caramelli P, Gomes KB. TGF-β1 Codon 10 T>C Polymorphism Influences Short-Term Functional and Cognitive Decline in Healthy Oldest-Old Individuals: The Pietà Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2015; 48:1077-81. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-150397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa G. Fraga
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Henrique C. Guimarães
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Vivian P. Lara
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Antônio L. Teixeira
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Maira T. Barbosa
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Maria G. Carvalho
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Paulo Caramelli
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Karina B. Gomes
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
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Yang Q, Wang EY, Jia HW, Wang YP. Association between polymorphisms in transforming growth factor-β1 and sporadic Alzheimer's disease in a Chinese population. Int J Neurosci 2015; 126:979-84. [DOI: 10.3109/00207454.2015.1088849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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15
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Frydecka D, Misiak B, Pawlak-Adamska E, Karabon L, Tomkiewicz A, Sedlaczek P, Kiejna A, Beszłej JA. Sex differences in TGFB-β signaling with respect to age of onset and cognitive functioning in schizophrenia. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2015; 11:575-84. [PMID: 25784812 PMCID: PMC4356692 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s74672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
There are studies showing that gene polymorphisms within the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling constitute schizophrenia risk variants. However, the association between TGFB1 gene polymorphisms (+869T/C and +915G/C), TGF-β level with schizophrenia course, and its symptomatology together with cognitive functioning has not been investigated so far. We included 151 patients with schizophrenia and 279 healthy controls. Cognitive functioning was assessed using Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Trail Making Test (TMT)-A and TMT-B, Verbal Fluency task, Stroop test, as well as selected subtests from the Wechsler Adults Intelligence Scale - Revised, Polish adaptation (WAIS-R-Pl): Digit Symbol Coding, Digit Span Forward and Backward, and Similarities. Additionally, serum TGF-β levels were measured in 88 schizophrenia patients and 88 healthy controls. Serum TGF-β level was significantly higher among patients with schizophrenia in comparison with healthy controls; however, the studied polymorphisms were not associated with TGF-β level in schizophrenia patients. Subjects carrying the +869T allele performed significantly worse in comparison with +869CC homozygotes on Stroop task, Verbal Fluency task and Digit Symbol Coding task. There was a significant difference in age of psychosis onset in female schizophrenia patients with respect to the TGFB1 +869T/C polymorphism. Additionally, adjustment for possible confounders revealed that there was a significant difference in cognitive performance on Digit Symbol Coding task with respect to the TGFB1 +869T/C polymorphism among female schizophrenia patients. Our results suggest that TGF-β signaling might be a valid link contributing to observed differences in age of onset and the level of cognitive decline between male and female schizophrenia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Frydecka
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Błażej Misiak
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland ; Department of Genetics, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Edyta Pawlak-Adamska
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Experimental Therapy, Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Lidia Karabon
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Experimental Therapy, Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland ; Department of Clinical Urology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Anna Tomkiewicz
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Experimental Therapy, Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Paweł Sedlaczek
- 1st Department and Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Kiejna
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
