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Varshini MS, Reddy RA, Krishnamurthy PT, Wadhwani A. Harmony of Wnt pathway in Alzheimer's: Navigating the multidimensional progression from preclinical to clinical stages. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 165:105863. [PMID: 39179059 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105863] [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: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
The Wnt pathway stands out as a pivotal signal transduction pathway, operating through two distinct modes of signaling: the canonical/β-catenin pathway and the non-canonical pathway. Among these, the canonical pathway assumes a paramount role in various physiological and pathological processes within the human body. Particularly in the brain, Wnt exhibits involvement in fundamental physiological events including neuronal differentiation/survival, axonogenesis, neural stem cell regulation, synaptic plasticity, and cell cycle modulation. Notably, scientific evidence underscores the critical role of the Wnt pathway in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), correlating with its involvement in key pathological features such as tau tangles, Amyloid-β plaques, synaptic dysfunction, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, cognitive impairments, and disruption of the blood-brain barrier integrity. This review aims to comprehensively explore the involvement and significance of Wnt signaling in Alzheimer's. Furthermore, it delves into recent advancements in research on Wnt signaling, spanning from preclinical investigations to clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magham Sai Varshini
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, TN 643001, India
| | - Ramakkamma Aishwarya Reddy
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, TN 643001, India
| | | | - Ashish Wadhwani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, TN 643001, India; Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mauritius, Vacoas 73304, Mauritius
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Sai Varshini M, Aishwarya Reddy R, Thaggikuppe Krishnamurthy P. Unlocking hope: GSK-3 inhibitors and Wnt pathway activation in Alzheimer's therapy. J Drug Target 2024; 32:909-917. [PMID: 38838023 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2024.2365263] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder characterised by progressive cognitive decline and the accumulation of amyloid-β plaques and tau tangles. The Wnt signalling pathway known for its crucial role in neurodevelopment and adult neurogenesis has emerged as a potential target for therapeutic intervention in AD. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β), a key regulator of the Wnt pathway, plays a pivotal role in AD pathogenesis by promoting tau hyperphosphorylation and neuroinflammation. Several preclinical studies have demonstrated that inhibiting GSK-3β leads to the activation of Wnt pathway thereby promoting neuroprotective effects, and mitigating cognitive deficits in AD animal models. The modulation of Wnt signalling appears to have multifaceted benefits including the reduction of amyloid-β production, tau hyperphosphorylation, enhancement of synaptic plasticity, and inhibition of neuroinflammation. These findings suggest that targeting GSK-3β to activate Wnt pathway may represent a novel approach for slowing or halting the progression of AD. This hypothesis reviews the current state of research exploring the activation of Wnt pathway through the inhibition of GSK-3β as a promising therapeutic strategy in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magham Sai Varshini
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, India
| | - Ramakkamma Aishwarya Reddy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Ooty, India
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Shi H, Chen M. The brain-bone axis: unraveling the complex interplay between the central nervous system and skeletal metabolism. Eur J Med Res 2024; 29:317. [PMID: 38849920 PMCID: PMC11161955 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-024-01918-0] [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: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The brain-bone axis has emerged as a captivating field of research, unveiling the intricate bidirectional communication between the central nervous system (CNS) and skeletal metabolism. This comprehensive review delves into the current state of knowledge surrounding the brain-bone axis, exploring the complex mechanisms, key players, and potential clinical implications of this fascinating area of study. The review discusses the neural regulation of bone metabolism, highlighting the roles of the sympathetic nervous system, hypothalamic neuropeptides, and neurotransmitters in modulating bone remodeling. In addition, it examines the influence of bone-derived factors, such as osteocalcin and fibroblast growth factor 23, on brain function and behavior. The therapeutic potential of targeting the brain-bone axis in the context of skeletal and neurological disorders is also explored. By unraveling the complex interplay between the CNS and skeletal metabolism, this review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers, clinicians, and students interested in the brain-bone axis and its implications for human health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haojun Shi
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Min Chen
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macau SAR, China.
