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Longhena F, Boujebene R, Brembati V, Sandre M, Bubacco L, Abbate S, Longhi G, Bellucci A. Nanorod-associated plasmonic circular dichroism monitors the handedness and composition of α-synuclein fibrils from Parkinson's disease models and post-mortem brain. NANOSCALE 2024. [PMID: 39318230 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr03002h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
Human full-length (fl) αSyn fibrils, key neuropathological hallmarks of Parkinson's disease (PD), generate intense optical activity corresponding to the surface plasmon resonance of interacting gold nanorods. Herein, we analysed fibril-enriched protein extracts from mouse and human brain samples as well as from SK-N-SH cell lines with or without human fl and C-terminally truncated (Ctt) αSyn overexpression and exposed them to αSyn monomers, recombinant fl αSyn fibrils or Ctt αSyn fibrils. In vitro-generated human recombinant fl and Ctt αSyn fibrils and fibrils purified from SK-N-SH cells with fl or Ctt αSyn overexpression were also analysed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to gain insights into the nanorod-fibril complexes. We found that under the same experimental conditions, bisignate circular dichroism (CD) spectra of Ctt αSyn fibrils exhibited a blue-wavelength shift compared to that of fl αSyn fibrils. TEM results supported that this could be attributed to the different properties of nanorods. In our experimental conditions, fibril-enriched PD brain extract broadened the longitudinal surface plasmonic band with a bisignate CD couplet centred corresponding to the absorption band maximum. Plasmonic CD (PCD) couplets of in vivo- and in vitro-generated fibrils displayed sign reversal, suggesting their opposite handedness. Moreover, the incubation of in vitro-generated human recombinant fl αSyn fibrils in mouse brain extracts from αSyn null mice resulted in PCD couplet inversion, indicating that the biological environment may shape the handedness of αSyn fibrils. These findings support that nanorod-based PCD can provide useful information on the composition and features of αSyn fibrils from biological materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Longhena
- Department of molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences-Clifford Allbutt Building, University of Cambridge, Hills Road CB2 0AH, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rihab Boujebene
- Department of molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Viviana Brembati
- Department of molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Michele Sandre
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58b, 35121 Padua, Italy
| | - Luigi Bubacco
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58b, 35121 Padua, Italy
| | - Sergio Abbate
- Department of molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
- Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, INO-CNR, Research Unit of Brescia, c/o CSMT, Via Branze 35, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Giovanna Longhi
- Department of molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
- Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, INO-CNR, Research Unit of Brescia, c/o CSMT, Via Branze 35, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Arianna Bellucci
- Department of molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
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Li B, Xiao X, Bi M, Jiao Q, Chen X, Yan C, Du X, Jiang H. Modulating α-synuclein propagation and decomposition: Implications in Parkinson's disease therapy. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 98:102319. [PMID: 38719160 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-Syn) is closely related to the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). Under pathological conditions, the conformation of α-syn changes and different forms of α-syn lead to neurotoxicity. According to Braak stages, α-syn can propagate in different brain regions, inducing neurodegeneration and corresponding clinical manifestations through abnormal aggregation of Lewy bodies (LBs) and lewy axons in different types of neurons in PD. So far, PD lacks early diagnosis biomarkers, and treatments are mainly targeted at some clinical symptoms. There is no effective therapy to delay the progression of PD. This review first summarized the role of α-syn in physiological and pathological states, and the relationship between α-syn and PD. Then, we focused on the origin, secretion, aggregation, propagation and degradation of α-syn as well as the important regulatory factors in these processes systematically. Finally, we reviewed some potential drug candidates for alleviating the abnormal aggregation of α-syn in order to provide valuable targets for the treatment of PD to cope with the occurrence and progression of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beining Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xue Xiao
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Mingxia Bi
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Qian Jiao
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xi Chen
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Chunling Yan
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xixun Du
- School of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Hong Jiang
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao 266113, China; School of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
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Bordbar S, Alijanzadeh D, Samieefar N, Khazeei Tabari MA, Pourbakhtyaran E, Rezaei N. The Role of Alpha-Synuclein in Neurodevelopmental Diseases. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04305-2. [PMID: 38949729 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04305-2] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of diseases with cognitive, motor, and emotional development deficits. Alpha-synuclein (α-syn) is a synaptic protein involved in transmission and neurodevelopment. This protein was previously shown to be associated with several disorders, including Parkinson's disease. Furthermore, a close link between neurodevelopmental disorders and Parkinson's has also been found. Changes in synaptic function have been noticed in neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder. Impaired neurogenesis and related cognitive problems have been associated with altered expression of α-syn. Various studies reported α-syn in different body fluids and tissues such as blood and serum. Alpha-synuclein can help in better understanding the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental diseases and facilitating their early diagnosis. This review aims to go over the recent advances in the role of α-syn in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and motor and social impairment, and its value as a diagnostic biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Bordbar
- Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1417755331, Iran
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Dorsa Alijanzadeh
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- USERN Office, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Noosha Samieefar
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- USERN Office, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Khazeei Tabari
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- USERN Office, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Elham Pourbakhtyaran
