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Shi HZ, Wang YJ, Wang YX, Xu LF, Pan W, Shi L, Wang J. The potential benefits of PGC-1α in treating Alzheimer's disease are dependent on the integrity of the LLKYL L3 motif: Effect of regulating mitochondrial axonal transportation. Exp Gerontol 2024; 194:112514. [PMID: 38971132 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2024.112514] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a prominent hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The transcriptional coactivator PPARγ coactivator 1 (PGC-1a) has been identified as a key regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis and function. However, the precise structure/function relationship between PGC-1a and mitochondrial quality control remains incompletely understood. In this study, we investigated the impact of PGC-1a on AD pathology and its underlying mechanisms with a specific focus on mitochondrial axonal transport. Additionally, we generated two PGC-1α mutants by substituting leucine residues at positions 148 and 149 within the LKKLL motif or at positions 209 and 210 within the LLKYL motif with alanine. Subsequently, we examined the effects of these mutants on mutAPP-induced abnormalities in anterograde and retrograde axonal transport, disrupted mitochondrial distribution, and impaired mitophagy. Mutagenesis studies revealed that the LLKYL motif at amino acid position 209-210 within PGC-1α plays an essential role in its interaction with estrogen-related receptors (ERRα), which is necessary for restoring normal mitochondrial anterograde axonal transport, maintaining proper mitochondrial distribution, and ultimately preventing neuronal apoptosis. Furthermore, it was found that the Leu-rich motif at amino acids 209-210 within PGC-1α is crucial for rescuing mutAPP-induced impairment in mitophagy and loss of membrane potential by restoring normal mitochondrial retrograde axonal transport. Conversely, mutation of residues 148 and 149 in the LKKLL motif does not compromise the effectiveness of PGC-1α. These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular determinants governing specificity of action for PGC-1α involved in regulating mutAPP-induced deficits in mitochondrial axonal trafficking. Moreover, they suggest a potential therapeutic target for addressing Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hou-Zhen Shi
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province 212001, PR China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province 212013, PR China
| | - Yi-Jie Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province 212013, PR China
| | - Yu-Xin Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province 212013, PR China
| | - Long-Fei Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province 212013, PR China
| | - Wen Pan
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province 212001, PR China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province 212013, PR China
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province 212013, PR China.
| | - Jia Wang
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province 212001, PR China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province 212013, PR China; Zhenjiang Jieshengrui Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, PR China.
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Pszczołowska M, Walczak K, Miśków W, Mroziak M, Chojdak-Łukasiewicz J, Leszek J. Mitochondrial disorders leading to Alzheimer's disease-perspectives of diagnosis and treatment. GeroScience 2024; 46:2977-2988. [PMID: 38457008 PMCID: PMC11009177 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-024-01118-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder and the most common cause of dementia globally. The pathogenesis of AD remains still unclear. The three main features of AD are extracellular deposits of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque, accumulation of abnormal formation hyper-phosphorylated tau protein, and neuronal loss. Mitochondrial impairment plays an important role in the pathogenesis of AD. There are problems with decreased activity of multiple complexes, disturbed mitochondrial fusion, and fission or formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, mitochondrial transport is impaired in AD. Mouse models in many research show disruptions in anterograde and retrograde transport. Both mitochondrial transportation and network impairment have a huge impact on synapse loss and, as a result, cognitive impairment. One of the very serious problems in AD is also disruption of insulin signaling which impairs mitochondrial Aβ removal.Discovering precise mechanisms leading to AD enables us to find new treatment possibilities. Recent studies indicate the positive influence of metformin or antioxidants such as MitoQ, SS-31, SkQ, MitoApo, MitoTEMPO, and MitoVitE on mitochondrial functioning and hence prevent cognitive decline. Impairments in mitochondrial fission may be treated with mitochondrial division inhibitor-1 or ceramide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kamil Walczak
- Faculty of Medicine, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Weronika Miśków
- Faculty of Medicine, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | | | - Jerzy Leszek
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Medical Department, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
