1
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Todd TW, Islam NN, Cook CN, Caulfield TR, Petrucelli L. Cryo-EM structures of pathogenic fibrils and their impact on neurodegenerative disease research. Neuron 2024:S0896-6273(24)00359-3. [PMID: 38834068 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are commonly associated with the formation of aberrant protein aggregates within the brain, and ultrastructural analyses have revealed that the proteins within these inclusions often assemble into amyloid filaments. Cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) has emerged as an effective method for determining the near-atomic structure of these disease-associated filamentous proteins, and the resulting structures have revolutionized the way we think about aberrant protein aggregation and propagation during disease progression. These structures have also revealed that individual fibril conformations may dictate different disease conditions, and this newfound knowledge has improved disease modeling in the lab and advanced the ongoing pursuit of clinical tools capable of distinguishing and targeting different pathogenic entities within living patients. In this review, we summarize some of the recently developed cryo-EM structures of ex vivo α-synuclein, tau, β-amyloid (Aβ), TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43), and transmembrane protein 106B (TMEM106B) fibrils and discuss how these structures are being leveraged toward mechanistic research and therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany W Todd
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Naeyma N Islam
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Casey N Cook
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; Neurobiology of Disease Graduate Program, Mayo Graduate School, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | | | - Leonard Petrucelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; Neurobiology of Disease Graduate Program, Mayo Graduate School, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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2
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Parvin F, Haglund S, Wegenast-Braun B, Jucker M, Saito T, Saido TC, Nilsson KPR, Nilsson P, Nyström S, Hammarström P. Divergent Age-Dependent Conformational Rearrangement within Aβ Amyloid Deposits in APP23, APPPS1, and AppNL-F Mice. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:2058-2069. [PMID: 38652895 PMCID: PMC11099915 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00104] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyloid plaques composed of fibrils of misfolded Aβ peptides are pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Aβ fibrils are polymorphic in their tertiary and quaternary molecular structures. This structural polymorphism may carry different pathologic potencies and can putatively contribute to clinical phenotypes of AD. Therefore, mapping of structural polymorphism of Aβ fibrils and structural evolution over time is valuable to understanding disease mechanisms. Here, we investigated how Aβ fibril structures in situ differ in Aβ plaque of different mouse models expressing familial mutations in the AβPP gene. We imaged frozen brains with a combination of conformation-sensitive luminescent conjugated oligothiophene (LCO) ligands and Aβ-specific antibodies. LCO fluorescence mapping revealed that mouse models APP23, APPPS1, and AppNL-F have different fibril structures within Aβ-amyloid plaques depending on the AβPP-processing genotype. Co-staining with Aβ-specific antibodies showed that individual plaques from APP23 mice expressing AβPP Swedish mutation have two distinct fibril polymorph regions of core and corona. The plaque core is predominantly composed of compact Aβ40 fibrils, and the corona region is dominated by diffusely packed Aβ40 fibrils. Conversely, the AβPP knock-in mouse AppNL-F, expressing the AβPP Iberian mutation along with Swedish mutation has tiny, cored plaques consisting mainly of compact Aβ42 fibrils, vastly different from APP23 even at elevated age up to 21 months. Age-dependent polymorph rearrangement of plaque cores observed for APP23 and APPPS1 mice >12 months, appears strongly promoted by Aβ40 and was hence minuscule in AppNL-F. These structural studies of amyloid plaques in situ can map disease-relevant fibril polymorph distributions to guide the design of diagnostic and therapeutic molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farjana Parvin
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Samuel Haglund
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Bettina Wegenast-Braun
- German
Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Hertie
Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University
of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Mathias Jucker
- German
Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Hertie
Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University
of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Takashi Saito
- Laboratory
for Proteolytic Neuroscience, RIKEN Center
for Brain Science, Wako 351-0198, Saitama, Japan
- Department
of Neurocognitive Science, Nagoya City University
Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takaomi C. Saido
- Laboratory
for Proteolytic Neuroscience, RIKEN Center
for Brain Science, Wako 351-0198, Saitama, Japan
