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D'Egidio F, Castelli V, Lombardozzi G, Ammannito F, Cimini A, d'Angelo M. Therapeutic advances in neural regeneration for Huntington's disease. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1991-1997. [PMID: 38227527 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.390969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease is a neurodegenerative disease caused by the expansion mutation of a cytosine-adenine-guanine triplet in the exon 1 of the HTT gene which is responsible for the production of the huntingtin (Htt) protein. In physiological conditions, Htt is involved in many cellular processes such as cell signaling, transcriptional regulation, energy metabolism regulation, DNA maintenance, axonal trafficking, and antiapoptotic activity. When the genetic alteration is present, the production of a mutant version of Htt (mHtt) occurs, which is characterized by a plethora of pathogenic activities that, finally, lead to cell death. Among all the cells in which mHtt exerts its dangerous activity, the GABAergic Medium Spiny Neurons seem to be the most affected by the mHtt-induced excitotoxicity both in the cortex and in the striatum. However, as the neurodegeneration proceeds ahead the neuronal loss grows also in other brain areas such as the cerebellum, hypothalamus, thalamus, subthalamic nucleus, globus pallidus, and substantia nigra, determining the variety of symptoms that characterize Huntington's disease. From a clinical point of view, Huntington's disease is characterized by a wide spectrum of symptoms spanning from motor impairment to cognitive disorders and dementia. Huntington's disease shows a prevalence of around 3.92 cases every 100,000 worldwide and an incidence of 0.48 new cases every 100,000/year. To date, there is no available cure for Huntington's disease. Several treatments have been developed so far, aiming to reduce the severity of one or more symptoms to slow down the inexorable decline caused by the disease. In this context, the search for reliable strategies to target the different aspects of Huntington's disease become of the utmost interest. In recent years, a variety of studies demonstrated the detrimental role of neuronal loss in Huntington's disease condition highlighting how the replacement of lost cells would be a reasonable strategy to overcome the neurodegeneration. In this view, numerous have been the attempts in several preclinical models of Huntington's disease to evaluate the feasibility of invasive and non-invasive approaches. Thus, the aim of this review is to offer an overview of the most appealing approaches spanning from stem cell-based cell therapy to extracellular vesicles such as exosomes in light of promoting neurogenesis, discussing the results obtained so far, their limits and the future perspectives regarding the neural regeneration in the context of Huntington's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco D'Egidio
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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2
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Pascual-Alonso A, Xiol C, Smirnov D, Kopajtich R, Prokisch H, Armstrong J. Identification of molecular signatures and pathways involved in Rett syndrome using a multi-omics approach. Hum Genomics 2023; 17:85. [PMID: 37710353 PMCID: PMC10503149 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-023-00532-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder mainly caused by mutations in the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 gene (MECP2). MeCP2 is a multi-functional protein involved in many cellular processes, but the mechanisms by which its dysfunction causes disease are not fully understood. The duplication of the MECP2 gene causes a distinct disorder called MECP2 duplication syndrome (MDS), highlighting the importance of tightly regulating its dosage for proper cellular function. Additionally, some patients with mutations in genes other than MECP2 exhibit phenotypic similarities with RTT, indicating that these genes may also play a role in similar cellular functions. The purpose of this study was to characterise the molecular alterations in patients with RTT in order to identify potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets for this disorder. METHODS We used a combination of transcriptomics (RNAseq) and proteomics (TMT mass spectrometry) to characterise the expression patterns in fibroblast cell lines from 22 patients with RTT and detected mutation in MECP2, 15 patients with MDS, 12 patients with RTT-like phenotypes and 13 healthy controls. Transcriptomics and proteomics data were used to identify differentially expressed genes at both RNA and protein levels, which were further inspected via enrichment and upstream regulator analyses and compared to find shared features in patients with RTT. RESULTS We identified molecular alterations in cellular functions and pathways that may contribute to the disease phenotype in patients with RTT, such as deregulated cytoskeletal components, vesicular transport elements, ribosomal subunits and mRNA processing machinery. We also compared RTT expression profiles with those of MDS seeking changes in opposite directions that could lead to the identification of MeCP2 direct targets. Some of the deregulated transcripts and proteins were consistently affected in patients with RTT-like phenotypes, revealing potentially relevant molecular processes in patients with overlapping traits and different genetic aetiology. CONCLUSIONS The integration of data in a multi-omics analysis has helped to interpret the molecular consequences of MECP2 dysfunction, contributing to the characterisation of the molecular landscape in patients with RTT. The comparison with MDS provides knowledge of MeCP2 direct targets, whilst the correlation with RTT-like phenotypes highlights processes potentially contributing to the pathomechanism leading these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ainhoa Pascual-Alonso
- Fundació Per La Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Clara Xiol
- Fundació Per La Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Dmitrii Smirnov
- Institute of Human Genetics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Neurogenomics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Robert Kopajtich
- Institute of Human Genetics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Neurogenomics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Holger Prokisch
- Institute of Human Genetics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Neurogenomics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Judith Armstrong
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain.
- CIBER-ER (Biomedical Network Research Center for Rare Diseases), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain.
- Genomic Unit, Molecular and Genetic Medicine Section, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain.
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Chen X, Sun Y, Chen L, Chen XS, Pan M, Zhang Y, Wang Q, Yang W, Yin P, He D, Guo X, Yang S, Zeng Y, Yan S, Li XJ, Li S. Differential expression and roles of Huntingtin and Huntingtin-associated protein 1 in the mouse and primate brains. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:554. [PMID: 36251080 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04577-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Huntingtin-associated protein 1 (HAP1) is the first identified protein whose function is affected by its abnormal interaction with mutant huntingtin (mHTT), which causes Huntington disease. However, the expression patterns of Hap1 and Htt in the rodent brain are not correlated. Here we found that the primate HAP1, unlike the rodent Hap1, is correlatively expressed with HTT in the primate brains. CRISPR/Cas9 targeting revealed that HAP1 deficiency in the developing human neurons did not affect neuronal differentiation and gene expression as seen in the mouse neurons. However, deletion of HAP1 exacerbated neurotoxicity of mutant HTT in the organotypic brain slices of adult monkeys. These findings demonstrate differential HAP1 expression and function in the mouse and primate brains, and suggest that interaction of HAP1 with mutant HTT may be involved in mutant HTT-mediated neurotoxicity in adult primate neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Chen
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yize Sun
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Laiqiang Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiu-Sheng Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Mingtian Pan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yiran Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Weili Yang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Peng Yin
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Dajian He
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiangyu Guo
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Su Yang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Sen Yan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiao-Jiang Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| | - Shihua Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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Purushotham SS, Reddy NMN, D'Souza MN, Choudhury NR, Ganguly A, Gopalakrishna N, Muddashetty R, Clement JP. A perspective on molecular signalling dysfunction, its clinical relevance and therapeutics in autism spectrum disorder. Exp Brain Res 2022; 240:2525-2567. [PMID: 36063192 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-022-06448-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders that have become a primary clinical and social concern, with a prevalence of 2-3% in the population. Neuronal function and behaviour undergo significant malleability during the critical period of development that is found to be impaired in ID/ASD. Human genome sequencing studies have revealed many genetic variations associated with ASD/ID that are further verified by many approaches, including many mouse and other models. These models have facilitated the identification of fundamental mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of ASD/ID, and several studies have proposed converging molecular pathways in ASD/ID. However, linking the mechanisms of the pathogenic genes and their molecular characteristics that lead to ID/ASD has progressed slowly, hampering the development of potential therapeutic strategies. This review discusses the possibility of recognising the common molecular causes for most ASD/ID based on studies from the available models that may enable a better therapeutic strategy to treat ID/ASD. We also reviewed the potential biomarkers to detect ASD/ID at early stages that may aid in diagnosis and initiating medical treatment, the concerns with drug failure in clinical trials, and developing therapeutic strategies that can be applied beyond a particular mutation associated with ASD/ID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushmitha S Purushotham
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru, 560064, India
| | - Neeharika M N Reddy
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru, 560064, India
| | - Michelle Ninochka D'Souza
- Centre for Brain Research, Indian Institute of Science Campus, CV Raman Avenue, Bangalore, 560 012, India.,The University of Trans-Disciplinary Health Sciences and Technology (TDU), Bangalore, 560064, India
| | - Nilpawan Roy Choudhury
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru, 560064, India
| | - Anusa Ganguly
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru, 560064, India
| | - Niharika Gopalakrishna
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru, 560064, India
| | - Ravi Muddashetty
- Centre for Brain Research, Indian Institute of Science Campus, CV Raman Avenue, Bangalore, 560 012, India.,The University of Trans-Disciplinary Health Sciences and Technology (TDU), Bangalore, 560064, India
| | - James P Clement
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru, 560064, India.
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Pleiotropic effects of BDNF on the cerebellum and hippocampus: Implications for neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 163:105606. [PMID: 34974125 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is one of the most studied neurotrophins in the mammalian brain, essential not only to the development of the central nervous system but also to synaptic plasticity. BDNF is present in various brain areas, but highest levels of expression are seen in the cerebellum and hippocampus. After birth, BDNF acts in the cerebellum as a mitogenic and chemotactic factor, stimulating the cerebellar granule cell precursors to proliferate, migrate and maturate, while in the hippocampus BDNF plays a fundamental role in synaptic transmission and plasticity, representing a key regulator for the long-term potentiation, learning and memory. Furthermore, the expression of BDNF is highly regulated and changes of its expression are associated with both physiological and pathological conditions. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge on the BDNF biology and its neurotrophic role in the proper development and functioning of neurons and synapses in two important brain areas of postnatal neurogenesis, the cerebellum and hippocampus. Dysregulation of BDNF expression and signaling, resulting in alterations in neuronal maturation and plasticity in both systems, is a common hallmark of several neurodevelopmental diseases, such as autism spectrum disorder, suggesting that neuronal malfunction present in these disorders is the result of excessive or reduced of BDNF support. We believe that the more the relevance of the pathophysiological actions of BDNF, and its downstream signals, in early postnatal development will be highlighted, the more likely it is that new neuroprotective therapeutic strategies will be identified in the treatment of various neurodevelopmental disorders.
