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Okekenwa S, Tsai M, Dooley P, Wang B, Comassio P, Moreira J, Kriefall N, Martin S, Morfini G, Brady S, Song Y. Divergent Molecular Pathways for Toxicity of Selected Mutant C9ORF72-derived Dipeptide Repeats. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.28.558663. [PMID: 37808871 PMCID: PMC10557653 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.28.558663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Expansion of a hexanucleotide repeat in a noncoding region of the C9ORF72 gene is responsible for a significant fraction of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) cases, but mechanisms linking mutant gene products to neuronal toxicity remain debatable. Pathogenesis was proposed to involve the production of toxic RNA species and/or accumulation of toxic dipeptide repeats (DPRs) but distinguishing between these mechanisms has been challenging. In this study, we first use complementary model systems for analyzing pathogenesis in adult-onset neurodegenerative diseases to characterize the pathogenicity of DPRs produced by Repeat Associated Non-ATG translation of C9ORF72 in specific cellular compartments: isolated axoplasm and giant synapse from the squid. Results showed selective axonal and presynaptic toxicity of GP-DPRs, independent of associated RNA. These effects involved a MAPK signaling pathway that affects fast axonal transport and synaptic function, a pathogenic mechanism shared with other mutant proteins associated with familial ALS, like SOD1 and FUS. In primary cultured neurons, GP but not other DPRs promote the "dying-back" axonopathy seen in ALS. Interestingly, GR- and PR-DPRs, which had no effect on axonal transport or synaptic transmission, were found to disrupt the nuclear membrane, promoting "dying-forward" neuropathy. All C9-DPR-mediated toxic effects observed in these studies are independent of whether the corresponding mRNAs contained hexanucleotide repeats or alternative codons. Finally, C9ORF72 human tissues confirmed a close association between GP and active P38 in degenerating motor neurons as well as GR-associated nuclear damage in the cortex. Collectively, our studies establish compartment-specific toxic effects of C9-DPRs associated with degeneration, suggesting that two independent pathogenic mechanisms may contribute to disease heterogeneity and/or synergize on disease progression in C9ORF72 patients with ALS and/or FTD symptoms.
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Jensen BK. Astrocyte-Neuron Interactions Contributing to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Progression. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 39:285-318. [PMID: 39190080 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-64839-7_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a complex disease impacting motor neurons of the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. Disease etiology is quite heterogeneous with over 40 genes causing the disease and a vast ~90% of patients having no prior family history. Astrocytes are major contributors to ALS, particularly through involvement in accelerating disease progression. Through study of genetic forms of disease including SOD1, TDP43, FUS, C9orf72, VCP, TBK1, and more recently patient-derived cells from sporadic individuals, many biological mechanisms have been identified to cause intrinsic or glial-mediated neurotoxicity to motor neurons. Overall, many of the normally supportive and beneficial roles that astrocytes contribute to neuronal health and survival instead switch to become deleterious and neurotoxic. While the exact pathways may differ based on disease-origin, altered astrocyte-neuron communication is a common feature of ALS. Within this chapter, distinct genetic forms are examined in detail, along with what is known from sporadic patient-derived cells. Overall, this chapter highlights the interplay between astrocytes and neurons in this complex disease and describes the key features underlying: astrocyte-mediated motor neuron toxicity, excitotoxicity, oxidative/nitrosative stress, protein dyshomeostasis, metabolic imbalance, inflammation, trophic factor withdrawal, blood-brain/blood-spinal cord barrier involvement, disease spreading, and the extracellular matrix/cell adhesion/TGF-β signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigid K Jensen
- Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Kumar R, Malik MZ, Thanaraj TA, Bagabir SA, Haque S, Tambuwala M, Haider S. A computational biology approach to identify potential protein biomarkers and drug targets for sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cell Signal 2023; 112:110915. [PMID: 37838312 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by the loss of upper and lower motor neurons. The sporadic ALS (sALS) is a multigenic disorder and the complex mechanisms underlying its onset are still not fully delineated. Despite the recent scientific advancements, certain aspects of ALS pathogenic targets need to be yet clarified. The aim of the presented study is to identify potential genetic biomarkers and drug targets for sALS, by analysing gene expression profiles, presented in the publicly available GSE68605 dataset, of motor neurons cells obtained from sALS patients. We used different computational approaches including differential expression analysis, protein network mapping, candidate protein biomarker (CPB) identification, elucidation of the role of functional modules, and molecular docking analysis. The resultant top ten up- and downregulated genes were further used to construct protein-protein interaction network (PPIN). The PPIN analysis resulted in identifying four CPBs (namely RIOK2, AKT1, CTNNB1, and TNF) that commonly overlapped with one another in network parameters (degree, bottleneck and maximum neighbourhood component). The RIOK2 protein emerged as a potential mediator of top five functional modules that are associated with RNA binding, lipoprotein particle receptor binding in pre-ribosome, and interferon, cytokine-mediated signaling pathway. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis revealed that cyclosporine exhibited the highest binding affinity (-8.6 kJ/mol) with RIOK2, and surpassed the FDA-approved ALS drugs, such as riluzole and edaravone. This suggested that cyclosporine may serve as a promising candidate for targeting RIOK2 downregulation observed in sALS patients. In order to validate our computational results, it is suggested that in vitro and in vivo studies may be conducted in future to provide a more detailed understanding of ALS diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupesh Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida, Sec-62, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Md Zubbair Malik
- Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman, P.O. Box 1180, Kuwait city 15462, Kuwait.
| | - Thangavel Alphonse Thanaraj
- Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman, P.O. Box 1180, Kuwait city 15462, Kuwait.
| | - Sali Abubaker Bagabir
- Genetics Unit, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon; Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Murtaza Tambuwala
- Lincoln Medical School, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool Campus, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK.
| | - Shazia Haider
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia University, New Delhi 110025, India.
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Sjoqvist S, Otake K. A pilot study using proximity extension assay of cerebrospinal fluid and its extracellular vesicles identifies novel amyotrophic lateral sclerosis biomarker candidates. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 613:166-173. [PMID: 35567903 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.04.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder which is characterized by progressive degeneration of the motor system. Typically, the disease starts with focal weakness which spreads to involve most muscles and leads to death from respiratory failure within five years of diagnosis. Due to the heterogenic nature of the disease, diagnostics is complex, and it generally takes twelve months from symptom-onset to diagnosis. The discovery of novel biomarkers could lead to accelerated diagnosis, earlier start of treatment, improved patient-segmentation, and treatment follow-up as well as an increased insight into the pathology. Here, we analyzed cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and CSF-derived extracellular vesicles (CSF-EVs) from ALS-patients and matched controls (n = 9 each) using the ultra-sensitive proximity extension assay (PEA), cardiovascular III-panel. On average, 84 and 61 proteins could be detected in CSF and CSF-EVs respectively. In CSF, three proteins were significantly upregulated in ALS-patients (Junctional Adhesion Molecule A Protein, Tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 and Chitinase 1) while myoglobin was down-regulated. In CSF-EVs, no significantly differentially expressed proteins were identified, but there was a trend for downregulation of Perlecan. To our knowledge, only CHIT1 has been previously described as a CSF-based biomarker candidate for ALS. By combining the four differentially expressed markers in CSF and support vector machine algorithm, all ALS patients and 8 of 9 controls were correctly classified. In conclusion, we here demonstrate the feasibility of using PEA of CSF and CSF-EVs for biomarker discovery and propose three de novo biomarker candidates for ALS, however, further studies are necessary to demonstrate clinical usability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Sjoqvist
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 26-1, Muraoka-Higashi 2-chome, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 251-8555, Japan.
| | - Kentaro Otake
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 26-1, Muraoka-Higashi 2-chome, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 251-8555, Japan
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Hensley K, Danekas A, Farrell W, Garcia T, Mehboob W, White M. At the intersection of sulfur redox chemistry, cellular signal transduction and proteostasis: A useful perspective from which to understand and treat neurodegeneration. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 178:161-173. [PMID: 34863876 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.11.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although we can thoroughly describe individual neurodegenerative diseases from the molecular level through cell biology to histology and clinical presentation, our understanding of them and hence treatment gains have been depressingly limited, partly due to difficulty conceptualizing different diseases as variations within the same overarching pathological rubric. This review endeavors to create such rubric by knitting together the seemingly disparate phenomena of oxidative stress, dysregulated proteostasis, and neuroinflammation into a cohesive triad that highlights mechanistic connectivities. We begin by considering that brain metabolic demands necessitate careful control of oxidative homeostasis, largely through sulfur redox chemistry and glutathione (GSH). GSH is essential for brain antioxidant defense, but also for redox signaling and thus neuroinflammation. Delicate regulation of neuroinflammatory pathways (NFκB, MAPK-p38, and NLRP3 particularly) occurs through S-glutathionylation of protein phosphatases but also through redox-sensing elements like ASK1; the 26S proteasome and cysteine deubiquitinases (DUBs). The relationship amongst triad elements is underscored by our discovery that LanCL1 (lanthionine synthetase-like protein-1) protects against oxidant toxicity; mediates GSH-dependent reactivation of oxidized DUBs; and antagonizes the pro-inflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα). We highlight currently promising pharmacological efforts to modulate key triad elements and suggest nexus points that might be exploited to further clinical advantage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Hensley
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Smith, AR, 72916, USA.