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Yu X, Tao J, Xiao T, Duan X. 4,4'-methylenediphenol reduces Aβ-induced toxicity in a Caenorhabditis elegans model of Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1393721. [PMID: 38872629 PMCID: PMC11171718 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1393721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Gastrodia elata Blume is a widely used medicinal and edible herb with a rich chemical composition. Moreover, prescriptions containing Gastrodia elata are commonly used for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and aging-related diseases. Recent pharmacological studies have confirmed the antioxidant and neuroprotective effects of Gastrodia elata, and, in recent years, this herb has also been used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative disorders. We have previously shown that 4,4'-methylenediphenol, a key active ingredient of Gastrodia elata, can mitigate amyloid-β (Aβ)-induced paralysis in AD model worms as well as prolong the lifespan of the animals, thus displaying potential as a treatment of AD. Methods We investigated the effects of 4,4'-methylenediphenol on AD and aging through paralysis, lifespan, and behavioral assays. In addition, we determined the anti-AD effects of 4,4'-methylenediphenol by reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, lipofuscin analysis, thioflavin S staining, metabolomics analysis, GFP reporter gene worm assay, and RNA interference assay and conducted in-depth studies on its mechanism of action. Results 4,4'-Methylenediphenol not only delayed paralysis onset and senescence in the AD model worms but also enhanced their motility and stress tolerance. Meanwhile, 4,4'-methylenediphenol treatment also reduced the contents of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipofuscin, and decreased Aβ protein deposition in the worms. Broad-spectrum targeted metabolomic analysis showed that 4,4'-methylenediphenol administration had a positive effect on the metabolite profile of the worms. In addition, 4,4'-methylenediphenol promoted the nuclear translocation of DAF-16 and upregulated the expression of SKN-1, SOD-3, and GST-4 in the respective GFP reporter lines, accompanied by an enhancement of antioxidant activity and a reduction in Aβ toxicity; importantly, our results suggested that these effects of 4,4'-methylenediphenol were mediated, at least partly, via the activation of DAF-16. Conclusion We have demonstrated that 4,4'-methylenediphenol can reduce Aβ-induced toxicity in AD model worms, suggesting that it has potential for development as an anti-AD drug. Our findings provide ideas and references for further research into the anti-AD effects of Gastrodia elata and its active ingredients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Xiaohua Duan
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Dai and Yi Medicines, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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Bernard M, Menet R, Lecordier S, ElAli A. Endothelial PDGF-D contributes to neurovascular protection after ischemic stroke by rescuing pericyte functions. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:225. [PMID: 38769116 PMCID: PMC11106055 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05244-w] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke induces neovascularization of the injured tissue as an attempt to promote structural repair and neurological recovery. Angiogenesis is regulated by pericytes that potently react to ischemic stroke stressors, ranging from death to dysfunction. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor (PDGFR)β controls pericyte survival, migration, and interaction with brain endothelial cells. PDGF-D a specific ligand of PDGFRβ is expressed in the brain, yet its regulation and role in ischemic stroke pathobiology remains unexplored. Using experimental ischemic stroke mouse model, we found that PDGF-D is transiently induced in brain endothelial cells at the injury site in the subacute phase. To investigate the biological significance of PDGF-D post-ischemic stroke regulation, its subacute expression was either downregulated using siRNA or upregulated using an active recombinant form. Attenuation of PDGF-D subacute induction exacerbates neuronal loss, impairs microvascular density, alters vascular permeability, and increases microvascular stalling. Increasing PDGF-D subacute bioavailability rescues neuronal survival and improves neurological recovery. PDGF-D subacute enhanced bioavailability promotes stable neovascularization of the injured tissue and improves brain perfusion. Notably, PDGF-D enhanced bioavailability improves pericyte association with brain endothelial cells. Cell-based assays using human brain pericyte and brain endothelial cells exposed to ischemia-like conditions were applied to investigate the underlying mechanisms. PDGF-D stimulation attenuates pericyte loss and fibrotic transition, while increasing the secretion of pro-angiogenic and vascular protective factors. Moreover, PDGF-D stimulates pericyte migration required for optimal endothelial coverage and promotes angiogenesis. Our study unravels new insights into PDGF-D contribution to neurovascular protection after ischemic stroke by rescuing the functions of pericytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Bernard
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec (CHUQ)-Université Laval, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Quebec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Romain Menet
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec (CHUQ)-Université Laval, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Quebec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Sarah Lecordier
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec (CHUQ)-Université Laval, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Quebec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Ayman ElAli
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec (CHUQ)-Université Laval, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Quebec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada.