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Pediatrics Center of Excellence, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Network of Interdisciplinarity in Neonates and Infants (NINI), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Pediatrics Center of Excellence, Children's Medical Center Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Qarib St., Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran, 14194, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Jin X, Dong W, Chang K, Yan Y. Research on the signaling pathways related to the intervention of traditional Chinese medicine in Parkinson's disease:A literature review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 326:117850. [PMID: 38331124 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Parkinson's disease (PD) is the most common progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting more than 10 million people worldwide and is characterized by the progressive loss of Daergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. It has been reported that signaling pathways play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of PD, while the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have been found to possess a protective effect against PD. TCM has demonstrated significant potential in mitigating oxidative stress (OS), neuroinflammation, and apoptosis of DA neurons via the regulation of signaling pathways associated with PD. AIM OF THE REVIEW This study discussed and analyzed the signaling pathways involved in the occurrence and development of PD and the mechanism of active ingredients of TCM regulating PD via signaling pathways, with the aim of providing a basis for the development and clinical application of therapeutic strategies for TCM in PD. MATERIALS AND METHODS With "Parkinson's disease", "Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease", "Lewy Body Parkinson's Disease", "Parkinson's Disease, Idiopathic", "Parkinson Disease, Idiopathic", "Parkinson's disorders", "Parkinsonism syndrome", "Traditional Chinese medicine", "Chinese herbal medicine", "active ingredients", "medicinal plants" as the main keywords, PubMed, Web of Science and other online search engines were used for literature retrieval. RESULTS PD exhibits a close association with various signaling pathways, including but not limited to MAPKs, NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, Nrf2/ARE, Wnt/β-catenin, TLR/TRIF, NLRP3, Notch. The therapeutic potential of TCM lies in its ability to regulate these signaling pathways. In addition, the active ingredients of TCM have shown significant effects in improving OS, neuroinflammation, and DA neuron apoptosis in PD. CONCLUSION The active ingredients of TCM have unique advantages in regulating PD-related signaling pathways. It is suggested to combine network pharmacology and bioinformatics to study the specific targets of TCM. This not only provides a new way for the prevention and treatment of PD with the active ingredients of TCM, but also provides a scientific basis for the selection and development of TCM preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaxia Jin
- National Key Laboratory of Quality Assurance and Sustainable Utilization of Authentic Medicinal Materials, Chinese Medicine Resource Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Wendi Dong
- Foshan Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Kaile Chang
- Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, 712046, China
| | - Yongmei Yan
- National Key Laboratory of Quality Assurance and Sustainable Utilization of Authentic Medicinal Materials, Chinese Medicine Resource Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China; Department of Encephalopathy, Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712000, China.
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Guo L, Hu H, Jiang N, Yang H, Sun X, Xia H, Ma J, Liu H. Electroacupuncture blocked motor dysfunction and gut barrier damage by modulating intestinal NLRP3 inflammasome in MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease mice. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30819. [PMID: 38774094 PMCID: PMC11107113 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder commonly accompanied by gut dysfunction. EA has shown anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Here, we aim to explore whether EA can treat Parkinson's disease by restoring the intestinal barrier and modulating NLRP3 inflammasome. We applied 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) to establish a PD mouse model and EA at the GV16, LR3, and ST36 for 12 consecutive days. The open-field test results indicated that EA alleviated depression and behavioral defects, upregulated the expressions of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and blocked the accumulation of α-synuclein (α-syn) in the midbrain. Moreover, EA blocked the damage to intestinal tissues of PD mice, indicative of suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation and increased gut barrier integrity. Notably, the antibiotic-treated mouse experiment validated that the gut microbiota was critical in alleviating PD dyskinesia and intestinal inflammation by EA. In conclusion, this study suggested that EA exhibited a protective effect against MPTP-induced PD by alleviating behavioral defects, reversing the block of motor dysfunction, and improving the gut barrier by modulating intestinal NLRP3 inflammasome. Above all, this study could provide novel insights into the pathogenesis and therapy of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Guo
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Huangjiahu West Road 16, Wuhan 430065, China
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Haiming Hu
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Huangjiahu West Road 16, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430061, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Huabing Yang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Huangjiahu West Road 16, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Xiongjie Sun
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Huangjiahu West Road 16, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Hui Xia
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Huangjiahu West Road 16, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Jun Ma
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Hongtao Liu
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Huangjiahu West Road 16, Wuhan 430065, China
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Wang J, Dai L, Chen S, Zhang Z, Fang X, Zhang Z. Protein-protein interactions regulating α-synuclein pathology. Trends Neurosci 2024; 47:209-226. [PMID: 38355325 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and the formation of Lewy bodies (LBs). The main proteinaceous component of LBs is aggregated α-synuclein (α-syn). However, the mechanisms underlying α-syn aggregation are not yet fully understood. Converging lines of evidence indicate that, under certain pathological conditions, various proteins can interact with α-syn and regulate its aggregation. Understanding these protein-protein interactions is crucial for unraveling the molecular mechanisms contributing to PD pathogenesis. In this review we provide an overview of the current knowledge on protein-protein interactions that regulate α-syn aggregation. Additionally, we briefly summarize the methods used to investigate the influence of protein-protein interactions on α-syn aggregation and propagation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiannan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Lijun Dai
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Sichun Chen
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Zhaohui Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Xin Fang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Zhentao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China; TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430000, China.