| | - Alexis Danekas
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Smith, AR, 72916, USA
| | - William Farrell
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Smith, AR, 72916, USA
| | - Tiera Garcia
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Smith, AR, 72916, USA
| | - Wafa Mehboob
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Smith, AR, 72916, USA
| | - Matthew White
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Smith, AR, 72916, USA
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Yadav RK, Mehan S, Sahu R, Kumar S, Khan A, Makeen HA, Al Bratty M. Protective effects of apigenin on methylmercury-induced behavioral/neurochemical abnormalities and neurotoxicity in rats. Hum Exp Toxicol 2022; 41:9603271221084276. [PMID: 35373622 DOI: 10.1177/09603271221084276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a neurotoxin that induces neurotoxicity and cell death in neurons. MeHg increases oligodendrocyte death, glial cell activation, and motor neuron demyelination in the motor cortex and spinal cord. As a result, MeHg plays an important role in developing neurocomplications similar to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Recent research has implicated c-JNK and p38MAPK overactivation in the pathogenesis of ALS. Apigenin (APG) is a flavonoid having anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and c-JNK/p38MAPK inhibitory activities. The purpose of this study is to determine whether APG possesses neuroprotective effects in MeHg-induced neurotoxicity in adult rats associated with ALS-like neuropathological alterations. In the current study, the neurotoxin MeHg causes an ALS-like phenotype in Wistar rats after 21 days of oral administration at a dose of 5 mg/kg. Prolonged administration of APG (40 and 80 mg/kg) improved neurobehavioral parameters such as learning memory, cognition, motor coordination, and grip strength. This is mainly associated with the downregulation of c-JNK and p38MAPK signaling as well as the restoration of myelin basic protein within the brain. Furthermore, APG inhibited neuronal apoptotic markers (Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3), restored neurotransmitter imbalance, decreased inflammatory markers (TNF- and IL-1), and alleviated oxidative damage. As a result, the current study shows that APG has neuroprotective potential as a c-JNK and p38MAPK signaling inhibitor against MeHg-induced neurotoxicity in adult rats. Based on these promising findings, we suggested that APG could be a potential new therapeutic approach over other conventional therapeutic approaches for MeHg-induced neurotoxicity in neurobehavioral, molecular, and neurochemical abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeshwar Kumar Yadav
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, 75126ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Sidharth Mehan
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, 75126ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Rakesh Sahu
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, 75126ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Sumit Kumar
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, 75126ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Andleeb Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, 123285Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hafiz Antar Makeen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, 123285Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Al Bratty
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, 123285Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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Malada Edelstein YF, Solomonov Y, Hadad N, Alfahel L, Israelson A, Levy R. Early upregulation of cytosolic phospholipase A 2α in motor neurons is induced by misfolded SOD1 in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neuroinflammation 2021; 18:274. [PMID: 34823547 PMCID: PMC8620709 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02326-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal multifactorial neurodegenerative disease characterized by the selective death of motor neurons. Cytosolic phospholipase A2 alpha (cPLA2α) upregulation and activation in the spinal cord of ALS patients has been reported. We have previously shown that cPLA2α upregulation in the spinal cord of mutant SOD1 transgenic mice (SOD1G93A) was detected long before the development of the disease, and inhibition of cPLA2α upregulation delayed the disease's onset. The aim of the present study was to determine the mechanism for cPLA2α upregulation. METHODS Immunofluorescence analysis and western blot analysis of misfolded SOD1, cPLA2α and inflammatory markers were performed in the spinal cord sections of SOD1G93A transgenic mice and in primary motor neurons. Over expression of mutant SOD1 was performed by induction or transfection in primary motor neurons and in differentiated NSC34 motor neuron like cells. RESULTS Misfolded SOD1 was detected in the spinal cord of 3 weeks old mutant SOD1G93A mice before cPLA2α upregulation. Elevated expression of both misfolded SOD1 and cPLA2α was specifically detected in the motor neurons at 6 weeks with a high correlation between them. Elevated TNFα levels were detected in the spinal cord lysates of 6 weeks old mutant SOD1G93A mice. Elevated TNFα was specifically detected in the motor neurons and its expression was highly correlated with cPLA2α expression at 6 weeks. Induction of mutant SOD1 in primary motor neurons induced cPLA2α and TNFα upregulation. Over expression of mutant SOD1 in NSC34 cells caused cPLA2α upregulation which was prevented by antibodies against TNFα. The addition of TNFα to NSC34 cells caused cPLA2α upregulation in a dose dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS Motor neurons expressing elevated cPLA2α and TNFα are in an inflammatory state as early as at 6 weeks old mutant SOD1G93A mice long before the development of the disease. Accumulated misfolded SOD1 in the motor neurons induced cPLA2α upregulation via induction of TNFα.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafa Fetfet Malada Edelstein
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Soroka University Medical Center, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Yulia Solomonov
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Soroka University Medical Center, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Nurit Hadad
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Soroka University Medical Center, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Leenor Alfahel
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences and The Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Adrian Israelson
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences and The Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Rachel Levy
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Soroka University Medical Center, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel.
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Park HR, Yang EJ. Oxidative Stress as a Therapeutic Target in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Opportunities and Limitations. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11091546. [PMID: 34573888 PMCID: PMC8465946 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11091546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease (MND) and Lou Gehrig’s disease, is characterized by a loss of the lower motor neurons in the spinal cord and the upper motor neurons in the cerebral cortex. Due to the complex and multifactorial nature of the various risk factors and mechanisms that are related to motor neuronal degeneration, the pathological mechanisms of ALS are not fully understood. Oxidative stress is one of the known causes of ALS pathogenesis. This has been observed in patients as well as in cellular and animal models, and is known to induce mitochondrial dysfunction and the loss of motor neurons. Numerous therapeutic agents have been developed to inhibit oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. In this review, we describe the role of oxidative stress in ALS pathogenesis, and discuss several anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative agents as potential therapeutics for ALS. Although oxidative stress and antioxidant fields are meaningful approaches to delay disease progression and prolong the survival in ALS, it is necessary to investigate various animal models or humans with different subtypes of sporadic and familial ALS.
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Sahana TG, Zhang K. Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9080969. [PMID: 34440173 PMCID: PMC8394856 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9080969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a fatal motor neuron degenerative disease. Multiple genetic and non-genetic risk factors are associated with disease pathogenesis, and several cellular processes, including protein homeostasis, RNA metabolism, vesicle transport, etc., are severely impaired in ALS conditions. Despite the heterogeneity of the disease manifestation and progression, ALS patients show protein aggregates in the motor cortex and spinal cord tissue, which is believed to be at least partially caused by aberrant phase separation and the formation of persistent stress granules. Consistent with this notion, many studies have implicated cellular stress, such as ER stress, DNA damage, oxidative stress, and growth factor depletion, in ALS conditions. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is a fundamental mitogen/stress-activated signal transduction pathway that regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, and death. Here we summarize the fundamental role of MAPK in physiology and ALS pathogenesis. We also discuss pharmacological inhibitors targeting this pathway tested in pre-clinical models, suggesting their role as potential drug candidates.
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10
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Tsai YL, Manley JL. Multiple ways to a dead end: diverse mechanisms by which ALS mutant genes induce cell death. Cell Cycle 2021; 20:631-646. [PMID: 33722167 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2021.1886661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a deadly neuromuscular disorder caused by progressive motor neuron loss in the brain and spinal cord. Over the past decades, a number of genetic mutations have been identified that cause or are associated with ALS disease progression. Numerous genes harbor ALS mutations, and they encode proteins displaying a wide range of physiological functions, with limited overlap. Despite the divergent functions, mutations in these genes typically trigger protein aggregation, which can confer gain- and/or loss-of-function to a number of essential cellular processes. Nuclear processes such as mRNA splicing and the response to DNA damage are significantly affected in ALS patients. Cytoplasmic organelles such as mitochondria are damaged by ALS mutant proteins. Processes that maintain cellular homeostasis such as autophagy, nonsense-mediated mRNA decay and nucleocytoplasmic transport, are also impaired by ALS mutations. Here, we review the multiple mechanisms by which mutations in major ALS-associated genes, such as TARDBP, C9ORF72 and FUS, lead to impairment of essential cellular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueh-Lin Tsai
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - James L Manley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
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11
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Guidotti G, Scarlata C, Brambilla L, Rossi D. Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Friend or Foe? Cells 2021; 10:cells10030518. [PMID: 33804386 PMCID: PMC8000008 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by a massive neuroinflammatory reaction, which plays a key role in the progression of the disease. One of the major mediators of the inflammatory response is the pleiotropic cytokine tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), mainly released within the central nervous system (CNS) by reactive astrocytes and microglia. Increased levels of TNFα and its receptors (TNFR1 and TNFR2) have been described in plasma, serum, cerebrospinal fluid and CNS tissue from both ALS patients and transgenic animal models of disease. However, the precise role exerted by TNFα in the context of ALS is still highly controversial, since both protective and detrimental functions have been reported. These opposing actions depend on multiple factors, among which includes the type of TNFα receptor activated. In fact, TNFR2 seems to mediate a harmful role being involved in motor neuron cell death, whereas TNFR1 signaling mediates neuroprotective effects, promoting the expression and secretion of trophic factors. This suggests that a better understanding of the cytokine impact on ALS progression may enable the development of effective therapies aimed at strengthening the protective roles of TNFα and at suppressing the detrimental ones.
