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Chair SY, Chow KM, Chan CWL, Chan JYW, Law BMH, Waye MMY. Structural Variations Identified in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the Chinese Population: A Systematic Review of Case-Control Studies. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:1082. [PMID: 39202440 PMCID: PMC11353326 DOI: 10.3390/genes15081082] [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: 07/15/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disability characterised by the impairment of social interaction and communication ability. The alarming increase in its prevalence in children urged researchers to obtain a better understanding of the causes of this disease. Genetic factors are considered to be crucial, as ASD has a tendency to run in families. In recent years, with technological advances, the importance of structural variations (SVs) in ASD began to emerge. Most of these studies, however, focus on the Caucasian population. As a populated ethnicity, ASD shall be a significant health issue in China. This systematic review aims to summarise current case-control studies of SVs associated with ASD in the Chinese population. A list of genes identified in the nine included studies is provided. It also reveals that similar research focusing on other genetic backgrounds is demanded to manifest the disease etiology in different ethnic groups, and assist the development of accurate ethnic-oriented genetic diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sek-Ying Chair
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (K.-M.C.); (C.W.-L.C.); (J.Y.-W.C.); (B.M.-H.L.); (M.M.-Y.W.)
- Asia-Pacific Genomic and Genetic Nursing Centre, The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- The Croucher Laboratory for Human Genomics, The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ka-Ming Chow
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (K.-M.C.); (C.W.-L.C.); (J.Y.-W.C.); (B.M.-H.L.); (M.M.-Y.W.)
- Asia-Pacific Genomic and Genetic Nursing Centre, The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- The Croucher Laboratory for Human Genomics, The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Cecilia Wai-Ling Chan
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (K.-M.C.); (C.W.-L.C.); (J.Y.-W.C.); (B.M.-H.L.); (M.M.-Y.W.)
| | - Judy Yuet-Wa Chan
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (K.-M.C.); (C.W.-L.C.); (J.Y.-W.C.); (B.M.-H.L.); (M.M.-Y.W.)
| | - Bernard Man-Hin Law
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (K.-M.C.); (C.W.-L.C.); (J.Y.-W.C.); (B.M.-H.L.); (M.M.-Y.W.)
| | - Mary Miu-Yee Waye
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; (K.-M.C.); (C.W.-L.C.); (J.Y.-W.C.); (B.M.-H.L.); (M.M.-Y.W.)
- Asia-Pacific Genomic and Genetic Nursing Centre, The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- The Croucher Laboratory for Human Genomics, The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Abedini SS, Akhavantabasi S, Liang Y, Heng JIT, Alizadehsani R, Dehzangi I, Bauer DC, Alinejad-Rokny H. A critical review of the impact of candidate copy number variants on autism spectrum disorder. MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2024; 794:108509. [PMID: 38977176 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2024.108509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Recent advancements in genomic analysis have shed light on numerous genes associated with ASD, highlighting the significant role of both common and rare genetic mutations, as well as copy number variations (CNVs), single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and unique de novo variants. These genetic variations disrupt neurodevelopmental pathways, contributing to the disorder's complexity. Notably, CNVs are present in 10 %-20 % of individuals with autism, with 3 %-7 % detectable through cytogenetic methods. While the role of submicroscopic CNVs in ASD has been recently studied, their association with genomic loci and genes has not been thoroughly explored. In this review, we focus on 47 CNV regions linked to ASD, encompassing 1632 genes, including protein-coding genes and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), of which 659 show significant brain expression. Using a list of ASD-associated genes from SFARI, we detect 17 regions harboring at least one known ASD-related protein-coding gene. Of the remaining 30 regions, we identify 24 regions containing at least one protein-coding gene with brain-enriched expression and a nervous system phenotype in mouse mutants, and one lncRNA with both brain-enriched expression and upregulation in iPSC to neuron differentiation. This review not only expands our understanding of the genetic diversity associated with ASD but also underscores the potential of lncRNAs in contributing to its etiology. Additionally, the discovered CNVs will be a valuable resource for future diagnostic, therapeutic, and research endeavors aimed at prioritizing genetic variations in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Sedigheh Abedini
- UNSW BioMedical Machine Learning Lab (BML), The Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; School of Biotechnology & Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Shiva Akhavantabasi
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Yeni Yuzyil University, Istanbul, Turkey; Ghiaseddin Jamshid Kashani University, Andisheh University Town, Danesh Blvd, 3441356611, Abyek, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Yuheng Liang
- UNSW BioMedical Machine Learning Lab (BML), The Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Julian Ik-Tsen Heng
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley 6845, Australia
| | - Roohallah Alizadehsani
- Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation (IISRI), Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Iman Dehzangi
- Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Rutgers University, Camden, NJ 08102, USA; Department of Computer Science, Rutgers University, Camden, NJ 08102, USA
| | - Denis C Bauer
- Transformational Bioinformatics, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Sydney, Australia; Applied BioSciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, Australia
| | - Hamid Alinejad-Rokny
- UNSW BioMedical Machine Learning Lab (BML), The Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; Tyree Institute of Health Engineering (IHealthE), UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
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3
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Leow KQ, Tonta MA, Lu J, Coleman HA, Parkington HC. Towards understanding sex differences in autism spectrum disorders. Brain Res 2024; 1833:148877. [PMID: 38513995 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.148877] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social deficits, repetitive behaviours and lack of empathy. Its significant genetic heritability and potential comorbidities often lead to diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This review addresses the biological basis of ASD, focusing on the sex differences in gene expression and hormonal influences. ASD is more commonly diagnosed in males at a ratio of 4:1, indicating a potential oversight in female-specific ASD research and a risk of underdiagnosis in females. We consider how ASD manifests differently across sexes by exploring differential gene expression in female and male brains and consider how variations in steroid hormones influence ASD characteristics. Synaptic function, including excitation/inhibition ratio imbalance, is influenced by gene mutations and this is explored as a key factor in the cognitive and behavioural manifestations of ASD. We also discuss the role of micro RNAs (miRNAs) and highlight a novel mutation in miRNA-873, which affects a suite of key synaptic genes, neurexin, neuroligin, SHANK and post-synaptic density proteins, implicated in the pathology of ASD. Our review suggests that genetic predisposition, sex differences in brain gene expression, and hormonal factors significantly contribute to the presentation, identification and severity of ASD, necessitating sex-specific considerations in diagnosis and treatments. These findings advocate for personalized interventions to improve the outcomes for individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Q Leow
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mary A Tonta
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jing Lu
- Tianjin Institute of Infectious Disease, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, China
| | - Harold A Coleman
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helena C Parkington
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia.
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Shan D, Song Y, Zhang Y, Ho CW, Xia W, Li Z, Ge F, Ou Q, Dai Z, Dai Z. Neurexin dysfunction in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders: a PRIMSA-based systematic review through iPSC and animal models. Front Behav Neurosci 2024; 18:1297374. [PMID: 38380150 PMCID: PMC10876810 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2024.1297374] [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: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Neurexins, essential synaptic proteins, are linked to neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia. Objective Through this systematic review, we aimed to shed light on the relationship between neurexin dysfunction and its implications in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric manifestations. Both animal and human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) models served as our primary investigative platforms. Methods Utilizing the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, our search strategy involved scouring articles from the PubMed and Google Scholar databases covering a span of two decades (2003-2023). Of the initial collection, 27 rigorously evaluated studies formed the essence of our review. Results Our review suggested the significant ties between neurexin anomalies and neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, most notably ASD. Rodent-based investigations delineated pronounced ASD-associated behaviors, and hiPSC models derived from ASD-diagnosed patients revealed the disruptions in calcium dynamics and synaptic activities. Additionally, our review underlined the integral role of specific neurexin variants, primarily NRXN1, in the pathology of schizophrenia. It was also evident from our observation that neurexin malfunctions were implicated in a broader array of these disorders, including ADHD, intellectual challenges, and seizure disorders. Conclusion This review accentuates the cardinal role neurexins play in the pathological process of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. The findings underscore a critical need for standardized methodologies in developing animal and hiPSC models for future studies, aiming to minimize heterogeneity. Moreover, we highlight the need to expand research into less studied neurexin variants (i.e., NRXN2 and NRXN3), broadening the scope of our understanding in this field. Our observation also projects hiPSC models as potent tools for bridging research gaps, promoting translational research, and fostering the development of patient-specific therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Shan
- Department of Biobehavioral Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Yuming Song
- School of Medical Imaging, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yanyi Zhang
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheong Wong Ho
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Wenxin Xia
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Zhi Li
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Fenfen Ge
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland
| | - Qifeng Ou
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Zijie Dai
- Division of Biosciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zhihao Dai
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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5
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Mohrmann L, Seebach J, Missler M, Rohlmann A. Distinct Alterations in Dendritic Spine Morphology in the Absence of β-Neurexins. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1285. [PMID: 38279285 PMCID: PMC10817056 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021285] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines are essential for synaptic function because they constitute the postsynaptic compartment of the neurons that receives the most excitatory input. The extracellularly shorter variant of the presynaptic cell adhesion molecules neurexins, β-neurexin, has been implicated in various aspects of synaptic function, including neurotransmitter release. However, its role in developing or stabilizing dendritic spines as fundamental computational units of excitatory synapses has remained unclear. Here, we show through morphological analysis that the deletion of β-neurexins in hippocampal neurons in vitro and in hippocampal tissue in vivo affects presynaptic dense-core vesicles, as hypothesized earlier, and, unexpectedly, alters the postsynaptic spine structure. Specifically, we observed that the absence of β-neurexins led to an increase in filopodial-like protrusions in vitro and more mature mushroom-type spines in the CA1 region of adult knockout mice. In addition, the deletion of β-neurexins caused alterations in the spine head dimension and an increase in spines with perforations of their postsynaptic density but no changes in the overall number of spines or synapses. Our results indicate that presynaptic β-neurexins play a role across the synaptic cleft, possibly by aligning with postsynaptic binding partners and glutamate receptors via transsynaptic columns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Markus Missler
- Institute of Anatomy and Molecular Neurobiology, University Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (L.M.); (J.S.)
| | - Astrid Rohlmann
- Institute of Anatomy and Molecular Neurobiology, University Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany; (L.M.); (J.S.)