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Erdmann L, Santos PI, Rieper P, Klafki HW, Beutner D, Wiltfang J, Outeiro TF, Setz C. Automated Capillary Electrophoresis Immunoblot for the Detection of Alpha-Synuclein in Mouse Tissue. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2024; 14:681-692. [PMID: 38578903 PMCID: PMC11191443 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-230379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Background Alpha-synuclein (aSyn) is a key player in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies, or multiple system atrophy. aSyn is expressed throughout the brain, and can also be detected in various peripheral tissues. In fact, initial symptoms of PD are non-motoric and include autonomic dysfunction, suggesting that the periphery might play an important role in early development of the disease. aSyn is expressed at relatively low levels in non-central tissues, which brings challenges for its detection and quantification in different tissues. Objective Our goal was to assess the sensitivity of aSyn detection in central and peripheral mouse tissues through capillary electrophoresis (CE) immunoblot, considering the traditional SDS-PAGE immunoblot as the current standard. Methods Tissues from central and non-central origin from wild type mice were extracted, and included midbrain, inner ear, and esophagus/stomach. aSyn detection was assessed through immunoblotting using Simple Western size-based CE and SDS-PAGE. Results CE immunoblots show a consistent detection of aSyn in central and peripheral tissues. Through SDS-PAGE, immunoblots revealed a reliable signal corresponding to aSyn, particularly following membrane fixation. Conclusion Our results suggest a reliable detection of aSyn in central and peripheral tissues using the CE Simple Western immunoblot system. These observations can serve as preliminary datasets when aiming to formally compare CE with SDS-PAGE, as well as for further characterization of aSyn using this technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Erdmann
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Patrícia I. Santos
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Petra Rieper
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Hans W. Klafki
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dirk Beutner
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Inner Ear Lab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jens Wiltfang
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tiago F. Outeiro
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Cristian Setz
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Inner Ear Lab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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Qu S, Zhou X, Wang Z, Wei Y, Zhou H, Zhang X, Zhu Q, Wang Y, Yang Q, Jiang L, Ma Y, Gao Y, Kong L, Zhang L. The effects of methylphenidate and atomoxetine on Drosophila brain at single-cell resolution and potential drug repurposing for ADHD treatment. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:165-185. [PMID: 37957291 PMCID: PMC11078728 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02314-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The stimulant methylphenidate (MPH) and the non-stimulant atomoxetine (ATX) are frequently used for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, the function of these drugs in different types of brain cells and their effects on related genes remain largely unknown. To address these questions, we built a pipeline for the simultaneous examination of the activity behavior and transcriptional responses of Drosophila melanogaster at single-cell resolution following drug treatment. We selected the Drosophila with significantly increased locomotor activities (hyperactivity-like behavior) following the administration of each drug in comparison with the control (same food as the drug-treated groups with 5% sucrose, yeast, and blue food dye solution) using EasyFlyTracker. Subsequently, single cell RNA sequencing (scRNASEQ) was used to capture the transcriptome of 82,917 cells, unsupervised clustering analysis of which yielded 28 primary cell clusters representing the major cell types in adult Drosophila brain. Indeed, both neuronal and glial cells responded to MPH and ATX. Further analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) revealed distinct transcriptional changes associated with these two drugs, such as two well-studied dopamine receptor genes (Dop2R and DopEcR) were responsive to MPH but not to ATX at their optimal doses, in addition to genes involved in dopamine metabolism pathways such as Syt1, Sytalpha, Syt7, and Ih in different cell types. More importantly, MPH also suppressed the expression of genes encoding other neurotransmitter receptors and synaptic signaling molecules in many cell types, especially those for Glu and GABA, while the responsive effects of ATX were much weaker. In addition to monoaminergic neuronal transmitters, other neurotransmitters have also shown a similar pattern with respect to a stronger effect associated with MPH than with ATX. Moreover, we identified four distinct glial cell subtypes responsive to the two drugs and detected a greater number of differentially expressed genes associated with ensheathing and astrocyte-like glia. Furthermore, our study provides a rich resource of candidate target genes, supported by drug set enrichment analysis (P = 2.10E-4; hypergeometric test), for the further exploration of drug repurposing. The whole list of candidates can be found at ADHDrug ( http://adhdrug.cibr.ac.cn/ ). In conclusion, we propose a fast and cost-efficient pipeline to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of ADHD drug treatment in Drosophila brain at single-cell resolution, which may further facilitate drug repurposing applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susu Qu
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China.