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Bosco P, Ferri R, Salluzzo MG, Castellano S, Signorelli M, Nicoletti F, Nuovo SD, Drago F, Caraci F. Role of the Transforming-Growth-Factor-β1 Gene in Late-Onset Alzheimer's Disease: Implications for the Treatment. Curr Genomics 2013; 14:147-56. [PMID: 24082824 PMCID: PMC3637679 DOI: 10.2174/1389202911314020007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2012] [Revised: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) is the most common form of dementia in the elderly. LOAD has a complex and largely unknown etiology with strong genetic determinants. Genetics of LOAD is known to involve several genetic risk factors among which the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene seems to be the major recognized genetic determinant. Recent efforts have been made to identify other genetic factors involved in the pathophysiology of LOAD such as genes associated with a deficit of neurotrophic factors in the AD brain. Genetic variations of neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and transforming-growth-factor-β1 (TGF-β1) are known to increase the risk to develop LOAD and have also been related to depression susceptibility in LOAD. Transforming-Growth-Factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a neurotrophic factor that exerts neuroprotective effects against ß-amyloid-induced neurodegeneration. Recent evidence suggests that a specific impairment in the signaling of TGF-β is an early event in the pathogenesis of AD. TGF-β1 protein levels are predominantly under genetic control, and the TGF-β1 gene, located on chromosome 19q13.1–3, con-tains several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) upstream and in the transcript region, such as the SNP at codon +10 (T/C) and +25 (G/C), which is known to influence the level of expression of TGF-β1. In the present review, we summarize the current literature on genetic risk factors for LOAD, focusing on the role of the TGF-β1 gene, finally discussing the possible implications of these genetic studies for the selection of patients eligible for neuroprotective strategies in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bosco
- IRCCS Associazione Oasi Maria S.S. - Institute for Research on Mental Retardation and Brain Aging, 94018 Troina, Enna, Italy
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17
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Hayes CD, Dey D, Palavicini JP, Wang H, Patkar KA, Minond D, Nefzi A, Lakshmana MK. Striking reduction of amyloid plaque burden in an Alzheimer's mouse model after chronic administration of carmustine. BMC Med 2013; 11:81. [PMID: 23531149 PMCID: PMC3655051 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-11-81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently available therapies for Alzheimer's disease (AD) do not treat the underlying cause of AD. Anecdotal observations in nursing homes from multiple studies strongly suggest an inverse relationship between cancer and AD. Therefore, we reasoned that oncology drugs may be effective against AD. METHODS We screened a library of all the FDA-approved oncology drugs and identified bis-chloroethylnitrosourea (BCNU or carmustine) as an effective amyloid beta (Aβ) reducing compound. To quantify Aβ levels, Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells stably expressing amyloid precursor protein 751WT (APP751WT) called 7WD10 cells were exposed to different concentrations of BCNU for 48 hours and the conditioned media were collected. To detect Aβ the conditioned media were immunoprecipitated with Ab9 antibody and subjected to immunoblot detection. Amyloid plaques were quantified in the brains of a mouse model of AD after chronic exposure to BCNU by thoflavin S staining. RESULTS BCNU decreased normalized levels of Aβ starting from 5 μM by 39% (P < 0.05), 10 μM by 51% (P < 0.01) and 20 μM by 63% (P < 0.01) in CHO cells compared to a control group treated with butyl amine, a structural derivative of BCNU. Interestingly, soluble amyloid precursor protein α (sAPPα) levels were increased to 167% (P < 0.01) at 0.5 μM, 186% (P < 0.05) at 1 μM, 204% (P < 0.01) at 5 μM and 152% (P < 0.05) at 10 μM compared to untreated cells. We also tested the effects of 12 structural derivatives of BCNU on Aβ levels, but none of them were as potent as BCNU. BCNU treatment at 5 μM led to an accumulation of immature APP at the cell surface resulting in an increased ratio of surface to total APP by 184% for immature APP, but no change in mature APP. It is also remarkable that BCNU reduced Aβ generation independent of secretases which were not altered up to 40 μM. Interestingly, levels of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) were increased at 5 μM (43%, P < 0.05), 10 μM (73%, P < 0.01) and 20 μM (92%, P < 0.001). Most significantly, cell culture results were confirmed in vivo after chronic administration of BCNU at 0.5 mg/kg which led to the reduction of Aβ40 by 75% and amyloid plaque burden by 81%. Conversely, the levels of sAPPα were increased by 45%. CONCLUSIONS BCNU reduces Aβ generation and plaque burden at non-toxic concentrations possibly through altered intracellular trafficking and processing of APP. Taken together these data provided unequivocal evidence that BCNU is a potent secretase-sparing anti-Aβ drug. See related commentary article here http://www.biomedcentral.com/1741-7015/11/82.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal D Hayes