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Sindi IA. Implications of Cell Adhesion Molecules in Autism Spectrum Disorder Pathogenesis. J Microsc Ultrastruct 2023; 11:199-205. [PMID: 38213654 PMCID: PMC10779445 DOI: 10.4103/jmau.jmau_15_22] [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: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental illness that leads to repetitive behavior and debilitates social communication. Genetic changes such as susceptible genes and environmental factors promote ASD pathogenesis. Mutations in neuroligins (NLGNs) and neurexin (NRXNs) complex which encode cell adhesion molecules have a significant part in synapses formation, transcription, and excitatory-inhibitory balance. The ASD pathogenesis could partly, at the least, be related to synaptic dysfunction. Here, the NRXNs and NLGNs genes and signaling pathways involved in the synaptic malfunction that causes ASD have been reviewed. Besides, a new insight of NLGNs and NRXNs genes in ASD will be conferred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikhlas A. Sindi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Bay H, Haghighatfard A, Karimipour M, Seyedena SY, Hashemi M. Expression alteration of Neuroligin family gene in attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 139:104558. [PMID: 37285744 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2023.104558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopment disorder with social and communicational deficiency, language impairment, and ritualistic behaviors. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a pediatric psychiatric disorder with symptoms, including attention deficit, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. ADHD is a childhood-onset disorder that can persist into adult life. Neuroligins are post-synaptic cell-adhesion molecules that connect neurons and have an essential role in the mediation of trans-synaptic signaling and shaping the synapse and circuits and neural network functioning. AIMS Present study aimed to shed light on the role of the Neuroligin gene family in ASD and ADHD. METHODS AND PROCEDURES mRNA levels of the Neuroligin gene family (NLGN1, NLGN2, NLGN3, and NLGN4X) were studied in the peripheral blood of 450 unrelated ASD patients, 450 unrelated ADHD patients, and the normal group included 490 unrelated non-psychiatric children by quantitative PCR. Also, clinical situations were considered. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS Results showed that mRNA levels of NLGN1, NLGN2, and NLGN3 were significantly down-regulated in the ASD group vs. control subjects. In ADHD, a significant reduction of NLGN2 and NLGN3 was detected in comparison with normal children. A comparison of ASD and ADHD subjects revealed that NLGN2 was significantly down-regulated in ASD subjects. CONCLUSIONS The Neuroligin family gene may play an essential role in the etiology of ASD and ADHD and thus be a source for a better understanding of neurodevelopment disorders. IMPLICATIONS Similar patterns of deficiency of Neuroligin family genes in ASDs and ADHDs may indicate the role of these genes in functions that have been affected in both disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanie Bay
- Department of biology, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arvin Haghighatfard
- Department of biology, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Medical genetics, Tehran medical sciences branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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Li M, Usui N, Shimada S. Prenatal Sex Hormone Exposure Is Associated with the Development of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032203. [PMID: 36768521 PMCID: PMC9916422 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual differentiation is a major developmental process. Sex differences resulting from sexual differentiation have attracted the attention of researchers. Unraveling what contributes to and underlies sex differences will provide valuable insights into the development of neurodevelopmental disorders that exhibit sex biases. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual's social interaction and communication abilities, and its male preponderance has been consistently reported in clinical studies. The etiology of male preponderance remains unclear, but progress has been made in studying prenatal sex hormone exposure. The present review examined studies that focused on the association between prenatal testosterone exposure and ASD development, as well as sex-specific behaviors in individuals with ASD. This review also included studies on maternal immune activation-induced developmental abnormalities that also showed striking sex differences in offspring and discussed its possible interacting roles in ASD so as to present a potential approach for future studies on sex biases in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengwei Li
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Noriyoshi Usui
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Addiction Research Unit, Osaka Psychiatric Research Center, Osaka Psychiatric Medical Center, Osaka 541-8567, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-6-6879-3124
| | - Shoichi Shimada
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Addiction Research Unit, Osaka Psychiatric Research Center, Osaka Psychiatric Medical Center, Osaka 541-8567, Japan
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Hendam A, Al-Sadek AF, Hefny HA. Molecular Dynamic Simulation of Neurexin1α Mutations Associated with Mental Disorder. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:2252-2272. [PMID: 36197641 PMCID: PMC9532826 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-02072-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurexin1 gene is essential for formulating synaptic cell adhesion to establish synapses. In a previous work, 38 SNPs in Neurexin1 recoded in mental disorder patients have been collected. Five computational prediction tools have been used to predict the effect of SNPs on protein function and stability. Only four SNPs in Neurexin1α have deleterious prediction results from at least four tools. The current work aims to use molecular dynamic simulation (MD) to study the effects of the four mutations on Neurexin1α both on the whole protein as well as identifying affected domains by mutations. A protein model that consists of five domains out of six domains in the real protein was used; missing residues were added, and model was tested for quality. The MD experiment has last for 1.5 μs where four parameters have been used for studying the whole protein in addition to three more parameters for the domain analysis. The whole protein study has shown that two mutations E427I for Autism and R525C for non-syndromic intellectual disability (NSID) have distinctive behavior across the four used parameters. Domain study has confirmed the previous results where the five domains of R525C have acted differently from wild type (WT), while E427I has acted differently for four domains from wild type. The other two mutations D104H and G379E have three domains that only acted differently from wild type. The fourth domain of all mutations has an obvious distinctive behavior from wild type. Further study of E427I and R525C mutations can lead to better understanding of autism and NSID.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hesham Ahmed Hefny
- Faculty of Graduate Studies for Statistical Research, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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10
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Pinson A, Sevrin E, Chatzi C, Le Gac B, Thiry M, Westbrook GL, Parent AS. Induction of Oxidative Stress and Alteration of Synaptic Gene Expression in Newborn Hippocampal Granule Cells after Developmental Exposure to Aroclor 1254. Neuroendocrinology 2022; 113:1248-1261. [PMID: 36257292 PMCID: PMC10110769 DOI: 10.1159/000527576] [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: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hippocampal newborn neurons integrate into functional circuits where they play an important role in learning and memory. We previously showed that perinatal exposure to Aroclor 1254, a commercial mixture of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) associated with alterations of cognitive function in children, disrupted the normal maturation of excitatory synapses in the dentate gyrus. We hypothesized that hippocampal immature neurons underlie some of the cognitive effects of PCBs. METHODS We used newly generated neurons to examine the effects of PCBs in mice following maternal exposure. Newborn dentate granule cells were tagged with enhanced green fluorescent protein using a transgenic mouse line. The transcriptome of the newly generated granule cells was assessed using RNA sequencing. RESULTS Gestational and lactational exposure to 6 mg/kg/day of Aroclor 1254 disrupted the mRNA expression of 1,308 genes in newborn granule cells. Genes involved in mitochondrial functions were highly enriched with 154 genes significantly increased in exposed compared to control mice. The upregulation of genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation was accompanied by signs of endoplasmic reticulum stress and an increase in lipid peroxidation, a marker of oxidative stress, in the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus but not in mature granule cells in the granular zone. Aroclor 1254 exposure also disrupted the expression of synaptic genes. Using laser-captured subgranular and granular zones, this effect was restricted to the subgranular zone, where newborn neurons are located. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that gene expression in newborn granule cells is disrupted by Aroclor 1254 and provide clues to the effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneline Pinson
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA-Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Elena Sevrin
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA-Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Christina Chatzi
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Benjamin Le Gac
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA-Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marc Thiry
- Cellular and tissular biology, GIGA-Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Gary L Westbrook
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Anne-Simone Parent
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA-Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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11
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Iyshwarya B, Vajagathali M, Ramakrishnan V. Investigation of Genetic Polymorphism in Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Pathogenesis of the Neurodevelopmental Disorder. ADVANCES IN NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2022; 6:136-146. [DOI: 10.1007/s41252-022-00251-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
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12
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Levy KA, Weisz ED, Jongens TA. Loss of neurexin-1 in Drosophila melanogaster results in altered energy metabolism and increased seizure susceptibility. Hum Mol Genet 2022; 31:3422-3438. [PMID: 35617143 PMCID: PMC9558836 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddac115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Although autism is typically characterized by differences in language, social interaction and restrictive, repetitive behaviors, it is becoming more well known in the field that alterations in energy metabolism and mitochondrial function are comorbid disorders in autism. The synaptic cell adhesion molecule, neurexin-1 (NRXN1), has previously been implicated in autism, and here we show that in Drosophila melanogaster, the homologue of NRXN1, called Nrx-1, regulates energy metabolism and nutrient homeostasis. First, we show that Nrx-1-null flies exhibit decreased resistance to nutrient deprivation and heat stress compared to controls. Additionally, Nrx-1 mutants exhibit a significantly altered metabolic profile characterized by decreased lipid and carbohydrate stores. Nrx-1-null Drosophila also exhibit diminished levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), an important coenzyme in major energy metabolism pathways. Moreover, loss of Nrx-1 resulted in striking abnormalities in mitochondrial morphology in the flight muscle of Nrx-1-null Drosophila and impaired flight ability in these flies. Further, following a mechanical shock Nrx-1-null flies exhibited seizure-like activity, a phenotype previously linked to defects in mitochondrial metabolism and a common symptom of patients with NRXN1 deletions. The current studies indicate a novel role for NRXN1 in the regulation of energy metabolism and uncover a clinically relevant seizure phenotype in Drosophila lacking Nrx-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra A Levy