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12
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Yadav RK, Minz E, Mehan S. Understanding Abnormal c-JNK/p38MAPK Signaling in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Potential Drug Targets and Influences on Neurological Disorders. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2021; 20:417-429. [PMID: 33557726 DOI: 10.2174/1871527320666210126113848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
c-JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family members work in a cell-specific manner to regulate neuronal signals. The abnormal activation of these cellular signals can cause glutamate excitotoxicity, disrupted protein homeostasis, defective axonal transport, and synaptic dysfunction. Various pre-clinical and clinical findings indicate that the up-regulation of c-JNK and p38MAPK signaling is associated with neurological disorders. Exceptionally, a significant amount of experimental data has recently shown that dysregulated c-JNK and p38MAPK are implicated in the damage to the central nervous system, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Furthermore, currently available information has shown that c- JNK/p38MAPK signaling inhibitors may be a promising therapeutic alternative for improving histopathological, functional, and demyelination defects related to motor neuron disabilities. Understanding the abnormal activation of c-JNK/p38MAPK signaling and the prediction of motor neuron loss may help identify important therapeutic interventions that could prevent neurocomplications. Based on the involvement of c-JNK/p38MAPK signaling in the brain, we have assumed that the downregulation of the c-JNK/p38MAPK signaling pathway could trigger neuroprotection and neurotrophic effects towards clinicopathological presentations of ALS and other brain diseases. Thus, this research-based review also outlines the inhibition of c-JNK and p38MAPK signal downregulation in the pursuit of disease-modifying therapies for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeshwar Kumar Yadav
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Elizabeth Minz
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Sidharth Mehan
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
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13
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Ahn LY, Coatti GC, Liu J, Gumus E, Schaffer AE, Miranda HC. An epilepsy-associated ACTL6B variant captures neuronal hyperexcitability in a human induced pluripotent stem cell model. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:110-123. [PMID: 33141462 PMCID: PMC7756336 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
ACTL6B is a component of the neuronal BRG1/brm-associated factor (nBAF) complex, which is required for chromatin remodeling in postmitotic neurons. We recently reported biallelic pathogenic variants in ACTL6B in patients diagnosed with early infantile epileptic encephalopathy, subtype 76 (EIEE-76), presenting with severe, global developmental delay, epileptic encephalopathy, cerebral atrophy, and abnormal central nervous system myelination. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying their phenotype is unknown. Here, we investigate the molecular pathogenesis of ACTL6B p.(Val421_Cys425del) using in silico 3D protein modeling predictions and patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons. We found neurons derived from EIEE-76 patients showed impaired accumulation of ACTL6B compared to unaffected relatives, caused by reduced protein stability. Furthermore, EIEE-76 patient-derived neurons had dysregulated nBAF target gene expression, including genes important for neuronal development and disease. Multielectrode array system analysis unveiled elevated electrophysiological activity of EIEE-76 patients-derived neurons, consistent with the patient phenotype. Taken together, our findings validate a new model for EIEE-76 and reveal how reduced ACTL6B expression affects neuronal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Y. Ahn
- Department of Genetics and Genome SciencesCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOHUSA,Medical Scientist Training ProgramCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOHUSA
| | - Giuliana C. Coatti
- Department of Genetics and Genome SciencesCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOHUSA
| | - Jingyi Liu
- Department of PathologyCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOHUSA
| | - Evren Gumus
- Department of Medical GeneticsFaculty of MedicineMugla Sitki Kocman UniversityMuglaTurkey,Department of Medical GeneticsFaculty of MedicineUniversity of HarranSanliurfaTurkey
| | - Ashleigh E. Schaffer
- Department of Genetics and Genome SciencesCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOHUSA,Center for RNA Science and TherapeuticsCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOHUSA
| | - Helen C. Miranda
- Department of Genetics and Genome SciencesCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOHUSA,Department of NeurosciencesCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOHUSA
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14
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Asih PR, Prikas E, Stefanoska K, Tan ARP, Ahel HI, Ittner A. Functions of p38 MAP Kinases in the Central Nervous System. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:570586. [PMID: 33013322 PMCID: PMC7509416 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.570586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases are a central component in signaling networks in a multitude of mammalian cell types. This review covers recent advances on specific functions of p38 MAP kinases in cells of the central nervous system. Unique and specific functions of the four mammalian p38 kinases are found in all major cell types in the brain. Mechanisms of p38 activation and downstream phosphorylation substrates in these different contexts are outlined and how they contribute to functions of p38 in physiological and under disease conditions. Results in different model organisms demonstrated that p38 kinases are involved in cognitive functions, including functions related to anxiety, addiction behavior, neurotoxicity, neurodegeneration, and decision making. Finally, the role of p38 kinases in psychiatric and neurological conditions and the current progress on therapeutic inhibitors targeting p38 kinases are covered and implicate p38 kinases in a multitude of CNS-related physiological and disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prita R Asih
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Emmanuel Prikas
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kristie Stefanoska
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Amanda R P Tan
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Holly I Ahel
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Arne Ittner
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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15
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Falcicchia C, Tozzi F, Arancio O, Watterson DM, Origlia N. Involvement of p38 MAPK in Synaptic Function and Dysfunction. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165624. [PMID: 32781522 PMCID: PMC7460549 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Many studies have revealed a central role of p38 MAPK in neuronal plasticity and the regulation of long-term changes in synaptic efficacy, such as long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD). However, p38 MAPK is classically known as a responsive element to stress stimuli, including neuroinflammation. Specific to the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), several studies have shown that the p38 MAPK cascade is activated either in response to the Aβ peptide or in the presence of tauopathies. Here, we describe the role of p38 MAPK in the regulation of synaptic plasticity and its implication in an animal model of neurodegeneration. In particular, recent evidence suggests the p38 MAPK α isoform as a potential neurotherapeutic target, and specific inhibitors have been developed and have proven to be effective in ameliorating synaptic and memory deficits in AD mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falcicchia
- Institute of Neuroscience, Italian National Research Council, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Francesca Tozzi
- Bio@SNS laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Ottavio Arancio
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA;
| | | | - Nicola Origlia
- Institute of Neuroscience, Italian National Research Council, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-050-3153193
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16
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Brys R, Gibson K, Poljak T, Van Der Plas S, Amantini D. Discovery and development of ASK1 inhibitors. PROGRESS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2020; 59:101-179. [PMID: 32362327 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmch.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) like c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 is an event involved in the pathophysiology of numerous human diseases. The apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) is an upstream target that gets activated only under pathological conditions and as such is a promising target for therapeutic intervention. In the first part of this review the molecular mechanisms leading to ASK1 activation and regulation will be described as well as the evidences supporting a pathogenic role for ASK1 in human disease. In the second part, an update on drug discovery efforts towards the discovery and development of ASK1-targeting therapies will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karl Gibson
- Sandexis Medicinal Chemistry Ltd, Innovation House Discovery ParkSandwich, Kent, United Kingdom
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17
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ASK1 inhibition: a therapeutic strategy with multi-system benefits. J Mol Med (Berl) 2020; 98:335-348. [PMID: 32060587 PMCID: PMC7080683 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-01878-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (P38α and β) and c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK1, 2, and 3) are key mediators of the cellular stress response. However, prolonged P38 and JNK signalling is associated with damaging inflammatory responses, reactive oxygen species-induced cell death, and fibrosis in multiple tissues, such as the kidney, liver, central nervous system, and cardiopulmonary systems. These responses are associated with many human diseases, including arthritis, dementia, and multiple organ dysfunctions. Attempts to prevent P38- and JNK-mediated disease using small molecule inhibitors of P38 or JNK have generally been unsuccessful. However, apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), an upstream regulator of P38 and JNK, has emerged as an alternative drug target for limiting P38- and JNK-mediated disease. Within this review, we compile the evidence that ASK1 mediates damaging cellular responses via prolonged P38 or JNK activation. We discuss the potential benefits of ASK1 inhibition as a therapeutic and summarise the studies that have tested the effects of ASK1 inhibition in cell and animal disease models, in addition to human clinical trials for a variety of disorders.