| | - K. Peter R. Nilsson
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Per Nilsson
- Department
of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Solna, Sweden
| | - Sofie Nyström
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Per Hammarström
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, 58183 Linköping, Sweden
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3
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Meng X, Song Q, Liu Z, Liu X, Wang Y, Liu J. Neurotoxic β-amyloid oligomers cause mitochondrial dysfunction-the trigger for PANoptosis in neurons. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1400544. [PMID: 38808033 PMCID: PMC11130508 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1400544] [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: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
As the global population ages, the incidence of elderly patients with dementia, represented by Alzheimer's disease (AD), will continue to increase. Previous studies have suggested that β-amyloid protein (Aβ) deposition is a key factor leading to AD. However, the clinical efficacy of treating AD with anti-Aβ protein antibodies is not satisfactory, suggesting that Aβ amyloidosis may be a pathological change rather than a key factor leading to AD. Identification of the causes of AD and development of corresponding prevention and treatment strategies is an important goal of current research. Following the discovery of soluble oligomeric forms of Aβ (AβO) in 1998, scientists began to focus on the neurotoxicity of AβOs. As an endogenous neurotoxin, the active growth of AβOs can lead to neuronal death, which is believed to occur before plaque formation, suggesting that AβOs are the key factors leading to AD. PANoptosis, a newly proposed concept of cell death that includes known modes of pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis, is a form of cell death regulated by the PANoptosome complex. Neuronal survival depends on proper mitochondrial function. Under conditions of AβO interference, mitochondrial dysfunction occurs, releasing lethal contents as potential upstream effectors of the PANoptosome. Considering the critical role of neurons in cognitive function and the development of AD as well as the regulatory role of mitochondrial function in neuronal survival, investigation of the potential mechanisms leading to neuronal PANoptosis is crucial. This review describes the disruption of neuronal mitochondrial function by AβOs and elucidates how AβOs may activate neuronal PANoptosis by causing mitochondrial dysfunction during the development of AD, providing guidance for the development of targeted neuronal treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jinyu Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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4
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Cao R, Du F, Cui Y, Qi M, Zhuang J, Wang J, Zhang M, Zhang X, Liu Z, Zou L, Xiao W, Chen G. Synthesis and biological evaluations of 8-biaryl-2,2-dimethylbenzopyranamide derivatives against Alzheimer's disease and ischemic stroke. Bioorg Chem 2024; 143:107064. [PMID: 38150937 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.107064] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease, the commonest cause of dementia, is a growing global health concern with huge implications for individuals and society. Stroke has still been a significant challenge in clinics for a long time, which is the second leading cause of death in the world, especially ischemic stroke. Both Alzheimer's disease and stroke are closely related to oxidative stress and HIF-1 signaling pathways in nerve cells. Herein, we describe our structure-based design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a new class of 8-biaryl-2,2-dimethylbenzopyranamide derivatives as natural product derivatives. Our efforts have resulted in the discovery of highly potent neuroprotective agents, as exemplified by compound D13 as a HIF-1α inhibitor, which significant improvement in the behavior of Alzheimer's disease mice and shows great potential improvement of brain infarct volume in pMCAO model rats, improves the increase of blood-brain barrier permeability after cerebral ischemia in rats, neuroprotective effect, reduce the level of apoptotic cells in rats after cerebral ischemia, better than Edaravone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruolin Cao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Fangyu Du
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yuhang Cui
- Life Science and Biology Pharmacy College, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Minggang Qi
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Junning Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jieru Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Maoying Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongbo Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Libo Zou
- Life Science and Biology Pharmacy College, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wei Xiao
- Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Jiangning Industrial City, Economic and Technological Development Zone, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222001, China.
| | - Guoliang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China.