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Liu J, Wei AH, Liu TT, Ji XH, Zhang Y, Yan F, Chen MX, Hu JB, Zhou SY, Shi JS, Jin H, Jin F. Icariin ameliorates glycolytic dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease models by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. FEBS J 2024; 291:2221-2241. [PMID: 38400523 DOI: 10.1111/febs.17099] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
It was reported that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is involved in the regulation of aerobic glycolysis and that brain glycolytic dysfunction results in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Icariin (ICA), an active component extracted from Epimedii Folium, has been reported to produce neuroprotective effects in multiple models of AD, but its underlying mechanism remains to be fully described. We aimed to investigate the protective effects of ICA on animal and cell models of AD and confirm whether the Wnt/β-catenin pathway has functions in the neuroprotective function of ICA. The 3 × Tg-AD mice were treated with ICA. HT22 cells, the Aβ25-35 peptide and Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) agent (a specific inhibitor of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway) were used to further explore the underlying mechanism of ICA that produces anti-AD effects. Behavioral examination, western blotting assay, staining analysis, biochemical test, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays were applied. We first demonstrated that ICA significantly improved cognitive function and autonomous behavior, reduced neuronal damage, and reversed the protein levels and activities of glycolytic key enzymes, and expression of protein molecules of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, in 3 × Tg-AD mice back to wild-type levels. Next, we further found that ICA increased cell viability and effectively improved the dysfunctional glycolysis in HT22 cells injured by Aβ25-35. However, when canonical Wnt signaling was inhibited by DKK1, the above effects of ICA on glycolysis were abolished. In summary, ICA exerts neuroprotective effects in 3 × Tg-AD animals and AD cellular models by enhancing the function of glycolysis through activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Liu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, China
- Department of Hospital Infection Management, People's Hospital of WeiNing County, Bijie, China
| | - Ai-Hong Wei
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, China
| | - Ting-Ting Liu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, China
| | - Xin-Hao Ji
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, China
| | - Fei Yan
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, China
| | - Mei-Xiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, China
| | - Jin-Bo Hu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, China
| | - Shao-Yu Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, China
| | - Jing-Shan Shi
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, China
| | - Hai Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, China
| | - Feng Jin
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, China
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Lecordier S, Menet R, Allain AS, ElAli A. Non-classical monocytes promote neurovascular repair in cerebral small vessel disease associated with microinfarctions via CX3CR1. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2023; 43:1873-1890. [PMID: 37340860 PMCID: PMC10676133 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x231183742] [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: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) constitutes a major risk factor for dementia. Monocytes play important roles in cerebrovascular disorders. Herein, we aimed to investigate the contribution of non-classical C-X3-C motif chemokine receptor (CX3CR)1 monocytes to cSVD pathobiology and therapy. To this end, we generated chimeric mice in which CX3CR1 in non-classical monocytes was either functional (CX3CR1GFP/+) or dysfunctional (CX3CR1GFP/GFP). cSVD was induced in mice via the micro-occlusion of cerebral arterioles, and novel immunomodulatory approaches targeting CX3CR1 monocyte production were used. Our findings demonstrate that CX3CR1GFP/+ monocytes transiently infiltrated the ipsilateral hippocampus and were recruited to the microinfarcts 7 days after cSVD, inversely associated with neuronal degeneration and blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption. Dysfunctional CX3CR1GFP/GFP monocytes failed to infiltrate the injured hippocampus and were associated with exacerbated microinfarctions and accelerated cognitive decline, accompanied with an impaired microvascular structure. Pharmacological stimulation of CX3CR1GFP/+ monocyte generation attenuated neuronal loss and improved cognitive functions by promoting microvascular function and preserving cerebral blood flow (CBF). These changes were associated with elevated levels of pro-angiogenic factors and matrix stabilizers in the blood circulation. The results indicate that non-classical CX3CR1 monocytes promote neurovascular repair after cSVD and constitute a promising target for the development of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Lecordier
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Quebec – Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Romain Menet
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Quebec – Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Anne-Sophie Allain
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Quebec – Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Ayman ElAli