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HDAC inhibitor ameliorates behavioral deficits in Mecp2 308/y mouse model of Rett syndrome. Brain Res 2021; 1772:147670. [PMID: 34582789 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2021.147670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder. More than 95% of classic RETT syndrome cases result from pathogenic variants in the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene. Nevertheless, it has been established that a spectrum of neuropsychiatric phenotypes is associated with MECP2 variants in both females and males. We previously reported that microtubule growth velocity and vesicle transport directionality are altered in Mecp2-deficient astrocytes from newborn Mecp2-deficient mice compared to that of their wild-type littermates suggesting deficit in microtubule dynamics. In this study, we report that administration of tubastatin A, a selective HDAC6 inhibitor, restored microtubule dynamics in Mecp2-deficient astrocytes. We furthermore report that daily doses of tubastatin A reversed early impaired exploratory behavior in male Mecp2308/y mice. These findings are a first step toward the validation of a novel treatment for RTT.
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7
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Van Bergen NJ, Massey S, Stait T, Ellery M, Reljić B, Formosa LE, Quigley A, Dottori M, Thorburn D, Stroud DA, Christodoulou J. Abnormalities of mitochondrial dynamics and bioenergetics in neuronal cells from CDKL5 deficiency disorder. Neurobiol Dis 2021; 155:105370. [PMID: 33905871 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) gene, resulting in dysfunctional CDKL5 protein. It predominantly affects females and causes seizures in the first few months of life, ultimately resulting in severe intellectual disability. In the absence of targeted therapies, treatment is currently only symptomatic. CDKL5 is a serine/threonine kinase that is highly expressed in the brain, with a critical role in neuronal development. Evidence of mitochondrial dysfunction in CDD is gathering, but has not been studied extensively. We used human patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells with a pathogenic truncating mutation (p.Arg59*) and CRISPR/Cas9 gene-corrected isogenic controls, differentiated into neurons, to investigate the impact of CDKL5 mutation on cellular function. Quantitative proteomics indicated mitochondrial defects in CDKL5 p.Arg59* neurons, and mitochondrial bioenergetics analysis confirmed decreased activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes. Additionally, mitochondrial trafficking velocity was significantly impaired, and there was a higher percentage of stationary mitochondria. We propose mitochondrial dysfunction is contributing to CDD pathology, and should be a focus for development of targeted treatments for CDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole J Van Bergen
- Brain and Mitochondrial Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sean Massey
- Brain and Mitochondrial Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tegan Stait
- Brain and Mitochondrial Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Molly Ellery
- Brain and Mitochondrial Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Boris Reljić
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Luke E Formosa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Anita Quigley
- Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, College of Science, Engineering and Health, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia; BioFab3D@ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia
| | - Mirella Dottori
- Centre for Neural Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3010, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Centre for Molecular and Medical Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2500, Australia
| | - David Thorburn
- Brain and Mitochondrial Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David A Stroud
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - John Christodoulou
- Brain and Mitochondrial Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Discipline of Child & Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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8
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Wang JKT. Uniting homeostatic plasticity and exosome biology: A revision of the conceptual framework for drug discovery in neurodegenerative diseases? ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY 2020; 90:277-306. [PMID: 33706937 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2020.10.002] [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: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are in need of new drug discovery approaches. Our previous systematic analyses of Huntington's Disease (HD) literature for protein-protein interactors (PPIs) and modifiers of mutant Huntingtin-driven phenotypes revealed enrichment for PPIs of genes required for homeostatic synaptic plasticity (HSP) and exosome (EV) function and exosomal proteins, which in turn highly overlapped each other and with PPIs of genes associated with other NDDs. We proposed that HSP and EVs are linked to each other and are also involved in NDD pathophysiology. Recent studies showed that HSP is indeed altered in HD and AD, and that presynaptic homeostatic plasticity in motoneurons compensates for ALS pathology. Eliminating it causes earlier degeneration and death. If this holds true in other NDDs, drug discovery in animal models should then include elucidation of homeostatic compensation that either masks phenotypes of physiologically expressed mutant genes or are overridden by their overexpression. In this new conceptual framework, enhancing such underlying homeostatic compensation forms the basis for novel therapeutic strategies to slow progression of NDDs. Moreover, if EVs are linked to HSP, then their ability to penetrate the brain, target cell types, deliver miRNA and other molecules can be leveraged to develop attractive drug modalities. Testing this new framework is posed as four questions on model development and mechanistic studies progressing from higher throughput platforms to mouse models. Similar approaches may apply to other CNS disorders including schizophrenia, autism, Rett and Fragile X syndromes due to potential links of their susceptibility genes to HSP and EVs.
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Miranda-Lourenço C, Ribeiro-Rodrigues L, Fonseca-Gomes J, Tanqueiro SR, Belo RF, Ferreira CB, Rei N, Ferreira-Manso M, de Almeida-Borlido C, Costa-Coelho T, Freitas CF, Zavalko S, Mouro FM, Sebastião AM, Xapelli S, Rodrigues TM, Diógenes MJ. Challenges of BDNF-based therapies: From common to rare diseases. Pharmacol Res 2020; 162:105281. [PMID: 33161136 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophins are a well-known family of neurotrophic factors that play an important role both in the central and peripheral nervous systems, where they modulate neuronal survival, development, function and plasticity. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) possesses diverse biological functions which are mediated by the activation of two main classes of receptors, the tropomyosin-related kinase (Trk) B and the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR). The therapeutic potential of BDNF has drawn attention since dysregulation of its signalling cascades has been suggested to underlie the pathogenesis of both common and rare diseases. Multiple strategies targeting this neurotrophin have been tested; most have found obstacles that ultimately hampered their effectiveness. This review focuses on the involvement of BDNF and its receptors in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Rett Syndrome (RTT). We describe the known mechanisms leading to the impairment of BDNF/TrkB signalling in these disorders. Such mechanistic insight highlights how BDNF signalling compromise can take various shapes, nearly disease-specific. Therefore, BDNF-based therapeutic strategies must be specifically tailored and are more likely to succeed if a combination of resources is employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Miranda-Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Leonor Ribeiro-Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Fonseca-Gomes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara R Tanqueiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita F Belo
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina B Ferreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Nádia Rei
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Ferreira-Manso
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carolina de Almeida-Borlido
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago Costa-Coelho
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Céline Felicidade Freitas
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Svitlana Zavalko
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Francisco M Mouro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago M Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Mittlere Strasse 91, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maria J Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
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10
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Gomathi M, Padmapriya S, Balachandar V. Drug Studies on Rett Syndrome: From Bench to Bedside. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:2740-2764. [PMID: 32016693 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04381-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Drug studies on Rett syndrome (RTT) have drastically increased over the past few decades. This review aims to provide master data on bench-to-bedside drug studies involving RTT. A comprehensive literature review was performed by searching in PUBMED, MEDLINE and Google Scholar, international, national and regional clinical trial registries and pharmaceutical companies using the keywords "Rett syndrome treatment and/or drug or compound or molecule". Seventy drugs were investigated in non-clinical (N = 65 animal/cell line-based studies; N = 5 iPSC-based study) and clinical trials (N = 34) for ameliorating the symptoms of RTT. Though there is good progress in both clinical and non-clinical studies, none of these drugs entered phase III/IV for being launched as a therapeutic agent for RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohan Gomathi
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India
| | | | - Vellingiri Balachandar
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India.
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11
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Cappoli N, Tabolacci E, Aceto P, Dello Russo C. The emerging role of the BDNF-TrkB signaling pathway in the modulation of pain perception. J Neuroimmunol 2020; 349:577406. [PMID: 33002723 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2020.577406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a crucial neuromodulator in pain transmission both in peripheral and central nervous system (CNS). Despite evidence of a pro-nociceptive role of BDNF, recent studies have reported contrasting results, including anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities. Moreover, BDNF polymorphisms can interfere with BDNF role in pain perception. In Val66Met carriers, the Met allele may have a dual role, with anti-nociceptive actions in normal condition and pro-nociceptive effects during chronic pain. In order to elucidate the main effects of BDNF in nociception, we reviewed the main characteristics of this neurotrophin, focusing on its involvement in pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Cappoli
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dipartimento di Sicurezza e Bioetica, Sezione di Farmacologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Tabolacci
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Sezione di Medicina Genomica, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Aceto
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e della Rianimazione, Rome, Italy; Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dipartimento di Scienze biotecnologiche di base, cliniche intensivologiche e perioperatorie, Rome, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Dello Russo
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dipartimento di Sicurezza e Bioetica, Sezione di Farmacologia, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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12
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Sandweiss AJ, Brandt VL, Zoghbi HY. Advances in understanding of Rett syndrome and MECP2 duplication syndrome: prospects for future therapies. Lancet Neurol 2020; 19:689-698. [PMID: 32702338 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(20)30217-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The X-linked gene encoding MECP2 is involved in two severe and complex neurodevelopmental disorders. Loss of function of the MeCP2 protein underlies Rett syndrome, whereas duplications of the MECP2 locus cause MECP2 duplication syndrome. Research on the mechanisms by which MeCP2 exerts effects on gene expression in neurons, studies of animal models bearing different disease-causing mutations, and more in-depth observations of clinical presentations have clarified some issues even as they have raised further questions. Yet there is enough evidence so far to suggest possible approaches to therapy for these two diseases that could go beyond attempting to address specific signs and symptoms (of which there are many) and instead target the pathophysiology underlying MECP2 disorders. Further work could bring antisense oligonucleotides, deep brain stimulation, and gene therapy into the clinic within the next decade or so.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Sandweiss
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neurology and Developmental Neurosciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vicky L Brandt
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Huda Y Zoghbi
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neurology and Developmental Neurosciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.