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Wan M, Sun S, Di X, Zhao M, Lu F, Zhang Z, Li Y. Icariin improves learning and memory function in Aβ 1-42-induced AD mice through regulation of the BDNF-TrκB signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:117029. [PMID: 37579923 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117029] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Epimedium brevicornu Maxim. is a traditional medicinal Chinese herb that is enriched with flavonoids, which have remarkably high medicinal value. Icariin (ICA) is a marker compound isolated from the total flavonoids of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim. It has been shown to improve Neurodegenerative disease, therefore, ICA is probably a potential drug for treating AD. MATERIALS AND METHODS The 6-8-week-old SPF-class male ICR mice were randomly divided into 8 groups for modeling, and then the mice were administered orally with ICA for 21 days. The behavioral experiments were conducted to evaluate if learning and memory behavior were absent in mice, confirming that infusion of Amyloid β-protein (Aβ)1-42 caused significant memory impairment. The morphological changes and damage of neurons in the mice's brains were observed by HE and Nissl staining. The spinous protrusions (dendritic spines) on neuronal dendrites were investigated by Golgi-Cox staining. The molecular mechanism of ICA was examined by Western Blot. The protein docking of ICA and Donepezil with BDNF were analyzed to determine their interaction. RESULTS The behavioral experimental results showed that in Aβ1-42-induced AD mice, the learning and memory abilities were improved after using ICA. At the same time, the low, medium, and high doses of ICA could reduce the content of Aβ1-42 in the hippocampus of AD mice, repair neuronal damage, enhance synaptic plasticity, as well as increase the expression of BDNF, TrκB, CREB, Akt, GAP43, PSD95, and SYN proteins in the hippocampus of mice. However, the effect with high doses of ICA is more pronounced. The high-dose administration of ICA has the best therapeutic effect on AD mice. After administering the inhibitor k252a, the therapeutic effect of ICA was reversed. The macromolecular docking results of ICA and BDNF protein demonstrated a strong interaction of -7.8 kcal/mol, which indicates that ICA plays a therapeutic role in AD mice by regulating the BDNF-TrκB signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS The results confirm that ICA can repair neuronal damage, enhance synaptic plasticity, as well as ultimately improve learning and memory impairment through the regulation of the BDNF-TrκB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiyu Wan
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengqi Sun
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoke Di
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Minghui Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengjuan Lu
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhifei Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Li
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China.
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6
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Corrales-Guerrero L, Díaz-Moreno I. Deciphering the role of Zn 2+ -binding histidines from TIA-1 on the assembly and dynamics of stress granules. Biofactors 2024. [PMID: 38193795 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
T-cell intracellular antigen-1 (TIA-1) is a key RNA-binding protein that participates in translation regulation and RNA splicing. TIA-1 undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation as a fundamental mechanism that enables the condensation of RNA and proteins into membraneless organelles called stress granules (SGs). However, this dynamic behavior can lead to aberrant fibril formation, implicated in neurodegenerative disorders, and must be tightly regulated. In this study, we investigated the role in the cell of histidine residues His94 and His96, responsible for Zn2+ binding. Using fluorescence microscopy, we found that the specific binding site formed by these residues is critical for SG assembly. Furthermore, it also plays a role maintaining the dynamic behavior of SG-assembled TIA-1. Collectively, our findings confirm the physiological relevance of TIA-1 His94 and His96 in the Zn2+ -mediated regulatory mechanism for protection against fibril formation in SGs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Irene Díaz-Moreno
- Institute for Chemical Research, University of Seville-CSIC, Seville, Spain
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7
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Sin MK, Zamrini E, Ahmed A, Nho K, Hajjar I. Anti-Amyloid Therapy, AD, and ARIA: Untangling the Role of CAA. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6792. [PMID: 37959255 PMCID: PMC10647766 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-amyloid therapies (AATs), such as anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies, are emerging treatments for people with early Alzheimer's disease (AD). AATs target amyloid β plaques in the brain. Amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), abnormal signals seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain in patients with AD, may occur spontaneously but occur more frequently as side effects of AATs. Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a major risk factor for ARIA. Amyloid β plays a key role in the pathogenesis of AD and of CAA. Amyloid β accumulation in the brain parenchyma as plaques is a pathological hallmark of AD, whereas amyloid β accumulation in cerebral vessels leads to CAA. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of ARIA is necessary for early detection of those at highest risk. This could lead to improved risk stratification and the ultimate reduction of symptomatic ARIA. Histopathological confirmation of CAA by brain biopsy or autopsy is the gold standard but is not clinically feasible. MRI is an available in vivo tool for detecting CAA. Cerebrospinal fluid amyloid β level testing and amyloid PET imaging are available but do not offer specificity for CAA vs amyloid plaques in AD. Thus, developing and testing biomarkers as reliable and sensitive screening tools for the presence and severity of CAA is a priority to minimize ARIA complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo-Kyung Sin