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Quebec – Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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Kapuganti RS, Hayat B, Padhy B, Mohanty PP, Alone DP. Dickkopf-1 and ROCK2 upregulation and associated protein aggregation in pseudoexfoliation syndrome and glaucoma. Life Sci 2023; 326:121797. [PMID: 37217133 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121797] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The etiology of pseudoexfoliation (PEX), a stress-induced fibrillopathy and a leading cause of secondary glaucoma worldwide, remains limited. This study aims to understand the role of the Wnt antagonist Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1) in PEX pathophysiology and assess its candidature as a biomarker for PEX. MAIN METHODS Expression levels of DKK1 and Wnt signaling genes were assayed in the anterior ocular tissues of study subjects by qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Protein aggregation was studied through Proteostat staining. Role of DKK1 in protein aggregation and regulation of target Wnt signaling genes was elucidated through overexpression and knockdown studies in Human Lens Epithelial cells (HLEB3). Levels of DKK1 in circulating fluids were assayed through ELISA. KEY FINDINGS DKK1 upregulation was observed in lens capsule and conjunctiva tissues of PEX individuals compared to controls correlating with an upregulation of the Wnt signaling target, ROCK2. Proteostat staining showed increased protein aggregates in lens epithelial cells of PEX patients. HLE B-3 cells overexpressed with DKK1 showed increased protein aggregates along with upregulation of ROCK2, and knockdown of DKK1 in HLE B-3 cells demonstrated downregulation of ROCK2. Further, ROCK2 inhibition by Y-27632 in DKK1 overexpressed cells showed that DKK1 regulated protein aggregation via ROCK2. Also, increased levels of DKK1 were observed in patients' plasma and aqueous humor compared to controls. SIGNIFICANCE This study shows that DKK1 and ROCK2 might play a role in protein aggregation in PEX. Further, elevated levels of DKK1 in aqueous humor serve as a fair classifier of pseudoexfoliation glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramani Shyam Kapuganti
- School of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) Bhubaneswar, P.O. Bhimpur-Padanpur, Jatni, Khurda, Odisha 752050, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Bushra Hayat
- School of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) Bhubaneswar, P.O. Bhimpur-Padanpur, Jatni, Khurda, Odisha 752050, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Biswajit Padhy
- School of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) Bhubaneswar, P.O. Bhimpur-Padanpur, Jatni, Khurda, Odisha 752050, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094, India
| | | | - Debasmita Pankaj Alone
- School of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) Bhubaneswar, P.O. Bhimpur-Padanpur, Jatni, Khurda, Odisha 752050, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094, India.
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Yang S, Zhu G. 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone and Neuropsychiatric Disorders: A Translational Perspective from the Mechanism to Drug Development. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:1479-1497. [PMID: 34525922 PMCID: PMC9881092 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210915122820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
7,8-Dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) is a kind of natural flavonoid with the potential to cross the blood-brain barrier. 7,8-DHF effectively mimics the effect of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain to selectively activate tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB) and downstream signaling pathways, thus playing a neuroprotective role. The preclinical effects of 7,8-DHF have been widely investigated in neuropsychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), depression, and memory impairment. Besides the effect on TrkB, 7,8-DHF could also function through fighting against oxidative stress, cooperating with estrogen receptors, or regulating intestinal flora. This review focuses on the recent experimental studies on depression, neurodegenerative diseases, and learning and memory functions. Additionally, the structural modification and preparation of 7,8-DHF were also concluded and proposed, hoping to provide a reference for the follow-up research and clinical drug development of 7,8-DHF in the field of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojie Yang
- Key Laboratory of Xin’an Medicine, the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230038, China
| | - Guoqi Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Xin’an Medicine, the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230038, China,Address correspondence to this author at the Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Meishan Road 103, Hefei 230038, China; E-mail:
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Taggi V, Riera Romo M, Piquette-Miller M, Meyer zu Schwabedissen HE, Neuhoff S. Transporter Regulation in Critical Protective Barriers: Focus on Brain and Placenta. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14071376. [PMID: 35890272 PMCID: PMC9319476 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14071376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug transporters play an important role in the maintenance of chemical balance and homeostasis in different tissues. In addition to their physiological functions, they are crucial for the absorption, distribution, and elimination of many clinically important drugs, thereby impacting therapeutic efficacy and toxicity. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that infectious, metabolic, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases alter the expression and function of drug transporters. However, the current knowledge on transporter regulation in critical protective barriers, such as the brain and placenta, is still limited and requires more research. For instance, while many studies have examined P-glycoprotein, it is evident that research on the regulation of highly expressed transporters in the blood–brain barrier and blood–placental barrier are lacking. The aim of this review is to summarize the currently available literature in order to better understand transporter regulation in these critical barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Taggi
- Biopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; (V.T.); (H.E.M.z.S.)
| | - Mario Riera Romo
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada; (M.R.R.); (M.P.-M.)
| | - Micheline Piquette-Miller
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada; (M.R.R.); (M.P.-M.)