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Autism Spectrum Program of Excellence, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Eliana D Weisz
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Autism Spectrum Program of Excellence, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Thomas A Jongens
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Autism Spectrum Program of Excellence, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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13
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Sheibani V, Rajizadeh MA, Bejeshk MA, Haghparast E, Nozari M, Esmaeili-Mahani S, Nezhadi A. The effects of neurosteroid allopregnanolone on synaptic dysfunction in the hippocampus in experimental parkinsonism rats: An electrophysiological and molecular study. Neuropeptides 2022; 92:102229. [PMID: 35158223 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2022.102229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The dopaminergic system is a powerful candidate targeted for changes of synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. Higher incidence of Parkinson's disease (PD) in men than women indicates the influence of sex hormones on the PD development. Previous studies have shown that neurodegenerative diseases such as PD are related to the decline of Allopregnanolon (Allo), a metabolite of progesterone; it is also well known that learning and memory are influenced by oscillations in steroidal hormones. Although abnormalities in hippocampal plasticity have been observed in the toxic models of PD, effects of Allo on hippocampal LTP and hippocampal synaptic protein levels, which play an important role in maintaining the integrity of neural connections, have never been analyzed thus far. Experimental groups subjected to the long-term potentiation (LTP) were studied in the CA1 area of the hippocampus. In addition, the levels of hippocampal postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95), neurexin-1 (Nrxn1) and neuroligin (Nlgn) as synaptic molecular components were determined by immunoblotting. Although dopamine denervation did not alter basal synaptic transmission and pair-pulse facilitation of field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs), the induction and maintenance of LTP were impaired in the CA1 region. In addition, the levels of PSD-95, Nrxn1 and Nlgn were significantly decreased in the hippocampus of 6-OHDA-treated animals. Such abnormalities in synaptic electrophysiological aspects and protein levels were abolished by the treatment with Allo. These findings showed that partial dopamine depletion led to unusual synaptic plasticity in the CA1 as well as the decrease in synaptic proteins in the hippocampus. Our results demonstrated that Allo ameliorated these deficits and preserved pre- and post-synaptic proteins. Therefore, Allo may be an effective factor in maintaining synaptic integrity in the mesolimbic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Sheibani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Rajizadeh
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abbas Bejeshk
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Elham Haghparast
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Nozari
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Saeed Esmaeili-Mahani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Akram Nezhadi
- Trauma Research Center, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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14
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Al Dera H. Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorders and associated comorbidities: A pathophysiological review. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 148:112688. [PMID: 35149383 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders that develop in early life due to interaction between several genetic and environmental factors and lead to alterations in brain function and structure. During the last decades, several mechanisms have been placed to explain the pathogenesis of autism. Unfortunately, these are reported in several studies and reviews which make it difficult to follow by the reader. In addition, some recent molecular mechanisms related to ASD have been unrevealed. This paper revises and highlights the major common molecular mechanisms responsible for the clinical symptoms seen in people with ASD, including the roles of common genetic factors and disorders, neuroinflammation, GABAergic signaling, and alterations in Ca+2 signaling. Besides, it covers the major molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways involved in initiating the epileptic seizure, including the alterations in the GABAergic and glutamate signaling, vitamin and mineral deficiency, disorders of metabolism, and autoimmunity. Finally, this review also discusses sleep disorder patterns and the molecular mechanisms underlying them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussain Al Dera
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine at King Saud, Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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15
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Liu W, Li L, Xia X, Zhou X, Du Y, Yin Z, Wang J. Integration of Urine Proteomic and Metabolomic Profiling Reveals Novel Insights Into Neuroinflammation in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:780747. [PMID: 35615451 PMCID: PMC9124902 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.780747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comprises a group of neurodevelopmental disorders whose etiology and pathogenesis are not fully understood. To gain insight into the molecular basis of ASD, we performed comparative integrated proteomic and metabolomic analyses of urine samples from children diagnosed with ASD and healthy children. All 160 samples underwent proteomics analysis and 60 were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to obtain metabolite profiles. We identified 77 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs; 21 downregulated and 56 upregulated) and 277 differentially expressed metabolites; 31 of the DEPs including glutathione, leukocyte antigens, glycoproteins, neural adhesion factors, and immunoglobulins, have been implicated in neuroinflammation. The proteomic analysis also revealed 8 signaling pathways that were significantly dysregulated in ASD patients; 3 of these (transendothelial leukocyte migration, antigen processing and presentation, and graft vs. host disease) were associated with the neuroimmune response. The metabolism of tryptophan, which is also related to the neuroimmune response, has been found to play a potential role in ASD. Integrated proteome and metabolome analysis showed that 6 signaling pathways were significantly enriched in ASD patients, 3 of which were correlated with impaired neuroinflammation (glutathione metabolism, metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450 and transendothelial migration of leukocyte). We also found a correlation between prostaglandin (PG) E2 levels and the inflammatory response in ASD. These results underscore the prominent role of the neuroimmune response in ASD and provide potential biomarkers that can be used for diagnosis or as targets for early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Liu
- Department of Child Development and Behavior, School of Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Liming Li
- Department of Public Health and Medical Technology, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaochun Xia
- Department of Public Health and Medical Technology, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Xulan Zhou
- Department of Public Health and Medical Technology, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Yukai Du
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhaoqing Yin
- Division of Neonatology, The People's Hospital of Dehong Autonomous Prefecture, Mangshi, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Public Health and Medical Technology, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
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16
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Current knowledge, challenges, new perspectives of the study, and treatments of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 106:82-93. [PMID: 34695561 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.10.010] [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] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Over the past 70 years, the understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) improved greatly and is characterized as a heterogeneous neuropsychiatric syndrome. ASD is characterized by difficulties in social communication, restricted and repetitive behavior, interests, or activities. And it is often described as a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. There are many treatments and approaches to ASD, including pharmacological therapies with antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood regulators, stimulants, and behavioral ones. However, no treatment is capable of reverting ASD. This review provides an overview of animal models of autism. We summarized genetic and environmental models and then valproic acid treatment as a useful model for ASD. As well as the main therapies and approaches used in the treatment, relating them to the neurochemical pathways altered in ASD, emphasizing the pharmacological potential of peptides and bioinspired compounds found in animal venoms as a possible future treatment for ASD.
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17
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Rodriguez-Gomez DA, Garcia-Guaqueta DP, Charry-Sánchez JD, Sarquis-Buitrago E, Blanco M, Velez-van-Meerbeke A, Talero-Gutiérrez C. A systematic review of common genetic variation and biological pathways in autism spectrum disorder. BMC Neurosci 2021; 22:60. [PMID: 34627165 PMCID: PMC8501721 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-021-00662-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction. Common genetic variation appears to play a key role in the development of this condition. In this systematic review, we describe the relationship between genetic variations and autism. We created a gene dataset of the genes involved in the pathogenesis of autism and performed an over-representation analysis to evaluate the biological functions and molecular pathways that may explain the associations between these variants and the development of ASD. Results 177 studies and a gene set composed of 139 were included in this qualitative systematic review. Enriched pathways in the over-representation analysis using the KEGG pathway database were mostly associated with neurotransmitter receptors and their subunits. Major over-represented biological processes were social behavior, vocalization behavior, learning and memory. The enriched cellular component of the proteins encoded by the genes identified in this systematic review were the postsynaptic membrane and the cell junction. Conclusions Among the biological processes that were examined, genes involved in synaptic integrity, neurotransmitter metabolism, and cell adhesion molecules were significantly involved in the development of autism. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12868-021-00662-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Alejandro Rodriguez-Gomez
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Danna Paola Garcia-Guaqueta
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Jesús David Charry-Sánchez
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Elias Sarquis-Buitrago
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Mariana Blanco
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Alberto Velez-van-Meerbeke
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia.,NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Claudia Talero-Gutiérrez
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia. .,NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia.