- College of Nursing, Seattle University, Seattle, WA 98122, USA
| | | | - Ali Ahmed
- VA Medical Center, Washington, DC 20242, USA;
| | - Kwangsik Nho
- School of Medicine, Indianna University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Ihab Hajjar
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
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8
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Hu J, Zheng L, Guan Z, Zhong K, Huang F, Huang Q, Yang J, Li W, Li S. Sensory gamma entrainment: Impact on amyloid protein and therapeutic mechanism. Brain Res Bull 2023; 202:110750. [PMID: 37625524 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
The deposition of amyloid β peptide (Aβ) is one of the main pathological features of AD. The much-talked sensory gamma entrainment may be a new treatment for Aβ load. Here we reviewed the generation and clearance pathways of Aβ, aberrant gamma oscillation in AD, and the therapeutic effect of sensory gamma entrainment on AD. In addition, we discuss these results based on stimulus parameters and possible potential mechanisms. This provides the support for sensory gamma entrainment targeting Aβ to improve AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Hu
- Department of Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China
| | - Leyan Zheng
- Department of Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China
| | - Ziyu Guan
- Department of Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China
| | - Kexin Zhong
- Department of Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China
| | - Fankai Huang
- Department of Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China
| | - Qiankai Huang
- Department of Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China; Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China
| | - Weiyun Li
- Department of Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China; Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Department of Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China; Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China.
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9
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Liu Y, Wang P, Jin G, Shi P, Zhao Y, Guo J, Yin Y, Shao Q, Li P, Yang P. The novel function of bexarotene for neurological diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 90:102021. [PMID: 37495118 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Bexarotene, a retinoid X receptor (RXR) agonist, is approved by FDA to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. However, it has also demonstrated promising therapeutic potential for neurological diseases such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, and particularly Alzheimer's disease(AD). In AD, bexarotene inhibits the production and aggregation of amyloid β (Aβ), activates Liver X Receptor/RXR heterodimers to increase lipidated apolipoprotein E to remove Aβ, mitigates the negative impact of Aβ, regulates neuroinflammation, and ultimately improves cognitive function. For other neurological diseases, its mechanisms of action include inhibiting inflammatory responses, up-regulating microglial phagocytosis, and reducing misfolded protein aggregation, all of which aid in alleviating neurological damage. Here, we briefly discuss the characteristics, applications, and adverse effects of bexarotene, summarize its pharmacological mechanisms and therapeutic results in various neurological diseases, and elaborate on the problems encountered in preclinical research, with the aim of providing help for the further application of bexarotene in central nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangtao Liu
- College of Pharamacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Vascular Remodeling Intervention and Molecular Targeted Therapy Drug Development, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Drug Intervention, Xinxiang, China; College of Third Clinical, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Pengwei Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang Medical University, Weihui, China
| | - Guofang Jin
- College of Pharamacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Vascular Remodeling Intervention and Molecular Targeted Therapy Drug Development, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Drug Intervention, Xinxiang, China
| | - Peijie Shi
- College of Pharamacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Vascular Remodeling Intervention and Molecular Targeted Therapy Drug Development, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Drug Intervention, Xinxiang, China; Xinxiang First People's Hospital, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yonghui Zhao
- Xinxiang First People's Hospital, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Jiayi Guo
- College of Pharamacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Vascular Remodeling Intervention and Molecular Targeted Therapy Drug Development, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Drug Intervention, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yaling Yin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Sino-UK Joint Laboratory of Brain Function and Injury and Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Qianhang Shao
- Department of Pharmacy, People's Hospital of Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Peng Li
- College of Pharamacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Vascular Remodeling Intervention and Molecular Targeted Therapy Drug Development, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Drug Intervention, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Pengfei Yang
- College of Pharamacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Vascular Remodeling Intervention and Molecular Targeted Therapy Drug Development, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Drug Intervention, Xinxiang, China.