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18
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Jung YJ, Tweedie D, Scerba MT, Greig NH. Neuroinflammation as a Factor of Neurodegenerative Disease: Thalidomide Analogs as Treatments. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:313. [PMID: 31867326 PMCID: PMC6904283 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is initiated when glial cells, mainly microglia, are activated by threats to the neural environment, such as pathogen infiltration or neuronal injury. Although neuroinflammation serves to combat these threats and reinstate brain homeostasis, chronic inflammation can result in excessive cytokine production and cell death if the cause of inflammation remains. Overexpression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), a proinflammatory cytokine with a central role in microglial activation, has been associated with neuronal excitotoxicity, synapse loss, and propagation of the inflammatory state. Thalidomide and its derivatives, termed immunomodulatory imide drugs (IMiDs), are a class of drugs that target the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of TNF-α mRNA, inhibiting TNF-α production. Due to their multi-potent effects, several IMiDs, including thalidomide, lenalidomide, and pomalidomide, have been repurposed as drug treatments for diseases such as multiple myeloma and psoriatic arthritis. Preclinical studies of currently marketed IMiDs, as well as novel IMiDs such as 3,6'-dithiothalidomide and adamantyl thalidomide derivatives, support the development of IMiDs as therapeutics for neurological disease. IMiDs have a competitive edge compared to similar anti-inflammatory drugs due to their blood-brain barrier permeability and high bioavailability, with the potential to alleviate symptoms of neurodegenerative disease and slow disease progression. In this review, we evaluate the role of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases, focusing specifically on the role of TNF-α in neuroinflammation, as well as appraise current research on the potential of IMiDs as treatments for neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoo Jin Jung
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | | | - Nigel H. Greig
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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19
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Baig MH, Baker A, Ashraf GM, Dong JJ. ASK1 and its role in cardiovascular and other disorders: available treatments and future prospects. Expert Rev Proteomics 2019; 16:857-870. [DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2019.1676735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hassan Baig
- Department of Family Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Abu Baker
- Nanobiotechnology and nanomedicine lab, Department of Biosciences, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | - Ghulam M Ashraf
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jae-June Dong
- Department of Family Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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20
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Shijo T, Warita H, Suzuki N, Ikeda K, Mitsuzawa S, Akiyama T, Ono H, Nishiyama A, Izumi R, Kitajima Y, Aoki M. Antagonizing bone morphogenetic protein 4 attenuates disease progression in a rat model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Exp Neurol 2018; 307:164-179. [PMID: 29932880 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2018.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult-onset, fatal neurodegenerative syndrome characterized by the systemic loss of motor neurons with prominent astrocytosis and microgliosis in the spinal cord and brain. Astrocytes play an essential role in maintaining extracellular microenvironments that surround motor neurons, and are activated by various insults. Growing evidence points to a non-cell autonomous neurotoxicity caused by chronic and sustained astrocytic activation in patients with neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS. However, the mechanisms that underlie the harmful effects of astrocytosis in patients with ALS remain unresolved. We focused on bone morphogenetic proteins as a major soluble factor that promotes astrocytogenesis and its activation in the adult spinal cord. In a transgenic rat model with ALS-linked mutant Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase gene, BMP4 was progressively up-regulated in reactive astrocytes of the spinal ventral horns, whereas the BMP-antagonist noggin was decreased in association with neuronal degeneration. Continuous intrathecal noggin supplementation after disease onset significantly ameliorated motor dysfunction symptoms, neurogenic muscle atrophy, and extended survival of symptomatic ALS model rats, despite lack of deterrence against neuronal death itself. The exogenous noggin inhibited astrocytic hypertrophy, astrocytogenesis, and neuroinflammation by inactivating both Smad1/5/8 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. Moreover, intrathecal infusion of a Bmp4-targeted antisense oligonucleotides and provided selective Bmp4 knockdown in vivo, which suppressed astrocyte and microglia activation, reproducing the aforementioned results by noggin treatment. Collectively, we clarified the involvement of BMP4 in the processes of excessive gliosis that exacerbate the disease progression of the ALS model rats. Our study demonstrated that BMP4, with its downstream signaling, might be a novel therapeutic target for disease-modifying therapies in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomomi Shijo
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
| | - Hitoshi Warita
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
| | - Naoki Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
| | - Kensuke Ikeda
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
| | - Shio Mitsuzawa
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
| | - Tetsuya Akiyama
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
| | - Hiroya Ono
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
| | - Ayumi Nishiyama
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
| | - Rumiko Izumi
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
| | - Yasuo Kitajima
- Department of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
| | - Masashi Aoki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8574, Japan.
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21
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Inhibiting p38 MAPK alpha rescues axonal retrograde transport defects in a mouse model of ALS. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:596. [PMID: 29789529 PMCID: PMC5964181 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0624-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease caused by the degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons. Defects in axonal transport have been observed pre-symptomatically in the SOD1G93A mouse model of ALS, and have been proposed to play a role in motor neuron degeneration as well as in other pathologies of the nervous system, such as Alzheimer's disease and hereditary neuropathies. In this study, we screen a library of small-molecule kinase inhibitors towards the identification of pharmacological enhancers of the axonal retrograde transport of signalling endosomes, which might be used to normalise the rate of this process in diseased neurons. Inhibitors of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK) were identified in this screen and were found to correct deficits in axonal retrograde transport of signalling endosomes in cultured primary SOD1G93A motor neurons. In vitro knockdown experiments revealed that the alpha isoform of p38 MAPK (p38 MAPKα) was the sole isoform responsible for SOD1G93A-induced transport deficits. Furthermore, we found that acute treatment with p38 MAPKα inhibitors restored the physiological rate of axonal retrograde transport in vivo in early symptomatic SOD1G93A mice. Our findings demonstrate the pathogenic effect of p38 MAPKα on axonal retrograde transport and identify a potential therapeutic strategy for ALS.
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22
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Wang W, Wen D, Duan W, Yin J, Cui C, Wang Y, Li Z, Liu Y, Li C. Systemic administration of scAAV9-IGF1 extends survival in SOD1G93A ALS mice via inhibiting p38 MAPK and the JNK-mediated apoptosis pathway. Brain Res Bull 2018; 139:203-210. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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23
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Gao H, Danzi MC, Choi CS, Taherian M, Dalby-Hansen C, Ellman DG, Madsen PM, Bixby JL, Lemmon VP, Lambertsen KL, Brambilla R. Opposing Functions of Microglial and Macrophagic TNFR2 in the Pathogenesis of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis. Cell Rep 2017; 18:198-212. [PMID: 28052249 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.11.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In multiple sclerosis (MS), soluble tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is detrimental via activation of TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1), whereas transmembrane TNF is beneficial primarily by activating TNF receptor 2 (TNFR2). Here, we investigate the role of TNFR2 in microglia and monocytes/macrophages in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model of MS, by cell-specific gene targeting. We show that TNFR2 ablation in microglia leads to early onset of EAE with increased leukocyte infiltration, T cell activation, and demyelination in the central nervous system (CNS). Conversely, TNFR2 ablation in monocytes/macrophages results in EAE suppression with impaired peripheral T cell activation and reduced CNS T cell infiltration and demyelination. Our work uncovers a dichotomy of function for TNFR2 in myeloid cells, with microglial TNFR2 providing protective signals to contain disease and monocyte/macrophagic TNFR2 driving immune activation and EAE initiation. This must be taken into account when targeting TNFR2 for therapeutic purposes in neuroinflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Gao
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Matt C Danzi
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Center for Computational Science, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | | | - Mehran Taherian
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Camilla Dalby-Hansen
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Department of Neurobiology Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C 5000, Denmark
| | - Ditte G Ellman
- Department of Neurobiology Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C 5000, Denmark
| | - Pernille M Madsen
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Department of Neurobiology Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C 5000, Denmark
| | - John L Bixby
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Center for Computational Science, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Vance P Lemmon
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Center for Computational Science, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Kate L Lambertsen
- Department of Neurobiology Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C 5000, Denmark; Brain Research - Inter-Disciplinary Guided Excellence, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C 5000, Denmark; Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C 5000, Denmark
| | - Roberta Brambilla
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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24
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Tortarolo M, Lo Coco D, Veglianese P, Vallarola A, Giordana MT, Marcon G, Beghi E, Poloni M, Strong MJ, Iyer AM, Aronica E, Bendotti C. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, a Multisystem Pathology: Insights into the Role of TNF α. Mediators Inflamm 2017; 2017:2985051. [PMID: 29081600 PMCID: PMC5610855 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2985051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is considered a multifactorial, multisystem disease in which inflammation and the immune system play important roles in development and progression. The pleiotropic cytokine TNFα is one of the major players governing the inflammation in the central nervous system and peripheral districts such as the neuromuscular and immune system. Changes in TNFα levels are reported in blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and nerve tissues of ALS patients and animal models. However, whether they play a detrimental or protective role on the disease progression is still not clear. Our group and others have recently reported opposite involvements of TNFR1 and TNFR2 in motor neuron death. TNFR2 mediates TNFα toxic effects on these neurons presumably through the activation of MAP kinase-related pathways. On the other hand, TNFR2 regulates the function and proliferation of regulatory T cells (Treg) whose expression is inversely correlated with the disease progression rate in ALS patients. In addition, TNFα is considered a procachectic factor with a direct catabolic effect on skeletal muscles, causing wasting. We review and discuss the role of TNFα in ALS in the light of its multisystem nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Tortarolo
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Lo Coco
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
- ALS Research Center, Dipartimento di Biomedicina Sperimentale e Neuroscienze Cliniche (BioNeC), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Pietro Veglianese
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Vallarola
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Marcon
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- DAME, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Ettore Beghi
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Poloni
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - Michael J. Strong