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18
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Motz CT, Kabat V, Saxena T, Bellamkonda RV, Zhu C. Neuromechanobiology: An Expanding Field Driven by the Force of Greater Focus. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2100102. [PMID: 34342167 PMCID: PMC8497434 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202100102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The brain processes information by transmitting signals through highly connected and dynamic networks of neurons. Neurons use specific cellular structures, including axons, dendrites and synapses, and specific molecules, including cell adhesion molecules, ion channels and chemical receptors to form, maintain and communicate among cells in the networks. These cellular and molecular processes take place in environments rich of mechanical cues, thus offering ample opportunities for mechanical regulation of neural development and function. Recent studies have suggested the importance of mechanical cues and their potential regulatory roles in the development and maintenance of these neuronal structures. Also suggested are the importance of mechanical cues and their potential regulatory roles in the interaction and function of molecules mediating the interneuronal communications. In this review, the current understanding is integrated and promising future directions of neuromechanobiology are suggested at the cellular and molecular levels. Several neuronal processes where mechanics likely plays a role are examined and how forces affect ligand binding, conformational change, and signal induction of molecules key to these neuronal processes are indicated, especially at the synapse. The disease relevance of neuromechanobiology as well as therapies and engineering solutions to neurological disorders stemmed from this emergent field of study are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara T Motz
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
| | - Victoria Kabat
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
| | - Tarun Saxena
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Ravi V Bellamkonda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Cheng Zhu
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
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19
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Parcerisas A, Ortega-Gascó A, Pujadas L, Soriano E. The Hidden Side of NCAM Family: NCAM2, a Key Cytoskeleton Organization Molecule Regulating Multiple Neural Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10021. [PMID: 34576185 PMCID: PMC8471948 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although it has been over 20 years since Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule 2 (NCAM2) was identified as the second member of the NCAM family with a high expression in the nervous system, the knowledge of NCAM2 is still eclipsed by NCAM1. The first studies with NCAM2 focused on the olfactory bulb, where this protein has a key role in axonal projection and axonal/dendritic compartmentalization. In contrast to NCAM1, NCAM2's functions and partners in the brain during development and adulthood have remained largely unknown until not long ago. Recent studies have revealed the importance of NCAM2 in nervous system development. NCAM2 governs neuronal morphogenesis and axodendritic architecture, and controls important neuron-specific processes such as neuronal differentiation, synaptogenesis and memory formation. In the adult brain, NCAM2 is highly expressed in dendritic spines, and it regulates synaptic plasticity and learning processes. NCAM2's functions are related to its ability to adapt to the external inputs of the cell and to modify the cytoskeleton accordingly. Different studies show that NCAM2 interacts with proteins involved in cytoskeleton stability and proteins that regulate calcium influx, which could also modify the cytoskeleton. In this review, we examine the evidence that points to NCAM2 as a crucial cytoskeleton regulation protein during brain development and adulthood. This key function of NCAM2 may offer promising new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of neurodevelopmental diseases and neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoni Parcerisas
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (A.O.-G.); (L.P.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, 08195 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
| | - Alba Ortega-Gascó
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (A.O.-G.); (L.P.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lluís Pujadas
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (A.O.-G.); (L.P.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Soriano
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (A.O.-G.); (L.P.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
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20
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Shiota Y, Matsudaira I, Takeuchi H, Ono C, Tomita H, Kawashima R, Taki Y. The influence of NRXN1 on systemizing and the brain structure in healthy adults. Brain Imaging Behav 2021; 16:692-701. [PMID: 34529206 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-021-00530-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Certain behavioral characteristics of autism spectrum disorder can be found in otherwise healthy people. Individuals with difficulties in social adaptation may have subclinical autistic traits; however, effective biomarkers of these traits have not yet been established. There is a dire need for objective indices of these traits that combine behavior, brain images, and genetic information. In this study, we examined the association among a single nucleotide polymorphism of NRXN1 (rs858932; C/G), autistic traits, and brain structure in 311 healthy adults. We found that carriers of minor alleles (carriers of the G-allele) had significantly higher systemizing scores than major-allele (C-allele) homozygotes. Furthermore, the regional white matter volume in the right anterior limb of the internal capsule was significantly greater in carriers of the G-allele than in C-allele homozygotes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of NRXN1 rs858932 being involved in systemizing and the brain structure of healthy adults. Our findings provide insight into the effects of genetics on autistic traits and their respective neural substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Shiota
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiology, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Izumi Matsudaira
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Hikaru Takeuchi
- Division of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Chiaki Ono
- Department of Disaster Psychiatry, International Research Institute of Disaster Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tomita
- Department of Disaster Psychiatry, International Research Institute of Disaster Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ryuta Kawashima
- Division of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Advanced Brain Science, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Smart-Aging Research Center, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Taki
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiology, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Smart-Aging Research Center, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
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21
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Srancikova A, Bacova Z, Bakos J. The epigenetic regulation of synaptic genes contributes to the etiology of autism. Rev Neurosci 2021; 32:791-802. [PMID: 33939901 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms greatly affect the developing brain, as well as the maturation of synapses with pervasive, long-lasting consequences on behavior in adults. Substantial evidence exists that implicates dysregulation of epigenetic mechanisms in the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Therefore, this review explains the role of enzymes involved in DNA methylation and demethylation in neurodevelopment by emphasizing changes of synaptic genes and proteins. Epigenetic causes of sex-dependent differences in the brain are analyzed in conjunction with the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders. Special attention is devoted to the epigenetic regulation of the melanoma-associated antigen-like gene 2 (MAGEL2) found in Prader-Willi syndrome, which is known to be accompanied by autistic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Srancikova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Bacova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jan Bakos
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
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22
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The role of GABAergic signalling in neurodevelopmental disorders. Nat Rev Neurosci 2021; 22:290-307. [PMID: 33772226 PMCID: PMC9001156 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-021-00443-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
GABAergic inhibition shapes the connectivity, activity and plasticity of the brain. A series of exciting new discoveries provides compelling evidence that disruptions in a number of key facets of GABAergic inhibition have critical roles in the aetiology of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). These facets include the generation, migration and survival of GABAergic neurons, the formation of GABAergic synapses and circuit connectivity, and the dynamic regulation of the efficacy of GABAergic signalling through neuronal chloride transporters. In this Review, we discuss recent work that elucidates the functions and dysfunctions of GABAergic signalling in health and disease, that uncovers the contribution of GABAergic neural circuit dysfunction to NDD aetiology and that leverages such mechanistic insights to advance precision medicine for the treatment of NDDs.
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23
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Yagishita-Kyo N, Ikai Y, Uekita T, Shinohara A, Koshimoto C, Yoshikawa K, Maruyama K, Yagishita S. Testosterone interrupts binding of Neurexin and Neuroligin that are expressed in a highly socialized rodent, Octodon degus. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 551:54-62. [PMID: 33721831 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Octodon degus is said to be one of the most human-like rodents because of its improved cognitive function. Focusing on its high sociality, we cloned and characterized some sociality-related genes of degus, in order to establish degus as a highly socialized animal model in molecular biology. We cloned degus Neurexin and Neuroligin as sociality-related genes, which are genetically related to autism spectrum disorder in human. According to our results, amino acid sequences of Neurexin and Neuroligin expressed in degus brain, are highly conserved to that of human sequences. Most notably, degus Neuroligin4 is highly similar to human Neuroligin4X, which is one of the most important autism-related genes, whereas mouse Neuroligin4 is known to be poorly similar to human Neuroligin4X. Furthermore, our work also indicated that testosterone directly binds to degus Neurexin and intercepts intercellular Neurexin-Neuroligin binding. Moreover, it is of high interest that testosterone is another key molecule of the higher incidence of autism in male. These results indicated that degus has the potential for animal model of sociality, and furthermore may promote understanding toward the pathogenic mechanism of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Yagishita-Kyo
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 38 Moro-hongo, Moroyama-machi, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan.