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10
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Xiang L, Wang Y, Liu S, Liu B, Jin X, Cao X. Targeting Protein Aggregates with Natural Products: An Optional Strategy for Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11275. [PMID: 37511037 PMCID: PMC10379780 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein aggregation is one of the hallmarks of aging and aging-related diseases, especially for the neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and others. In these diseases, many pathogenic proteins, such as amyloid-β, tau, α-Syn, Htt, and FUS, form aggregates that disrupt the normal physiological function of cells and lead to associated neuronal lesions. Protein aggregates in NDs are widely recognized as one of the important targets for the treatment of these diseases. Natural products, with their diverse biological activities and rich medical history, represent a great treasure trove for the development of therapeutic strategies to combat disease. A number of in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that natural products, by virtue of their complex molecular scaffolds that specifically bind to pathogenic proteins and their aggregates, can inhibit the formation of aggregates, disrupt the structure of aggregates and destabilize them, thereby alleviating conditions associated with NDs. Here, we systematically reviewed studies using natural products to improve disease-related symptoms by reducing or inhibiting the formation of five pathogenic protein aggregates associated with NDs. This information should provide valuable insights into new directions and ideas for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingzhi Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, School of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China
| | - Yanan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, School of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China
| | - Shenkui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, School of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China
| | - Beidong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, School of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, 41390 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Xuejiao Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, School of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China
| | - Xiuling Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, School of Forestry and Biotechnology, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China
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11
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Li QY, Yu X, Li X, Bao LN, Zhang Y, Wang SL, Jiang M, Huang K, Xu L. Congo Red-Derived Carbon Dots: Simultaneously as Fluorescence Probe for Protein Aggregates, Inhibitor for Protein Aggregation, and Scavenger of Free Radicals. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2205634. [PMID: 36748326 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202205634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The pathological aggregation of some proteins is claimed to be highly related to several human diseases, such as β-amyloid 1-42 (Aβ42 ) to Alzheimer's disease (AD), islet amyloid polypeptide, and insulin to type 2 diabetes mellitus. Therefore, it is in desperate need to develop effective methods for detection of protein aggregates and inhibition of abnormal aggregation. Herein, to construct all-in-one probe with both diagnosis and treatment potentials for protein aggregation diseases, Congo red (CR), a classical staining reagent with red fluorescence signal output for protein aggregates, is deliberately adopted to react with three different reductive carbon sources and ammonium persulfate to generate three CR-derived carbon dots (CDs). The obtained CDs exhibit the capabilities of turn-on red fluorescence imaging of protein aggregates, and/or inhibition of protein aggregation as well as scavenging of free radicals. Among them, CA-CDs, using citric acid as the reductive carbon source, demonstrate the superiority to the other two studied CDs in integrating all of these functions, and particularly exert excellent cytoprotection effect against toxic Aβ42 species, possessing tremendous potential in diagnosis and treatment of AD for future study. The present study paves a new way to develop all-in-one CDs for the protein disease research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin-Ying Li
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xu Yu
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xi Li
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Li-Na Bao
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Shi-Lin Wang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ming Jiang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Li Xu
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
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12