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Rajendran K, Krishnan UM. Mechanistic insights and emerging therapeutic stratagems for Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 97:102309. [PMID: 38615895 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102309] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a multi-factorial neurodegenerative disorder has affected over 30 million individuals globally and these numbers are expected to increase in the coming decades. Current therapeutic interventions are largely ineffective as they focus on a single target. Development of an effective drug therapy requires a deep understanding of the various factors influencing the onset and progression of the disease. Aging and genetic factors exert a major influence on the development of AD. Other factors like post-viral infections, iron overload, gut dysbiosis, and vascular dysfunction also exacerbate the onset and progression of AD. Further, post-translational modifications in tau, DRP1, CREB, and p65 proteins increase the disease severity through triggering mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic loss, and differential interaction of amyloid beta with different receptors leading to impaired intracellular signalling. With advancements in neuroscience tools, new inter-relations that aggravate AD are being discovered including pre-existing diseases and exposure to other pathogens. Simultaneously, new therapeutic strategies involving modulation of gene expression through targeted delivery or modulation with light, harnessing the immune response to promote clearance of amyloid deposits, introduction of stem cells and extracellular vesicles to replace the destroyed neurons, exploring new therapeutic molecules from plant, marine and biological sources delivered in the free state or through nanoparticles and use of non-pharmacological interventions like music, transcranial stimulation and yoga. Polypharmacology approaches involving combination of therapeutic agents are also under active investigation for superior therapeutic outcomes. This review elaborates on various disease-causing factors, their underlying mechanisms, the inter-play between different disease-causing players, and emerging therapeutic options including those under clinical trials, for treatment of AD. The challenges involved in AD therapy and the way forward have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayalvizhi Rajendran
- School of Chemical & Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu 613401, India; Centre for Nanotechnology & Advanced Biomaterials, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu 613401, India
| | - Uma Maheswari Krishnan
- School of Chemical & Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu 613401, India; Centre for Nanotechnology & Advanced Biomaterials, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu 613401, India; School of Arts, Sciences, Humanities & Education, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu 613401, India.
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Mohanad M, Mohamed SK, Aboulhoda BE, Ahmed MAE. Neuroprotective effects of vitamin D in an Alzheimer's disease rat model: Improvement of mitochondrial dysfunction via calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase 2 activation of Sirtuin1 phosphorylation. Biofactors 2024; 50:371-391. [PMID: 37801071 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is an early event in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. To assess the impact of vitamin D3 (Vit.D) on neurogenesis, we investigated its role in mitigating cognitive impairment and mitochondrial dysfunction through calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CAMKK2)-mediated phosphorylation of Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) in an aluminum-chloride-D-galactose (AlCl3-D-gal)-induced AD rat model. Rats were distributed into four groups: control, AlCl3 + D-gal (10 + 60 mg/kg, ip), Vit.D (500 IU/kg, po), and AlCl3 + D-gal+Vit.D. Novel object recognition (NOR), Morris Water Maze, and passive avoidance (PA) tests were used to measure memory abilities. The hippocampal tissue was used to assess vitamin D3 receptor (VDR) and peroxisome-proliferator-activated-receptor-γ-coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) expression by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), CAMKK2, p-SIRT1, phosphorylated-AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK), dynamin-related-protein-1 (Drp1), and mitofusin-1 (Mnf1) proteins by western blot and Ca2+ levels, endothelial nitic oxide synthase (eNOS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), amyloid beta (Aβ), and phospho tau (p-Tau) via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) in addition to histological and ultrastructural examination of rat's brain tissue. Vit.D-attenuated hippocampal injury reversed the cognitive decline and Aβ aggregation, and elevated p-Tau levels in the AlCl3 + D-gal-induced AD rat model. In AlCl3 + D-gal-exposed rats, Vit.D induced VDR expression, normalized Ca2+ levels, elevated CAMKK2, p-AMPK, p-SIRT1, and PGC-1α expression. Vit.D reduced Drp1, induced Mnf1, increased mitochondrial membrane potential, preserved mitochondrial structure, restored normal mitochondrial function, and retained normal eNOS level and SOD activity in AlCl3 + D-gal rats. In conclusion, our findings proved that Vit.D may ameliorate cognitive deficits in AlCl3 + D-gal-induced AD by restoring normal mitochondrial function and reducing inflammatory and oxidative stress via CAMKK2-AMPK/SIRT1 pathway upregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Mohanad
