1
|
Li JZ, Ramalingam N, Li S. Targeting epigenetic mechanisms in amyloid-β-mediated Alzheimer's pathophysiology: unveiling therapeutic potential. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:54-66. [PMID: 38767476 PMCID: PMC11246147 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a prominent chronic neurodegenerative condition characterized by a gradual decline in memory leading to dementia. Growing evidence suggests that Alzheimer's disease is associated with accumulating various amyloid-β oligomers in the brain, influenced by complex genetic and environmental factors. The memory and cognitive deficits observed during the prodromal and mild cognitive impairment phases of Alzheimer's disease are believed to primarily result from synaptic dysfunction. Throughout life, environmental factors can lead to enduring changes in gene expression and the emergence of brain disorders. These changes, known as epigenetic modifications, also play a crucial role in regulating the formation of synapses and their adaptability in response to neuronal activity. In this context, we highlight recent advances in understanding the roles played by key components of the epigenetic machinery, specifically DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNAs, in the development of Alzheimer's disease, synaptic function, and activity-dependent synaptic plasticity. Moreover, we explore various strategies, including enriched environments, exposure to non-invasive brain stimulation, and the use of pharmacological agents, aimed at improving synaptic function and enhancing long-term potentiation, a process integral to epigenetic mechanisms. Lastly, we deliberate on the development of effective epigenetic agents and safe therapeutic approaches for managing Alzheimer's disease. We suggest that addressing Alzheimer's disease may require distinct tailored epigenetic drugs targeting different disease stages or pathways rather than relying on a single drug.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennie Z Li
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dalal S, Ramirez-Gomez J, Sharma B, Devara D, Kumar S. MicroRNAs and synapse turnover in Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 99:102377. [PMID: 38871301 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, leading to synaptic dysfunction and cognitive decline. Healthy synapses are the crucial for normal brain function, memory restoration and other neurophysiological function. Synapse loss and synaptic dysfunction are two primary events that occur during AD initiation. Synapse lifecycle and/or synapse turnover is divided into five key stages and several sub-stages such as synapse formation, synapse assembly, synapse maturation, synapse transmission and synapse termination. In normal state, the synapse turnover is regulated by various biological and molecular factors for a healthy neurotransmission. In AD, the different stages of synapse turnover are affected by AD-related toxic proteins. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as critical regulators of gene expression and have been implicated in various neurological diseases, including AD. Deregulation of miRNAs modulate the synaptic proteins and affect the synapse turnover at different stages. In this review, we discussed the key milestones of synapse turnover and how they are affected in AD. Further, we discussed the involvement of miRNAs in synaptic turnover, focusing specifically on their role in AD pathogenesis. We also emphasized the regulatory mechanisms by which miRNAs modulate the synaptic turnover stages in AD. Current studies will help to understand the synaptic life-cycle and role of miRNAs in each stage that is deregulated in AD, further allowing for a better understanding of the pathogenesis of devastating disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarthak Dalal
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Jaime Ramirez-Gomez
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Bhupender Sharma
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Davin Devara
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Subodh Kumar
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA; L. Frederick Francis Graduate School of Biomedicael Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chekulaeva M. Mechanistic insights into the basis of widespread RNA localization. Nat Cell Biol 2024; 26:1037-1046. [PMID: 38956277 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-024-01444-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The importance of subcellular mRNA localization is well established, but the underlying mechanisms mostly remain an enigma. Early studies suggested that specific mRNA sequences recruit RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) to regulate mRNA localization. However, despite the observation of thousands of localized mRNAs, only a handful of these sequences and RBPs have been identified. This suggests the existence of alternative, and possibly predominant, mechanisms for mRNA localization. Here I re-examine currently described mRNA localization mechanisms and explore alternative models that could account for its widespread occurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Chekulaeva
- Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