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Penke B, Szűcs M, Bogár F. New Pathways Identify Novel Drug Targets for the Prevention and Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065383. [PMID: 36982456 PMCID: PMC10049476 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an incurable, progressive neurodegenerative disorder. AD is a complex and multifactorial disease that is responsible for 60–80% of dementia cases. Aging, genetic factors, and epigenetic changes are the main risk factors for AD. Two aggregation-prone proteins play a decisive role in AD pathogenesis: β-amyloid (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau (pTau). Both of them form deposits and diffusible toxic aggregates in the brain. These proteins are the biomarkers of AD. Different hypotheses have tried to explain AD pathogenesis and served as platforms for AD drug research. Experiments demonstrated that both Aβ and pTau might start neurodegenerative processes and are necessary for cognitive decline. The two pathologies act in synergy. Inhibition of the formation of toxic Aβ and pTau aggregates has been an old drug target. Recently, successful Aβ clearance by monoclonal antibodies has raised new hopes for AD treatments if the disease is detected at early stages. More recently, novel targets, e.g., improvements in amyloid clearance from the brain, application of small heat shock proteins (Hsps), modulation of chronic neuroinflammation by different receptor ligands, modulation of microglial phagocytosis, and increase in myelination have been revealed in AD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Botond Penke
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
- Correspondence:
| | - Mária Szűcs
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Bogár
- ELKH-SZTE Biomimetic Systems Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
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13
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Noguchi-Shinohara M, Hamaguchi T, Sakai K, Komatsu J, Iwasa K, Horimoto M, Nakamura H, Yamada M, Ono K. Effects of Melissa officinalis Extract Containing Rosmarinic Acid on Cognition in Older Adults Without Dementia: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 91:805-814. [PMID: 36502333 DOI: 10.3233/jad-220953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous in vitro and in vivo studies on Alzheimer's disease (AD) models have reported that rosmarinic acid (RA) can inhibit the formation of amyloid-β fibrils as well as the oligomerization and deposition of amyloid-β protein. Melissa officinalis (M. officinalis) extract containing 500 mg of RA is tolerable and safe in healthy individuals and patients with mild AD dementia. OBJECTIVE This randomized placebo-controlled double-blind trial aimed to assess the effects of M. officinalis extract on cognition in older adults without dementia. METHODS This study included individuals who were diagnosed with subjective or mild cognitive impairment (n = 323). The trial involved M. officinalis extract supplementation (500 mg of RA per day) period of 96 weeks followed by a washout period of 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale score, and the secondary endpoints were other cognitive measure results as well as safety and tolerability. RESULTS There were no significant differences in cognitive measures between the placebo and M. officinalis groups from baseline to 96 weeks. However, based on the analysis of Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes scores in participants without hypertension, the score was found to be increased by 0.006 and decreased by 0.085 in the M. officinalis and placebo groups, respectively; this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.036). Furthermore, there were no differences in vital signs, physical and neurological measures, or hippocampal volume between the two groups. CONCLUSION These results indicate that M. officinalis extract may help prevent cognitive decline in older adults without hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moeko Noguchi-Shinohara
- Department of Neurology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Hamaguchi
- Department of Neurology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan.,Department of Neurology, Kanazawa Medical University, Uchinada, Kahoku, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Kenji Sakai
- Department of Neurology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Junji Komatsu
- Department of Neurology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan.,Department of Preemptive Medicine for Dementia, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Kazuo Iwasa
- Department of Neurology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan.,Department of Health and Medical Sciences, Ishikawa Prefectural Nursing University, Hakui, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Mai Horimoto
- Department of Neurology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan.,Department of Preemptive Medicine for Dementia, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Nakamura
- Department of Environmental and Preventive Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Masahito Yamada
- Department of Neurology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan.,Kudanzaka Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenjiro Ono
- Department of Neurology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan
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14