| | - Yuki Ikai
- Division of Bio-Resources, Department of Biotechnology, Frontier Science Research Center, University of Miyazaki, 5200 Kihara, Kiyotake-cho, Miyazaki-shi, Miyazaki, 889-1692, Japan
| | - Tomoko Uekita
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kyoto Tachibana University, 34 Yamada-cho, Oyake, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, 607-8175, Japan
| | - Akio Shinohara
- Division of Bio-Resources, Department of Biotechnology, Frontier Science Research Center, University of Miyazaki, 5200 Kihara, Kiyotake-cho, Miyazaki-shi, Miyazaki, 889-1692, Japan
| | - Chihiro Koshimoto
- Division of Bio-Resources, Department of Biotechnology, Frontier Science Research Center, University of Miyazaki, 5200 Kihara, Kiyotake-cho, Miyazaki-shi, Miyazaki, 889-1692, Japan
| | - Keisuke Yoshikawa
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 38 Moro-hongo, Moroyama-machi, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
| | - Kei Maruyama
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 38 Moro-hongo, Moroyama-machi, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
| | - Sosuke Yagishita
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, 38 Moro-hongo, Moroyama-machi, Iruma-gun, Saitama, 350-0495, Japan
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24
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Tromp A, Mowry B, Giacomotto J. Neurexins in autism and schizophrenia-a review of patient mutations, mouse models and potential future directions. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:747-760. [PMID: 33191396 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-00944-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the family of neurexins (NRXN1, NRXN2 and NRXN3) have been repeatedly identified in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia (SCZ). However, it remains unclear how these DNA variants affect neurexin functions and thereby predispose to these neurodevelopmental disorders. Understanding both the wild-type and pathologic roles of these genes in the brain could help unveil biological mechanisms underlying mental disorders. In this regard, numerous studies have focused on generating relevant loss-of-function (LOF) mammalian models. Although this has increased our knowledge about their normal functions, the potential pathologic role(s) of these human variants remains elusive. Indeed, after reviewing the literature, it seems apparent that a traditional LOF-genetic approach based on complete LOF might not be sufficient to unveil the role of these human mutations. First, these genes present a very complex transcriptome and total-LOF of all isoforms may not be the cause of toxicity in patients, particularly given evidence that causative variants act through haploinsufficiency. Moreover, human DNA variants may not all lead to LOF but potentially to intricate transcriptome changes that could also include the generation of aberrant isoforms acting as a gain-of-function (GOF). Furthermore, their transcriptomic complexity most likely renders them prone to genetic compensation when one tries to manipulate them using traditional site-directed mutagenesis approaches, and this could act differently from model to model leading to heterogeneous and conflicting phenotypes. This review compiles the relevant literature on variants identified in human studies and on the mouse models currently deployed, and offers suggestions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisha Tromp
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Bryan Mowry
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Jean Giacomotto
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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25
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Enriquez KD, Gupta AR, Hoffman EJ. Signaling Pathways and Sex Differential Processes in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:716673. [PMID: 34690830 PMCID: PMC8531220 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.716673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders associated with deficits in social communication and restrictive, repetitive patterns of behavior, that affect up to 1 in 54 children. ASDs clearly demonstrate a male bias, occurring ~4 times more frequently in males than females, though the basis for this male predominance is not well-understood. In recent years, ASD risk gene discovery has accelerated, with many whole-exome sequencing studies identifying genes that converge on common pathways, such as neuronal communication and regulation of gene expression. ASD genetics studies have suggested that there may be a "female protective effect," such that females may have a higher threshold for ASD risk, yet its etiology is not well-understood. Here, we review common biological pathways implicated by ASD genetics studies as well as recent analyses of sex differential processes in ASD using imaging genomics, transcriptomics, and animal models. Additionally, we discuss recent investigations of ASD risk genes that have suggested a potential role for estrogens as modulators of biological pathways in ASD, and highlight relevant molecular and cellular pathways downstream of estrogen signaling as potential avenues for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen D Enriquez
- Program on Neurogenetics, Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Abha R Gupta
- Program on Neurogenetics, Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.,Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Ellen J Hoffman
- Program on Neurogenetics, Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States.,Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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26
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Zhang J, Ma X, Su Y, Wang L, Shang S, Yue W. Association Study of MTHFR C677T Polymorphism and Birth Body Mass With Risk of Autism in Chinese Han Population. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:560948. [PMID: 33716803 PMCID: PMC7947295 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.560948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To explore the association of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism with birth body mass and risk of autism in Chinese Han population. Methods: A total 1,505 Chinese Han autism patients were recruited, using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th revised version (DSM-IV-R) diagnostic criteria for autism, and 1,308 sex-matched healthy controls were also enrolled for the study. All the participants' birth body masses were counted according to the medical records. The MTHFR C677T genotypes were detected using the polymerase chain reaction-restrict fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. The association between C677T polymorphism, birth body mass, and risk of autism were analyzed using the chi-square tests. Results: The present study found that the MTHFR 677T was significantly associated with risk of autism [P = 0.004, odds ratio (OR) = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.02-1.29). The autism children more frequently showed low birth body mass (<2.5 kg) than healthy control subjects (8.6 vs. 5.3%, P = 0.001, OR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.24-2.26). The interactive effects between MTHFR 677T and low birth body mass (P = 0.0001, OR = 2.18, 95% CI = 1.44-3.32) were also significantly associated with risk of autism. Conclusions: The MTHFR C677T polymorphism and low birth body mass may be associated with risk of autism in Chinese Han population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jishui Zhang
- Department of Mental Health, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Xueqian Ma
- School of Nursing & Sixth Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Peking University Sixth Hospital, Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Mood Cognitive Disorder (2018RU006), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Su
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Mood Cognitive Disorder (2018RU006), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lifang Wang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Mood Cognitive Disorder (2018RU006), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shaomei Shang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Weihua Yue
- School of Nursing & Sixth Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Peking University Sixth Hospital, Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Mood Cognitive Disorder (2018RU006), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
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27
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Trobiani L, Meringolo M, Diamanti T, Bourne Y, Marchot P, Martella G, Dini L, Pisani A, De Jaco A, Bonsi P. The neuroligins and the synaptic pathway in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 119:37-51. [PMID: 32991906 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The genetics underlying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is complex and heterogeneous, and de novo variants are found in genes converging in functional biological processes. Neuronal communication, including trans-synaptic signaling involving two families of cell-adhesion proteins, the presynaptic neurexins and the postsynaptic neuroligins, is one of the most recurrently affected pathways in ASD. Given the role of these proteins in determining synaptic function, abnormal synaptic plasticity and failure to establish proper synaptic contacts might represent mechanisms underlying risk of ASD. More than 30 mutations have been found in the neuroligin genes. Most of the resulting residue substitutions map in the extracellular, cholinesterase-like domain of the protein, and impair protein folding and trafficking. Conversely, the stalk and intracellular domains are less affected. Accordingly, several genetic animal models of ASD have been generated, showing behavioral and synaptic alterations. The aim of this review is to discuss the current knowledge on ASD-linked mutations in the neuroligin proteins and their effect on synaptic function, in various brain areas and circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Trobiani
- Dept. Biology and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Meringolo
- Lab. Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy; Dept. Systems Medicine, University Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Tamara Diamanti
- Dept. Biology and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Yves Bourne
- Lab. "Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques", CNRS/Aix Marseille Univ, Faculté des Sciences - Campus Luminy, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille cedex 09, France
| | - Pascale Marchot
- Lab. "Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques", CNRS/Aix Marseille Univ, Faculté des Sciences - Campus Luminy, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille cedex 09, France
| | - Giuseppina Martella
- Lab. Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy; Dept. Systems Medicine, University Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Luciana Dini
- Dept. Biology and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Pisani
- Lab. Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy; Dept. Systems Medicine, University Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella De Jaco
- Dept. Biology and Biotechnology, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Paola Bonsi
- Lab. Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy.
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Mariano V, Achsel T, Bagni C, Kanellopoulos AK. Modelling Learning and Memory in Drosophila to Understand Intellectual Disabilities. Neuroscience 2020; 445:12-30. [PMID: 32730949 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) include a large number of conditions such as Fragile X syndrome, autism spectrum disorders and Down syndrome, among others. They are characterized by limitations in adaptive and social behaviors, as well as intellectual disability (ID). Whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing studies have highlighted a large number of NDD/ID risk genes. To dissect the genetic causes and underlying biological pathways, in vivo experimental validation of the effects of these mutations is needed. The fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, is an ideal model to study NDDs, with highly tractable genetics, combined with simple behavioral and circuit assays, permitting rapid medium-throughput screening of NDD/ID risk genes. Here, we review studies where the use of well-established assays to study mechanisms of learning and memory in Drosophila has permitted insights into molecular mechanisms underlying IDs. We discuss how technologies in the fly model, combined with a high degree of molecular and physiological conservation between flies and mammals, highlight the Drosophila system as an ideal model to study neurodevelopmental disorders, from genetics to behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Mariano
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland; Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Tilmann Achsel
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Bagni
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1005, Switzerland; Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome 00133, Italy.
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Bonnycastle K, Davenport EC, Cousin MA. Presynaptic dysfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders: Insights from the synaptic vesicle life cycle. J Neurochem 2020; 157:179-207. [PMID: 32378740 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The activity-dependent fusion, retrieval and recycling of synaptic vesicles is essential for the maintenance of neurotransmission. Until relatively recently it was believed that most mutations in genes that were essential for this process would be incompatible with life, because of this fundamental role. However, an ever-expanding number of mutations in this very cohort of genes are being identified in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism, intellectual disability and epilepsy. This article will summarize the current state of knowledge linking mutations in presynaptic genes to neurodevelopmental disorders by sequentially covering the various stages of the synaptic vesicle life cycle. It will also discuss how perturbations of specific stages within this recycling process could translate into human disease. Finally, it will also provide perspectives on the potential for future therapy that are targeted to presynaptic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Bonnycastle
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Elizabeth C Davenport
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Michael A Cousin
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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30
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Park DI. Genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and big data analysis in the discovery of new diagnostic markers and targets for therapy development. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2020; 173:61-90. [PMID: 32711818 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Highly complex endophenotypes and underlying molecular mechanisms have prevented effective diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder. Despite extensive studies to identify relevant biosignatures, no biomarker and therapeutic targets are available in the current clinical practice. While our current knowledge is still largely incomplete, -omics technology and machine learning-based big data analysis have provided novel insights on the etiology of autism spectrum disorders, elucidating systemic impairments that can be translated into biomarker and therapy target candidates. However, more integrated and sophisticated approaches are vital to realize molecular stratification and individualized treatment strategy. Ultimately, systemic approaches based on -omics and big data analysis will significantly contribute to more effective biomarker and therapy development for autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Ik Park
- Danish Research Institute of Translational Neuroscience (DANDRITE)-Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; The Danish National Research Foundation Center, PROMEMO, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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31
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The role of neuroglia in autism spectrum disorders. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2020; 173:301-330. [PMID: 32711814 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Neuroglia are a large class of neural cells of ectodermal (astroglia, oligodendroglia, and peripheral glial cells) and mesodermal (microglia) origin. Neuroglial cells provide homeostatic support, protection, and defense to the nervous tissue. Pathological potential of neuroglia has been acknowledged since their discovery. Research of the recent decade has shown the key role of all classes of glial cells in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), although molecular mechanisms defining glial contribution to ASD are yet to be fully characterized. This narrative conceptualizes recent findings of the broader roles of glial cells, including their active participation in the control of cerebral environment and regulation of synaptic development and scaling, highlighting their putative involvement in the etiopathogenesis of ASD.