- Cell Biology Research Group, Robarts Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Anand M. Iyer
- Department of Neuropathology, Academisch Medisch Centrum, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of Neuropathology, Academisch Medisch Centrum, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Caterina Bendotti
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
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25
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Guo X, Namekata K, Kimura A, Harada C, Harada T. ASK1 in neurodegeneration. Adv Biol Regul 2017; 66:63-71. [PMID: 28882588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) such as glaucoma, multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington's disease (HD) are characterized by the progressive loss of neurons, causing irreversible damage to patients. Longer lifespans may be leading to an increase in the number of people affected by NDDs worldwide. Among the pathways strongly impacting the pathogenesis of NDDs, oxidative stress, a condition that occurs because of an imbalance in oxidant and antioxidant levels, has been known to play a vital role in the pathophysiology of NDDs. One of the molecules activated by oxidative stress is apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), which has been shown to play a role in NDDs. ASK1 activation is regulated by multiple steps, including oligomerization, phosphorylation, and protein-protein interactions. In the oxidative stress state, reactive oxygen species (ROS) induce the dissociation of thioredoxin, a protein regulating cellular reduction and oxidation (redox), from the N-terminal region of ASK1, and ASK1 is subsequently activated by the oligomerization and phosphorylation of a critical threonine residue, leading to cell death. Here, we review experimental evidence that links ASK1 signaling with the pathogenesis of several NDDs. We propose that ASK1 may be a new point of therapeutic intervention to prevent or treat NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Guo
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Kazuhiko Namekata
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsuko Kimura
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chikako Harada
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Harada
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
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26
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Danziger SA, Miller LR, Singh K, Whitney GA, Peskind ER, Li G, Lipshutz RJ, Aitchison JD, Smith JJ. An indicator cell assay for blood-based diagnostics. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178608. [PMID: 28594877 PMCID: PMC5464608 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We have established proof of principle for the Indicator Cell Assay Platform™ (iCAP™), a broadly applicable tool for blood-based diagnostics that uses specifically-selected, standardized cells as biosensors, relying on their innate ability to integrate and respond to diverse signals present in patients' blood. To develop an assay, indicator cells are exposed in vitro to serum from case or control subjects and their global differential response patterns are used to train reliable, disease classifiers based on a small number of features. In a feasibility study, the iCAP detected pre-symptomatic disease in a murine model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with 94% accuracy (p-Value = 3.81E-6) and correctly identified samples from a murine Huntington's disease model as non-carriers of ALS. Beyond the mouse model, in a preliminary human disease study, the iCAP detected early stage Alzheimer's disease with 72% cross-validated accuracy (p-Value = 3.10E-3). For both assays, iCAP features were enriched for disease-related genes, supporting the assay's relevance for disease research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A. Danziger
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Center for Infectious Disease Research (formerly Seattle Biomedical Research Institute), Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Leslie R. Miller
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Karanbir Singh
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | | | - Elaine R. Peskind
- Northwest Network (VISN-20) Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Puget Sound, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Ge Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System (VA Puget Sound), Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Robert J. Lipshutz
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- PreCyte Inc., Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - John D. Aitchison
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Center for Infectious Disease Research (formerly Seattle Biomedical Research Institute), Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Jennifer J. Smith
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Center for Infectious Disease Research (formerly Seattle Biomedical Research Institute), Seattle, WA, United States of America
- PreCyte Inc., Seattle, WA, United States of America
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Pehar M, Harlan BA, Killoy KM, Vargas MR. Role and Therapeutic Potential of Astrocytes in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Curr Pharm Des 2017; 23:5010-5021. [PMID: 28641533 PMCID: PMC5740017 DOI: 10.2174/1381612823666170622095802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 06/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by the progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the spinal cord, brain stem, and motor cortex. The molecular mechanism underlying the progressive degeneration of motor neuron remains uncertain but involves a non-cell autonomous process. In acute injury or degenerative diseases astrocytes adopt a reactive phenotype known as astrogliosis. Astrogliosis is a complex remodeling of astrocyte biology and most likely represents a continuum of potential phenotypes that affect neuronal function and survival in an injury-specific manner. In ALS patients, reactive astrocytes surround both upper and lower degenerating motor neurons and play a key role in the pathology. It has become clear that astrocytes play a major role in ALS pathology. Through loss of normal function or acquired new characteristics, astrocytes are able to influence motor neuron fate and the progression of the disease. The use of different cell culture models indicates that ALS-astrocytes are able to induce motor neuron death by secreting a soluble factor(s). Here, we discuss several pathogenic mechanisms that have been proposed to explain astrocyte-mediated motor neuron death in ALS. In addition, examples of strategies that revert astrocyte-mediated motor neuron toxicity are reviewed to illustrate the therapeutic potential of astrocytes in ALS. Due to the central role played by astrocytes in ALS pathology, therapies aimed at modulating astrocyte biology may contribute to the development of integral therapeutic approaches to halt ALS progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Pehar
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Benjamin A. Harlan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kelby M. Killoy
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Marcelo R. Vargas
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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The ASK1-specific inhibitors K811 and K812 prolong survival in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 25:245-53. [DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Alves CJ, Maximino JR, Chadi G. Dysregulated expression of death, stress and mitochondrion related genes in the sciatic nerve of presymptomatic SOD1(G93A) mouse model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:332. [PMID: 26339226 PMCID: PMC4555015 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Schwann cells are the main source of paracrine support to motor neurons. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction have been correlated to motor neuron death in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Despite the involvement of Schwann cells in early neuromuscular disruption in ALS, detailed molecular events of a dying-back triggering are unknown. Sciatic nerves of presymptomatic (60-day-old) SOD1(G93A) mice were submitted to a high-density oligonucleotide microarray analysis. DAVID demonstrated the deregulated genes related to death, stress and mitochondrion, which allowed the identification of Cell cycle, ErbB signaling, Tryptophan metabolism and Rig-I-like receptor signaling as the most representative KEGG pathways. The protein-protein interaction networks based upon deregulated genes have identified the top hubs (TRAF2, H2AFX, E2F1, FOXO3, MSH2, NGFR, TGFBR1) and bottlenecks (TRAF2, E2F1, CDKN1B, TWIST1, FOXO3). Schwann cells were enriched from the sciatic nerve of presymptomatic mice using flow cytometry cell sorting. qPCR showed the up regulated (Ngfr, Cdnkn1b, E2f1, Traf2 and Erbb3, H2afx, Cdkn1a, Hspa1, Prdx, Mapk10) and down-regulated (Foxo3, Mtor) genes in the enriched Schwann cells. In conclusion, molecular analyses in the presymptomatic sciatic nerve demonstrated the involvement of death, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial pathways in the Schwann cell non-autonomous mechanisms in the early stages of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrystian J Alves
- Department of Neurology, Neuroregeneration Center, University of São Paulo School of Medicine São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jessica R Maximino
- Department of Neurology, Neuroregeneration Center, University of São Paulo School of Medicine São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gerson Chadi
- Department of Neurology, Neuroregeneration Center, University of São Paulo School of Medicine São Paulo, Brazil
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Tortarolo M, Vallarola A, Lidonnici D, Battaglia E, Gensano F, Spaltro G, Fiordaliso F, Corbelli A, Garetto S, Martini E, Pasetto L, Kallikourdis M, Bonetto V, Bendotti C. Lack of TNF-alpha receptor type 2 protects motor neurons in a cellular model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and in mutant SOD1 mice but does not affect disease progression. J Neurochem 2015; 135:109-24. [PMID: 25940956 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2014] [Revised: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Changes in the homeostasis of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) have been demonstrated in patients and experimental models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the contribution of TNFα to the development of ALS is still debated. TNFα is expressed by glia and neurons and acts through the membrane receptors TNFR1 and TNFR2, which may have opposite effects in neurodegeneration. We investigated the role of TNFα and its receptors in the selective motor neuron death in ALS in vitro and in vivo. TNFR2 expressed by astrocytes and neurons, but not TNFR1, was implicated in motor neuron loss in primary SOD1-G93A co-cultures. Deleting TNFR2 from SOD1-G93A mice, there was partial but significant protection of spinal motor neurons, sciatic nerves, and tibialis muscles. However, no improvement of motor impairment or survival was observed. Since the sciatic nerves of SOD1-G93A/TNFR2-/- mice showed high phospho-TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) accumulation and low levels of acetyl-tubulin, two indices of axonal dysfunction, the lack of symptom improvement in these mice might be due to impaired function of rescued motor neurons. These results indicate the interaction between TNFR2 and membrane-bound TNFα as an innovative pathway involved in motor neuron death. Nevertheless, its inhibition is not sufficient to stop disease progression in ALS mice, underlining the complexity of this pathology. We show evidence of the involvement of neuronal and astroglial TNFR2 in the motor neuron degeneration in ALS. Both concur to cause motor neuron death in primary astrocyte/spinal neuron co-cultures. TNFR2 deletion partially protects motor neurons and sciatic nerves in SOD1-G93A mice but does not improve their symptoms and survival. However, TNFR2 could be a new target for multi-intervention therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Tortarolo
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
| | - Antonio Vallarola
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
| | - Dario Lidonnici
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
| | - Elisa Battaglia
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
| | - Francesco Gensano
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
| | - Gabriella Spaltro
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Fiordaliso
- Unit of Bio-imaging, Department of Cardiovascular Clinical Pharmacology, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandro Corbelli
- Unit of Bio-imaging, Department of Cardiovascular Clinical Pharmacology, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy.,Renal Research Laboratory, IRCCS Foundation - Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico & D'Amico Foundation for research on kidney disease, Milano, Italy
| | - Stefano Garetto
- Adaptive Immunity Laboratory, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Elisa Martini
- Adaptive Immunity Laboratory, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Laura Pasetto
- Laboratory of Translational Proteomics, Department of Molecular Biochemistry and Pharmacology, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
| | - Marinos Kallikourdis
- Adaptive Immunity Laboratory, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milano, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Valentina Bonetto
- Laboratory of Translational Proteomics, Department of Molecular Biochemistry and Pharmacology, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
| | - Caterina Bendotti
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, IRCCS - Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