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiangyu Zhou
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Zhicheng Wang
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Wei
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Han Zhou
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | | | - Qingjie Zhu
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Yanmin Wang
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Quanjun Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Likun Jiang
- Department of Computer Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yuan Ma
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Kong
- Center for Bioinformatics, State Key Laboratory of Protein and Plant Gene Research, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China.
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Battis K, Xiang W, Winkler J. The Bidirectional Interplay of α-Synuclein with Lipids in the Central Nervous System and Its Implications for the Pathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13270. [PMID: 37686080 PMCID: PMC10487772 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The alteration and aggregation of alpha-synuclein (α-syn) play a crucial role in neurodegenerative diseases collectively termed as synucleinopathies, including Parkinson's disease (PD). The bidirectional interaction of α-syn with lipids and biomembranes impacts not only α-syn aggregation but also lipid homeostasis. Indeed, lipid composition and metabolism are severely perturbed in PD. One explanation for lipid-associated alterations may involve structural changes in α-syn, caused, for example, by missense mutations in the lipid-binding region of α-syn as well as post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, acetylation, nitration, ubiquitination, truncation, glycosylation, and glycation. Notably, different strategies targeting the α-syn-lipid interaction have been identified and are able to reduce α-syn pathology. These approaches include the modulation of post-translational modifications aiming to reduce the aggregation of α-syn and modify its binding properties to lipid membranes. Furthermore, targeting enzymes involved in various steps of lipid metabolism and exploring the neuroprotective potential of lipids themselves have emerged as novel therapeutic approaches. Taken together, this review focuses on the bidirectional crosstalk of α-syn and lipids and how alterations of this interaction affect PD and thereby open a window for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jürgen Winkler
- Department of Molecular Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (K.B.); (W.X.)
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10
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Faustini G, Longhena F, Muscò A, Bono F, Parrella E, La Via L, Barbon A, Pizzi M, Onofri F, Benfenati F, Missale C, Memo M, Zizioli D, Bellucci A. Synapsin III Regulates Dopaminergic Neuron Development in Vertebrates. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233902. [PMID: 36497160 PMCID: PMC9739466 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by alterations in the mesocorticolimbic and nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathways. Polymorphisms in the Synapsin III (Syn III) gene can associate with ADHD onset and even affect the therapeutic response to the gold standard ADHD medication, methylphenidate (MPH), a monoamine transporter inhibitor whose efficacy appears related with the stimulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Interestingly, we previously showed that MPH can bind Syn III, which can regulate neuronal development. These observations suggest that Syn III polymorphism may impinge on ADHD onset and response to therapy by affecting BDNF-dependent dopaminergic neuron development. Here, by studying zebrafish embryos exposed to Syn III gene knock-down (KD), Syn III knock-out (ko) mice and human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)-derived neurons subjected to Syn III RNA interference, we found that Syn III governs the earliest stages of dopaminergic neurons development and that this function is conserved in vertebrates. We also observed that in mammals Syn III exerts this function acting upstream of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)- and cAMP-dependent protein kinase 5 (Cdk5)-stimulated dendrite development. Collectively, these findings own significant implications for deciphering the biological basis of ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Faustini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesca Longhena
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessia Muscò
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Federica Bono
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Edoardo Parrella
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Luca La Via
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Barbon
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Marina Pizzi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Franco Onofri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Via Leon Battista Alberti 2, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- IRCSS Policlinico San Martino Hospital, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Italian Institute of Technology, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Cristina Missale
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Maurizio Memo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Daniela Zizioli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Correspondence: (D.Z.); (A.B.); Tel.: +39-(0)30-3717546 (D.Z.); +39-(0)30-3717380 (A.B.)
| | - Arianna Bellucci
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Correspondence: (D.Z.); (A.B.); Tel.: +39-(0)30-3717546 (D.Z.); +39-(0)30-3717380 (A.B.)