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Manufacturing, Misr University for Science and Technology (MUST), Giza, Egypt
| | - Shimaa K Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Basma E Aboulhoda
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maha A E Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Manufacturing, Misr University for Science and Technology (MUST), Giza, Egypt
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Qian L, Zhu Y, Deng C, Liang Z, Chen J, Chen Y, Wang X, Liu Y, Tian Y, Yang Y. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1 (PGC-1) family in physiological and pathophysiological process and diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:50. [PMID: 38424050 PMCID: PMC10904817 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01756-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1 (PGC-1) family (PGC-1s), consisting of three members encompassing PGC-1α, PGC-1β, and PGC-1-related coactivator (PRC), was discovered more than a quarter-century ago. PGC-1s are essential coordinators of many vital cellular events, including mitochondrial functions, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis, and inflammation. Accumulating evidence has shown that PGC-1s are implicated in many diseases, such as cancers, cardiac diseases and cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, kidney diseases, motor system diseases, and metabolic disorders. Examining the upstream modulators and co-activated partners of PGC-1s and identifying critical biological events modulated by downstream effectors of PGC-1s contribute to the presentation of the elaborate network of PGC-1s. Furthermore, discussing the correlation between PGC-1s and diseases as well as summarizing the therapy targeting PGC-1s helps make individualized and precise intervention methods. In this review, we summarize basic knowledge regarding the PGC-1s family as well as the molecular regulatory network, discuss the physio-pathological roles of PGC-1s in human diseases, review the application of PGC-1s, including the diagnostic and prognostic value of PGC-1s and several therapies in pre-clinical studies, and suggest several directions for future investigations. This review presents the immense potential of targeting PGC-1s in the treatment of diseases and hopefully facilitates the promotion of PGC-1s as new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Qian
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Research for Heart Failure, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Yanli Zhu
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Research for Heart Failure, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Chao Deng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Zhenxing Liang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe East, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Junmin Chen
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Research for Heart Failure, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Yanqing Liu
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Research for Heart Failure, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710021, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Research for Heart Failure, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710021, China.
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Research for Heart Failure, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China.
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6
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The Vitamin D Receptor as a Potential Target for the Treatment of Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases Such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases: A Narrative Review. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040660. [PMID: 36831327 PMCID: PMC9954016 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The vitamin D receptor (VDR) belongs to the nuclear receptor superfamily of transcription factors. The VDR is expressed in diverse brain regions and has been implicated in the neuroprotective, antiaging, prosurvival, and anti-inflammatory action of vitamin D. Accordingly, a relationship between vitamin D insufficiency and susceptibility to neurodegenerative diseases has been suggested. However, due to the multitargeted mechanisms of vitamin D and its often overlapping genomic and nongenomic effects, the role of the VDR in brain pathologies remains obscure. In this narrative review, we present progress in deciphering the molecular mechanism of nuclear VDR-mediated vitamin D effects on prosurvival and anti-inflammatory signaling pathway activity within the central nervous system. In line with the concept of the neurovascular unit in pathomechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, a discussion of the role of the VDR in regulating the immune and vascular brain systems is also included. Next, we discuss the results of preclinical and clinical studies evaluating the significance of vitamin D status and the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in the treatment of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, emphasizing the possible role of the VDR in these phenomena. Finally, the associations of some VDR polymorphisms with higher risks and severity of these neurodegenerative disorders are briefly summarized.