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13
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Loss of Hap1 selectively promotes striatal degeneration in Huntington disease mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:20265-20273. [PMID: 32747555 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2002283117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington disease (HD) is an ideal model for investigating selective neurodegeneration, as expanded polyQ repeats in the ubiquitously expressed huntingtin (HTT) cause the preferential neurodegeneration in the striatum of the HD patient brains. Here we report that adeno-associated virus (AAV) transduction-mediated depletion of Hap1, the first identified huntingtin-associated protein, in adult HD knock-in (KI) mouse brains leads to selective neuronal loss in the striatum. Further, Hap1 depletion-mediated neuronal loss via AAV transduction requires the presence of mutant HTT. Rhes, a GTPase that is enriched in the striatum and sumoylates mutant HTT to mediate neurotoxicity, binds more N-terminal HTT when Hap1 is deficient. Consistently, more soluble and sumoylated N-terminal HTT is presented in HD KI mouse striatum when HAP1 is absent. Our findings suggest that both Rhes and Hap1 as well as cellular stress contribute to the preferential neurodegeneration in HD, highlighting the involvement of multiple factors in selective neurodegeneration.
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14
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Traffic signaling: new functions of huntingtin and axonal transport in neurological disease. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2020; 63:122-130. [DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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15
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Chen X, Xin N, Pan Y, Zhu L, Yin P, Liu Q, Yang W, Xu X, Li S, Li XJ. Huntingtin-Associated Protein 1 in Mouse Hypothalamus Stabilizes Glucocorticoid Receptor in Stress Response. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:125. [PMID: 32581713 PMCID: PMC7289054 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntingtin-associated protein 1 (Hap1) was initially identified as a brain-enriched protein that binds to the Huntington’s disease protein, huntingtin. Unlike huntingtin that is ubiquitously expressed in the brain, Hap1 is enriched in the brain with the highest expression level in the hypothalamus. The selective enrichment of Hap1 in the hypothalamus suggests that Hap1 may play a specific role in hypothalamic function that can regulate metabolism and stress response. Here we report that Hap1 is colocalized and interacts with the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in mouse hypothalamic neurons. Genetic depletion of Hap1 reduced the expression level of GR in the hypothalamus. Dexamethasone, a GR agonist, treatment or fasting of mice induced stress, resulting in increased expression of Hap1 in the hypothalamus. However, when Hap1 was absent, these treatments promoted GR reduction in the hypothalamus. In cultured cells, loss of Hap1 shortened the half-life of GR. These findings suggest that Hap1 stabilizes GR in the cytoplasm and that Hap1 dysfunction or deficiency may alter animal’s stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Chen
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Ning Xin
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yongcheng Pan
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Louyin Zhu
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Peng Yin
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiong Liu
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weili Yang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xingshun Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shihua Li
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Jiang Li
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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16
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Ehinger Y, Bruyère J, Panayotis N, Abada YS, Borloz E, Matagne V, Scaramuzzino C, Vitet H, Delatour B, Saidi L, Villard L, Saudou F, Roux JC. Huntingtin phosphorylation governs BDNF homeostasis and improves the phenotype of Mecp2 knockout mice. EMBO Mol Med 2020; 12:e10889. [PMID: 31913581 PMCID: PMC7005633 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201910889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the X‐linked MECP2 gene are responsible for Rett syndrome (RTT), a severe neurological disorder for which there is no treatment. Several studies have linked the loss of MeCP2 function to alterations of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, but non‐specific overexpression of BDNF only partially improves the phenotype of Mecp2‐deficient mice. We and others have previously shown that huntingtin (HTT) scaffolds molecular motor complexes, transports BDNF‐containing vesicles, and is under‐expressed in Mecp2 knockout brains. Here, we demonstrate that promoting HTT phosphorylation at Ser421, either by a phospho‐mimetic mutation or inhibition of the phosphatase calcineurin, restores endogenous BDNF axonal transport in vitro in the corticostriatal pathway, increases striatal BDNF availability and synaptic connectivity in vivo, and improves the phenotype and the survival of Mecp2 knockout mice—even though treatments were initiated only after the mice had already developed symptoms. Stimulation of endogenous cellular pathways may thus be a promising approach for the treatment of RTT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann Ehinger
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, UMR_S 1251, Marseille, France
| | - Julie Bruyère
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, U1216, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble Institut Neurosciences, GIN, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Yah-Se Abada
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Inserm U1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Paris, France
| | - Emilie Borloz
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, UMR_S 1251, Marseille, France
| | - Valérie Matagne
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, UMR_S 1251, Marseille, France
| | - Chiara Scaramuzzino
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, U1216, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble Institut Neurosciences, GIN, Grenoble, France
| | - Hélène Vitet
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, U1216, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble Institut Neurosciences, GIN, Grenoble, France
| | - Benoit Delatour
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Inserm U1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Paris, France
| | - Lydia Saidi
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, UMR_S 1251, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Villard
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, UMR_S 1251, Marseille, France
| | - Frédéric Saudou
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, U1216, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble Institut Neurosciences, GIN, Grenoble, France
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17
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Paul BD, Snyder SH. Therapeutic Applications of Cysteamine and Cystamine in Neurodegenerative and Neuropsychiatric Diseases. Front Neurol 2019; 10:1315. [PMID: 31920936 PMCID: PMC6920251 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.01315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Current medications for neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease (HD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Schizophrenia mainly target disease symptoms. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutics that can delay, halt or reverse disease progression. AD, HD, PD, and schizophrenia are characterized by elevated oxidative and nitrosative stress, which play a central role in pathogenesis. Clinical trials utilizing antioxidants to counter disease progression have largely been unsuccessful. Most antioxidants are relatively non-specific and do not adequately target neuroprotective pathways. Accordingly, a search for agents that restore redox balance as well as halt or reverse neuronal loss is underway. The small molecules, cysteamine, the decarboxylated derivative of the amino acid cysteine, and cystamine, the oxidized form of cysteamine, respectively, mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation and upregulate neuroprotective pathways involving brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling. Cysteamine can traverse the blood brain barrier, a desirable characteristic of drugs targeting neurodegeneration. This review addresses recent developments in the use of these aminothiols to counter neurodegeneration and neuropsychiatric deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bindu D Paul
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Solomon H Snyder
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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18
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Abstract
Despite decades of research on Alzheimer disease, understanding the complexity of the genetic and molecular interactions involved in its pathogenesis remains far from our grasp. Methyl-CpG Binding Protein 2 (MeCP2) is an important epigenetic regulator enriched in the brain, and recent findings have implicated MeCP2 as a crucial player in Alzheimer disease. Here, we provide comprehensive insights into the pathophysiological roles of MeCP2 in Alzheimer disease. In particular, we focus on how the alteration of MeCP2 expression can impact Alzheimer disease through risk genes, amyloid-β and tau pathology, cell death and neurodegeneration, and cellular senescence. We suggest that Alzheimer disease can be adversely affected by upregulated MeCP2-dependent repression of risk genes (MEF2C, ADAM10, and PM20D1), increased tau accumulation, and neurodegeneration through neuronal cell death (excitotoxicity and apoptosis). In addition, we propose that the progression of Alzheimer disease could be caused by reduced MeCP2-mediated enhancement of astrocytic and microglial senescence and consequent glial SASP (senescence-associated secretory phenotype)-dependent neuroinflammation. We surmise that any imbalance in MeCP2 function would accelerate or cause Alzheimer disease pathogenesis, implying that MeCP2 may be a potential drug target for the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer disease.