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11
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Sharma N, Luhach K, Golani LK, Singh B, Sharma B. Vinpocetine, a PDE1 modulator, regulates markers of cerebral health, inflammation, and oxidative stress in a rat model of prenatal alcohol-induced experimental attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Alcohol 2022; 105:25-34. [PMID: 35995260 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) has been shown to induce symptomatology associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by altering neurodevelopmental trajectories. Phosphodiesterase-1 (PDE1) is expressed centrally and has been used in various experimental brain conditions. We investigated the role of vinpocetine, a PDE1 inhibitor, on behavioral phenotypes and important biochemical deficits associated with a PAE rat model of ADHD. Protein markers of cerebral health (synapsin-IIa, BDNF, and pCREB), inflammation (IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α), and oxidative stress (TBARS, GSH, and SOD) were analyzed in three brain regions (frontal cortex, striatum, and cerebellum). Hyperactivity, inattention, and anxiety introduced in the offspring due to PAE were assayed using open-field, Y-maze, and elevated plus maze, respectively. Administration of vinpocetine (10 & 20 mg/kg, p.o. [by mouth]) to PAE rat offspring for 4 weeks resulted in improvement of the behavioral profile of the animals. Additionally, levels of protein markers such as synapsin-IIa, BDNF, pCREB, IL-10, SOD, and GSH were found to be significantly increased, with a significant reduction in markers such as TNF-α, IL-6, and TBARS in selected brain regions of vinpocetine-treated animals. Vinpocetine, a selective PDE1 inhibitor, rectified behavioral phenotypes associated with ADHD, possibly by improving cerebral function, reducing brain inflammation, and reducing brain oxidative stress. This study provides preliminary analysis and suggests that the PDE1 enzyme may be an important pharmacological tool to study ADHD as a result of PAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niti Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Kanishk Luhach
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Lalit K Golani
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Bhagwat Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Bhupesh Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India.
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Capriello T, Di Meglio G, De Maio A, Scudiero R, Bianchi AR, Trifuoggi M, Toscanesi M, Giarra A, Ferrandino I. Aluminium exposure leads to neurodegeneration and alters the expression of marker genes involved to parkinsonism in zebrafish brain. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 307:135752. [PMID: 35863414 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Aluminium, despite being extremely widespread in the world, is a non-essential metal to human metabolism. This metal is known to have toxic effects on a variety of organs including the brain and is considered an etiological factor in neurodegenerative diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms by which aluminium exerts neurotoxic effects are not yet completely understood. Zebrafish is an animal model also used to study neurodegenerative diseases since the overall anatomical organization of the central nervous system is relatively conserved and similar to mammals. Adult zebrafish were exposed to 11 mg/L of Al for 10, 15, and 20 days and the neurotoxic effects of aluminium were analysed by histological, biochemical, and molecular evaluations. Histological stainings allowed to evaluation of the morphology of the brain parenchyma, the alteration of myelin and the activation of neurodegenerative processes. The expression of the Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein, a marker of glial cells, was evaluated to observe the quantitative alteration of this important protein for the nervous system. In addition, the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activity was measured to verify a possible oxidative DNA damage caused by exposure to this metal. Finally, the evaluation of the markers involved in Parkinsonism was assessed by Real-Time PCR to better understand the role of aluminium in the regulation of genes related to Parkinson's neurodegenerative disease. Data showed that aluminium significantly affected the histology of cerebral tissue especially in the first periods of exposure, 10 and 15 days. This trend was also followed by the expression of GFAP. At longer exposure times, there was an improvement/stabilization of the overall neurological conditions and decrease in PARP activity. In addition, aluminium is involved in the deregulation of the expression of genes closely related to Parkinsonism. Overall, the data confirm the neurotoxicity induced by aluminium and shed a light on its involvement in neurodegenerative processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Capriello
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Gianluca Di Meglio
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Anna De Maio
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Rosaria Scudiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Anna Rita Bianchi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Maria Toscanesi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Antonella Giarra
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Ida Ferrandino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
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13