| | | | - Sibylle Neuhoff
- Certara UK Ltd., Simcyp Division, Sheffield S1 2BJ, UK
- Correspondence:
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Tong XK, Royea J, Hamel E. Simvastatin rescues memory and granule cell maturation through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:325. [PMID: 35397630 PMCID: PMC8994768 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04784-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
We previously showed that simvastatin (SV) restored memory in a mouse model of Alzheimer disease (AD) concomitantly with normalization in protein levels of memory-related immediate early genes in hippocampal CA1 neurons. Here, we investigated age-related changes in the hippocampal memory pathway, and whether the beneficial effects of SV could be related to enhanced neurogenesis and signaling in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. APP mice and wild-type (WT) littermate controls showed comparable number of proliferating (Ki67-positive nuclei) and immature (doublecortin (DCX)-positive) granule cells in the dentate gyrus until 3 months of age. At 4 months, Ki67 or DCX positive cells decreased sharply and remained less numerous until the endpoint (6 months) in both SV-treated and untreated APP mice. In 6 month-old APP mice, dendritic extensions of DCX immature neurons in the molecular layer were shorter, a deficit fully normalized by SV. Similarly, whereas mature granule cells (calbindin-immunopositive) were decreased in APP mice and not restored by SV, their dendritic arborizations were normalized to control levels by SV treatment. SV increased Prox1 protein levels (↑67.7%, p < 0.01), a Wnt/β-catenin signaling target, while significantly decreasing (↓61.2%, p < 0.05) the upregulated levels of the β-catenin-dependent Wnt pathway inhibitor DKK1 seen in APP mice. In APP mice, SV benefits were recapitulated by treatment with the Wnt/β-catenin specific agonist WAY-262611, whereas they were fully abolished in mice that received the Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitor XAV939 during the last month of SV treatment. Our results indicate that activation of the Wnt-β-catenin pathway through downregulation of DKK1 underlies SV neuronal and cognitive benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Kang Tong
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, 3801 University Street, H3A 2B4, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jessika Royea
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, 3801 University Street, H3A 2B4, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Edith Hamel
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, 3801 University Street, H3A 2B4, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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Icarisid
II
rescues cognitive dysfunction via activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway promoting hippocampal neurogenesis in
APP
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PS1
transgenic mice. Phytother Res 2022; 36:2095-2108. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Lecordier S, Pons V, Rivest S, ElAli A. Multifocal Cerebral Microinfarcts Modulate Early Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology in a Sex-Dependent Manner. Front Immunol 2022; 12:813536. [PMID: 35173711 PMCID: PMC8841345 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.813536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) constitutes a major cause of dementia, affecting more women than men. It is characterized by amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) formation, associated with a progressive cognitive decline. Evidence indicates that AD onset increases the prevalence of cerebral microinfarcts caused by vascular pathologies, which occur in approximately in half of AD patients. In this project, we postulated that multifocal cerebral microinfarcts decisively influence early AD-like pathology progression in a sex dependent manner in young APP/PS1 mice. For this purpose, we used a novel approach to model multifocal microinfarcts in APP/PS1 mice via the sporadic occlusions of the microvasculature. Our findings indicate that microinfarcts reduced Aβ deposits without affecting soluble Aβ levels in the brain of male and female APP/PS1 mice, while causing rapid and prolonged cognitive deficits in males, and a mild and transient cognitive decline in females. In male APP/PS1 mice, microinfarcts triggered an acute hypoperfusion followed by a chronic hyperperfusion. Whereas in female APP/PS1 mice, microinfarcts caused an acute hypoperfusion, which was recovered in the chronic phase. Microinfarcts triggered a robust microglial activation and recruitment of peripheral monocytes to the lesion sites and Aβ plaques more potently in female APP/PS1 mice, possibly accounting for the reduced Aβ deposition. Finally, expression of Dickkopf-1 (DKK1), which plays a key role in mediating synaptic and neuronal dysfunction in AD, was strongly induced at the lesion sites of male APP/PS1 mice, while its expression was reduced in females. Our findings suggest that multifocal microinfarcts accelerate AD pathology more potently in young males compared to young females independently upon Aβ pathology via modulation of neurovascular coupling, inflammatory response, and DKK1 expression. Our results suggest that the effects of microinfarcts should be taken into consideration in AD diagnosis, prognosis, and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Lecordier
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Vincent Pons
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Serge Rivest
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Ayman ElAli
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Ayman ElAli,