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19
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Brindisi M, Saraswati AP, Brogi S, Gemma S, Butini S, Campiani G. Old but Gold: Tracking the New Guise of Histone Deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) Enzyme as a Biomarker and Therapeutic Target in Rare Diseases. J Med Chem 2019; 63:23-39. [PMID: 31415174 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation orchestrates many cellular processes and greatly influences key disease mechanisms. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes play a crucial role either as biomarkers or therapeutic targets owing to their involvement in specific pathophysiological pathways. Beyond their well-characterized role as histone modifiers, HDACs also interact with several nonhistone substrates and their increased expression has been highlighted in specific diseases. The HDAC6 isoform, due to its unique cytoplasmic localization, modulates the acetylation status of tubulin, HSP90, TGF-β, and peroxiredoxins. HDAC6 also exerts noncatalytic activities through its interaction with ubiquitin. Both catalytic and noncatalytic functions of HDACs are being actively studied in the field of specific rare disorders beyond the well-established role in carcinogenesis. This Perspective outlines the application of HDAC(6) inhibitors in rare diseases, such as Rett syndrome, inherited retinal disorders, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, highlighting their therapeutic potential as innovative and targeted disease-modifying agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Brindisi
- Department of Pharmacy, Department of Excellence 2018-2022 , University of Naples Federico II , Via D. Montesano 49 , I-80131 Naples , Italy
| | - A Prasanth Saraswati
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Department of Excellence 2018-2022 , University of Siena , via Aldo Moro 2 , 53100 , Siena , Italy
| | - Simone Brogi
- Department of Pharmacy , University of Pisa , via Bonanno 6 , 56126 , Pisa , Italy
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Department of Excellence 2018-2022 , University of Siena , via Aldo Moro 2 , 53100 , Siena , Italy
| | - Stefania Butini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Department of Excellence 2018-2022 , University of Siena , via Aldo Moro 2 , 53100 , Siena , Italy
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Department of Excellence 2018-2022 , University of Siena , via Aldo Moro 2 , 53100 , Siena , Italy
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20
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Zamberletti E, Gabaglio M, Piscitelli F, Brodie JS, Woolley-Roberts M, Barbiero I, Tramarin M, Binelli G, Landsberger N, Kilstrup-Nielsen C, Rubino T, Di Marzo V, Parolaro D. Cannabidivarin completely rescues cognitive deficits and delays neurological and motor defects in male Mecp2 mutant mice. J Psychopharmacol 2019; 33:894-907. [PMID: 31084246 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119844184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent evidence suggests that 2-week treatment with the non-psychotomimetic cannabinoid cannabidivarin (CBDV) could be beneficial towards neurological and social deficits in early symptomatic Mecp2 mutant mice, a model of Rett syndrome (RTT). AIM The aim of this study was to provide further insights into the efficacy of CBDV in Mecp2-null mice using a lifelong treatment schedule (from 4 to 9 weeks of age) to evaluate its effect on recognition memory and neurological defects in both early and advanced stages of the phenotype progression. METHODS CBDV 0.2, 2, 20 and 200 mg/kg/day was administered to Mecp2-null mice from 4 to 9 weeks of age. Cognitive and neurological defects were monitored during the whole treatment schedule. Biochemical analyses were carried out in brain lysates from 9-week-old wild-type and knockout mice to evaluate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels as well as components of the endocannabinoid system. RESULTS CBDV rescues recognition memory deficits in Mecp2 mutant mice and delays the appearance of neurological defects. At the biochemical level, it normalizes BDNF/IGF1 levels and the defective PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in Mecp2 mutant mice at an advanced stage of the disease. Mecp2 deletion upregulates CB1 and CB2 receptor levels in the brain and these changes are restored after CBDV treatment. CONCLUSIONS CBDV administration exerts an enduring rescue of memory deficits in Mecp2 mutant mice, an effect that is associated with the normalization of BDNF, IGF-1 and rpS6 phosphorylation levels as well as CB1 and CB2 receptor expression. CBDV delays neurological defects but this effect is only transient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Zamberletti
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Marina Gabaglio
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- 2 Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Isabella Barbiero
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Marco Tramarin
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giorgio Binelli
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Landsberger
- 4 Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Tiziana Rubino
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- 2 Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Parolaro
- 1 Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,5 Zardi Gori Foundation, Milan, Italy
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21
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Sanfeliu A, Kaufmann WE, Gill M, Guasoni P, Tropea D. Transcriptomic Studies in Mouse Models of Rett Syndrome: A Review. Neuroscience 2019; 413:183-205. [PMID: 31229631 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a neurological disorder mainly associated with mutations in the X-linked gene coding for the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2). To assist in studying MECP2's function, researchers have generated Mecp2 mouse mutants showing that MECP2's product (MeCP2) mostly functions as a transcriptional regulator. During the last two decades, these models have been used to determine the genes that are regulated by MeCP2, slowly dissecting the etiological mechanisms underlying RTT. In the present review, we describe the findings of these transcriptomic studies, and highlight differences between them, and discuss how studies on these genetic models can sharpen our understanding of the human disorder. We conclude that - while there's large variability regarding the number of differentially expressed genes identified - there are overlapping features that inform on the biology of RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Sanfeliu
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics, School of Medicine, Trinity Center for Health Sciences, St James Hospital D8, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Walter E Kaufmann
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine and Department of Neurology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Michael Gill
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics, School of Medicine, Trinity Center for Health Sciences, St James Hospital D8, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paolo Guasoni
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, D9, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniela Tropea
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics, School of Medicine, Trinity Center for Health Sciences, St James Hospital D8, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Lloyd Building, D2, Dublin, Ireland.
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22
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Visualization of Intra‐neuronal Motor Protein Transport through Upconversion Microscopy. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201904208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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23
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Zeng X, Chen S, Weitemier A, Han S, Blasiak A, Prasad A, Zheng K, Yi Z, Luo B, Yang I, Thakor N, Chai C, Lim K, McHugh TJ, All AH, Liu X. Visualization of Intra‐neuronal Motor Protein Transport through Upconversion Microscopy. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019; 58:9262-9268. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201904208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zeng
- Department of ChemistryNational University of Singapore Singapore 117543 Singapore
| | - Shuo Chen
- Laboratory for Circuit and Behavioral PhysiologyRIKEN Center for Brain Science Wakoshi Saitama 351-0198 Japan
| | - Adam Weitemier
- Laboratory for Circuit and Behavioral PhysiologyRIKEN Center for Brain Science Wakoshi Saitama 351-0198 Japan
| | - Sanyang Han
- Department of ChemistryNational University of Singapore Singapore 117543 Singapore
| | - Agata Blasiak
- Singapore Institute of NeurotechnologyNational University of Singapore Singapore 117456 Singapore
| | - Ankshita Prasad
- Singapore Institute of NeurotechnologyNational University of Singapore Singapore 117456 Singapore
| | - Kezhi Zheng
- Department of ChemistryNational University of Singapore Singapore 117543 Singapore
| | - Zhigao Yi
- Department of ChemistryNational University of Singapore Singapore 117543 Singapore
| | - Baiwen Luo
- Singapore Institute of NeurotechnologyNational University of Singapore Singapore 117456 Singapore
| | - In‐Hong Yang
- Singapore Institute of NeurotechnologyNational University of Singapore Singapore 117456 Singapore
| | - Nitish Thakor
- Singapore Institute of NeurotechnologyNational University of Singapore Singapore 117456 Singapore
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringJohns Hopkins School of Medicine Baltimore MD 21205 USA
| | - Chou Chai
- Research DepartmentNational Neuroscience Institute Singapore 308433 Singapore
- Department of PhysiologyNational University of Singapore Singapore 117593 Singapore
| | - Kah‐Leong Lim
- Research DepartmentNational Neuroscience Institute Singapore 308433 Singapore
- Department of PhysiologyNational University of Singapore Singapore 117593 Singapore
| | - Thomas J. McHugh
- Laboratory for Circuit and Behavioral PhysiologyRIKEN Center for Brain Science Wakoshi Saitama 351-0198 Japan
- Department of Life SciencesGraduate School of Arts and SciencesUniversity of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Angelo H. All
- Singapore Institute of NeurotechnologyNational University of Singapore Singapore 117456 Singapore
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringJohns Hopkins School of Medicine Baltimore MD 21205 USA
- Department of NeurologyJohns Hopkins School of Medicine Baltimore MD 21205 USA
| | - Xiaogang Liu
- Department of ChemistryNational University of Singapore Singapore 117543 Singapore
- Singapore Institute of NeurotechnologyNational University of Singapore Singapore 117456 Singapore
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Sanfeliu A, Hokamp K, Gill M, Tropea D. Transcriptomic Analysis of Mecp2 Mutant Mice Reveals Differentially Expressed Genes and Altered Mechanisms in Both Blood and Brain. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:278. [PMID: 31110484 PMCID: PMC6501143 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome is a rare neuropsychiatric disorder with a wide symptomatology including impaired communication and movement, cardio-respiratory abnormalities, and seizures. The clinical presentation is typically associated to mutations in the gene coding for the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2), which is a transcription factor. The gene is ubiquitously present in all the cells of the organism with a peak of expression in neurons. For this reason, most of the studies in Rett models have been performed in brain. However, some of the symptoms of Rett are linked to the peripheral expression of MECP2, suggesting that the effects of the mutations affect gene expression levels in tissues other than the brain. We used RNA sequencing in Mecp2 mutant mice and matched controls, to identify common genes and pathways differentially regulated across different tissues. We performed our study in brain and peripheral blood, and we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and pathways in each tissue. Then, we compared the genes and mechanisms identified in each preparation. We found that some genes and molecular pathways that are differentially expressed in brain are also differentially expressed in blood of Mecp2 mutant mice at a symptomatic-but not presymptomatic-stage. This is the case for the gene Ube2v1, linked to ubiquitination system, and Serpin1, involved in complement and coagulation cascades. Analysis of biological functions in the brain shows the enrichment of mechanisms correlated to circadian rhythms, while in the blood are enriched the mechanisms of response to stimulus-including immune response. Some mechanisms are enriched in both preparations, such as lipid metabolism and response to stress. These results suggest that analysis of peripheral blood can reveal ubiquitous altered molecular mechanisms of Rett and have applications in diagnosis and treatments' assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Sanfeliu
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karsten Hokamp
- Department of Genetics, School of Genetics and Microbiology, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael Gill
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniela Tropea
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Carter CJ. Autism genes and the leukocyte transcriptome in autistic toddlers relate to pathogen interactomes, infection and the immune system. A role for excess neurotrophic sAPPα and reduced antimicrobial Aβ. Neurochem Int 2019; 126:36-58. [PMID: 30862493 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2019.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal and early childhood infections have been implicated in autism. Many autism susceptibility genes (206 Autworks genes) are localised in the immune system and are related to immune/infection pathways. They are enriched in the host/pathogen interactomes of 18 separate microbes (bacteria/viruses and fungi) and to the genes regulated by bacterial toxins, mycotoxins and Toll-like receptor ligands. This enrichment was also observed for misregulated genes from a microarray study of leukocytes from autistic toddlers. The upregulated genes from this leukocyte study also matched the expression profiles in response to numerous infectious agents from the Broad Institute molecular signatures database. They also matched genes related to sudden infant death syndrome and autism comorbid conditions (autoimmune disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, diabetes, epilepsy and cardiomyopathy) as well as to estrogen and thyrotropin responses and to those upregulated by different types of stressors including oxidative stress, hypoxia, endoplasmic reticulum stress, ultraviolet radiation or 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene, a hapten used to develop allergic skin reactions in animal models. The oxidative/integrated stress response is also upregulated in the autism brain and may contribute to myelination problems. There was also a marked similarity between the expression signatures of autism and Alzheimer's disease, and 44 shared autism/Alzheimer's disease genes are almost exclusively expressed in the blood-brain barrier. However, in contrast to Alzheimer's disease, levels of the antimicrobial peptide beta-amyloid are decreased and the levels of the neurotrophic/myelinotrophic soluble APP alpha are increased in autism, together with an increased activity of α-secretase. sAPPα induces an increase in glutamatergic and a decrease in GABA-ergic synapses creating and excitatory/inhibitory imbalance that has also been observed in autism. A literature survey showed that multiple autism genes converge on APP processing and that many are able to increase sAPPalpha at the expense of beta-amyloid production. A genetically programmed tilt of this axis towards an overproduction of neurotrophic/gliotrophic sAPPalpha and underproduction of antimicrobial beta-amyloid may explain the brain overgrowth and myelination dysfunction, as well as the involvement of pathogens in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Carter
- PolygenicPathways, 41C Marina, Saint Leonard's on Sea, TN38 0BU, East Sussex, UK.