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Shen Y, Qian L, Luo H, Li X, Ruan Y, Fan R, Si Z, Chen Y, Li L, Liu Y. The Significance of NLRP Inflammasome in Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12081057. [PMID: 36009120 PMCID: PMC9406040 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12081057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The NLRP inflammasome is a multi-protein complex which mainly consists of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat, and pyrin domain. Its activation is linked to microglial-mediated neuroinflammation and partial neuronal degeneration. Many neuropsychiatric illnesses have increased inflammatory responses as both a primary cause and a defining feature. The NLRP inflammasome inhibition delays the progression and alleviates the deteriorating effects of neuroinflammation on several neuropsychiatric disorders. Evidence on the central effects of the NLRP inflammasome potentially provides the scientific base of a promising drug target for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. This review elucidates the classification, composition, and functions of the NLRP inflammasomes. It also explores the underlying mechanisms of NLRP inflammasome activation and its divergent role in neuropsychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, depression, drug use disorders, and anxiety. Furthermore, we explore the treatment potential of the NLRP inflammasome inhibitors against these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Shen
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315021, China
| | - Liyin Qian
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315021, China
| | - Hu Luo
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Teacher Education, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315021, China
| | - Xiaofang Li
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Teacher Education, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315021, China
| | - Yuer Ruan
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Teacher Education, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315021, China
| | - Runyue Fan
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315021, China
- Ningbo Yinzhou District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Ningbo 315199, China
| | - Zizhen Si
- Department of Physiological Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315021, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Yunpeng Chen
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315021, China
| | - Longhui Li
- Ningbo Kangning Hospital, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Physiological Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315021, China
- Correspondence:
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14
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Casiraghi A, Longhena F, Faustini G, Ribaudo G, Suigo L, Camacho-Hernandez GA, Bono F, Brembati V, Newman AH, Gianoncelli A, Straniero V, Bellucci A, Valoti E. Methylphenidate Analogues as a New Class of Potential Disease-Modifying Agents for Parkinson's Disease: Evidence from Cell Models and Alpha-Synuclein Transgenic Mice. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:1595. [PMID: 36015221 PMCID: PMC9414221 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14081595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons degeneration and Lewy body pathology, mainly composed of α-synuclein (αSyn) fibrillary aggregates. We recently described that the neuronal phosphoprotein Synapsin III (Syn III) participates in αSyn pathology in PD brains and is a permissive factor for αSyn aggregation. Moreover, we reported that the gene silencing of Syn III in a human αSyn transgenic (tg) mouse model of PD at a pathological stage, manifesting marked insoluble αSyn deposits and dopaminergic striatal synaptic dysfunction, could reduce αSyn aggregates, restore synaptic functions and motor activities and exert neuroprotective effects. Interestingly, we also described that the monoamine reuptake inhibitor methylphenidate (MPH) can recover the motor activity of human αSyn tg mice through a dopamine (DA) transporter-independent mechanism, which relies on the re-establishment of the functional interaction between Syn III and α-helical αSyn. These findings support that the pathological αSyn/Syn III interaction may constitute a therapeutic target for PD. Here, we studied MPH and some of its analogues as modulators of the pathological αSyn/Syn III interaction. We identified 4-methyl derivative I-threo as a lead candidate modulating αSyn/Syn III interaction and having the ability to reduce αSyn aggregation in vitro and to restore the motility of αSyn tg mice in vivo more efficiently than MPH. Our results support that MPH derivatives may represent a novel class of αSyn clearing agents for PD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Casiraghi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milano, Italy; (A.C.); (L.S.); (E.V.)
| | - Francesca Longhena
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (F.L.); (G.F.); (G.R.); (F.B.); (V.B.); (A.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Gaia Faustini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (F.L.); (G.F.); (G.R.); (F.B.); (V.B.); (A.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Giovanni Ribaudo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (F.L.); (G.F.); (G.R.); (F.B.); (V.B.); (A.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Lorenzo Suigo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milano, Italy; (A.C.); (L.S.); (E.V.)
| | - Gisela Andrea Camacho-Hernandez
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, NIDA-IRP, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; (G.A.C.-H.); (A.H.N.)
| | - Federica Bono
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (F.L.); (G.F.); (G.R.); (F.B.); (V.B.); (A.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Viviana Brembati
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (F.L.); (G.F.); (G.R.); (F.B.); (V.B.); (A.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Amy Hauck Newman
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, NIDA-IRP, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; (G.A.C.-H.); (A.H.N.)
| | - Alessandra Gianoncelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (F.L.); (G.F.); (G.R.); (F.B.); (V.B.); (A.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Valentina Straniero
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milano, Italy; (A.C.); (L.S.); (E.V.)
| | - Arianna Bellucci
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (F.L.); (G.F.); (G.R.); (F.B.); (V.B.); (A.G.); (A.B.)
| | - Ermanno Valoti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milano, Italy; (A.C.); (L.S.); (E.V.)