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Moghimi E, Solomon JA, Gianforcaro A, Hamadeh MJ. Dietary Vitamin D3 Restriction Exacerbates Disease Pathophysiology in the Spinal Cord of the G93A Mouse Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0126355. [PMID: 26020962 PMCID: PMC4447353 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0126355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dietary vitamin D3 (D3) restriction reduces paw grip endurance and motor performance in G93A mice, and increases inflammation and apoptosis in the quadríceps of females. ALS, a neuromuscular disease, causes progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Objective We analyzed the spinal cords of G93A mice following dietary D3 restriction at 2.5% the adequate intake (AI) for oxidative damage (4-HNE, 3-NY), antioxidant enzymes (SOD2, catalase, GPx1), inflammation (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10), apoptosis (bax/bcl-2 ratio, cleaved/pro-caspase 3 ratio), neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and neuron count (ChAT, SMI-36/SMI-32 ratio). Methods Beginning at age 25 d, 42 G93A mice were provided food ad libitum with either adequate (AI;1 IU D3/g feed; 12 M, 11 F) or deficient (DEF; 0.025 IU D3/g feed; 10 M, 9 F) D3. At age 113 d, the spinal cords were analyzed for protein content. Differences were considered significant at P ≤ 0.10, since this was a pilot study. Results DEF mice had 16% higher 4-HNE (P = 0.056), 12% higher GPx1 (P = 0.057) and 23% higher Bax/Bcl2 ratio (P = 0.076) vs. AI. DEF females had 29% higher GPx1 (P = 0.001) and 22% higher IL-6 (P = 0.077) vs. AI females. DEF males had 23% higher 4-HNE (P = 0.066) and 18% lower SOD2 (P = 0.034) vs. AI males. DEF males had 27% lower SOD2 (P = 0.004), 17% lower GPx1 (P = 0.070), 29% lower IL-6 (P = 0.023) and 22% lower ChAT (P = 0.082) vs. DEF females. Conclusion D3 deficiency exacerbates disease pathophysiology in the spinal cord of G93A mice, the exact mechanisms are sex-specific. This is in accord with our previous results in the quadriceps, as well as functional and disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnaz Moghimi
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Muscle Health Research Centre, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jesse A. Solomon
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Muscle Health Research Centre, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexandro Gianforcaro
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Muscle Health Research Centre, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mazen J. Hamadeh
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Muscle Health Research Centre, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Compromised MAPK signaling in human diseases: an update. Arch Toxicol 2015; 89:867-82. [PMID: 25690731 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-015-1472-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 720] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in mammals include c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), p38 MAPK, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). These enzymes are serine-threonine protein kinases that regulate various cellular activities including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis or survival, inflammation, and innate immunity. The compromised MAPK signaling pathways contribute to the pathology of diverse human diseases including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The JNK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways are activated by various types of cellular stress such as oxidative, genotoxic, and osmotic stress as well as by proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin 1β. The Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK signaling pathway plays a key role in cancer development through the stimulation of cell proliferation and metastasis. The p38 MAPK pathway contributes to neuroinflammation mediated by glial cells including microglia and astrocytes, and it has also been associated with anticancer drug resistance in colon and liver cancer. We here summarize recent research on the roles of MAPK signaling pathways in human diseases, with a focus on cancer and neurodegenerative conditions.
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Zhan L, Xie Q, Tibbetts RS. Opposing roles of p38 and JNK in a Drosophila model of TDP-43 proteinopathy reveal oxidative stress and innate immunity as pathogenic components of neurodegeneration. Hum Mol Genet 2014; 24:757-72. [PMID: 25281658 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddu493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological aggregation and mutation of the 43-kDa TAR DNA-binding protein (TDP-43) are strongly implicated in the pathogenesis amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal lobar degeneration. TDP-43 neurotoxicity has been extensively modeled in mice, zebrafish, Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila, where selective expression of TDP-43 in motoneurons led to paralysis and premature lethality. Through a genetic screen aimed to identify genetic modifiers of TDP-43, we found that the Drosophila dual leucine kinase Wallenda (Wnd) and its downstream kinases JNK and p38 influenced TDP-43 neurotoxicity. Reducing Wnd gene dosage or overexpressing its antagonist highwire partially rescued TDP-43-associated premature lethality. Downstream of Wnd, the JNK and p38 kinases played opposing roles in TDP-43-associated neurodegeneration. LOF alleles of the p38b gene as well as p38 inhibitors diminished TDP-43-associated premature lethality, whereas p38b GOF caused phenotypic worsening. In stark contrast, disruptive alleles of Basket (Bsk), the Drosophila homologue of JNK, exacerbated longevity shortening, whereas overexpression of Bsk extended lifespan. Among possible mechanisms, we found motoneuron-directed expression of TDP-43 elicited oxidative stress and innate immune gene activation that were exacerbated by p38 GOF and Bsk LOF, respectively. A key pathologic role for innate immunity in TDP-43-associated neurodegeneration was further supported by the finding that genetic suppression of the Toll/Dif and Imd/Relish inflammatory pathways dramatically extended lifespan of TDP-43 transgenic flies. We propose that oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are intrinsic components of TDP-43-associated neurodegeneration and that the balance between cytoprotective JNK and cytotoxic p38 signaling dictates phenotypic outcome to TDP-43 expression in Drosophila.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Zhan
- Department of Human Oncology, Program in Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Qijing Xie
- Department of Human Oncology, Program in Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Randal S Tibbetts
- Department of Human Oncology, Program in Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
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Lee JK, Hwang SG, Shin JH, Shim J, Choi EJ. CIIA prevents SOD1(G93A)-induced cytotoxicity by blocking ASK1-mediated signaling. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:179. [PMID: 25018698 PMCID: PMC4071562 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult-onset neurodegenerative disease with higher selectivity in degeneration of motor neurons. However, the molecular mechanism by which the ALS-linked mutants of human superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene induce neurotoxicity remains obscure yet. Here, we show that depletion of CIIA expression by RNA interference (RNAi) promoted cytotoxicity caused by ALS-linked G93A mutant of the SOD1 gene. The RNAi-mediated knockdown of CIIA also enhanced the SOD1(G93A)-induced interaction between ASK1 and TRAF2 as well as ASK1 activity. Furthermore, endogenous silencing of CIIA by RNAi augmented the effects of SOD1(G93A) on reduction of mitochondria membrane potential (Δψm), release of cytochrome c into the cytoplasm, and caspase activation. Together, our results suggest that CIIA negatively modulates ASK1-mediated cytotoxic signaling processes in a SOD1(G93A)-expressing cellular model of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Keun Lee
- Laboratory of Cell Death and Human Diseases, Department of Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sang Gil Hwang
- Laboratory of Cell Death and Human Diseases, Department of Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jin Hee Shin
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jaekyung Shim
- Department of Molecular Biology, Sejong University Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eui-Ju Choi
- Laboratory of Cell Death and Human Diseases, Department of Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University Seoul, South Korea
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Tovar-Y-Romo LB, Ramírez-Jarquín UN, Lazo-Gómez R, Tapia R. Trophic factors as modulators of motor neuron physiology and survival: implications for ALS therapy. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:61. [PMID: 24616665 PMCID: PMC3937589 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor neuron physiology and development depend on a continuous and tightly regulated trophic support from a variety of cellular sources. Trophic factors guide the generation and positioning of motor neurons during every stage of the developmental process. As well, they are involved in axon guidance and synapse formation. Even in the adult spinal cord an uninterrupted trophic input is required to maintain neuronal functioning and protection from noxious stimuli. Among the trophic factors that have been demonstrated to participate in motor neuron physiology are vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Upon binding to membrane receptors expressed in motor neurons or neighboring glia, these trophic factors activate intracellular signaling pathways that promote cell survival and have protective action on motor neurons, in both in vivo and in vitro models of neuronal degeneration. For these reasons these factors have been considered a promising therapeutic method for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases, although their efficacy in human clinical trials have not yet shown the expected protection. In this minireview we summarize experimental data on the role of these trophic factors in motor neuron function and survival, as well as their mechanisms of action. We also briefly discuss the potential therapeutic use of the trophic factors and why these therapies may have not been yet successful in the clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis B Tovar-Y-Romo
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Uri Nimrod Ramírez-Jarquín
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rafael Lazo-Gómez
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Tapia
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City, Mexico
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The role of heat shock proteins in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: The therapeutic potential of Arimoclomol. Pharmacol Ther 2014; 141:40-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Peviani M, Tortarolo M, Battaglia E, Piva R, Bendotti C. Specific induction of Akt3 in spinal cord motor neurons is neuroprotective in a mouse model of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Mol Neurobiol 2013; 49:136-48. [PMID: 23873136 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-013-8507-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 07/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Evidence is accumulating that an imbalance between pathways for degeneration or survival in motor neurons may play a central role in mechanisms that lead to neurodegeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We and other groups have observed that downregulation, or lack of induction, of the PI3K/Akt prosurvival pathway may be responsible for defective response of motor neurons to injury and their consequent cellular demise. Some of the neuroprotective effects mediated by growth factors may involve activation of Akt, but a proof of concept of Akt as a target for therapy is lacking. We demonstrate that specific expression of constitutively activated Akt3 in motor neurons through the use of the promoter of homeobox gene Hb9 prevents neuronal loss induced by SOD1.G93A both in vitro (in mixed neuron/astrocyte cocultures) and in vivo (in a mouse model of ALS). Inhibition of ASK1 and GSK3beta was involved in the neuroprotective effects of activated Akt3, further supporting the hypothesis that induction of Akt3 may be a key step in activation of pathways for survival in the attempt to counteract motor neuronal degeneration in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Peviani
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, via La Masa 19, 20156, Milan, Italy
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Death Receptors in the Selective Degeneration of Motoneurons in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. JOURNAL OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES 2013; 2013:746845. [PMID: 26316997 PMCID: PMC4437334 DOI: 10.1155/2013/746845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
While studies on death receptors have long been restricted to immune cells, the last decade has provided a strong body of evidence for their implication in neuronal death and hence neurodegenerative disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a fatal paralytic disorder that primarily affects motoneurons in the brain and spinal cord. A neuroinflammatory process, associated with astrocyte and microglial activation as well as infiltration of immune cells, accompanies motoneuron degeneration and supports the contribution of non-cell-autonomous mechanisms in the disease. Hallmarks of Fas, TNFR, LT-βR, and p75NTR signaling have been observed in both animal models and ALS patients. This review summarizes to date knowledge of the role of death receptors in ALS and the link existing between the selective loss of motoneurons and neuroinflammation. It further suggests how this recent evidence could be included in an ultimate multiapproach to treat patients.