- Section of Neurobiology, Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, SW Village Parkway 11350, Port Saint Lucie, FL 34987, USA
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18
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Meta-analysis of the transforming growth factor-β1 polymorphisms and susceptibility to Alzheimer’s disease. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2012; 120:353-60. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-012-0850-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2012] [Accepted: 06/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Caraci F, Bosco P, Signorelli M, Spada RS, Cosentino FI, Toscano G, Bonforte C, Muratore S, Prestianni G, Panerai S, Giambirtone MC, Gulotta E, Romano C, Salluzzo MG, Nicoletti F, Copani A, Drago F, Aguglia E, Ferri R. The CC genotype of transforming growth factor-β1 increases the risk of late-onset Alzheimer's disease and is associated with AD-related depression. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2012; 22:281-9. [PMID: 21924590 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2011.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2011] [Revised: 07/29/2011] [Accepted: 08/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a neurotrophic factor that exerts neuroprotective effects against β-amyloid-induced neurodegeneration. Recently, a specific impairment of the TGF-β1 signaling pathway has been demonstrated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain. TGF-β1 is also involved in the pathogenesis of depressive disorders, which may occur in 30-40% of AD patients. The TGF-β1 gene contains single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at codon +10 (T/C) and +25 (G/C), which are known to influence the level of expression of TGF-β1. We investigated TGF-β1 +10 (T/C) and +25 (G/C) SNPs and allele frequencies in 131 sporadic AD patients and in 135 healthy age- and sex-matched controls. Genotypes of the TGF-β1 SNPs at codon +10 (T/C) and +25 (G/C) did not differ between AD patients and controls, whereas the allele frequencies of codon +10 polymorphism showed a significant difference (P = 0.0306). We also found a different distribution of the +10 (C/C) phenotype (continuity-corrected χ(2) test with one degree of freedom = 4.460, P = 0.0347) between late onset AD (LOAD) patients and controls (P = 0.0126), but not between early onset AD (EOAD) patients and controls. In addition, the presence of the C/C genotype increased the risk of LOAD regardless of the status of apolipoprotein E4 (odds ratio [OR] = 2.34; 95% CI = 1.19-4.59). Compared to patients bearing the T/T and C/T polymorphisms, LOAD TGF-β1 C/C carriers also showed > 5-fold risk to develop depressive symptoms independently of a history of depression (OR = 5.50; 95% CI = 1.33-22.69). An association was also found between the TGF-β1 C/C genotype and the severity of depressive symptoms (HAM-D(17) ≥ 14) (P < 0.05). These results suggest that the CC genotype of the TGF-β1 gene increases the risk to develop LOAD and is also associated with depressive symptoms in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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20
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Caraci F, Spampinato S, Sortino MA, Bosco P, Battaglia G, Bruno V, Drago F, Nicoletti F, Copani A. Dysfunction of TGF-β1 signaling in Alzheimer's disease: perspectives for neuroprotection. Cell Tissue Res 2011; 347:291-301. [PMID: 21879289 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-011-1230-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2011] [Accepted: 08/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects about 35 million people worldwide. Current drugs for AD only treat the symptoms and do not interfere with the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of the disease. AD is characterized by the presence of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal loss. Identification of the molecular determinants underlying Aβ-induced neurodegeneration is an essential step for the development of disease-modifying drugs. Recently, an impairment of the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) signaling pathway has been demonstrated to be specific to the AD brain and, particularly, to the early phase of the disease. TGF-β1 is a neurotrophic factor responsible for the initiation and maintenance of neuronal differentiation and synaptic plasticity. The deficiency of TGF-β1 signaling is associated with Aβ pathology and neurofibrillary tangle formation in AD animal models. Reduced TGF-β1 signaling seems to contribute both to microglial activation and to ectopic cell-cycle re-activation in neurons, two events that contribute to neurodegeneration in the AD brain. The neuroprotective features of TGF-β1 indicate the advantage of rescuing TGF-β1 signaling as a means to slow down the neurodegenerative process in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy.