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32
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NEXMIF/KIDLIA Knock-out Mouse Demonstrates Autism-Like Behaviors, Memory Deficits, and Impairments in Synapse Formation and Function. J Neurosci 2019; 40:237-254. [PMID: 31704787 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0222-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disability that demonstrates impaired social interactions, communication deficits, and restrictive and repetitive behaviors. ASD has a strong genetic basis and many ASD-associated genes have been discovered thus far. Our previous work has shown that loss of expression of the X-linked gene NEXMIF/KIDLIA is implicated in patients with autistic features and intellectual disability (ID). To further determine the causal role of the gene in the disorder, and to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the pathology, we have generated a NEXMIF knock-out (KO) mouse. We find that male NEXMIF KO mice demonstrate reduced sociability and communication, elevated repetitive grooming behavior, and deficits in learning and memory. Loss of NEXMIF/KIDLIA expression results in a significant decrease in synapse density and synaptic protein expression. Consistently, male KO animals show aberrant synaptic function as measured by excitatory miniatures and postsynaptic currents in the hippocampus. These findings indicate that NEXMIF KO mice recapitulate the phenotypes of the human disorder. The NEXMIF KO mouse model will be a valuable tool for studying the complex mechanisms involved in ASD and for the development of novel therapeutics for this disorder.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by behavioral phenotypes. Based on our previous work, which indicated the loss of NEXMIF/KIDLIA was associated with ASD, we generated NEXMIF knock-out (KO) mice. The NEXMIF KO mice demonstrate autism-like behaviors including deficits in social interaction, increased repetitive self-grooming, and impairments in communication and in learning and memory. The KO neurons show reduced synapse density and a suppression in synaptic transmission, indicating a role for NEXMIF in regulating synapse development and function. The NEXMIF KO mouse faithfully recapitulates the human disorder, and thus serves as an animal model for future investigation of the NEXMIF-dependent neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Hu Z, Xiao X, Zhang Z, Li M. Genetic insights and neurobiological implications from NRXN1 in neuropsychiatric disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2019; 24:1400-1414. [PMID: 31138894 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-019-0438-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Many neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders commonly share genetic risk factors. To date, the mechanisms driving the pathogenesis of these disorders, particularly how genetic variations affect the function of risk genes and contribute to disease symptoms, remain largely unknown. Neurexins are a family of synaptic adhesion molecules, which play important roles in the formation and establishment of synaptic structure, as well as maintenance of synaptic function. Accumulating genomic findings reveal that genetic variations within genes encoding neurexins are associated with a variety of psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, and some developmental abnormalities. In this review, we focus on NRXN1, one of the most compelling psychiatric risk genes of the neurexin family. We performed a comprehensive survey and analysis of current genetic and molecular data including both common and rare alleles within NRXN1 associated with psychiatric illnesses, thus providing insights into the genetic risk conferred by NRXN1. We also summarized the neurobiological evidences, supporting the function of NRXN1 and its protein products in synaptic formation, organization, transmission and plasticity, as well as disease-relevant behaviors, and assessed the mechanistic link between the mutations of NRXN1 and synaptic and behavioral pathology in neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghua Hu
- Institute of Molecular Precision Medicine and Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,Center for Medical Genetics and Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,Department of Psychiatry, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,National Clinical Research Center on Mental Disorders, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhuohua Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Precision Medicine and Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Center for Medical Genetics and Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ming Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China. .,CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
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34
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Tong DL, Chen RG, Lu YL, Li WK, Zhang YF, Lin JK, He LJ, Dang T, Shan SF, Xu XH, Zhang Y, Zhang C, Du YS, Zhou WH, Wang X, Qiu Z. The critical role of ASD-related gene CNTNAP3 in regulating synaptic development and social behavior in mice. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 130:104486. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.104486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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35
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Meng X, McGraw CM, Wang W, Jing J, Yeh SY, Wang L, Lopez J, Brown AM, Lin T, Chen W, Xue M, Sillitoe RV, Jiang X, Zoghbi HY. Neurexophilin4 is a selectively expressed α-neurexin ligand that modulates specific cerebellar synapses and motor functions. eLife 2019; 8:e46773. [PMID: 31524598 PMCID: PMC6763262 DOI: 10.7554/elife.46773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurexophilins are secreted neuropeptide-like glycoproteins, and neurexophilin1 and neurexophilin3 are ligands for the presynaptic cell adhesion molecule α-neurexin. Neurexophilins are more selectively expressed in the brain than α-neurexins, however, which led us to ask whether neurexophilins modulate the function of α-neurexin in a context-specific manner. We characterized the expression and function of neurexophilin4 in mice and found it to be expressed in subsets of neurons responsible for feeding, emotion, balance, and movement. Deletion of Neurexophilin4 caused corresponding impairments, most notably in motor learning and coordination. We demonstrated that neurexophilin4 interacts with α-neurexin and GABAARs in the cerebellum. Loss of Neurexophilin4 impaired cerebellar Golgi-granule inhibitory neurotransmission and synapse number, providing a partial explanation for the motor learning and coordination deficits observed in the Neurexophilin4 null mice. Our data illustrate how selectively expressed Neurexophilin4, an α-neurexin ligand, regulates specific synapse function and modulates cerebellar motor control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangling Meng
- Department of NeuroscienceBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
| | - Christopher M McGraw
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- Program in Developmental BiologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Wei Wang
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human GeneticsBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Junzhan Jing
- Department of NeuroscienceBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
| | - Szu-Ying Yeh
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- Program in Developmental BiologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Li Wang
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human GeneticsBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Joanna Lopez
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human GeneticsBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Amanda M Brown
- Department of NeuroscienceBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- Department of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Tao Lin
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- Department of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Wu Chen
- Department of NeuroscienceBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- The Cain Foundation LaboratoriesJan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
| | - Mingshan Xue
- Department of NeuroscienceBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- Program in Developmental BiologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human GeneticsBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- The Cain Foundation LaboratoriesJan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
| | - Roy V Sillitoe
- Department of NeuroscienceBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- Program in Developmental BiologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Xiaolong Jiang
- Department of NeuroscienceBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
| | - Huda Y Zoghbi
- Department of NeuroscienceBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s HospitalHoustonUnited States
- Program in Developmental BiologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human GeneticsBaylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
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36
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Mané-Damas M, Hoffmann C, Zong S, Tan A, Molenaar PC, Losen M, Martinez-Martinez P. Autoimmunity in psychotic disorders. Where we stand, challenges and opportunities. Autoimmun Rev 2019; 18:102348. [PMID: 31323365 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2019.102348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Psychotic disorders are debilitating mental illnesses associated with abnormalities in various neurotransmitter systems. The development of disease-modifing therapies has been hampered by the mostly unknown etiologies and pathophysiologies. Autoantibodies against several neuronal antigens are responsible for autoimmune encephalitis. These autoantibodies disrupt neurotransmission within the brain, resulting in a wide range of psychiatric and neurologic manifestations, including psychosis. The overlap of symptoms of autoimmune encephalitis with psychotic disorders raised the question as to whether autoantibodies against a number of receptors, ion channel and associated proteins could ultimately be responsible for some forms of psychosis. Here we review our current knowledge, on antibody mediated autoimmunity in psychotic disorders, the different diagnostic methods and their limitations, as well as on varying therapeutic approaches targeting the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Mané-Damas
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Carolin Hoffmann
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Shenghua Zong
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Amanda Tan
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Peter C Molenaar
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Mario Losen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Pilar Martinez-Martinez
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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37
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Di Nanni N, Bersanelli M, Cupaioli FA, Milanesi L, Mezzelani A, Mosca E. Network-Based Integrative Analysis of Genomics, Epigenomics and Transcriptomics in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E3363. [PMID: 31323926 PMCID: PMC6651137 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20133363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Current studies suggest that autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) may be caused by many genetic factors. In fact, collectively considering multiple studies aimed at characterizing the basic pathophysiology of ASDs, a large number of genes has been proposed. Addressing the problem of molecular data interpretation using gene networks helps to explain genetic heterogeneity in terms of shared pathways. Besides, the integrative analysis of multiple omics has emerged as an approach to provide a more comprehensive view of a disease. In this work, we carry out a network-based meta-analysis of the genes reported as associated with ASDs by studies that involved genomics, epigenomics, and transcriptomics. Collectively, our analysis provides a prioritization of the large number of genes proposed to be associated with ASDs, based on genes' relevance within the intracellular circuits, the strength of the supporting evidence of association with ASDs, and the number of different molecular alterations affecting genes. We discuss the presence of the prioritized genes in the SFARI (Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative) database and in gene networks associated with ASDs by other investigations. Lastly, we provide the full results of our analyses to encourage further studies on common targets amenable to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Di Nanni
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, Italian National Research Council, Via Fratelli Cervi 93, 20090 Segrate (MI), Italy
- Department of Industrial and Information Engineering, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Bersanelli
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Via B. Pichat 6/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy
- National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN), 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Anna Cupaioli
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, Italian National Research Council, Via Fratelli Cervi 93, 20090 Segrate (MI), Italy
| | - Luciano Milanesi
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, Italian National Research Council, Via Fratelli Cervi 93, 20090 Segrate (MI), Italy
| | - Alessandra Mezzelani
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, Italian National Research Council, Via Fratelli Cervi 93, 20090 Segrate (MI), Italy
| | - Ettore Mosca
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, Italian National Research Council, Via Fratelli Cervi 93, 20090 Segrate (MI), Italy.