de Lourdes Signorini-Souza I, Tureck LV, Batistela MS, Coutinho de Almeida R, Monteiro de Almeida S, Furtado-Alle L, Lehtonen Rodrigues Souza R. The potential of five c-miRNAs as serum biomarkers for Late-Onset Alzheimer's disease diagnosis: miR-10a-5p, miR-29b-2-5p, miR-125a-5p, miR-342-3p, and miR-708-5p. Brain Res 2024; 1841:149090. [PMID: 38880411 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.149090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The nervous system is rich in miRNAs, indicating an important role of these molecules in regulating processes associated with cognition, memory, and others. Therefore, qualitative and quantitative imbalances involving such miRNAs may be involved in dementia contexts, including Late-Onset Alzheimer's Disease (LOAD). To test the viability of circulating miRNAs (c-miRNAs) as biomarkers for LOAD, we proceed accordingly to the following reasoning. The first stage was to discover and identify profile of c-miRNAs by RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). For this purpose, blood serum samples were used from LOAD patients (n = 5) and cognitively healthy elderly control group (CTRL_CH) (n = 5), all over 70 years old. We identified seven c-miRNAs differentially expressed (p ≤ 0.05) in the serum of LOAD patients compared to CTRL_CH (miR-10a-5p; miR-29b-2-5p; miR-125a-5p; miR-342-3p, miR-708-5p, miR-380-5p and miR-340-3p). Of these, five (p ≤ 0.01) were selected for in silico analysis (miR-10a-5p; miR-29b-2-5p; miR-125a-5p; miR-342-3p, miR-708-5p), for which 44 relevant target genes were found regulated by these c-miRNAs and related to LOAD. Through the analysis of these target genes in databases, it was possible to observe that they have functions related to the development and progress of LOAD, directly or indirectly connecting the different Alzheimer's pathways. Thus, this work found five promising serum c-miRNAs as options for biomarkers contributing to LOAD diagnosis. Our study shows the complex network between these molecules and LOAD, supporting the relevance of studies using c-miRNAs in dementia contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isadora de Lourdes Signorini-Souza
- Postgraduate Program in Genetics. Department of Genetics, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Centro Politécnico, Jardim das Américas, 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná State, Brazil
| | - Luciane Viater Tureck
- Postgraduate Program in Genetics. Department of Genetics, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Centro Politécnico, Jardim das Américas, 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná State, Brazil
| | - Meire Silva Batistela
- Postgraduate Program in Genetics. Department of Genetics, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Centro Politécnico, Jardim das Américas, 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná State, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Coutinho de Almeida
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Section Molecular Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, LUMC, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Lupe Furtado-Alle
- Postgraduate Program in Genetics. Department of Genetics, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Centro Politécnico, Jardim das Américas, 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná State, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Lehtonen Rodrigues Souza
- Postgraduate Program in Genetics. Department of Genetics, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Centro Politécnico, Jardim das Américas, 81531-990 Curitiba, Paraná State, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Darbinian N, Hampe M, Martirosyan D, Bajwa A, Darbinyan A, Merabova N, Tatevosian G, Goetzl L, Amini S, Selzer ME. Fetal Brain-Derived Exosomal miRNAs from Maternal Blood: Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs). Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5826. [PMID: 38892014 PMCID: PMC11172088 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115826] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) are leading causes of neurodevelopmental disability but cannot be diagnosed early in utero. Because several microRNAs (miRNAs) are implicated in other neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders, the effects of EtOH exposure on the expression of these miRNAs and their target genes and pathways were assessed. In women who drank alcohol (EtOH) during pregnancy and non-drinking controls, matched individually for fetal sex and gestational age, the levels of miRNAs in fetal brain-derived exosomes (FB-Es) isolated from the mothers' serum correlated well with the contents of the corresponding fetal brain tissues obtained after voluntary pregnancy termination. In six EtOH-exposed cases and six matched controls, the levels of fetal brain and maternal serum miRNAs were quantified on the array by qRT-PCR. In FB-Es from 10 EtOH-exposed cases and 10 controls, selected miRNAs were quantified by ddPCR. Protein levels were quantified by ELISA. There were significant EtOH-associated reductions in the expression of several miRNAs, including miR-9 and its downstream neuronal targets BDNF, REST, Synapsin, and Sonic hedgehog. In 20 paired cases, reductions in FB-E miR-9 levels correlated strongly with reductions in fetal eye diameter, a prominent feature of FASDs. Thus, FB-E miR-9 levels might serve as a biomarker to predict FASDs in at-risk fetuses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nune Darbinian
- Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation (Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center), Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; (M.H.); (D.M.); (A.B.); (N.M.); (G.T.)