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21
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Caraci F, Molinaro G, Battaglia G, Giuffrida ML, Riozzi B, Traficante A, Bruno V, Cannella M, Merlo S, Wang X, Heinz BA, Nisenbaum ES, Britton TC, Drago F, Sortino MA, Copani A, Nicoletti F. Targeting group II metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors for the treatment of psychosis associated with Alzheimer's disease: selective activation of mGlu2 receptors amplifies beta-amyloid toxicity in cultured neurons, whereas dual activation of mGlu2 and mGlu3 receptors is neuroprotective. Mol Pharmacol 2010; 79:618-26. [PMID: 21159998 DOI: 10.1124/mol.110.067488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dual orthosteric agonists of metabotropic glutamate 2 (mGlu2) and mGlu3 receptors are being developed as novel antipsychotic agents devoid of the adverse effects of conventional antipsychotics. Therefore, these drugs could be helpful for the treatment of psychotic symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). In experimental animals, the antipsychotic activity of mGlu2/3 receptor agonists is largely mediated by the activation of mGlu2 receptors and is mimicked by selective positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of mGlu2 receptors. We investigated the distinct influence of mGlu2 and mGlu3 receptors in mixed and pure neuronal cultures exposed to synthetic β-amyloid protein (Aβ) to model neurodegeneration occurring in AD. The mGlu2 receptor PAM, N-4'-cyano-biphenyl-3-yl)-N-(3-pyridinylmethyl)-ethanesulfonamide hydrochloride (LY566332), devoid of toxicity per se, amplified Aβ-induced neurodegeneration, and this effect was prevented by the mGlu2/3 receptor antagonist (2S,1'S,2'S)-2-(9-xanthylmethyl)-2-(2'-carboxycyclopropyl)glycine (LY341495). LY566332 potentiated Aβ toxicity regardless of the presence of glial mGlu3 receptors, but it was inactive when neurons lacked mGlu2 receptors. The dual mGlu2/3 receptor agonist, (-)-2-oxa-4-aminobicyclo[3.1.0]exhane-4,6-dicarboxylic acid (LY379268), was neuroprotective in mixed cultures via a paracrine mechanism mediated by transforming growth factor-β1. LY379268 lost its protective activity in neurons grown with astrocytes lacking mGlu3 receptors, indicating that protection against Aβ neurotoxicity was mediated entirely by glial mGlu3 receptors. The selective noncompetitive mGlu3 receptor antagonist, (3S)-1-(5-bromopyrimidin-2-yl)-N-(2,4-dichlorobenzyl)pyrrolidin-3-amine methanesulfonate hydrate (LY2389575), amplified Aβ toxicity on its own, and, interestingly, unmasked a neurotoxic activity of LY379268, which probably was mediated by the activation of mGlu2 receptors. These data indicate that selective potentiation of mGlu2 receptors enhances neuronal vulnerability to Aβ, whereas dual activation of mGlu2 and mGlu3 receptors is protective against Aβ-induced toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Caraci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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22
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Candore G, Bulati M, Caruso C, Castiglia L, Colonna-Romano G, Di Bona D, Duro G, Lio D, Matranga D, Pellicanò M, Rizzo C, Scapagnini G, Vasto S. Inflammation, Cytokines, Immune Response, Apolipoprotein E, Cholesterol, and Oxidative Stress in Alzheimer Disease: Therapeutic Implications. Rejuvenation Res 2010; 13:301-13. [DOI: 10.1089/rej.2009.0993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Candore
- Immunosenescence Unit, Department of Pathobiology and Biomedical Methodologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Matteo Bulati
- Immunosenescence Unit, Department of Pathobiology and Biomedical Methodologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Calogero Caruso
- Immunosenescence Unit, Department of Pathobiology and Biomedical Methodologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Laura Castiglia
- Immunosenescence Unit, Department of Pathobiology and Biomedical Methodologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Colonna-Romano
- Immunosenescence Unit, Department of Pathobiology and Biomedical Methodologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Danilo Di Bona
- Immunosenescence Unit, Department of Pathobiology and Biomedical Methodologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Domenico Lio