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38
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Feng X, Hao X, Xin R, Gao X, Liu M, Li F, Wang Y, Shi R, Zhao S, Zhou F. Detecting Methylomic Biomarkers of Pediatric Autism in the Peripheral Blood Leukocytes. Interdiscip Sci 2019; 11:237-246. [DOI: 10.1007/s12539-019-00328-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2018] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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La Barbera L, Vedele F, Nobili A, D'Amelio M, Krashia P. Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Functional Role of Ambra1 in Autism and Schizophrenia. Mol Neurobiol 2019; 56:6716-6724. [PMID: 30915711 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-019-1557-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The activating molecule in Beclin-1-regulated autophagy (Ambra1) is a highly intrinsically disordered protein best known for its role as a mediator in autophagy, by favoring the formation of autophagosomes. Additional studies have revealed that Ambra1 is able to coordinate cell responses to stress conditions such as starvation, and it actively participates in cell proliferation, cytoskeletal modification, apoptosis, mitochondria removal, and cell cycle downregulation. All these functions highlight the importance of Ambra1 in crucial physiological events, including metabolism, cell death, and cell division. Importantly, Ambra1 is also crucial for proper embryonic development, and its complete absence in knock-out animal models leads to severe brain morphology defects. In line with this, it has recently been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders affecting humans, particularly autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. Here, we discuss the recent links between Ambra1 and neurodevelopment, particularly focusing on its role during the maturation of hippocampal parvalbumin interneurons and its importance for maintaining a proper excitation/inhibition balance in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia La Barbera
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Francescangelo Vedele
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Nobili
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Unit of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Medicine, University Campus-Biomedico, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello D'Amelio
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy. .,Unit of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Medicine, University Campus-Biomedico, Rome, Italy.
| | - Paraskevi Krashia
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy. .,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy.
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40
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Pirone A, Alexander JM, Koenig JB, Cook-Snyder DR, Palnati M, Wickham RJ, Eden L, Shrestha N, Reijmers L, Biederer T, Miczek KA, Dulla CG, Jacob MH. Social Stimulus Causes Aberrant Activation of the Medial Prefrontal Cortex in a Mouse Model With Autism-Like Behaviors. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2018; 10:35. [PMID: 30369876 PMCID: PMC6194190 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2018.00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly prevalent and genetically heterogeneous brain disorder. Developing effective therapeutic interventions requires knowledge of the brain regions that malfunction and how they malfunction during ASD-relevant behaviors. Our study provides insights into brain regions activated by a novel social stimulus and how the activation pattern differs between mice that display autism-like disabilities and control littermates. Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) conditional knockout (cKO) mice display reduced social interest, increased repetitive behaviors and dysfunction of the β-catenin pathway, a convergent target of numerous ASD-linked human genes. Here, we exposed the mice to a novel social vs. non-social stimulus and measured neuronal activation by immunostaining for the protein c-Fos. We analyzed three brain regions known to play a role in social behavior. Compared with control littermates, APC cKOs display excessive activation, as evidenced by an increased number of excitatory pyramidal neurons stained for c-Fos in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), selectively in the infralimbic sub-region. In contrast, two other social brain regions, the medial amygdala and piriform cortex show normal levels of neuron activation. Additionally, APC cKOs exhibit increased frequency of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) in layer 5 pyramidal neurons of the infralimbic sub-region. Further, immunostaining is reduced for the inhibitory interneuron markers parvalbumin (PV) and somatostatin (SST) in the APC cKO mPFC. Our findings suggest aberrant excitatory-inhibitory balance and activation patterns. As β-catenin is a core pathway in ASD, we identify the infralimbic sub-region of the mPFC as a critical brain region for autism-relevant social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Pirone
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jonathan M Alexander
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jenny B Koenig
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Denise R Cook-Snyder
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Medha Palnati
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Robert J Wickham
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lillian Eden
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Neha Shrestha
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Leon Reijmers
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Thomas Biederer
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Klaus A Miczek
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Chris G Dulla
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Michele H Jacob
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
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41
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Fernandez BA, Scherer SW. Syndromic autism spectrum disorders: moving from a clinically defined to a molecularly defined approach. DIALOGUES IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2018. [PMID: 29398931 PMCID: PMC5789213 DOI: 10.31887/dcns.2017.19.4/sscherer] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a group of neurodevelopmental conditions diagnosed solely on the basis of behavioral assessments that reveal social deficits. Progress has been made in understanding its genetic underpinnings, but most ASD-associated genetic variants, which include copy number variants (CNVs) and mutations in ASD-risk genes, account for no more than 1 % of ASD cases. This high level of genetic heterogeneity leads to challenges obtaining and interpreting genetic testing in clinical settings. The traditional definition of syndromic ASD is a disorder with a clinically defined pattern of somatic abnormalities and a neurobehavioral phenotype that may include ASD. Most have a known genetic cause. Examples include fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis complex. We propose dividing syndromic autism into the following two groups: (i) ASD that occurs in the context of a clinically defined syndrome-recognizing these disorders depends on the familiarity of the clinician with the features of the syndrome, and the diagnosis is typically confirmed by targeted genetic testing (eg, mutation screening of FMR1); (ii) ASD that occurs as a feature of a molecularly defined syndrome-for this group of patients, ASD-associated variants are identified by genome-wide testing that is not hypothesis driven (eg, microarray, whole exome sequencing). These ASD groups cannot be easily clinically defined because patients with a given variant have variable somatic abnormalities (dysmorphism and birth defects). In this article, we review common diagnoses from the above categories and suggest a testing strategy for patients, guided by determining whether the individual has essential or complex ASD; patients in the latter group have multiple morphologic anomalies on physical examination. Finally, we recommend that the syndromic versus nonsyndromic designation ultimately be replaced by classification of ASD according to its genetic etiology, which will inform about the associated spectrum and penetrance of neurobehavioral and somatic manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget A Fernandez
- Disciplines of Genetics and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, NL Canada
| | - Stephen W Scherer
- The Center for Applied Genomics and Program in Genetics and Genomic Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; McLaughlin Center and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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42
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Yuan H, Wang Q, Liu Y, Yang W, He Y, Gusella JF, Song J, Shen Y. A rare exonic NRXN3 deletion segregating with neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions in a three-generation Chinese family. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2018; 177:589-595. [PMID: 30076746 PMCID: PMC6445570 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Members of the neurexin gene family, neurexin 1 (NRXN1), neurexin 2 (NRXN2), and neurexin 3 (NRXN3) encode important components of synaptic function implicated in autism and other neurodevelopmental/neuropsychiatric disorders. Loss of function variants have been reported predominantly in NRXN1, with fewer such variants detected in NRXN2 and NRXN3. Evidence for segregating NRNX3 variants has particularly been lacking. Here, we report identification by chromosomal microarray analysis of a rare exonic deletion affecting the NRXN3 alpha isoform in a three-generation Chinese family. The proband, a 7-year-old boy, presented with motor and language delay and met the clinical diagnostic criteria for autism. He also presented with moderate intellectual disability, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and facial dysmorphic features. The mother and maternal grandfather, both deletion carriers, presented with variable degrees of language and communication difficulties, as well as neuropsychiatric problems such as schizophrenia and temper tantrums. A compilation of sporadic cases with deletions involving part or all of NRXN3 revealed that 9 of 23 individuals (39%) displayed features of autism. The evidence for cosegregation in our family further supports a role for NRXN3 in autism and neurodevelopmental/neuropsychiatric disorders but demonstrates intrafamily variable expressivity due to this NRXN3 deletion, with schizophrenia and facial dysmorphism being potential novel features of NRXN3 haploinsufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiming Yuan
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital. Dongguan 523120, China
- Dongguan Institute of Reproductive and Genetic Research. Dongguan 523120, China
| | - Qingming Wang
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital. Dongguan 523120, China
| | - Yanhui Liu
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital. Dongguan 523120, China
- Dongguan Institute of Reproductive and Genetic Research. Dongguan 523120, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital. Dongguan 523120, China
| | - Yi He
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital. Dongguan 523120, China
| | - James F. Gusella
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jiage Song
- Fengcheng No.1 High School. Liaoning 118100, China
| | - Yiping Shen
- Genetic and Metabolic Central Laboratory, Birth Defect Prevention Research Institute, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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43
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Joensuu M, Lanoue V, Hotulainen P. Dendritic spine actin cytoskeleton in autism spectrum disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 84:362-381. [PMID: 28870634 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic spines are small actin-rich protrusions from neuronal dendrites that form the postsynaptic part of most excitatory synapses. Changes in the shape and size of dendritic spines correlate with the functional changes in excitatory synapses and are heavily dependent on the remodeling of the underlying actin cytoskeleton. Recent evidence implicates synapses at dendritic spines as important substrates of pathogenesis in neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although synaptic perturbations are not the only alterations relevant for these diseases, understanding the molecular underpinnings of the spine and synapse pathology may provide insight into their etiologies and could reveal new drug targets. In this review, we will discuss recent findings of defective actin regulation in dendritic spines associated with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merja Joensuu
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, 00290 Helsinki, Finland; Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia; Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Vanessa Lanoue
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia; Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Pirta Hotulainen
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, 00290 Helsinki, Finland.