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Al-Onaizi MA, Thériault P, Lecordier S, Prefontaine P, Rivest S, ElAli A. Early monocyte modulation by the non-erythropoietic peptide ARA 290 decelerates AD-like pathology progression. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 99:363-382. [PMID: 34343617 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology is characterized by amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition and tau hyper-phosphorylation, accompanied by a progressive cognitive decline. Monocytes have been recently shown to play a major role in modulating Aβ pathology, and thereby have been pointed as potential therapeutic targets. However, the main challenge remains in identifying clinically relevant interventions that could modulate monocyte immune functions in absence of undesired off-target effects. Erythropoietin (EPO), a key regulator of erythrocyte production, has been shown to possess immunomodulatory potential and to provide beneficial effects in preclinical models of AD. However, the transition to use recombinant human EPO in clinical trials was hindered by unwanted erythropoietic effects that could lead to thrombosis. Here, we used a recently identified non-erythropoietic analogue of EPO, ARA 290, to evaluate its therapeutic potential in AD therapy. We first evaluated the effects of early systemic ARA 290 administration on AD-like pathology in an early-onset model, represented by young APP/PS1 mice. Our findings indicate that ARA 290 early treatment decelerated Aβ pathology progression in APP/PS1 mice while improving cognitive functions. ARA 290 potently increased the levels of total monocytes by specifically stimulating the generation of Ly6CLow patrolling subset, which are implicated in clearing Aβ from the cerebral vasculature, and subsequently reducing overall Aβ burden in the brain. Moreover, ARA 290 increased the levels of monocyte progenitors in the bone marrow. Using chimeric APP/PS1 mice in which Ly6CLow patrolling subset are selectively depleted, ARA 290 was inefficient in attenuating Aβ pathology and ameliorating cognitive functions in young animals. Interestingly, ARA 290 effects were compromised when delivered in a late-onset model, represented by aged APP1/PS1. In aged APP/PS1 mice in which AD-like pathology is at advanced stages, ARA 290 failed to reverse Aβ pathology and to increase the levels of circulating monocytes. Our study suggests that ARA 290 early systemic treatment could prevent AD-like progression via modulation of monocyte functions by specifically increasing the ratio of patrolling monocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Al-Onaizi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Peter Thériault
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Sarah Lecordier
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Paul Prefontaine
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Serge Rivest
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Ayman ElAli
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.
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15
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Khaddaj-Mallat R, Aldib N, Bernard M, Paquette AS, Ferreira A, Lecordier S, Saghatelyan A, Flamand L, ElAli A. SARS-CoV-2 deregulates the vascular and immune functions of brain pericytes via Spike protein. Neurobiol Dis 2021; 161:105561. [PMID: 34780863 PMCID: PMC8590447 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 pathogenesis causes vascular-mediated neurological disorders via elusive mechanisms. SARS-CoV-2 infects host cells via the binding of viral Spike (S) protein to transmembrane receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Although brain pericytes were recently shown to abundantly express ACE2 at the neurovascular interface, their response to SARS-CoV-2 S protein is still to be elucidated. Using cell-based assays, we found that ACE2 expression in human brain vascular pericytes was increased upon S protein exposure. Pericytes exposed to S protein underwent profound phenotypic changes associated with an elongated and contracted morphology accompanied with an enhanced expression of contractile and myofibrogenic proteins, such as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibronectin, collagen I, and neurogenic locus notch homolog protein-3 (NOTCH3). On the functional level, S protein exposure promoted the acquisition of calcium (Ca2+) signature of contractile ensheathing pericytes characterized by highly regular oscillatory Ca2+ fluctuations. Furthermore, S protein induced lipid peroxidation, oxidative and nitrosative stress in pericytes as well as triggered an immune reaction translated by activation of nuclear factor-kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, which was potentiated by hypoxia, a condition associated with vascular comorbidities that exacerbate COVID-19 pathogenesis. S protein exposure combined to hypoxia enhanced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in immune cell activation and trafficking, namely macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). Using transgenic mice expressing the human ACE2 that recognizes S protein, we observed that the intranasal infection with SARS-CoV-2 rapidly induced hypoxic/ischemic-like pericyte reactivity in the brain of transgenic mice, accompanied with an increased vascular expression of ACE2. Moreover, we found that SARS-CoV-2 S protein accumulated in the intranasal cavity reached the brain of mice in which the nasal mucosa is deregulated. Collectively, these findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 S protein impairs the vascular and immune regulatory functions of brain pericytes, which may account for vascular-mediated brain damage. Our study provides a better understanding for the mechanisms underlying cerebrovascular disorders in COVID-19, paving the way to develop new therapeutic interventions.