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Abstract
Huntington disease is a monogenic neurodegenerative disorder that displays an autosomal-dominant pattern of inheritance. It is characterized by motor, psychiatric, and cognitive symptoms that progress over 15-20 years. Since the identification of the causative genetic mutation in 1993 much has been discovered about the underlying pathogenic mechanisms, but as yet there are no disease-modifying therapies available. This chapter reviews the epidemiology, genetic basis, pathogenesis, presentation, and clinical management of Huntington disease. The principles of genetic testing are explained. We also describe recent developments in the ongoing search for therapeutics and for biomarkers to track disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhia Ghosh
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah J Tabrizi
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom.
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Ghosh R, Tabrizi SJ. Clinical Features of Huntington's Disease. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1049:1-28. [PMID: 29427096 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-71779-1_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is the most common monogenic neurodegenerative disease and the commonest genetic dementia in the developed world. With autosomal dominant inheritance, typically mid-life onset, and unrelenting progressive motor, cognitive and psychiatric symptoms over 15-20 years, its impact on patients and their families is devastating. The causative genetic mutation is an expanded CAG trinucleotide repeat in the gene encoding the Huntingtin protein, which leads to a prolonged polyglutamine stretch at the N-terminus of the protein. Since the discovery of the gene over 20 years ago much progress has been made in HD research, and although there are currently no disease-modifying treatments available, there are a number of exciting potential therapeutic developments in the pipeline. In this chapter we discuss the epidemiology, genetics and pathogenesis of HD as well as the clinical presentation and management of HD, which is currently focused on symptomatic treatment. The principles of genetic testing for HD are also explained. Recent developments in therapeutics research, including gene silencing and targeted small molecule approaches are also discussed, as well as the search for HD biomarkers that will assist the validation of these potentially new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhia Ghosh
- UCL Huntington's Disease Centre, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Sarah J Tabrizi
- UCL Huntington's Disease Centre, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, WC1N 3BG, UK.
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Abstract
This paper provides a brief introductory review of the most recent advances in our knowledge about the structural and functional aspects of two transcriptional regulators: MeCP2, a protein whose mutated forms are involved in Rett syndrome; and CTCF, a constitutive transcriptional insulator. This is followed by a description of the PTMs affecting these two proteins and an analysis of their known interacting partners. A special emphasis is placed on the recent studies connecting these two proteins, focusing on the still poorly understood potential structural and functional interactions between the two of them on the chromatin substrate. An overview is provided for some of the currently known genes that are dually regulated by these two proteins. Finally, a model is put forward to account for their possible involvement in their regulation of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Ausió
- a Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 3P6, Canada.,b Center for Biomedical Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 3N5, Canada
| | - Philippe T Georgel
- c Department of Biological Sciences, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA.,d Cell Differentiation and Development Center, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA
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Golgi trafficking defects in postnatal microcephaly: The evidence for “Golgipathies”. Prog Neurobiol 2017; 153:46-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2017.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Wang JKT, Langfelder P, Horvath S, Palazzolo MJ. Exosomes and Homeostatic Synaptic Plasticity Are Linked to Each other and to Huntington's, Parkinson's, and Other Neurodegenerative Diseases by Database-Enabled Analyses of Comprehensively Curated Datasets. Front Neurosci 2017; 11:149. [PMID: 28611571 PMCID: PMC5374209 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive and autosomal dominant neurodegeneration caused by CAG expansion in the huntingtin gene (HTT), but the pathophysiological mechanism of mutant HTT (mHTT) remains unclear. To study HD using systems biological methodologies on all published data, we undertook the first comprehensive curation of two key PubMed HD datasets: perturbation genes that impact mHTT-driven endpoints and therefore are putatively linked causally to pathogenic mechanisms, and the protein interactome of HTT that reflects its biology. We perused PubMed articles containing co-citation of gene IDs and MeSH terms of interest to generate mechanistic gene sets for iterative enrichment analyses and rank ordering. The HD Perturbation database of 1,218 genes highly overlaps the HTT Interactome of 1,619 genes, suggesting links between normal HTT biology and mHTT pathology. These two HD datasets are enriched for protein networks of key genes underlying two mechanisms not previously implicated in HD nor in each other: exosome synaptic functions and homeostatic synaptic plasticity. Moreover, proteins, possibly including HTT, and miRNA detected in exosomes from a wide variety of sources also highly overlap the HD datasets, suggesting both mechanistic and biomarker links. Finally, the HTT Interactome highly intersects protein networks of pathogenic genes underlying Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and eight non-HD polyglutamine diseases, ALS, and spinal muscular atrophy. These protein networks in turn highly overlap the exosome and homeostatic synaptic plasticity gene sets. Thus, we hypothesize that HTT and other neurodegeneration pathogenic genes form a large interlocking protein network involved in exosome and homeostatic synaptic functions, particularly where the two mechanisms intersect. Mutant pathogenic proteins cause dysfunctions at distinct points in this network, each altering the two mechanisms in specific fashion that contributes to distinct disease pathologies, depending on the gene mutation and the cellular and biological context. This protein network is rich with drug targets, and exosomes may provide disease biomarkers, thus enabling drug discovery. All the curated datasets are made available for other investigators. Elucidating the roles of pathogenic neurodegeneration genes in exosome and homeostatic synaptic functions may provide a unifying framework for the age-dependent, progressive and tissue selective nature of multiple neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Langfelder
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Steve Horvath
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael J Palazzolo
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA, USA
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Regulation of mRNA splicing by MeCP2 via epigenetic modifications in the brain. Sci Rep 2017; 7:42790. [PMID: 28211484 PMCID: PMC5314398 DOI: 10.1038/srep42790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations of X-linked gene Methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) are the major causes of Rett syndrome (RTT), a severe neurodevelopmental disorder. Duplications of MECP2-containing genomic segments lead to severe autistic symptoms in human. MECP2-coding protein methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is involved in transcription regulation, microRNA processing and mRNA splicing. However, molecular mechanisms underlying the involvement of MeCP2 in mRNA splicing in neurons remain largely elusive. In this work we found that the majority of MeCP2-associated proteins are involved in mRNA splicing using mass spectrometry analysis with multiple samples from Mecp2-null rat brain, mouse primary neuron and human cell lines. We further showed that Mecp2 knockdown in cultured cortical neurons led to widespread alternations of mRNA alternative splicing. Analysis of ChIP-seq datasets indicated that MeCP2-regulated exons display specific epigenetic signatures, with DNA modification 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) and histone modification H3K4me3 are enriched in down-regulated exons, while the H3K36me3 signature is enriched in exons up-regulated in Mecp2-knockdown neurons comparing to un-affected neurons. Functional analysis reveals that genes containing MeCP2-regulated exons are mainly involved in synaptic functions and mRNA splicing. These results suggested that MeCP2 regulated mRNA splicing through interacting with 5hmC and epigenetic changes in histone markers, and provide functional insights of MeCP2-mediated mRNA splicing in the nervous system.