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Shao X, Yan C, Wang C, Wang C, Cao Y, Zhou Y, Guan P, Hu X, Zhu W, Ding S. Advanced nanomaterials for modulating Alzheimer's related amyloid aggregation. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2022; 5:46-80. [PMID: 36605800 PMCID: PMC9765474 DOI: 10.1039/d2na00625a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disease that brings about enormous economic pressure to families and society. Inhibiting abnormal aggregation of Aβ and accelerating the dissociation of aggregates is treated as an effective method to prevent and treat AD. Recently, nanomaterials have been applied in AD treatment due to their excellent physicochemical properties and drug activity. As a drug delivery platform or inhibitor, various excellent nanomaterials have exhibited potential in inhibiting Aβ fibrillation, disaggregating, and clearing mature amyloid plaques by enhancing the performance of drugs. This review comprehensively summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of nanomaterials in modulating amyloid aggregation and AD treatment. The design of various functional nanomaterials is discussed, and the strategies for improved properties toward AD treatment are analyzed. Finally, the challenges faced by nanomaterials with different dimensions in AD-related amyloid aggregate modulation are expounded, and the prospects of nanomaterials are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Shao
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University 127 Youyi Road Xi'an 710072 China
| | - Chaoren Yan
- School of Medicine, Xizang Minzu University, Key Laboratory for Molecular Genetic Mechanisms and Intervention Research on High Altitude Disease of Tibet Autonomous Region Xianyang Shaanxi 712082 China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University 127 Youyi Road Xi'an 710072 China
| | - Chaoli Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Air Force Medical University 169 Changle West Road Xi'an 710032 China
| | - Yue Cao
- School of the Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control & Resource Reuse, Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 P. R. China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics & Information Displays (KLOEID), Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing University of Posts & Telecommunications (NJUPT) Nanjing 210046 China
| | - Ping Guan
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University 127 Youyi Road Xi'an 710072 China
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University 127 Youyi Road Xi'an 710072 China
| | - Wenlei Zhu
- School of the Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control & Resource Reuse, Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 P. R. China
| | - Shichao Ding
- School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Washington State University Pullman WA 99164 USA
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15
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Ohashi H, Tsuji M, Oguchi T, Momma Y, Nohara T, Ito N, Yamamoto K, Nagata M, Kimura AM, Kiuchi Y, Ono K. Combined Treatment with Curcumin and Ferulic Acid Suppressed the Aβ-Induced Neurotoxicity More than Curcumin and Ferulic Acid Alone. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179685. [PMID: 36077082 PMCID: PMC9456505 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to progressive cognitive decline. Several effective natural components have been identified for the treatment of AD. However, it is difficult to obtain conclusive evidence on the safety and effectiveness of natural components, because a variety of factors are associated with the progression of AD pathology. We hypothesized that a therapeutic effect could be achieved by combining multiple ingredients with different efficacies. The purpose of this study was thus to evaluate a combination treatment of curcumin (Cur) and ferulic acid (FA) for amyloid-β (Aβ)-induced neuronal cytotoxicity. The effect of Cur or FA on Aβ aggregation using thioflavin T assay was confirmed to be inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by Cur single or Cur + FA combination treatment. The effects of Cur + FA on the cytotoxicity of human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cells induced by Aβ exposure were an increase in cell viability, a decrease in ROS and mitochondrial ROS, and repair of membrane damage. Combination treatment showed an overall higher protective effect than treatment with Cur or FA alone. These results suggest that the combined action mechanisms of Cur and FA may be effective in preventing and suppressing the progression of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Ohashi
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Mayumi Tsuji
- Pharmacological Research Center, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
- Correspondence: (M.T.); (K.O.)
| | - Tatsunori Oguchi
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
- Pharmacological Research Center, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Yutaro Momma
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Tetsuhito Nohara
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Naohito Ito
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Ken Yamamoto
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Miki Nagata
- Department of Hospital Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Atsushi Michael Kimura
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Yuji Kiuchi
- Division of Medical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
- Pharmacological Research Center, Showa University, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Kenjiro Ono
- Department of Neurology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan
- Correspondence: (M.T.); (K.O.)