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15
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Faustini G, Longhena F, Masato A, Bassareo V, Frau R, Klingstedt T, Shirani H, Brembati V, Parrella E, Vezzoli M, Nilsson KPR, Pizzi M, Spillantini MG, Bubacco L, Bellucci A. Synapsin III gene silencing redeems alpha-synuclein transgenic mice from Parkinson's disease-like phenotype. Mol Ther 2022; 30:1465-1483. [PMID: 35038583 PMCID: PMC9077321 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrillary aggregated α-synuclein (α-syn) deposition in Lewy bodies (LB) characterizes Parkinson's disease (PD) and is believed to trigger dopaminergic synaptic failure and a retrograde terminal-to-cell body neuronal degeneration. We described that the neuronal phosphoprotein synapsin III (Syn III) cooperates with α-syn to regulate dopamine (DA) release and can be found in the insoluble α-syn fibrils composing LB. Moreover, we showed that α-syn aggregates deposition, and the associated onset of synaptic deficits and neuronal degeneration occurring following adeno-associated viral vectors-mediated overexpression of human α-syn in the nigrostriatal system are hindered in Syn III knock out mice. This supports that Syn III facilitates α-syn aggregation. Here, in an interventional experimental design, we found that by inducing the gene silencing of Syn III in human α-syn transgenic mice at PD-like stage with advanced α-syn aggregation and overt striatal synaptic failure, we could lower α-syn aggregates and striatal fibers loss. In parallel, we observed recovery from synaptic vesicles clumping, DA release failure, and motor functions impairment. This supports that Syn III consolidates α-syn aggregates, while its downregulation enables their reduction and redeems the PD-like phenotype. Strategies targeting Syn III could thus constitute a therapeutic option for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Faustini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesca Longhena
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Anna Masato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58b, 35121 Padua, Italy
| | - Valentina Bassareo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria Blocco A, Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria Blocco A, Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Therése Klingstedt
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Hamid Shirani
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Viviana Brembati
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Edoardo Parrella
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Marika Vezzoli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - K Peter R Nilsson
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Marina Pizzi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Spillantini
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Clifford Albutt Building, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK
| | - Luigi Bubacco
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58b, 35121 Padua, Italy
| | - Arianna Bellucci
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy.
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16
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Longhena F, Faustini G, Brembati V, Pizzi M, Benfenati F, Bellucci A. An updated reappraisal of synapsins: structure, function and role in neurological and psychiatric disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 130:33-60. [PMID: 34407457 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Synapsins (Syns) are phosphoproteins strongly involved in neuronal development and neurotransmitter release. Three distinct genes SYN1, SYN2 and SYN3, with elevated evolutionary conservation, have been described to encode for Synapsin I, Synapsin II and Synapsin III, respectively. Syns display a series of common features, but also exhibit distinctive localization, expression pattern, post-translational modifications (PTM). These characteristics enable their interaction with other synaptic proteins, membranes and cytoskeletal components, which is essential for the proper execution of their multiple functions in neuronal cells. These include the control of synapse formation and growth, neuron maturation and renewal, as well as synaptic vesicle mobilization, docking, fusion, recycling. Perturbations in the balanced expression of Syns, alterations of their PTM, mutations and polymorphisms of their encoding genes induce severe dysregulations in brain networks functions leading to the onset of psychiatric or neurological disorders. This review presents what we have learned since the discovery of Syn I in 1977, providing the state of the art on Syns structure, function, physiology and involvement in central nervous system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Longhena
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Gaia Faustini
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Viviana Brembati
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Marina Pizzi
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Italian Institute of Technology, Via Morego 30, Genova, Italy; IRCSS Policlinico San Martino Hospital, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genova, Italy.
| | - Arianna Bellucci
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy; Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
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17
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Müller T. Experimental Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors in Parkinson's Disease: A Review of the Evidence. J Exp Pharmacol 2021; 13:397-408. [PMID: 33824605 PMCID: PMC8018398 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s267032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most chronic neurodegenerative disorder worldwide. Deficit of monoamines, particularly dopamine, causes an individually varying compilation of motor and non-motor features. Constraint of presynaptic uptake extends monoamine stay in the synaptic cleft. This review discusses possible benefits of dopamine reuptake inhibition for the treatment of PD. Translation of this pharmacologic principle into positive clinical study results failed to date. Past clinical trial designs did not consider a mandatory, concomitant stable inhibition of glial monoamine turnover, i.e. with monoamine oxidase B inhibitors. These studies focused on improvement of motor behavior and levodopa associated motor complications, which are fluctuations of motor and non-motor behavior. Future clinical investigations in early, levodopa- and dopamine agonist naïve patients shall also aim on alleviation of non-motor symptoms, like fatigue, apathy or cognitive slowing. Oral levodopa/dopa decarboxylase inhibitor application is inevitably necessary with advance of PD. Monoamine reuptake (MRT) inhibition improves the efficacy of levodopa, the blood brain barrier crossing metabolic precursor of dopamine. The pulsatile brain delivery pattern of orally administered levodopa containing formulations results in synaptic dopamine variability. Ups and downs of dopamine counteract the physiologic principle of continuous neurotransmission, particularly in nigrostriatal, respectively mesocorticolimbic pathways, both of which regulate motor respectively non-motor behavior. Thus synaptic dopamine pulsatility overwhelms the existing buffering capacity. Onset of motor and non-motor complications occurs. Future MRT inhibitor studies shall focus on a stabilizing and preventive effect on levodopa related fluctuations of motor and non-motor behavior. Their long-term study designs in advanced levodopa treated patients shall allow a cautious adaptation of oral l-dopa therapy combined with a mandatory inhibition of glial monoamine turnover. Then the evidence for a preventive and beneficial, symptomatic effect of MRT inhibition on motor and non-motor complications will become more likely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Müller