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32
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Neurotrophic Factors in Mouse Models of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Focus on BDNF and IGF-1. TRANSLATIONAL ANATOMY AND CELL BIOLOGY OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER 2017; 224:121-134. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-52498-6_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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Lucariello M, Vidal E, Vidal S, Saez M, Roa L, Huertas D, Pineda M, Dalfó E, Dopazo J, Jurado P, Armstrong J, Esteller M. Whole exome sequencing of Rett syndrome-like patients reveals the mutational diversity of the clinical phenotype. Hum Genet 2016; 135:1343-1354. [PMID: 27541642 PMCID: PMC5065581 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-016-1721-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Classical Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder where most of cases carry MECP2 mutations. Atypical RTT variants involve mutations in CDKL5 and FOXG1. However, a subset of RTT patients remains that do not carry any mutation in the described genes. Whole exome sequencing was carried out in a cohort of 21 female probands with clinical features overlapping with those of RTT, but without mutations in the customarily studied genes. Candidates were functionally validated by assessing the appearance of a neurological phenotype in Caenorhabditis elegans upon disruption of the corresponding ortholog gene. We detected pathogenic variants that accounted for the RTT-like phenotype in 14 (66.6 %) patients. Five patients were carriers of mutations in genes already known to be associated with other syndromic neurodevelopmental disorders. We determined that the other patients harbored mutations in genes that have not previously been linked to RTT or other neurodevelopmental syndromes, such as the ankyrin repeat containing protein ANKRD31 or the neuronal acetylcholine receptor subunit alpha-5 (CHRNA5). Furthermore, worm assays demonstrated that mutations in the studied candidate genes caused locomotion defects. Our findings indicate that mutations in a variety of genes contribute to the development of RTT-like phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Lucariello
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, 08908, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Enrique Vidal
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, 08908, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Silvia Vidal
- Servei de Medicina Genètica i Molecular, Institut de Recerca Pediàtrica Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues De Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Mauricio Saez
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, 08908, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Laura Roa
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, 08908, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Dori Huertas
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, 08908, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Mercè Pineda
- Fundació Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (HSJD), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Esther Dalfó
- Genetics Department, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joaquin Dopazo
- Computational Genomics Department, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe (CIPF), 46012, Valencia, Spain
- Bioinformatics of Rare Diseases (BIER), CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Valencia, Spain
- Functional Genomics Node (INB) at CIPF, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Paola Jurado
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, 08908, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Judith Armstrong
- Servei de Medicina Genètica i Molecular, Institut de Recerca Pediàtrica Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues De Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain.
- CIBER Enfermedades Raras, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (HSJD), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Manel Esteller
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, 08908, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
- Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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Lumsden AL, Young RL, Pezos N, Keating DJ. Huntingtin-associated protein 1: Eutherian adaptation from a TRAK-like protein, conserved gene promoter elements, and localization in the human intestine. BMC Evol Biol 2016; 16:214. [PMID: 27737633 PMCID: PMC5064798 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-016-0780-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Huntingtin-associated Protein 1 (HAP1) is expressed in neurons and endocrine cells, and is critical for postnatal survival in mice. HAP1 shares a conserved “HAP1_N” domain with TRAfficking Kinesin proteins TRAK1 and TRAK2 (vertebrate), Milton (Drosophila) and T27A3.1 (C. elegans). HAP1, TRAK1 and TRAK2 have a degree of common function, particularly regarding intracellular receptor trafficking. However, TRAK1, TRAK2 and Milton (which have a “Milt/TRAK” domain that is absent in human and rodent HAP1) differ in function to HAP1 in that they are mitochondrial transport proteins, while HAP1 has emerging roles in starvation response. We have investigated HAP1 function by examining its evolution, and upstream gene promoter sequences. We performed phylogenetic analyses of the HAP1_N domain family of proteins, incorporating HAP1 orthologues (identified by genomic synteny) from 5 vertebrate classes, and also searched the Dictyostelium proteome for a common ancestor. Computational analyses of mammalian HAP1 gene promoters were performed to identify phylogenetically conserved regulatory motifs. Results We found that as recently as marsupials, HAP1 contained a Milt/TRAK domain and was more similar to TRAK1 and TRAK2 than to eutherian HAP1. The Milt/TRAK domain likely arose post multicellularity, as it was absent in the Dictyostelium proteome. It was lost from HAP1 in the eutherian lineage, and also from T27A3.1 in C. elegans. The HAP1 promoter from human, mouse, rat, rabbit, horse, dog, Tasmanian devil and opossum contained common sites for transcription factors involved in cell cycle, growth, differentiation, and stress response. A conserved arrangement of regulatory elements was identified, including sites for caudal-related homeobox transcription factors (CDX1 and CDX2), and myc-associated factor X (MAX) in the region of the TATA box. CDX1 and CDX2 are intestine-enriched factors, prompting investigation of HAP1 protein expression in the human duodenum. HAP1 was localized to singly dispersed mucosal cells, including a subset of serotonin-positive enterochromaffin cells. Conclusion We have identified eutherian HAP1 as an evolutionarily recent adaptation of a vertebrate TRAK protein-like ancestor, and found conserved CDX1/CDX2 and MAX transcription factor binding sites near the TATA box in mammalian HAP1 gene promoters. We also demonstrated that HAP1 is expressed in endocrine cells of the human gut. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12862-016-0780-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Lumsden
- Centre for Neuroscience and Department of Human Physiology, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Richard L Young
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nektaria Pezos
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Damien J Keating
- Centre for Neuroscience and Department of Human Physiology, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. .,South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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Abstract
Polyglutamine (polyQ) expansion within Huntingtin (Htt) causes the fatal neurodegenerative disorder Huntington’s Disease (HD). Although Htt is ubiquitously expressed and conserved from Drosophila to humans, its normal biological function is still being elucidated. Here we characterize a role for the Drosophila Htt homolog (dHtt) in fast axonal transport (FAT). Generation and expression of transgenic dHtt-mRFP and human Htt-mRFP fusion proteins in Drosophila revealed co-localization with mitochondria and synaptic vesicles undergoing FAT. However, Htt was not ubiquitously associated with the transport machinery, as it was excluded from dense-core vesicles and APLIP1 containing vesicles. Quantification of cargo movement in dHtt deficient axons revealed that mitochondria and synaptic vesicles show a decrease in the distance and duration of transport, and an increase in the number of pauses. In addition, the ratio of retrograde to anterograde flux was increased in mutant animals. Densecore vesicles did not display similar defects in processivity, but did show altered retrograde to anterograde flux along axons. Given the co-localization with mitochondria and synaptic vesicles, but not dense-core vesicles, the data suggest dHtt likely acts locally at cargo interaction sites to regulate processivity. An increase in dynein heavy chain expression was also observed in dHtt mutants, suggesting that the altered flux observed for all cargo may represent secondary transport changes occurring independent of dHtt’s primary function. Expression of dHtt in a milton (HAP1) mutant background revealed that the protein does not require mitochondria or HAP1 to localize along axons, suggesting Htt has an independent mechanism for coupling with motors to regulate their processivity during axonal transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt R Weiss
- a Department of Biology , The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge , MA , USA.,b Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences , The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge , MA , USA
| | - J Troy Littleton
- a Department of Biology , The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge , MA , USA.,b Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences , The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge , MA , USA
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36
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Li X, Bao X, Wang R. Neurogenesis-based epigenetic therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease (Review). Mol Med Rep 2016; 14:1043-53. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.5390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Pearson BL, Defensor EB, Blanchard DC, Blanchard RJ. Applying the ethoexperimental approach to neurodevelopmental syndrome research reveals exaggerated defensive behavior in Mecp2 mutant mice. Physiol Behav 2016; 146:98-104. [PMID: 26066729 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2015.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Revised: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/26/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome is a Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) associated with de novo mutations of the methyl CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene. Mecp2 functions as a transcription factor that regulates the expression of hundreds of genes. Identification of the role of Mecp2 in specific neurodevelopmental symptoms remains an important research aim. We previously demonstrated that male mice possessing a truncation mutation in Mecp2 are hyper-social. We predicted that reduced fear or anxiety might underlie this enhanced affiliation. In order to probe risk assessment and anxiety-like behavior, we compared Mecp2 truncation mutants to their wild-type littermates in the elevated plus maze and elevated zero maze. Additionally, subjects were administered the mouse defense test battery to evaluate unconditioned fear- and panic-like behavior to a graded set of threat scenarios and a predator stimulus. Mutant mice showed no significant changes in anxiety-like behavior. Yet, they displayed hyper-reactive escape and defensive behaviors to an animate predatory threat stimulus. Notably, mutant mice engaged in exaggerated active defense responding to threat stimuli at nearly all phases of the fear battery. These results reveal abnormalities in emotion regulation in Mecp2 mutants particularly in response to ecologically relevant threats. This hyper-responsivity suggests that transcriptional targets of Mecp2 are critical to emotion regulation. Moreover, we suggest that detailed analysis of defensive behavior and aggression with ethologically relevant tasks provides an avenue to interrogate gene-behavior mechanisms of neurodevelopmental and other psychiatric conditions.