| | - Monica Hampe
- Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation (Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center), Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; (M.H.); (D.M.); (A.B.); (N.M.); (G.T.)
| | - Diana Martirosyan
- Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation (Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center), Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; (M.H.); (D.M.); (A.B.); (N.M.); (G.T.)
| | - Ahsun Bajwa
- Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation (Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center), Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; (M.H.); (D.M.); (A.B.); (N.M.); (G.T.)
| | - Armine Darbinyan
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA;
| | - Nana Merabova
- Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation (Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center), Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; (M.H.); (D.M.); (A.B.); (N.M.); (G.T.)
- Medical College of Wisconsin-Prevea Health, Green Bay, WI 54304, USA
| | - Gabriel Tatevosian
- Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation (Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center), Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; (M.H.); (D.M.); (A.B.); (N.M.); (G.T.)
| | - Laura Goetzl
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Shohreh Amini
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA;
| | - Michael E. Selzer
- Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation (Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center), Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; (M.H.); (D.M.); (A.B.); (N.M.); (G.T.)
- Department of Neurology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Stabile F, Torromino G, Rajendran S, Del Vecchio G, Presutti C, Mannironi C, De Leonibus E, Mele A, Rinaldi A. Short-Term Memory Deficit Associates with miR-153-3p Upregulation in the Hippocampus of Middle-Aged Mice. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:3031-3041. [PMID: 37964090 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03770-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
The early stages of ageing are a critical time window in which the ability to detect and identify precocious molecular and cognitive markers can make the difference in determining a healthy vs unhealthy course of ageing. Using the 6-different object task (6-DOT), a highly demanding hippocampal-dependent recognition memory task, we classified a population of middle-aged (12-month-old) CD1 male mice in Impaired and Unimpaired based on their short-term memory. This approach led us to identify a different microRNAs expression profile in the hippocampus of Impaired mice compared to Unimpaired ones. Among the dysregulated microRNAs, miR-153-3p was upregulated in the hippocampus of Impaired mice and appeared of high interest for its putative target genes and their possible implication in memory-related synaptic plasticity. We showed that intra-hippocampal injection of the miR-153-3p mimic in adult (3-month-old) mice is sufficient to induce a short-term memory deficit similar to that observed in middle-aged Impaired mice. Overall, these findings unravel a novel role for hippocampal miR-153-3p in modulating short-term memory that could be exploited to prevent early cognitive deficits in ageing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Stabile
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin" (BBCD), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre for Research in Neurobiology Daniel Bovet (CRiN), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G Torromino
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin" (BBCD), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - S Rajendran
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin" (BBCD), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre for Research in Neurobiology Daniel Bovet (CRiN), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G Del Vecchio
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin" (BBCD), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - C Presutti
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin" (BBCD), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - C Mannironi
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, c/o Department of Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - E De Leonibus
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council (IBBC-CNR), Monterotondo (Rome), Italy
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Pozzuoli (Naples), Italy
| | - A Mele
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin" (BBCD), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
- Centre for Research in Neurobiology Daniel Bovet (CRiN), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - A Rinaldi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin" (BBCD), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