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44
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Tordjman S, Cohen D, Anderson G, Botbol M, Canitano R, Coulon N, Roubertoux P. Repint of “Reframing autism as a behavioral syndrome and not a specific mental disorder: Implications of genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity”. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 89:132-150. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 12/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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45
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Xing G, Li M, Sun Y, Rui M, Zhuang Y, Lv H, Han J, Jia Z, Xie W. Neurexin-Neuroligin 1 regulates synaptic morphology and functions via the WAVE regulatory complex in Drosophila neuromuscular junction. eLife 2018. [PMID: 29537369 PMCID: PMC5873926 DOI: 10.7554/elife.30457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroligins are postsynaptic adhesion molecules that are essential for postsynaptic specialization and synaptic function. But the underlying molecular mechanisms of neuroligin functions remain unclear. We found that Drosophila Neuroligin 1 (DNlg1) regulates synaptic structure and function through WAVE regulatory complex (WRC)-mediated postsynaptic actin reorganization. The disruption of DNlg1, DNlg2, or their presynaptic partner neurexin (DNrx) led to a dramatic decrease in the amount of F-actin. Further study showed that DNlg1, but not DNlg2 or DNlg3, directly interacts with the WRC via its C-terminal interacting receptor sequence. That interaction is required to recruit WRC to the postsynaptic membrane to promote F-actin assembly. Furthermore, the interaction between DNlg1 and the WRC is essential for DNlg1 to rescue the morphological and electrophysiological defects in dnlg1 mutants. Our results reveal a novel mechanism by which the DNrx-DNlg1 trans-synaptic interaction coordinates structural and functional properties at the neuromuscular junction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanglin Xing
- Institute of Life Sciences, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Moyi Li
- Institute of Life Sciences, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yichen Sun
- Institute of Life Sciences, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Menglong Rui
- Institute of Life Sciences, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Zhuang
- Institute of Life Sciences, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huihui Lv
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junhai Han
- Institute of Life Sciences, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Zhengping Jia
- Institute of Life Sciences, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Neurosciences and Mental Health Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wei Xie
- Institute of Life Sciences, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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46
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Wnt/β-catenin signaling stimulates the expression and synaptic clustering of the autism-associated Neuroligin 3 gene. Transl Psychiatry 2018; 8:45. [PMID: 29503438 PMCID: PMC5835496 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-018-0093-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 09/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Synaptic abnormalities have been described in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The cell-adhesion molecule Neuroligin-3 (Nlgn3) has an essential role in the function and maturation of synapses and NLGN3 ASD-associated mutations disrupt hippocampal and cortical function. Here we show that Wnt/β-catenin signaling increases Nlgn3 mRNA and protein levels in HT22 mouse hippocampal cells and primary cultures of rat hippocampal neurons. We characterized the activity of mouse and rat Nlgn3 promoter constructs containing conserved putative T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancing factor (TCF/LEF)-binding elements (TBE) and found that their activity is significantly augmented in Wnt/β-catenin cell reporter assays. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays and site-directed mutagenesis experiments revealed that endogenous β-catenin binds to novel TBE consensus sequences in the Nlgn3 promoter. Moreover, activation of the signaling cascade increased Nlgn3 clustering and co- localization with the scaffold PSD-95 protein in dendritic processes of primary neurons. Our results directly link Wnt/β-catenin signaling to the transcription of the Nlgn3 gene and support a functional role for the signaling pathway in the dysregulation of excitatory/inhibitory neuronal activity, as is observed in animal models of ASD.
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47
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Fakhoury M. Imaging genetics in autism spectrum disorders: Linking genetics and brain imaging in the pursuit of the underlying neurobiological mechanisms. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 80:101-114. [PMID: 28322981 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) include a wide range of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental conditions that affect an individual in several aspects of social communication and behavior. Recent advances in molecular genetic technologies have dramatically increased our understanding of ASD etiology through the identification of several autism risk genes, most of which serve important functions in synaptic plasticity and protein synthesis. However, despite significant progress in this field of research, the characterization of the neurobiological mechanisms by which common genetic risk variants might operate to give rise to ASD symptomatology has proven to be far more difficult than expected. The imaging genetics approach holds great promise for advancing our understanding of ASD etiology by bridging the gap between genetic variations and their resultant biological effects on the brain. This paper provides a conceptual overview of the contribution of genetics in ASD and discusses key findings from the emerging field of imaging genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3J7, Canada.
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48
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Kasem E, Kurihara T, Tabuchi K. Neurexins and neuropsychiatric disorders. Neurosci Res 2017; 127:53-60. [PMID: 29221905 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2017.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Neurexins are a family of presynaptic single-pass transmembrane proteins that act as synaptic organizers in mammals. The neurexins consist of three genes (NRXN1, NRXN2, and NRXN3), each of which produces a longer α- and shorter β-form. Genomic alterations in NRXN genes have been identified in a wide variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorders (ASD), schizophrenia, intellectual disability (ID), and addiction. Remarkably, a bi-allelic deficiency of NRXN1 was recently linked to Pitt-Hopkins syndrome. The fact that some mono-allelic functional variants of NRXNs are also found in healthy controls indicates that other genetic or environmental factors affect the penetrance of NRXN deficiency. In this review, we summarize the common research methods and representative results of human genetic studies that have implicated NRXN variants in various neuropsychiatric disorders. We also summarize studies of rodent models with NRXN deficiencies that complement our knowledge of human genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enas Kasem
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto, 390-8621 Japan
| | - Taiga Kurihara
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto, 390-8621 Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Tabuchi
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto, 390-8621 Japan; Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research, Shinshu University, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan.
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49
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Gilbert J, Man HY. Fundamental Elements in Autism: From Neurogenesis and Neurite Growth to Synaptic Plasticity. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:359. [PMID: 29209173 PMCID: PMC5701944 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of neurodevelopmental disorders with a high prevalence and impact on society. ASDs are characterized by deficits in both social behavior and cognitive function. There is a strong genetic basis underlying ASDs that is highly heterogeneous; however, multiple studies have highlighted the involvement of key processes, including neurogenesis, neurite growth, synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. In this review article, we focus on the major genes and signaling pathways implicated in ASD and discuss the cellular, molecular and functional studies that have shed light on common dysregulated pathways using in vitro, in vivo and human evidence. HighlightsAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a prevalence of 1 in 68 children in the United States. ASDs are highly heterogeneous in their genetic basis. ASDs share common features at the cellular and molecular levels in the brain. Most ASD genes are implicated in neurogenesis, structural maturation, synaptogenesis and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Gilbert
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Heng-Ye Man
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
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Schmeisser K, Parker JA. Worms on the spectrum - C. elegans models in autism research. Exp Neurol 2017; 299:199-206. [PMID: 28434869 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2017.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The small non-parasitic nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is widely used in neuroscience thanks to its well-understood development and lineage of the nervous system. Furthermore, C. elegans has been used to model many human developmental and neurological conditions to better understand disease mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic strategies. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the most prevalent of all neurodevelopmental disorders, and the C. elegans system may provide opportunities to learn more about this complex disorder. Since basic cell biology and biochemistry of the C. elegans nervous system is generally very similar to mammals, cellular or molecular phenotypes can be investigated, along with a repertoire of behaviours. For instance, worms have contributed greatly to the understanding of mechanisms underlying mutations in genes coding for synaptic proteins such as neuroligin and neurexin. Using worms to model neurodevelopmental disorders like ASD is an emerging topic that harbours great, untapped potential. This review summarizes the numerous contributions of C. elegans to the field of neurodevelopment and introduces the nematode system as a potential research tool to study essential roles of genes associated with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Schmeisser
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montreál (CRCHUM), 900 St-Denis Street, Montreál, Queb́ec H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - J Alex Parker
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montreál (CRCHUM), 900 St-Denis Street, Montreál, Queb́ec H2X 0A9, Canada; Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montreál, 2960 Chemin de la Tour, Montreál, Queb́ec H3T 1J4, Canada.
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