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Lopes F, Barbosa M, Ameur A, Soares G, de Sá J, Dias AI, Oliveira G, Cabral P, Temudo T, Calado E, Cruz IF, Vieira JP, Oliveira R, Esteves S, Sauer S, Jonasson I, Syvänen AC, Gyllensten U, Pinto D, Maciel P. Identification of novel genetic causes of Rett syndrome-likephenotypes. J Med Genet 2016; 53:190-9. [DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2015-103568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Delépine C, Meziane H, Nectoux J, Opitz M, Smith AB, Ballatore C, Saillour Y, Bennaceur-Griscelli A, Chang Q, Williams EC, Dahan M, Duboin A, Billuart P, Herault Y, Bienvenu T. Altered microtubule dynamics and vesicular transport in mouse and human MeCP2-deficient astrocytes. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 25:146-57. [PMID: 26604147 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by normal post-natal development followed by a sudden deceleration in brain growth with progressive loss of acquired motor and language skills, stereotypic hand movements and severe cognitive impairment. Mutations in the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) cause more than 95% of classic cases. Recently, it has been shown that the loss of Mecp2 from glia negatively influences neurons in a non-cell-autonomous fashion, and that in Mecp2-null mice, re-expression of Mecp2 preferentially in astrocytes significantly improved locomotion and anxiety levels, restored respiratory abnormalities to a normal pattern and greatly prolonged lifespan compared with globally null mice. We now report that microtubule (MT)-dependent vesicle transport is altered in Mecp2-deficient astrocytes from newborn Mecp2-deficient mice compared with control wild-type littermates. Similar observation has been made in human MECP2 p.Arg294* iPSC-derived astrocytes. Importantly, administration of Epothilone D, a brain-penetrant MT-stabilizing natural product, was found to restore MT dynamics in Mecp2-deficient astrocytes and in MECP2 p.Arg294* iPSC-derived astrocytes in vitro. Finally, we report that relatively low weekly doses of Epothilone D also partially reversed the impaired exploratory behavior in Mecp2(308/y) male mice. These findings represent a first step toward the validation of an innovative treatment for RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloé Delépine
- Inserm, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France, Cnrs, UMR8104, Paris, France, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Hamid Meziane
- Institut Clinique de la Souris (ICS), PHENOMIN, GIE CERBM, Illkirch, France, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch, France, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104, Illkirch, France, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U964, Illkirch, France, Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
| | - Juliette Nectoux
- Inserm, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France, Cnrs, UMR8104, Paris, France, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France, Laboratoire de Biologie et Génétique Moléculaires, HUPC, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Matthieu Opitz
- Inserm, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France, Cnrs, UMR8104, Paris, France, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Amos B Smith
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Carlo Ballatore
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Center of Neurodegenerative Disease Research, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yoann Saillour
- Inserm, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France, Cnrs, UMR8104, Paris, France, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | | | - Qiang Chang
- Department of Genetics and Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Maxime Dahan
- Laboratoire Physico-Chimie Curie, Institut Curie, CNRS UMR168, UPMC, Paris, France and
| | - Aurélien Duboin
- Laboratoire Physico-Chimie Curie, Institut Curie, CNRS UMR168, UPMC, Paris, France and ALVEOLE, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Billuart
- Inserm, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France, Cnrs, UMR8104, Paris, France, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Yann Herault
- Institut Clinique de la Souris (ICS), PHENOMIN, GIE CERBM, Illkirch, France, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch, France, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104, Illkirch, France, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U964, Illkirch, France, Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
| | - Thierry Bienvenu
- Inserm, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France, Cnrs, UMR8104, Paris, France, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France, Laboratoire de Biologie et Génétique Moléculaires, HUPC, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France,
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Kondo MA, Gray LJ, Pelka GJ, Leang SK, Christodoulou J, Tam PPL, Hannan AJ. Affective dysfunction in a mouse model of Rett syndrome: Therapeutic effects of environmental stimulation and physical activity. Dev Neurobiol 2015; 76:209-24. [DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mari A. Kondo
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - Laura J. Gray
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - Gregory J. Pelka
- Embryology Unit; Children's Medical Research Institute; Westmead New South Wales 2145 Australia
| | - Sook-Kwan Leang
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - John Christodoulou
- Western Sydney Genetics Program; Children's Hospital at Westmead; Westmead, New South Wales 2145 Australia
- Disciplines of Paediatrics and Child Health and Genetic Medicine; University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
| | - Patrick P. L. Tam
- Embryology Unit; Children's Medical Research Institute; Westmead New South Wales 2145 Australia
- Sydney Medical School; University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
| | - Anthony J. Hannan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
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41
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De Filippis B, Valenti D, de Bari L, De Rasmo D, Musto M, Fabbri A, Ricceri L, Fiorentini C, Laviola G, Vacca RA. Mitochondrial free radical overproduction due to respiratory chain impairment in the brain of a mouse model of Rett syndrome: protective effect of CNF1. Free Radic Biol Med 2015; 83:167-77. [PMID: 25708779 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2015.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2014] [Revised: 02/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder mainly caused by mutations in the X-linked MECP2 gene associated with severe intellectual disability, movement disorders, and autistic-like behaviors. Its pathogenesis remains mostly not understood and no effective therapy is available. High circulating levels of oxidative stress markers in patients and the occurrence of oxidative brain damage in MeCP2-deficient mouse models suggest the involvement of oxidative stress in RTT pathogenesis. However, the molecular mechanism and the origin of the oxidative stress have not been elucidated. Here we demonstrate that a redox imbalance arises from aberrant mitochondrial functionality in the brain of MeCP2-308 heterozygous female mice, a condition that more closely recapitulates that of RTT patients. The marked increase in the rate of hydrogen peroxide generation in the brain of RTT mice seems mainly produced by the dysfunctional complex II of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. In addition, both membrane potential generation and mitochondrial ATP synthesis are decreased in RTT mouse brains when succinate, the complex II respiratory substrate, is used as an energy source. Respiratory chain impairment is brain area specific, owing to a decrease in either cAMP-dependent phosphorylation or protein levels of specific complex subunits. Further, we investigated whether the treatment of RTT mice with the bacterial protein CNF1, previously reported to ameliorate the neurobehavioral phenotype and brain bioenergetic markers in an RTT mouse model, exerts specific effects on brain mitochondrial function and consequently on hydrogen peroxide production. In RTT brains treated with CNF1, we observed the reactivation of respiratory chain complexes, the rescue of mitochondrial functionality, and the prevention of brain hydrogen peroxide overproduction. These results provide definitive evidence of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species overproduction in RTT mouse brain and highlight CNF1 efficacy in counteracting RTT-related mitochondrial defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca De Filippis
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Roma, Italy.
| | - Daniela Valenti
- Institute of Biomembranes and Bioenergetics, National Council of Research, Bari, Italy
| | - Lidia de Bari
- Institute of Biomembranes and Bioenergetics, National Council of Research, Bari, Italy
| | - Domenico De Rasmo
- Institute of Biomembranes and Bioenergetics, National Council of Research, Bari, Italy
| | - Mattia Musto
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Alessia Fabbri
- Department of Therapeutic Research and Medicine Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Laura Ricceri
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Carla Fiorentini
- Department of Therapeutic Research and Medicine Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Giovanni Laviola
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Rosa Anna Vacca
- Institute of Biomembranes and Bioenergetics, National Council of Research, Bari, Italy.
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42
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Regulatory networks between neurotrophins and miRNAs in brain diseases and cancers. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2015; 36:149-57. [PMID: 25544363 PMCID: PMC4326792 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2014.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 11/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins are involved in many physiological and pathological processes in the nervous system. They regulate and modify signal transduction, transcription and translation in neurons. It is recently demonstrated that the neurotrophin expression is regulated by microRNAs (miRNAs), changing our views on neurotrophins and miRNAs. Generally, miRNAs regulate neurotrophins and their receptors in at least two ways: (1) miRNAs bind directly to the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of isoform-specific mRNAs and post-transcriptionally regulate their expression; (2) miRNAs bind to the 3′ UTR of the regulatory factors of neurotrophins and regulate their expression. On the other hand, neurotrophins can regulate miRNAs. The results of BNDF research show that neurotrophins regulate miRNAs in at least three ways: (1) ERK stimulation enhances the activation of TRBP (HIV-1 TAR RNA-binding protein) and Dicer, leading to the upregulation of miRNA biogenesis; (2) ERK-dependent upregulation of Lin28a (RNA-binding proteins) blocks select miRNA biogenesis; (3) transcriptional regulation of miRNA expression through activation of transcription factors, including CREB and NF-κB. These regulatory processes integrate positive and negative regulatory loops in neurotrophin and miRNA signaling pathways, and also expand the function of neurotrophins and miRNAs. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the regulatory networks between neurotrophins and miRNAs in brain diseases and cancers, for which novel cutting edge therapeutic, delivery and diagnostic approaches are emerging.