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Moujalled D, James JL, Parker SJ, Lidgerwood GE, Duncan C, Meyerowitz J, Nonaka T, Hasegawa M, Kanninen KM, Grubman A, Liddell JR, Crouch PJ, White AR. Kinase Inhibitor Screening Identifies Cyclin-Dependent Kinases and Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 as Potential Modulators of TDP-43 Cytosolic Accumulation during Cell Stress. PLoS One 2013; 8:e67433. [PMID: 23840699 PMCID: PMC3694067 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0067433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2012] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal processing of TAR DNA binding protein 43 (TDP-43) has been identified as a major factor in neuronal degeneration during amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). It is unclear how changes to TDP-43, including nuclear to cytosolic translocation and subsequent accumulation, are controlled in these diseases. TDP-43 is a member of the heterogeneous ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) RNA binding protein family and is known to associate with cytosolic RNA stress granule proteins in ALS and FTLD. hnRNP trafficking and accumulation is controlled by the action of specific kinases including members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. However, little is known about how kinase pathways control TDP-43 movement and accumulation. In this study, we used an in vitro model of TDP-43-positve stress granule formation to screen for the effect of kinase inhibitors on TDP-43 accumulation. We found that while a number of kinase inhibitors, particularly of the MAPK pathways modulated both TDP-43 and the global stress granule marker, human antigen R (HuR), multiple inhibitors were more specific to TDP-43 accumulation, including inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3). Close correlation was observed between effects of these inhibitors on TDP-43, hnRNP K and TIAR, but often with different effects on HuR accumulation. This may indicate a potential interaction between TDP-43, hnRNP K and TIAR. CDK inhibitors were also found to reverse pre-formed TDP-43-positive stress granules and both CDK and GSK3 inhibitors abrogated the accumulation of C-terminal TDP-43 (219–414) in transfected cells. Further studies are required to confirm the specific kinases involved and whether their action is through phosphorylation of the TDP-43 binding partner hnRNP K. This knowledge provides a valuable insight into the mechanisms controlling abnormal cytoplasmic TDP-43 accumulation and may herald new opportunities for kinase modulation-based therapeutic intervention in ALS and FTLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Moujalled
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Janine L. James
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah J. Parker
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Grace E. Lidgerwood
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Clare Duncan
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jodi Meyerowitz
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Takashi Nonaka
- Department of Neuropathology and Cell Biology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masato Hasegawa
- Department of Neuropathology and Cell Biology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katja M. Kanninen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Brain Research, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Alexandra Grubman
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jeffrey R. Liddell
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter J. Crouch
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony R. White
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
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41
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Morfini GA, Bosco DA, Brown H, Gatto R, Kaminska A, Song Y, Molla L, Baker L, Marangoni MN, Berth S, Tavassoli E, Bagnato C, Tiwari A, Hayward LJ, Pigino GF, Watterson DM, Huang CF, Banker G, Brown RH, Brady ST. Inhibition of fast axonal transport by pathogenic SOD1 involves activation of p38 MAP kinase. PLoS One 2013; 8:e65235. [PMID: 23776455 PMCID: PMC3680447 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0065235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dying-back degeneration of motor neuron axons represents an established feature of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS) associated with superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) mutations, but axon-autonomous effects of pathogenic SOD1 remained undefined. Characteristics of motor neurons affected in FALS include abnormal kinase activation, aberrant neurofilament phosphorylation, and fast axonal transport (FAT) deficits, but functional relationships among these pathogenic events were unclear. Experiments in isolated squid axoplasm reveal that FALS-related SOD1 mutant polypeptides inhibit FAT through a mechanism involving a p38 mitogen activated protein kinase pathway. Mutant SOD1 activated neuronal p38 in mouse spinal cord, neuroblastoma cells and squid axoplasm. Active p38 MAP kinase phosphorylated kinesin-1, and this phosphorylation event inhibited kinesin-1. Finally, vesicle motility assays revealed previously unrecognized, isoform-specific effects of p38 on FAT. Axon-autonomous activation of the p38 pathway represents a novel gain of toxic function for FALS-linked SOD1 proteins consistent with the dying-back pattern of neurodegeneration characteristic of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo A. Morfini
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Daryl A. Bosco
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Hannah Brown
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Rodolfo Gatto
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Agnieszka Kaminska
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Yuyu Song
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Linda Molla
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lisa Baker
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - M. Natalia Marangoni
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sarah Berth
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Ehsan Tavassoli
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Carolina Bagnato
- Department of Natural Sciences and Engineering. National University of Rio Negro, Rio Negro, Argentina
| | - Ashutosh Tiwari
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Lawrence J. Hayward
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Gustavo F. Pigino
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - D. Martin Watterson
- Center for Molecular Innovation and Drug Discovery and Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Biological Chemistry, Northwestern University, Chicago, IIllinois, United States of America
| | - Chun-Fang Huang
- The Jungers Center for Neurosciences Research, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Gary Banker
- The Jungers Center for Neurosciences Research, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Robert H. Brown
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Scott T. Brady
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
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42
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Long KVQ, Nguyễn LTH. Roles of vitamin D in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: possible genetic and cellular signaling mechanisms. Mol Brain 2013; 6:16. [PMID: 23570271 PMCID: PMC3641959 DOI: 10.1186/1756-6606-6-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that there are aberrations in the vitamin D-endocrine system in subjects with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Here, we review the relationship between vitamin D and ALS. Vitamin D deficiency was reported in patients with ALS. Dietary vitamin D3 supplementation improves functional capacity in the G93A transgenic mouse model of ALS. Genetic studies have provided an opportunity to identify the proteins that link vitamin D to ALS pathology, including major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules, toll-like receptors, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1, heme oxygenase-1, and calcium-binding proteins, as well as the reduced form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate. Vitamin D also exerts its effect on ALS through cell-signaling mechanisms, including glutamate, matrix metalloproteinases, mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, prostaglandins, reactive oxygen species, and nitric oxide synthase. In conclusion, vitamin D may have a role in ALS. Further investigation of vitamin D in ALS patients is needed.
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43
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Killeen ME, Ferris L, Kupetsky EA, Falo L, Mathers AR. Signaling through purinergic receptors for ATP induces human cutaneous innate and adaptive Th17 responses: implications in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 190:4324-36. [PMID: 23479230 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1202045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human cutaneous dendritic cells (DCs) have the ability to prime and bias Th17 lymphocytes. However, the factors that stimulate cutaneous DCs to induce Th17 responses are not well known. Alarmins, such as ATP, likely play a pivotal role in the induction and maintenance of cutaneous immune responses by stimulating DC maturation, chemotaxis, and secretion of IL-1β and IL-6, Th17-biasing cytokines. In this study, using a well-established human skin model, we have demonstrated that signaling purinergic receptors, predominantly the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R), via an ATP analog initiate innate proinflammatory inflammation, DC17 differentiation, and the subsequent induction of Th17-biased immunity. Moreover, our results suggest a potential role for P2X7R signaling in the initiation of psoriasis pathogenesis, a Th17-dependent autoimmune disease. In support of this, we observed the increased presence of P2X7R in nonlesional and lesional psoriatic skin compared with normal healthy tissues. Interestingly, there was also a P2X7R variant that was highly expressed in lesional psoriatic skin compared with nonlesional psoriatic and normal healthy skin. Furthermore, we demonstrated that psoriatic responses could be initiated via P2X7R signaling in nonlesional skin following treatment with a P2X7R agonist. Mechanistic studies revealed a P2X7R-dependent mir-21 angiogenesis pathway that leads to the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and IL-6 and that may be involved in the development of psoriatic lesions. In conclusion, we have established that purinergic signaling in the skin induces innate inflammation, leading to the differentiation of human Th17 responses, which have implications in the pathogenesis and potential treatment of psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaghan E Killeen
- Department of Dermatology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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44
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Cathepsin D deficiency induces cytoskeletal changes and affects cell migration pathways in the brain. Neurobiol Dis 2013; 50:107-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2012.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2012] [Revised: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 10/03/2012] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
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45
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Almeida A. Genetic determinants of neuronal vulnerability to apoptosis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2013; 70:71-88. [PMID: 22695677 PMCID: PMC11113535 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1029-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Revised: 04/22/2012] [Accepted: 05/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis is a common mode of cell death that contributes to neuronal loss associated with neurodegeneration. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in chromosomal DNA are contributing factors dictating natural susceptibility of humans to disease. Here, the most common SNPs affecting neuronal vulnerability to apoptosis are reviewed in the context of neurological disorders. Polymorphic variants in genes encoding apoptotic proteins, either from the extrinsic (FAS, TNF-α, CASP8) or the intrinsic (BAX, BCL2, CASP3, CASP9) pathways could be highly valuable in the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases and stroke. Interestingly, the Arg72Pro SNP in TP53, the gene encoding tumor suppressor p53, was recently revealed a biomarker of poor prognosis in stroke due to its ability to modulate neuronal apoptotic death. Search for new SNPs responsible for genetic variability to apoptosis will ensure the implementation of novel diagnostic and prognostic tools, as well as therapeutic strategies against neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angeles Almeida
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.