- Centre for Research in Neurobiology Daniel Bovet (CRiN), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ordoñez-Razo RM, Gutierrez-López Y, Araujo-Solis MA, Benitez-King G, Ramírez-Sánchez I, Galicia G. Overexpression of miR-25 Downregulates the Expression of ROBO2 in Idiopathic Intellectual Disability. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3953. [PMID: 38612763 PMCID: PMC11011991 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic intellectual disability (IID) encompasses the cases of intellectual disability (ID) without a known cause and represents approximately 50% of all cases. Neural progenitor cells (NPCs) from the olfactory neuroepithelium (NEO) contain the same information as the cells found in the brain, but they are more accessible. Some miRNAs have been identified and associated with ID of known etiology. However, in idiopathic ID, the effect of miRNAs is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to determine the miRNAs regulating the expression of mRNAs that may be involved in development of IID. Expression profiles were obtained using NPC-NEO cells from IID patients and healthy controls by microarray. A total of 796 miRNAs and 28,869 mRNAs were analyzed. Several miRNAs were overexpressed in the IID patients compared to controls. miR-25 had the greatest expression. In silico analysis showed that ROBO2 was the target for miR-25, with the highest specificity and being the most down-regulated. In vitro assay showed an increase of miR-25 expression induced a decrease in ROBO2 expression. In neurodevelopment, ROBO2 plays a crucial role in episodic learning and memory, so its down-regulation, caused by miR-25, could have a fundamental role in the intellectual disability that, until now, has been considered idiopathic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa María Ordoñez-Razo
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Genética Humana, Hospital de Pediatría “Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freund”, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Av. Cuauhtémoc 330, Col. Doctores, Mexico City CP 06725, Mexico; (Y.G.-L.); (G.G.)
| | - Yessica Gutierrez-López
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Genética Humana, Hospital de Pediatría “Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freund”, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Av. Cuauhtémoc 330, Col. Doctores, Mexico City CP 06725, Mexico; (Y.G.-L.); (G.G.)
| | - María Antonieta Araujo-Solis
- Departamento Clínico de Genética Médica, Hospital de Pediatría “Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freund”, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Av. Cuauhtémoc 330, Col. Doctores, Mexico City CP 06725, Mexico;
| | - Gloria Benitez-King
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología, Subdirección de Investigaciones Clínicas, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría “Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz”, Calzada México Xochimilco No. 101, Col. San Lorenzo Huipulco, Mexico City CP 14370, Mexico;
| | - Israel Ramírez-Sánchez
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City CP 07738, Mexico;
| | - Gabriela Galicia
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Genética Humana, Hospital de Pediatría “Dr. Silvestre Frenk Freund”, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Av. Cuauhtémoc 330, Col. Doctores, Mexico City CP 06725, Mexico; (Y.G.-L.); (G.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kaurani L. Clinical Insights into MicroRNAs in Depression: Bridging Molecular Discoveries and Therapeutic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2866. [PMID: 38474112 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Depression is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. The discovery of biomarkers for diagnosis or prediction of treatment responses and as therapeutic agents is a current priority. Previous studies have demonstrated the importance of short RNA molecules in the etiology of depression. The most extensively researched of these are microRNAs, a major component of cellular gene regulation and function. MicroRNAs function in a temporal and tissue-specific manner to regulate and modify the post-transcriptional expression of target mRNAs. They can also be shuttled as cargo of extracellular vesicles between the brain and the blood, thus informing about relevant mechanisms in the CNS through the periphery. In fact, studies have already shown that microRNAs identified peripherally are dysregulated in the pathological phenotypes seen in depression. Our article aims to review the existing evidence on microRNA dysregulation in depression and to summarize and evaluate the growing body of evidence for the use of microRNAs as a target for diagnostics and RNA-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lalit Kaurani
- Department for Epigenetics and Systems Medicine in Neurodegenerative Diseases, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Piergentili R, Marinelli E, Cucinella G, Lopez A, Napoletano G, Gullo G, Zaami S. miR-125 in Breast Cancer Etiopathogenesis: An Emerging Role as a Biomarker in Differential Diagnosis, Regenerative Medicine, and the Challenges of Personalized Medicine. Noncoding RNA 2024; 10:16. [PMID: 38525735 PMCID: PMC10961778 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna10020016] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast Cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancer types worldwide, and it is characterized by a complex etiopathogenesis, resulting in an equally complex classification of subtypes. MicroRNA (miRNA or miR) are small non-coding RNA molecules that have an essential role in gene expression and are significantly linked to tumor development and angiogenesis in different types of cancer. Recently, complex interactions among coding and non-coding RNA have been elucidated, further