- Department of Neurology, St. Joseph Hospital Berlin-Weissensee, Berlin, 13088, Germany
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18
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Magnin E. Neurodevelopmental and Neurodegenerative Similarities and Interactions: A Point of View About Lifelong Neurocognitive Trajectories. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 79:1397-1407. [PMID: 33459644 DOI: 10.3233/jad-201207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders are both growing major public health topics with similarities and frequent complex interactions with each other. Taking these aspects into account can provide a new point of view on lifelong neurocognitive trajectories. Assessing both neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative dimensions during cognitive and behavioral clinical assessments is challenging but might improve diagnostic accuracy and physiopathological understanding. It is therefore necessary to understand the lifelong specific neurocognitive trajectory of each patient in order to develop personalized precision cognitive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloi Magnin
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Besançon, Besançon, France.,Clinical and Integrative Neuroscience, Research Laboratory 481, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, Besançon, France
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19
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The Role of Alpha-Synuclein and Other Parkinson's Genes in Neurodevelopmental and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165724. [PMID: 32785033 PMCID: PMC7460874 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental and late-onset neurodegenerative disorders present as separate entities that are clinically and neuropathologically quite distinct. However, recent evidence has highlighted surprising commonalities and converging features at the clinical, genomic, and molecular level between these two disease spectra. This is particularly striking in the context of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Genetic causes and risk factors play a central role in disease pathophysiology and enable the identification of overlapping mechanisms and pathways. Here, we focus on clinico-genetic studies of causal variants and overlapping clinical and cellular features of ASD and PD. Several genes and genomic regions were selected for our review, including SNCA (alpha-synuclein), PARK2 (parkin RBR E3 ubiquitin protein ligase), chromosome 22q11 deletion/DiGeorge region, and FMR1 (fragile X mental retardation 1) repeat expansion, which influence the development of both ASD and PD, with converging features related to synaptic function and neurogenesis. Both PD and ASD display alterations and impairments at the synaptic level, representing early and key disease phenotypes, which support the hypothesis of converging mechanisms between the two types of diseases. Therefore, understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms might inform on common targets and therapeutic approaches. We propose to re-conceptualize how we understand these disorders and provide a new angle into disease targets and mechanisms linking neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegeneration.
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Casiraghi A, Longhena F, Straniero V, Faustini G, Newman AH, Bellucci A, Valoti E. Design and Synthesis of Fluorescent Methylphenidate Analogues for a FRET-Based Assay of Synapsin III Binding. ChemMedChem 2020; 15:1330-1337. [PMID: 32452650 PMCID: PMC7486004 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We previously described synapsin III (Syn III) as a synaptic phosphoprotein that controls dopamine release in cooperation with α-synuclein (aSyn). Moreover, we found that in Parkinson's disease (PD), Syn III also participates in aSyn aggregation and toxicity. Our recent observations point to threo-methylphenidate (MPH), a monoamine re-uptake inhibitor that efficiently counteracts the freezing-gait characteristic of advanced PD, as a ligand for Syn III. We have designed and synthesised two different fluorescently labelled MPH derivatives, one with Rhodamine Red (RHOD) and one with 5-carboxytetramethylrhodamine (TAMRA), to be used for assessing MPH binding to Syn III by FRET. TAMRA-MPH exhibited the ideal characteristics to be used as a FRET acceptor, as it was able to enter into the SK-N-SH cells and could interact specifically with human green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged Syn III but not with GFP alone. Moreover, the uptake of TAMRA-MPH and co-localization with Syn III was also observed in primary mesencephalic neurons. These findings support that MPH is a Syn III ligand and that TAMRA-conjugated drug molecules might be valuable tools to study drug-ligand interactions by FRET or to detect Syn III in cytological and histological samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Casiraghi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 25, 20133, Milano, Italy
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, NIDA-IRP, 333 Cassell Drive, 21224, Baltimore MD, United States
| | - Francesca Longhena
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Institution University of Brescia, Viale Europa11, 251223, Brescia, Italy
| | - Valentina Straniero
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 25, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Gaia Faustini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Institution University of Brescia, Viale Europa11, 251223, Brescia, Italy
| | - Amy H. Newman
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, NIDA-IRP, 333 Cassell Drive, 21224, Baltimore MD, United States
| | - Arianna Bellucci
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Institution University of Brescia, Viale Europa11, 251223, Brescia, Italy
| | - Ermanno Valoti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 25, 20133, Milano, Italy
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