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Gezen-Ak D, Dursun E. Vitamin D, a Secosteroid Hormone and Its Multifunctional Receptor, Vitamin D Receptor, in Alzheimer's Type Neurodegeneration. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 95:1273-1299. [PMID: 37661883 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin D is a secosteroid hormone exerting neurosteroid-like properties. Its well-known nuclear hormone receptor, and recently proposed as a mitochondrial transcription factor, vitamin D receptor, acts for its primary functions. The second receptor is an endoplasmic reticulum protein, protein disulfide isomerase A3 (PDIA3), suggested to act as a rapid response. Vitamin D has effects on various systems, particularly through calcium metabolism. Among them, the nervous system has an important place in the context of our subject. Recent studies have shown that vitamin D and its receptors have numerous effects on the nervous system. Neurodegeneration is a long-term process. Throughout a human life span, so is vitamin D deficiency. Our previous studies and others have suggested that the out-come of long-term vitamin D deficiency (hypovitaminosis D or inefficient utilization of vitamin D), may lead neurons to be vulnerable to aging and neurodegeneration. We suggest that keeping vitamin D levels at adequate levels at all stages of life, considering new approaches such as agonists that can activate vitamin D receptors, and utilizing other derivatives produced in the synthesis process with UVB are crucial when considering vitamin D-based intervention studies. Given most aspects of vitamin D, this review outlines how vitamin D and its receptors work and are involved in neurodegeneration, emphasizing Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Gezen-Ak
- Department of Neuroscience, Brain and Neurodegenerative Disorders Research Laboratories, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Erdinc Dursun
- Department of Neuroscience, Brain and Neurodegenerative Disorders Research Laboratories, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
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Wang Q, Adil MZ, Xie X, Zhao S, Zhang J, Huang Z. Therapeutic targeting of mitochondria–proteostasis axis by antioxidant polysaccharides in neurodegeneration. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 37437985 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2023.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a major risk factor for many age-associated disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. Both mitochondrial dysfunction and proteostatic decline are well-recognized hallmarks of aging and age-related neurodegeneration. Despite a lack of therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, a number of interventions promoting mitochondrial integrity and protein homeostasis (proteostasis) have been shown to delay aging-associated neurodegeneration. For example, many antioxidant polysaccharides are shown to have pharmacological potentials in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases through regulation of mitochondrial and proteostatic pathways, including oxidative stress and heat shock responses. However, how mitochondrial and proteostatic mechanisms work together to exert the antineurodegenerative effect of the polysaccharides remains largely unexplored. Interestingly, recent studies have provided a growing body of evidence to support the crosstalk between mitostatic and proteostatic networks as well as the impact of the crosstalk on neurodegeneration. Here we summarize the recent progress of antineurodegenerative polysaccharides with particular attention in the mitochondrial and proteostatic context and provide perspectives on their implications in the crosstalk along the mitochondria-proteostasis axis.
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Wang J, Liu WJ, Shi HZ, Zhai HR, Qian JJ, Zhang WN. A Role for PGC-1a in the Control of Abnormal Mitochondrial Dynamics in Alzheimer’s Disease. Cells 2022; 11:cells11182849. [PMID: 36139423 PMCID: PMC9496770 DOI: 10.3390/cells11182849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that the proper control of mitochondrial dynamics provides a window for therapeutic intervention for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) progression. The transcriptional coactivator peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 (PGC-1a) has been shown to regulate mitochondrial biogenesis in neurons. Thus far, the roles of PGC-1a in Alzheimer’s disease and its potential value for restoring mitochondrial dysfunction remain largely unknown. In the present study, we explored the impacts of PGC-1a on AD pathology and neurobehavioral dysfunction and its potential mechanisms with a particular focus on mitochondrial dynamics. Paralleling AD-related pathological deposits, neuronal apoptosis, abnormal mitochondrial dynamics and lowered membrane potential, a remarkable reduction in the expression of PGC-1a was shown in the cortex of APP/PS1 mice at 6 months of age. By infusing AAV-Ppargc1α into the lateral parietal association (LPtA) cortex of the APP/PS1 brain, we found that PGC-1a ameliorated AD-like behavioral abnormalities, such as deficits in spatial reference memory, working memory and sensorimotor gating. Notably, overexpressed PGC-1a in LPtA rescued mitochondrial swelling and damage in neurons, likely through correcting the altered balance in mitochondrial fission–fusion and its abnormal distribution. Our findings support the notion that abnormal mitochondrial dynamics is likely an important mechanism that leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and AD-related pathological and cognitive impairments, and they indicate the potential value of PGC-1a for restoring mitochondrial dynamics as an innovative therapeutic target for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wang
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- Correspondence: (J.W.); (W.-N.Z.)
| | - Wen-Jun Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Hou-Zhen Shi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Hong-Ru Zhai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Jin-Jun Qian
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Wei-Ning Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- Correspondence: (J.W.); (W.-N.Z.)