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16
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Forloni G, La Vitola P, Balducci C. Oligomeropathies, inflammation and prion protein binding. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:822420. [PMID: 36081661 PMCID: PMC9445368 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.822420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The central role of oligomers, small soluble aggregates of misfolded proteins, in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders is recognized in numerous experimental conditions and is compatible with clinical evidence. To underline this concept, some years ago we coined the term oligomeropathies to define the common mechanism of action of protein misfolding diseases like Alzheimer, Parkinson or prion diseases. Using simple experimental conditions, with direct application of synthetic β amyloid or α-synuclein oligomers intraventricularly at micromolar concentrations, we could detect differences and similarities in the biological consequences. The two oligomer species affected cognitive behavior, neuronal dysfunction and cerebral inflammatory reactions with distinct mechanisms. In these experimental conditions the proposed mediatory role of cellular prion protein in oligomer activities was not confirmed. Together with oligomers, inflammation at different levels can be important early in neurodegenerative disorders; both β amyloid and α-synuclein oligomers induce inflammation and its control strongly affects neuronal dysfunction. This review summarizes our studies with β-amyloid or α-synuclein oligomers, also considering the potential curative role of doxycycline, a well-known antibiotic with anti-amyloidogenic and anti-inflammatory activities. These actions are analyzed in terms of the therapeutic prospects.
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17
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The Association of Lipids with Amyloid Fibrils. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102108. [PMID: 35688209 PMCID: PMC9293637 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102108] [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: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloid formation continues to be a widely studied area because of its association with numerous diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Despite a large body of work on protein aggregation and fibril formation, there are still significant gaps in our understanding of the factors that differentiate toxic amyloid formation in vivo from alternative misfolding pathways. In addition to proteins, amyloid fibrils are often associated in their cellular context with several types of molecule, including carbohydrates, polyanions, and lipids. This review focuses in particular on evidence for the presence of lipids in amyloid fibrils and the routes by which those lipids may become incorporated. Chemical analyses of fibril composition, combined with studies to probe the lipid distribution around fibrils, provide evidence that in some cases, lipids have a strong association with fibrils. In addition, amyloid fibrils formed in the presence of lipids have distinct morphologies and material properties. It is argued that lipids are an integral part of many amyloid deposits in vivo, where their presence has the potential to influence the nucleation, morphology, and mechanical properties of fibrils. The role of lipids in these structures is therefore worthy of further study.
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18
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Zhang Y, Li H, Jin S, Lu Y, Peng Y, Zhao L, Wang X. Cannabidiol protects against Alzheimer's disease in C. elegans via ROS scavenging activity of its phenolic hydroxyl groups. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 919:174829. [PMID: 35181336 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.174829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Recent discoveries have implicated the potential of Cannabidiol (CBD) in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, how CBD affects such neurodegenerative disorders remains unclear. Herein, Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) was used as the model organism to elucidate the mechanism by which CBD ameliorates AD in vivo. CBD was found to alleviate the progression of Aβ-induced AD but not tau protein-induced AD or α-syn-induced Parkinson's disease. CBD inhibited the aggregation of Aβ in C. elegans. However, CBD failed to prevent the formation of β-sheet aggregation in vitro. Moreover, CBD was found to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vivo without inducing the overexpression of antioxidative genes. In addition, CBD treatment enhanced the worm resistance to oxidative stress, which was independent of the classical transcription factors DAF-16 and SKN-1. These results supported that the in vivo antioxidative activity of CBD was most likely due to its intrinsic antioxidative property. Furthermore, the phenolic hydroxyl groups of CBD were found to be critical for scavenging ROS in vitro and in vivo, alleviating the aggregation of Aβ in vivo, and ameliorating Aβ-associated neurotoxicity. These studies show that CBD protects against AD in C. elegans via the ROS scavenging activity of its phenolic hydroxyl groups, which provides insight for further structure-activity relationship studies of CBD as an AD therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, Jilin, 130012, China
| | - Hongyuan Li
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
| | - Sha Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
| | - Yuyuan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
| | - Yinghua Peng
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Special Economic Animal, Institute of Special Animal and Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130112, China
| | - Lihui Zhao
- College of Life Science and Technology, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, Jilin, 130012, China.
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China; Department of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China; Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China.
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