- Immunosenescence Unit, Department of Pathobiology and Biomedical Methodologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Domenica Matranga
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche e Medicina Legale, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Mariavaleria Pellicanò
- Immunosenescence Unit, Department of Pathobiology and Biomedical Methodologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudia Rizzo
- Immunosenescence Unit, Department of Pathobiology and Biomedical Methodologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Sonya Vasto
- Immunosenescence Unit, Department of Pathobiology and Biomedical Methodologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Reitz C, Mayeux R. Use of genetic variation as biomarkers for mild cognitive impairment and progression of mild cognitive impairment to dementia. J Alzheimers Dis 2010; 19:229-51. [PMID: 20061642 PMCID: PMC2908485 DOI: 10.3233/jad-2010-1255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is prevalent in the elderly. The high estimates of conversion to dementia have spurred the interest in identification of genetic risk factors associated with development of cognitive impairment and or its progression. However, despite notable achievements in human genetics over the years, in particular technological advances in gene mapping and in statistical methods that relate genetic variants to disease, to date only a small proportion of the genetic contribution to late-life cognitive impairment can be explained. A likely explanation for the difficulty in gene identification is that it is a multifactorial disorder with both genetic and environmental components, in which several genes with small effects each are likely to contribute to the quantitative traits associated with the disease. The motivation for identifying the underlying genetic risk factors elderly is clear. Not only could it shed light on disease pathogenesis, but it may also provide potential targets for effective treatment, screening, and prevention. In this article we review the current knowledge on underlying genetic variants and the usefulness of genetic variation as diagnostic tools and biomarkers. In addition, we discuss the potentials and difficulties researchers face in designing appropriate studies for gene discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Reitz
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Richard Mayeux
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Department of Epidemiology, Joseph P. Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
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24
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Caraci F, Battaglia G, Bruno V, Bosco P, Carbonaro V, Giuffrida ML, Drago F, Sortino MA, Nicoletti F, Copani A. TGF-β1 pathway as a new target for neuroprotection in Alzheimer's disease. CNS Neurosci Ther 2009; 17:237-49. [PMID: 19925479 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2009.00115.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects more than 37 million people worldwide. Current drugs for AD are only symptomatic, but do not interfere with the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of the disease. AD is characterized by the presence of ß-amyloid (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal loss. The identification of the molecular determinants underlying AD pathogenesis is a fundamental step to design new disease-modifying drugs. Recently, a specific impairment of transforming-growth-factor-β1 (TGF-β1) signaling pathway has been demonstrated in AD brain. The deficiency of TGF-β1 signaling has been shown to increase both Aβ accumulation and Aβ-induced neurodegeneration in AD models. The loss of function of TGF-ß1 pathway seems also to contribute to tau pathology and neurofibrillary tangle formation. Growing evidence suggests a neuroprotective role for TGF-β1 against Aβ toxicity both in vitro and in vivo models of AD. Different drugs, such as lithium or group II mGlu receptor agonists are able to increase TGF-β1 levels in the central nervous system (CNS), and might be considered as new neuroprotective tools against Aβ-induced neurodegeneration. In the present review, we examine the evidence for a neuroprotective role of TGF-β1 in AD, and discuss the TGF-β1 signaling pathway as a new pharmacological target for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Caraci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Catania, Italy.