shedding light on the complexity of the roles these molecules fulfill in cancer formation. In this context, knowledge about the role of miR in BC has significantly improved, highlighting the deregulation of these molecules as additional factors influencing BC occurrence, development and classification. A considerable number of papers has been published over the past few years regarding the role of miR-125 in human pathology in general and in several types of cancer formation in particular. Interestingly, miR-125 family members have been recently linked to BC formation as well, and complex interactions (competing endogenous RNA networks, or ceRNET) between this molecule and target mRNA have been described. In this review, we summarize the state-of-the-art about research on this topic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Piergentili
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council (CNR-IBPM), 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Enrico Marinelli
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Gaspare Cucinella
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (A.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Alessandra Lopez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (A.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Gabriele Napoletano
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Forensic Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Gullo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (A.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Forensic Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ntoulas G, Brakatselos C, Nakas G, Asprogerakas MZ, Delis F, Leontiadis LJ, Trompoukis G, Papatheodoropoulos C, Gkikas D, Valakos D, Vatsellas G, Politis PK, Polissidis A, Antoniou K. Multi-level profiling of the Fmr1 KO rat unveils altered behavioral traits along with aberrant glutamatergic function. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:104. [PMID: 38378836 PMCID: PMC10879511 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02815-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disabilities and the most prevalent monogenic cause of autism. Although the knockout (KO) of the Fmr1 gene homolog in mice is primarily used for elucidating the neurobiological substrate of FXS, there is limited association of the experimental data with the pathophysiological condition in humans. The use of Fmr1 KO rats offers additional translational validity in this regard. Therefore, we employed a multi-level approach to study the behavioral profile and the glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission status in pathophysiology-associated brain structures of Fmr1 KO rats, including the recordings of evoked and spontaneous field potentials from hippocampal slices, paralleled with next-generation RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). We found that these rats exhibit hyperactivity and cognitive deficits, along with characteristic bidirectional glutamatergic and GABAergic alterations in the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus. These results are coupled to affected excitability and local inhibitory processes in the hippocampus, along with a specific transcriptional profile, highlighting dysregulated hippocampal network activity in KO rats. Overall, our data provide novel insights concerning the biobehavioral profile of FmR1 KO rats and translationally upscales our understanding on pathophysiology and symptomatology of FXS syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George Ntoulas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Charalampos Brakatselos
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Nakas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Michail-Zois Asprogerakas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Foteini Delis
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Leonidas J Leontiadis
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | - George Trompoukis
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | | | - Dimitrios Gkikas
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Valakos
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Giannis Vatsellas
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis K Politis
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexia Polissidis
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
- Center of Clinical, Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Katerina Antoniou
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Subramanian M, Mills WT, Paranjpe MD, Onuchukwu US, Inamdar M, Maytin AR, Li X, Pomerantz JL, Meffert MK. Growth-suppressor microRNAs mediate synaptic overgrowth and behavioral deficits in Fragile X mental retardation protein deficiency. iScience 2024; 27:108676. [PMID: 38235335 PMCID: PMC10792201 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Abnormal neuronal and synapse growth is a core pathology resulting from deficiency of the Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), but molecular links underlying the excessive synthesis of key synaptic proteins remain incompletely defined. We find that basal brain levels of the growth suppressor let-7 microRNA (miRNA) family are selectively lowered in FMRP-deficient mice and activity-dependent let-7 downregulation is abrogated. Primary let-7 miRNA transcripts are not altered in FMRP-deficiency and posttranscriptional misregulation occurs downstream of MAPK pathway induction and elevation of Lin28a, a let-7 biogenesis inhibitor. Neonatal restoration of brain let-7 miRNAs corrects hallmarks of FMRP-deficiency, including dendritic spine overgrowth and social and cognitive behavioral deficits, in adult mice. Blockade of MAPK hyperactivation normalizes let-7 miRNA levels in both brain and peripheral blood plasma from Fmr1 KO mice. These results implicate dysregulated let-7 miRNA biogenesis in the pathogenesis of FMRP-deficiency, and highlight let-7 miRNA-based strategies for future biomarker and therapeutic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megha Subramanian