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MESH Headings
- Actins/metabolism
- Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/drug effects
- Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/genetics
- Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
- Animals
- Brain/blood supply
- Brain/metabolism
- COVID-19/metabolism
- COVID-19/physiopathology
- Calcium Signaling
- Collagen Type I/metabolism
- Fibronectins/metabolism
- Humans
- Hypoxia/metabolism
- Hypoxia-Ischemia, Brain/metabolism
- Hypoxia-Ischemia, Brain/physiopathology
- Inflammation/metabolism
- Lipid Peroxidation/drug effects
- Lipid Peroxidation/genetics
- Macrophage Migration-Inhibitory Factors/drug effects
- Macrophage Migration-Inhibitory Factors/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/cytology
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/cytology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myofibroblasts
- NF-kappa B/drug effects
- NF-kappa B/metabolism
- Nasal Mucosa
- Nitrosative Stress
- Oxidative Stress
- Pericytes/cytology
- Pericytes/drug effects
- Pericytes/metabolism
- Phenotype
- Receptor, Notch3/metabolism
- Receptors, Coronavirus/drug effects
- Receptors, Coronavirus/genetics
- Receptors, Coronavirus/metabolism
- SARS-CoV-2/metabolism
- Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism
- Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayan Khaddaj-Mallat
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Natija Aldib
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Research Center CERVO, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Maxime Bernard
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Anne-Sophie Paquette
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Aymeric Ferreira
- Research Center CERVO, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Sarah Lecordier
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Armen Saghatelyan
- Research Center CERVO, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Louis Flamand
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Ayman ElAli
- Neuroscience Axis, Research Center of CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.
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Narvaes RF, Furini CRG. Role of Wnt signaling in synaptic plasticity and memory. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2021; 187:107558. [PMID: 34808336 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2021.107558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Ever since their discoveries, the Wnt pathways have been consistently associated with key features of cellular development, including metabolism, structure and cell fate. The three known pathways (the canonical Wnt/β-catenin and the two non-canonical Wnt/Ca++ and Wnt/JNK/PCP pathways) participate in complex networks of interaction with a wide range of regulators of cell function, such as GSK-3β, AKT, PKC and mTOR, among others. These proteins are known to be involved in the formation and maintenance of memory. Currently, studies with Wnt and memory have shown that the canonical and non-canonical pathways play key roles in different processes associated with memory. So, in this review we briefly summarize the different roles that Wnt signaling can play in neurons and in memory, as well as in Alzheimer's disease, focusing towards animal studies. We start with the molecular characterization of the family and its receptors, as well as the most commonly used drugs for pharmacological manipulations. Next, we describe its role in synaptic plasticity and memory, and how the regulations of these pathways affect crucial features of neuronal function. Furthermore, we succinctly present the current knowledge on how the Wnt pathways are implicated in Alzheimer's disease, and how studies are seeing them as a potential candidate for effective treatments. Lastly, we point toward challenges of Wnt research, and how knowledge on these pathways can lead towards a better understanding of neurobiological and pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo F Narvaes
- Laboratory of Cognition and Memory Neurobiology, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - 3rd floor, 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Cristiane R G Furini
- Laboratory of Cognition and Memory Neurobiology, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - 3rd floor, 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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17
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Xiang J, Ran LY, Zeng XX, He WW, Xu Y, Cao K, Dong YT, Qi XL, Yu WF, Xiao Y, Guan ZZ. LiCl attenuates impaired learning and memory of APP/PS1 mice, which in mechanism involves α7 nAChRs and Wnt/β-catenin pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:10698-10710. [PMID: 34708522 PMCID: PMC8581309 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined the mechanism by which lithium chloride (LiCl) attenuates the impaired learning capability and memory function of dual-transgenic APP/PS1 mice. Six- or 12-month-old APP/PS1 and wild-type (WT) mice were randomized into four groups, namely WT, WT+Li (100 mg LiCl/kg body weight, gavage once daily), APP/PS1 and APP/PS1+Li. Primary rat hippocampal neurons were exposed to β-amyloid peptide oligomers (AβOs), LiCl and/or XAV939 (inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin) or transfected with small interfering RNA against the β-catenin gene. In the cerebral zone of APP/PS1 mice, the level of Aβ was increased and those of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR), phosphor-GSK3β (ser9), β-catenin and cyclin D1 (protein and/or mRNA levels) reduced. Two-month treatment with LiCl at ages of 4 or 10 months weakened all of these effects. Similar expression variations were observed for these proteins in primary neurons exposed to AβOs, and these effects were attenuated by LiCl and aggravated by XAV939. Inhibition of β-catenin expression lowered the level of α7 nAChR protein in these cells. LiCl attenuates the impaired learning capability and memory function of APP/PS1 mice via a mechanism that might involve elevation of the level of α7 nAChR as a result of altered Wnt/β-catenin signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Xiang
- Department of Pathology, Guizhou Medical University and the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Long-Yan Ran