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Litwiniuk A, Baranowska-Bik A, Domańska A, Kalisz M, Bik W. Contribution of Mitochondrial Dysfunction Combined with NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in Selected Neurodegenerative Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14121221. [PMID: 34959622 PMCID: PMC8703835 DOI: 10.3390/ph14121221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease are the most common forms of neurodegenerative illnesses. It has been widely accepted that neuroinflammation is the key pathogenic mechanism in neurodegeneration. Both mitochondrial dysfunction and enhanced NLRP3 (nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor protein 3) inflammasome complex activity have a crucial role in inducing and sustaining neuroinflammation. In addition, mitochondrial-related inflammatory factors could drive the formation of inflammasome complexes, which are responsible for the activation, maturation, and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18). The present review includes a broadened approach to the role of mitochondrial dysfunction resulting in abnormal NLRP3 activation in selected neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, we also discuss the potential mitochondria-focused treatments that could influence the NLRP3 complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Litwiniuk
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Marymoncka 99/103, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland; (A.L.); (A.D.); (M.K.); (W.B.)
| | - Agnieszka Baranowska-Bik
- Department of Endocrinology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Cegłowska 80, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Anita Domańska
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Marymoncka 99/103, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland; (A.L.); (A.D.); (M.K.); (W.B.)
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Kalisz
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Marymoncka 99/103, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland; (A.L.); (A.D.); (M.K.); (W.B.)
| | - Wojciech Bik
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Marymoncka 99/103, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland; (A.L.); (A.D.); (M.K.); (W.B.)
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Disentangling Mitochondria in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111520. [PMID: 34768950 PMCID: PMC8583788 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major cause of dementia in older adults and is fast becoming a major societal and economic burden due to an increase in life expectancy. Age seems to be the major factor driving AD, and currently, only symptomatic treatments are available. AD has a complex etiology, although mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic abnormalities have been widely and deeply investigated as plausible mechanisms for its neuropathology. Aβ plaques and hyperphosphorylated tau aggregates, along with cognitive deficits and behavioral problems, are the hallmarks of the disease. Restoration of mitochondrial bioenergetics, prevention of oxidative stress, and diet and exercise seem to be effective in reducing Aβ and in ameliorating learning and memory problems. Many mitochondria-targeted antioxidants have been tested in AD and are currently in development. However, larger streamlined clinical studies are needed to provide hard evidence of benefits in AD. This review discusses the causative factors, as well as potential therapeutics employed in the treatment of AD.
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Repurposing Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Agonists in Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14101025. [PMID: 34681249 PMCID: PMC8538250 DOI: 10.3390/ph14101025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Common pathophysiological mechanisms have emerged for different neurological and neuropsychiatric conditions. In particular, mechanisms of oxidative stress, immuno-inflammation, and altered metabolic pathways converge and cause neuronal and non-neuronal maladaptative phenomena, which underlie multifaceted brain disorders. The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors modulating, among others, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective genes in diverse tissues. Both endogenous and synthetic PPAR agonists are approved treatments for metabolic and systemic disorders, such as diabetes, fatty liver disease, and dyslipidemia(s), showing high tolerability and safety profiles. Considering that some PPAR-acting drugs permeate through the blood-brain barrier, the possibility to extend their scope from the periphery to central nervous system has gained interest in recent years. Here, we review preclinical and clinical evidence that PPARs possibly exert a neuroprotective role, thereby providing a rationale for repurposing PPAR-targeting drugs to counteract several diseases affecting the central nervous system.
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Mota BC, Sastre M. The Role of PGC1α in Alzheimer's Disease and Therapeutic Interventions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115769. [PMID: 34071270 PMCID: PMC8198456 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor co-activator-1α (PGC1α) belongs to a family of transcriptional regulators, which act as co-activators for a number of transcription factors, including PPARs, NRFs, oestrogen receptors, etc. PGC1α has been implicated in the control of mitochondrial biogenesis, the regulation of the synthesis of ROS and inflammatory cytokines, as well as genes controlling metabolic processes. The levels of PGC1α have been shown to be altered in neurodegenerative disorders. In the brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and animal models of amyloidosis, PGC1α expression was reduced compared with healthy individuals. Recently, it was shown that overexpression of PGC1α resulted in reduced amyloid-β (Aβ) generation, particularly by regulating the expression of BACE1, the rate-limiting enzyme involved in the production of Aβ. These results provide evidence pointing toward PGC1α activation as a new therapeutic avenue for AD, which has been supported by the promising observations of treatments with drugs that enhance the expression of PGC1α and gene therapy studies in animal models of AD. This review summarizes the different ways and mechanisms whereby PGC1α can be neuroprotective in AD and the pre-clinical treatments that have been explored so far.
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