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - William T. Mills
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Manish D. Paranjpe
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Uche S. Onuchukwu
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Manasi Inamdar
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Amanda R. Maytin
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Xinbei Li
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Joel L. Pomerantz
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Institute for Cell Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Mollie K. Meffert
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kaur S, Verma H, Kaur S, Gangwar P, Yadav A, Yadav B, Rao R, Dhiman M, Mantha AK. Understanding the multifaceted role of miRNAs in Alzheimer's disease pathology. Metab Brain Dis 2024; 39:217-237. [PMID: 37505443 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01265-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Small non-coding RNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression by binding to mRNA and mediating its degradation or inhibiting translation. Since miRNAs can regulate the expression of several genes, they have multiple roles to play in biological processes and human diseases. The majority of miRNAs are known to be expressed in the brain and are involved in synaptic functions, thus marking their presence and role in major neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). In AD, amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) are known to be the major hallmarks. The clearance of Aβ and tau is known to be associated with miRNA dysregulation. In addition, the β-site APP cleaving enzyme (BACE 1), which cleaves APP to form Aβ, is also found to be regulated by miRNAs, thus directly affecting Aβ accumulation. Growing evidences suggest that neuroinflammation can be an initial event in AD pathology, and miRNAs have been linked with the regulation of neuroinflammation. Inflammatory disorders have also been associated with AD pathology, and exosomes associated with miRNAs are known to regulate brain inflammation, suggesting for the role of systemic miRNAs in AD pathology. Several miRNAs have been related in AD, years before the clinical symptoms appear, most of which are associated with regulating the cell cycle, immune system, stress responses, cellular senescence, nerve growth factor (NGF) signaling, and synaptic regulation. Phytochemicals, especially polyphenols, alter the expression of various miRNAs by binding to miRNAs or binding to the transcriptional activators of miRNAs, thus control/alter various metabolic pathways. Awing to the sundry biological processes being regulated by miRNAs in the brain and regulation of expression of miRNAs via phytochemicals, miRNAs and the regulatory bioactive phytochemicals can serve as therapeutic agents in the treatment and management of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharanjot Kaur
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Harkomal Verma
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhchain Kaur
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Prabhakar Gangwar
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India
| | - Anuradha Yadav
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India
| | - Bharti Yadav
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India
| | - Rashmi Rao
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India
| | - Monisha Dhiman
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Anil Kumar Mantha
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Momoi MY. Overview: Research on the Genetic Architecture of the Developing Cerebral Cortex in Norms and Diseases. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2794:1-12. [PMID: 38630215 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3810-1_1] [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] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
The human brain is characterized by high cell numbers, diverse cell types with diverse functions, and intricate connectivity with an exceedingly broad surface of the cortex. Human-specific brain development was accomplished by a long timeline for maturation from the prenatal period to the third decade of life. The long timeline makes complicated architecture and circuits of human cerebral cortex possible, and it makes human brain vulnerable to intrinsic and extrinsic insults resulting in the development of variety of neuropsychiatric disorders. Unraveling the molecular and cellular processes underlying human brain development under the elaborate regulation of gene expression in a spatiotemporally specific manner, especially that of the cortex will provide a biological understanding of human cognition and behavior in health and diseases. Global research consortia and the advancing technologies in brain science including functional genomics equipped with emergent neuroinformatics such as single-cell multiomics, novel human models, and high-volume databases with high-throughput computation facilitate the biological understanding of the development of the human brain cortex. Knowing the process of interplay of the genome and the environment in cortex development will lead us to understand the human-specific cognitive function and its individual diversity. Thus, it is worthwhile to overview the recent progress in neurotechnology to foresee further understanding of the human brain and norms and diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariko Y Momoi