- Department of Pathology, Guizhou Medical University and the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Zeng
- Department of Pathology, Guizhou Medical University and the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Wen He
- Department of Pathology, Guizhou Medical University and the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Yi Xu
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Kun Cao
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Yang-Ting Dong
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China.,Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Lan Qi
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China.,Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Feng Yu
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China.,Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Yan Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China.,Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Zhong Guan
- Department of Pathology, Guizhou Medical University and the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, P.R. China.,Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang, P.R. China
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18
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Almulla AF, Al-Rawi KF, Maes M, Al-Hakeim HK. In schizophrenia, immune-inflammatory pathways are strongly associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms, which are part of a latent trait which comprises neurocognitive impairments and schizophrenia symptoms. J Affect Disord 2021; 287:316-326. [PMID: 33812245 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.03.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim is to examine whether biomarkers of the immune-inflammatory response (IRS) and endogenous opioid (EOS) systems are associated with affective symptoms in schizophrenia. METHODS We recruited 115 schizophrenia patients and 43 healthy controls and assessed the Hamilton Depression (HDRS) and Anxiety (HAM-A) rating Scale scores as well as serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, eotaxin (CCL11), high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1), and mu (MOR) and kappa (KOR) opioid receptors. RESULTS The HDRS and HAM-A scores are significantly and positively correlated with a) psychosis, hostility, excitation, mannerism, negative symptoms, psychomotor retardation, and formal thought disorders; and b) lowered scores on semantic and episodic memory, executive functions, and attention tests as measured with the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Psychiatry. Both HDRS and HAM-A are significantly increased in non-responders to treatment as compared with partial responders. Both affective scores are strongly associated with a latent vector extracted from all symptoms, reflecting overall severity of schizophrenia symptoms (OSOS), and neurocognitive test scores, reflecting a generalized cognitive decline (G-CoDe). The HDRS score was strongly and positively associated with IL-6, HMGB1, KOR, and MOR levels, and the HAM-A score with IL-6, IL-10, CCL11, HMGB1, KOR, and MOR levels. A single latent trait may be extracted from OSOS, G-CoDe, and the HDRS and HAMA scores, and this latent vector score is strongly predicted by HMGB1, MOR, and DKK1. CONCLUSION Immune-inflammatory and EOS pathways contribute to the phenome of schizophrenia, which comprises OSOS, affective, and physiosomatic symptoms, and G-CoDe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas F Almulla
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq.
| | | | - Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, Deakin University, PO Box 281, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia.
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19
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Inestrosa NC, Tapia-Rojas C, Cerpa W, Cisternas P, Zolezzi JM. WNT Signaling Is a Key Player in Alzheimer's Disease. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2021; 269:357-382. [PMID: 34486097 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The cellular processes regulated by WNT signaling have been mainly studied during embryonic development and cancer. In the last two decades, the role of WNT in the adult central nervous system has been the focus of interest in our laboratory. In this chapter, we will be summarized β-catenin-dependent and -independent WNT pathways, then we will be revised WNT signaling function at the pre- and post-synaptic level. Concerning Alzheimer's disease (AD) initially, we found that WNT/β-catenin signaling activation exerts a neuroprotective mechanism against the amyloid β (Αβ) peptide toxicity. Later, we found that WNT/β-catenin participates in Tau phosphorylation and in learning and memory. In the last years, we demonstrated that WNT/β-catenin signaling is instrumental in the amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing and that WNT/β-catenin dysfunction results in Aβ production and aggregation. We highlight the importance of WNT/β-catenin signaling dysfunction in the onset of AD and propose that the loss of WNT/β-catenin signaling is a triggering factor of AD. The WNT pathway is therefore positioned as a therapeutic target for AD and could be a valid concept for improving AD therapy. We think that metabolism and inflammation will be relevant when defining future research in the context of WNT signaling and the neurodegeneration associated with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nibaldo C Inestrosa
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE UC), Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. .,Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile.
| | - Cheril Tapia-Rojas
- Centro de Biología Celular y Biomedicina (CEBICEM), Laboratory of Neurobiology of Aging, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad de San Sebastián, Sede Los Leones, Santiago, Chile
| | - Waldo Cerpa
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE UC), Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Pedro Cisternas
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE UC), Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de O´Higgins, Rancagua, Chile
| | - Juan M Zolezzi
- Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
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