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25
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Caraci F, Copani A, Nicoletti F, Drago F. Depression and Alzheimer's disease: neurobiological links and common pharmacological targets. Eur J Pharmacol 2009; 626:64-71. [PMID: 19837057 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2009.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2009] [Accepted: 10/09/2009] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Depression is one of the most prevalent and life-threatening forms of mental illnesses, whereas Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects more than 37 million people worldwide. Recent evidence suggests a strong relationship between depression and Alzheimer's disease. A lifetime history of major depression has been considered as a risk factor for later development of Alzheimer's disease. The presence of depressive symptoms can affect the conversion of mild cognitive impairment into Alzheimer's disease. Neuritic plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, the two major hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease brain, are more pronounced in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients with comorbid depression as compared with Alzheimer's disease patients without depression. On the other hand, neurodegenerative phenomena have been observed in different brain regions of patients with a history of depression. Recent evidence suggests that molecular mechanisms and cascades that underlie the pathogenesis of major depression, such as chronic inflammation and hyperactivation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, are also involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. In particular, a specific impairment in the signaling of some neurotrophins such as transforming-growth-factor beta1 (TGF-beta1) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been observed both in depression and Alzheimer's disease. In the present review we will examine the evidence on the common molecular pathways between depression and Alzheimer's disease and we will discuss these pathways as new pharmacological targets for the treatment of both major depression and Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Caraci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy
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26
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Seripa D, Panza F, Franceschi M, D'Onofrio G, Solfrizzi V, Dallapiccola B, Pilotto A. Non-apolipoprotein E and apolipoprotein E genetics of sporadic Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2009; 8:214-36. [PMID: 19496238 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2008.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The genetic epidemiology of sporadic Alzheimer's disease (SAD) remains a very active area of research,making it one of the most prolifically published areas in medicine and biology. Numerous putative candidate genes have been proposed. However, with the exception of apolipoprotein E (APOE), the only confirmed genetic risk factor for SAD, all the other data appear to be not consistent. Nevertheless, the genetic risk for SAD attributable to the APOE gene in the general population is 20-0%, providing a strong evidence for the existence of additional genetic risk factors. The first part of the present article was dedicated to non-APOE genetics of SAD, reviewing chromosomes-by-chromosomes the available data concerning the major candidate genes. The second part of this article focused on some recently discovered aspects of the APOE polymorphism and their implications for SAD. An attempt to identify the future directions for non-APOE genetic research in SAD was also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Seripa
- Geriatric Unit and Gerontology-Geriatrics Research Laboratory, Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy.
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27
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Wan Y, Wang G, Chen SD. Genetic predisposition to inflammation: a new risk factor of Alzheimer's disease. Neurosci Bull 2009; 24:314-22. [PMID: 18839025 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-008-0619-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation has been shown to play an important role in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Recent epidemical study indicates that the incidence of AD in some populations is substantially influenced by the gene polymorphisms of the inflammation mediators. Meanwhile, an ensured risk factor, the ApoE epsilon4 allele is also reported to directly promote inflammation. Accordingly, it appears that an individual genetic background has partly determined his predisposition for AD by the extent of the inflammation response to the chronic stimulus by beta-amyloid peptide (Abeta) deposits and other antigen stressor in the elderly. Hence we present a hypothesis that the inflammation genotypes may contribute to AD susceptibility. This may provide a new orientation both for future identification of individuals at risk and for personalized medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wan
- Department of Neurology/Neuroscience Institute, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
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28
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Li X, Yue ZC, Zhang YY, Bai J, Meng XN, Geng JS, Fu SB. Elevated serum level and gene polymorphisms of TGF-beta1 in gastric cancer. J Clin Lab Anal 2008; 22:164-71. [PMID: 18484655 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.20236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1, as a candidate tumor marker, is currently of interest. In this study, serum TGF-beta1 levels in gastric cancer (GC) patients and healthy volunteers were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the TGF-beta1 gene at codon 10 and codon 25 were identified by means of amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR) and sequence analysis. Our results indicated that serum concentrations of TGF-beta1 in GC patients were significantly higher than those in the control, and positively correlated with tumor mass, invasion, metastasis, and clinical stage. The serum TGF-beta1 levels of patients recovering from radical resection were markedly lower than those before surgery. Meanwhile, no deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequence variation at codon 25 of the TGF-beta1 gene was found and a TGF-beta1 gene polymorphism at codon 10 did not show obvious correlations with either TGF-beta1 expression or clinicopathological parameters of GC. Our evidence suggested that serum concentration of TGF-beta1 might be a novel tumor marker for GC and the polymorphisms of TGF-beta1 gene did not play a role as a determinant of serum TGF-beta1 concentration or as a genetic risk factor in the gastric carcinogenesis and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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