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Bergo A, Strollo M, Gai M, Barbiero I, Stefanelli G, Sertic S, Cobolli Gigli C, Di Cunto F, Kilstrup-Nielsen C, Landsberger N. Methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) localizes at the centrosome and is required for proper mitotic spindle organization. J Biol Chem 2014; 290:3223-37. [PMID: 25527496 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.608125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in MECP2 cause a broad spectrum of neuropsychiatric disorders of which Rett syndrome represents the best defined condition. Both neuronal and non-neuronal functions of the methyl-binding protein underlie the related pathologies. Nowadays MeCP2 is recognized as a multifunctional protein that modulates its activity depending on its protein partners and posttranslational modifications. However, we are still missing a comprehensive understanding of all MeCP2 functions and their involvement in the related pathologies. The study of human mutations often offers the possibility of clarifying the functions of a protein. Therefore, we decided to characterize a novel MeCP2 phospho-isoform (Tyr-120) whose relevance was suggested by a Rett syndrome patient carrying a Y120D substitution possibly mimicking a constitutively phosphorylated state. Unexpectedly, we found MeCP2 and its Tyr-120 phospho-isoform enriched at the centrosome both in dividing and postmitotic cells. The molecular and functional connection of MeCP2 to the centrosome was further reinforced through cellular and biochemical approaches. We show that, similar to many centrosomal proteins, MeCP2 deficiency causes aberrant spindle geometry, prolonged mitosis, and defects in microtubule nucleation. Collectively, our data indicate a novel function of MeCP2 that might reconcile previous data regarding the role of MeCP2 in cell growth and cytoskeleton stability and that might be relevant to understand some aspects of MeCP2-related conditions. Furthermore, they link the Tyr-120 residue and its phosphorylation to cell division, prompting future studies on the relevance of Tyr-120 for cortical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bergo
- From the Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Section of Biomedical Research, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Marta Strollo
- From the Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Section of Biomedical Research, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Marta Gai
- the Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnologies and Health Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Isabella Barbiero
- From the Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Section of Biomedical Research, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Gilda Stefanelli
- From the Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Section of Biomedical Research, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Sarah Sertic
- the Department of Life Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy, and
| | - Clementina Cobolli Gigli
- the San Raffaele Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Di Cunto
- the Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnologies and Health Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Charlotte Kilstrup-Nielsen
- From the Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Section of Biomedical Research, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Landsberger
- From the Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Section of Biomedical Research, University of Insubria, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy, the San Raffaele Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
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44
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Marquer C, Laine J, Dauphinot L, Hanbouch L, Lemercier-Neuillet C, Pierrot N, Bossers K, Le M, Corlier F, Benstaali C, Saudou F, Thinakaran G, Cartier N, Octave JN, Duyckaerts C, Potier MC. Increasing membrane cholesterol of neurons in culture recapitulates Alzheimer's disease early phenotypes. Mol Neurodegener 2014; 9:60. [PMID: 25524049 PMCID: PMC4280040 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1326-9-60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is suspected that excess of brain cholesterol plays a role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Membrane-associated cholesterol was shown to be increased in the brain of individuals with sporadic AD and to correlate with the severity of the disease. We hypothesized that an increase of membrane cholesterol could trigger sporadic AD early phenotypes. RESULTS We thus acutely loaded the plasma membrane of cultured neurons with cholesterol to reach the 30% increase observed in AD brains. We found changes in gene expression profiles that are reminiscent of early AD stages. We also observed early AD cellular phenotypes. Indeed we found enlarged and aggregated early endosomes using confocal and electron microscopy after immunocytochemistry. In addition amyloid precursor protein vesicular transport was inhibited in neuronal processes, as seen by live-imaging. Finally transient membrane cholesterol loading lead to significantly increased amyloid-β42 secretion. CONCLUSIONS Membrane cholesterol increase in cultured neurons reproduces most early AD changes and could thus be a relevant model for deciphering AD mechanisms and identifying new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Marie-Claude Potier
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Inserm, CNRS, UM 75, U 1127, UMR 7225, ICM, 75013 Paris, France.
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45
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Gold WA, Lacina TA, Cantrill LC, Christodoulou J. MeCP2 deficiency is associated with reduced levels of tubulin acetylation and can be restored using HDAC6 inhibitors. J Mol Med (Berl) 2014; 93:63-72. [DOI: 10.1007/s00109-014-1202-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2014] [Revised: 07/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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46
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Ausió J, Paz AMD, Esteller M. MeCP2: the long trip from a chromatin protein to neurological disorders. Trends Mol Med 2014; 20:487-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2014.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Revised: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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GluD1 is a common altered player in neuronal differentiation from both MECP2-mutated and CDKL5-mutated iPS cells. Eur J Hum Genet 2014; 23:195-201. [PMID: 24916645 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2014.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2013] [Revised: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome is a monogenic disease due to de novo mutations in either MECP2 or CDKL5 genes. In spite of their involvement in the same disease, a functional interaction between the two genes has not been proven. MeCP2 is a transcriptional regulator; CDKL5 encodes for a kinase protein that might be involved in the regulation of gene expression. Therefore, we hypothesized that mutations affecting the two genes may lead to similar phenotypes by dysregulating the expression of common genes. To test this hypothesis we used induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells derived from fibroblasts of one Rett patient with a MECP2 mutation (p.Arg306Cys) and two patients with mutations in CDKL5 (p.Gln347Ter and p.Thr288Ile). Expression profiling was performed in CDKL5-mutated cells and genes of interest were confirmed by real-time RT-PCR in both CDKL5- and MECP2-mutated cells. The only major change in gene expression common to MECP2- and CDKL5-mutated cells was for GRID1, encoding for glutamate D1 receptor (GluD1), a member of the δ-family of ionotropic glutamate receptors. GluD1 does not form AMPA or NMDA glutamate receptors. It acts like an adhesion molecule by linking the postsynaptic and presynaptic compartments, preferentially inducing the inhibitory presynaptic differentiation of cortical neurons. Our results demonstrate that GRID1 expression is downregulated in both MECP2- and CDKL5-mutated iPS cells and upregulated in neuronal precursors and mature neurons. These data provide novel insights into disease pathophysiology and identify possible new targets for therapeutic treatment of Rett syndrome.
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48
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El-Khoury R, Panayotis N, Matagne V, Ghata A, Villard L, Roux JC. GABA and glutamate pathways are spatially and developmentally affected in the brain of Mecp2-deficient mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e92169. [PMID: 24667344 PMCID: PMC3965407 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0092169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper brain functioning requires a fine-tuning between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, a balance maintained through the regulation and release of glutamate and GABA. Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene affecting the postnatal brain development. Dysfunctions in the GABAergic and glutamatergic systems have been implicated in the neuropathology of RTT and a disruption of the balance between excitation and inhibition, together with a perturbation of the electrophysiological properties of GABA and glutamate neurons, were reported in the brain of the Mecp2-deficient mouse. However, to date, the extent and the nature of the GABA/glutamate deficit affecting the Mecp2-deficient mouse brain are unclear. In order to better characterize these deficits, we simultaneously analyzed the GABA and glutamate levels in Mecp2-deficient mice at 2 different ages (P35 and P55) and in several brain areas. We used a multilevel approach including the quantification of GABA and glutamate levels, as well as the quantification of the mRNA and protein expression levels of key genes involved in the GABAergic and glutamatergic pathways. Our results show that Mecp2-deficient mice displayed regional- and age-dependent variations in the GABA pathway and, to a lesser extent, in the glutamate pathway. The implication of the GABA pathway in the RTT neuropathology was further confirmed using an in vivo treatment with a GABA reuptake inhibitor that significantly improved the lifespan of Mecp2-deficient mice. Our results confirm that RTT mouse present a deficit in the GABAergic pathway and suggest that GABAergic modulators could be interesting therapeutic agents for this severe neurological disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita El-Khoury
- Aix Marseille Université, GMGF, Marseille, France
- Inserm, UMR_S 910, Marseille, France
| | - Nicolas Panayotis
- Aix Marseille Université, GMGF, Marseille, France
- Inserm, UMR_S 910, Marseille, France
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Valérie Matagne
- Aix Marseille Université, GMGF, Marseille, France
- Inserm, UMR_S 910, Marseille, France
| | - Adeline Ghata
- Aix Marseille Université, GMGF, Marseille, France
- Inserm, UMR_S 910, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Villard
- Aix Marseille Université, GMGF, Marseille, France
- Inserm, UMR_S 910, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Roux
- Aix Marseille Université, GMGF, Marseille, France
- Inserm, UMR_S 910, Marseille, France
- * E-mail:
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49
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Xu X, Kozikowski AP, Pozzo-Miller L. A selective histone deacetylase-6 inhibitor improves BDNF trafficking in hippocampal neurons from Mecp2 knockout mice: implications for Rett syndrome. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:68. [PMID: 24639629 PMCID: PMC3945638 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the transcriptional modulator methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2). One of the most prominent gene targets of MeCP2 is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf), a potent modulator of activity-dependent synaptic development, function and plasticity. Dysfunctional BDNF signaling has been demonstrated in several pathophysiological mechanisms of RTT disease progression. To evaluate whether the dynamics of BDNF trafficking is affected by Mecp2 deletion, we analyzed movements of BDNF tagged with yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) in cultured hippocampal neurons by time-lapse fluorescence imaging. We found that both anterograde and retrograde vesicular trafficking of BDNF-YFP are significantly impaired in Mecp2 knockout hippocampal neurons. Selective inhibitors of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) show neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative diseases and stimulate microtubule-dependent vesicular trafficking of BDNF-containing dense core vesicles. Here, we show that the selective HDAC6 inhibitor Tubastatin-A increased the velocity of BDNF-YFP vesicles in Mecp2 knockout neurons in both directions by increasing α–tubulin acetylation. Tubastatin-A also restored activity-dependent BDNF release from Mecp2 knockout neurons to levels comparable to those shown by wildtype neurons. These findings demonstrate that a selective HDAC6 inhibitor is a potential pharmacological strategy to reverse cellular and synaptic impairments in RTT resulting from impaired BDNF signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- Department of Neurobiology, Civitan International Research Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Alan P Kozikowski
- Drug Discovery Program, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lucas Pozzo-Miller
- Department of Neurobiology, Civitan International Research Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL, USA
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50
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Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a devastating neurodevelopmental disorder with autistic features caused by loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2), a transcriptional regulatory protein. RTT has attracted widespread attention not only because of the urgent need for treatments, but also because it has become a window into basic mechanisms underlying epigenetic regulation of neuronal genes, including BDNF. In addition, work in mouse models of the disease has demonstrated the possibility of symptom reversal upon restoration of normal gene function. This latter finding has resulted in a paradigm shift in RTT research and, indeed, in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders as a whole, and spurred the search for potential therapies for RTT and related syndromes. In this context, the discovery that expression of BDNF is dysregulated in RTT and mouse models of the disease has taken on particular importance. This chapter reviews the still evolving story of how MeCP2 might regulate expression of BDNF, the functional consequences of BDNF deficits in Mecp2 mutant mice, and progress in developing BDNF-targeted therapies for the treatment of RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Katz
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA,
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