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46
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Suzuki H, Matsuoka M. The JNK/c-Jun signaling axis contributes to the TDP-43-induced cell death. Mol Cell Biochem 2012; 372:241-8. [PMID: 23001869 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-012-1465-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 09/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation of transactive response DNA-binding protein-43 (TDP-43) is closely linked to the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitin-positive inclusions (FTLD-U). The contribution of the upregulation of TDP-43 expression to the pathogenesis has been strongly suggested by the observation that the level of TDP-43 expression is increased in both ALS and FTLD-U patients. We previously found that the low-grade (twice to five times more than the endogenous level) overexpression of TDP-43 induces neuronal cell death through the upregulation of Bim and CHOP expression and the downregulation of Bcl-xL expression. In this study, we further show that the low-grade overexpression of TDP-43 increases the level of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and the co-incubation with a JNK inhibitor, the expression of a dominant-negative JNK, or the expression of a dominant-negative c-Jun inhibited the TDP-43-induced death in NSC34 motor neuronal cells. These data together suggest that the JNK/c-Jun signaling axis contributes to the TDP-43-induced cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Suzuki
- Department of Pharmacology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-1-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
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47
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Perale G, Rossi F, Santoro M, Peviani M, Papa S, Llupi D, Torriani P, Micotti E, Previdi S, Cervo L, Sundström E, Boccaccini AR, Masi M, Forloni G, Veglianese P. Multiple drug delivery hydrogel system for spinal cord injury repair strategies. J Control Release 2011; 159:271-80. [PMID: 22227024 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2011.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2011] [Revised: 12/01/2011] [Accepted: 12/20/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The multifactorial pathological progress of spinal cord injury (SCI) is probably the main reason behind the absence of efficient therapeutic approaches. Hence, very recent highlights suggest the use of new multidrug delivery systems capable of local controlled release of therapeutic agents. In this work, a biocompatible hydrogel-based system was developed as multiple drug delivery tool, specifically designed for SCI repair strategies. Multiple release profiles were achieved by loading gel with a combination of low and high steric hindrance molecules. In vitro, in vivo and ex vivo release studies showed an independent combination of fast diffusion-controlled kinetics for smaller molecules together with slow diffusion-controlled kinetics for bigger ones. A preserved functionality of loaded substances was always achieved, confirming the absence of any chemical stable interactions between gel matrix and loaded molecules. Moreover, the relevant effect of the cerebrospinal fluid flux dynamics on the drug diffusion in the spinal cord tissue was here revealed for the first time: an oriented delivery of the released molecules in the spinal cord tract caudally to the gel site is demonstrated, thus suggesting a more efficient gel positioning rostrally to the lesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Perale
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering Giulio Natta, Politecnico di Milano, via Mancinelli 7, 20131 Milan, Italy
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48
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Bendotti C, Marino M, Cheroni C, Fontana E, Crippa V, Poletti A, De Biasi S. Dysfunction of constitutive and inducible ubiquitin-proteasome system in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: implication for protein aggregation and immune response. Prog Neurobiol 2011; 97:101-26. [PMID: 22033150 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2011.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Revised: 09/29/2011] [Accepted: 10/11/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is the major intracellular proteolytic mechanism controlling the degradation of misfolded/abnormal proteins. A common hallmark in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and in other neurodegenerative disorders is the accumulation of misfolded/abnormal proteins into the damaged neurons, leading to the formation of cellular inclusions that are mostly ubiquitin-positive. Although proteolysis is a complex mechanism requiring the participation of different pathways, the abundant accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins strongly suggests an important contribution of UPS to these neuropathological features. The use of cellular and animal models of ALS, particularly those expressing mutant SOD1, the gene mutation most represented in familiar ALS, has provided significant evidence for a role of UPS in protein inclusions formation and motor neuron death. This review will specifically discuss this piece of evidence and provide suggestions of potential strategies for therapeutic intervention. We will also discuss the finding that, unlike the constitutive proteasome subunits, the inducible subunits are overexpressed early during disease progression in SOD1 mice models of ALS. These subunits form the immunoproteasome and generate peptides for the major histocompatibility complex class I molecules, suggesting a role of this system in the immune responses associated with the pathological features of ALS. Since recent discoveries indicate that innate and adaptive immunity may influence the disease process, in this review we will also provide evidence of a possible connection between immune-inflammatory reactions and UPS function, in the attempt to better understand the etiopathology of ALS and to identify appropriate targets for novel treatment strategies of this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Bendotti
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Via La Masa, 19, 20156 Milano, Italy.
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49
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Meyerowitz J, Parker SJ, Vella LJ, Ng DC, Price KA, Liddell JR, Caragounis A, Li QX, Masters CL, Nonaka T, Hasegawa M, Bogoyevitch MA, Kanninen KM, Crouch PJ, White AR. C-Jun N-terminal kinase controls TDP-43 accumulation in stress granules induced by oxidative stress. Mol Neurodegener 2011; 6:57. [PMID: 21819629 PMCID: PMC3162576 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1326-6-57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2011] [Accepted: 08/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND TDP-43 proteinopathies are characterized by loss of nuclear TDP-43 expression and formation of C-terminal TDP-43 fragmentation and accumulation in the cytoplasm. Recent studies have shown that TDP-43 can accumulate in RNA stress granules (SGs) in response to cell stresses and this could be associated with subsequent formation of TDP-43 ubiquinated protein aggregates. However, the initial mechanisms controlling endogenous TDP-43 accumulation in SGs during chronic disease are not understood. In this study we investigated the mechanism of TDP-43 processing and accumulation in SGs in SH-SY5Y neuronal-like cells exposed to chronic oxidative stress. Cell cultures were treated overnight with the mitochondrial inhibitor paraquat and examined for TDP-43 and SG processing. RESULTS We found that mild stress induced by paraquat led to formation of TDP-43 and HuR-positive SGs, a proportion of which were ubiquitinated. The co-localization of TDP-43 with SGs could be fully prevented by inhibition of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). JNK inhibition did not prevent formation of HuR-positive SGs and did not prevent diffuse TDP-43 accumulation in the cytosol. In contrast, ERK or p38 inhibition prevented formation of both TDP-43 and HuR-positive SGs. JNK inhibition also inhibited TDP-43 SG localization in cells acutely treated with sodium arsenite and reduced the number of aggregates per cell in cultures transfected with C-terminal TDP-43 162-414 and 219-414 constructs. CONCLUSIONS Our studies are the first to demonstrate a critical role for kinase control of TDP-43 accumulation in SGs and may have important implications for development of treatments for FTD and ALS, targeting cell signal pathway control of TDP-43 aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi Meyerowitz
- Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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50
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Ackermann J, Ashton G, Lyons S, James D, Hornung JP, Jones N, Breitwieser W. Loss of ATF2 function leads to cranial motoneuron degeneration during embryonic mouse development. PLoS One 2011; 6:e19090. [PMID: 21533046 PMCID: PMC3080913 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0019090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2010] [Accepted: 03/28/2011] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The AP-1 family transcription factor ATF2 is essential for development and tissue maintenance in mammals. In particular, ATF2 is highly expressed and activated in the brain and previous studies using mouse knockouts have confirmed its requirement in the cerebellum as well as in vestibular sense organs. Here we present the analysis of the requirement for ATF2 in CNS development in mouse embryos, specifically in the brainstem. We discovered that neuron-specific inactivation of ATF2 leads to significant loss of motoneurons of the hypoglossal, abducens and facial nuclei. While the generation of ATF2 mutant motoneurons appears normal during early development, they undergo caspase-dependent and independent cell death during later embryonic and foetal stages. The loss of these motoneurons correlates with increased levels of stress activated MAP kinases, JNK and p38, as well as aberrant accumulation of phosphorylated neurofilament proteins, NF-H and NF-M, known substrates for these kinases. This, together with other neuropathological phenotypes, including aberrant vacuolisation and lipid accumulation, indicates that deficiency in ATF2 leads to neurodegeneration of subsets of somatic and visceral motoneurons of the brainstem. It also confirms that ATF2 has a critical role in limiting the activities of stress kinases JNK and p38 which are potent inducers of cell death in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Ackermann
- Cell Regulation Department, Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Institut de Biologie Cellulaire et de Morphologie, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Garry Ashton
- Cell Regulation Department, Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Steve Lyons
- Cell Regulation Department, Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic James
- Cell Regulation Department, Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Nic Jones
- Cell Regulation Department, Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Wolfgang Breitwieser
- Cell Regulation Department, Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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