- Ryomo Seishi Ryogoen Rehabilitation Hospital for Children with Disabilities, Gunma, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mu C, Gao M, Xu W, Sun X, Chen T, Xu H, Qiu H. Mechanisms of microRNA-132 in central neurodegenerative diseases: A comprehensive review. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:116029. [PMID: 38128185 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA-132 (miR-132) is a highly conserved molecule that plays a crucial regulatory role in central nervous system (CNS) disorders. The expression levels of miR-132 exhibit variability in various neurological disorders and have been closely linked to disease onset and progression. The expression level of miR-132 in the CNS is regulated by a diverse range of stimuli and signaling pathways, including neuronal migration and integration, dendritic outgrowth, and complexity, synaptogenesis, synaptic plasticity, as well as inflammation and apoptosis activation. The aberrant expression of miR-132 in various central neurodegenerative diseases has garnered widespread attention. Clinical studies have revealed altered miR-132 expression levels in both chronic and acute CNS diseases, positioning miR-132 as a potential biomarker or therapeutic target. An in-depth exploration of miR-132 holds the promise of enhancing our understanding of the mechanisms underlying CNS diseases, thereby offering novel insights and strategies for disease diagnosis and treatment. It is anticipated that this review will assist researchers in recognizing the potential value of miR-132 and in generating innovative ideas for clinical trials related to CNS degenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Mu
- Basic Medical College, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China; Key Laboratory of Microecology-Immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Meng Gao
- Basic Medical College, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China; Key Laboratory of Microecology-Immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Weijing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Microecology-Immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China; School of Public Health, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xun Sun
- Basic Medical College, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China; Key Laboratory of Microecology-Immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tianhao Chen
- Basic Medical College, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China; Key Laboratory of Microecology-Immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Microecology-Immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Hongbin Qiu
- School of Public Health, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154007, Heilongjiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Parkins EV, Brager DH, Rymer JK, Burwinkel JM, Rojas D, Tiwari D, Hu YC, Gross C. Mir324 knockout regulates the structure of dendritic spines and impairs hippocampal long-term potentiation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21919. [PMID: 38082035 PMCID: PMC10713680 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49134-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are an emerging class of synaptic regulators. These small noncoding RNAs post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression, thereby altering neuronal pathways and shaping cell-to-cell communication. Their ability to rapidly alter gene expression and target multiple pathways makes them interesting candidates in the study of synaptic plasticity. Here, we demonstrate that the proconvulsive microRNA miR-324-5p regulates excitatory synapse structure and function in the hippocampus of mice. Both Mir324 knockout (KO) and miR-324-5p antagomir treatment significantly reduce dendritic spine density in the hippocampal CA1 subregion, and Mir324 KO, but not miR-324-5p antagomir treatment, shift dendritic spine morphology, reducing the proportion of thin, "unstable" spines. Western blot and quantitative Real-Time PCR revealed changes in protein and mRNA levels for potassium channels, cytoskeletal components, and synaptic markers, including MAP2 and Kv4.2, which are important for long-term potentiation (LTP). In line with these findings, slice electrophysiology revealed that LTP is severely impaired in Mir324 KO mice, while neurotransmitter release probability remains unchanged. Overall, this study demonstrates that miR-324-5p regulates dendritic spine density, morphology, and plasticity in the hippocampus, potentially via multiple cytoskeletal and synaptic modulators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma V Parkins
- University of Cincinnati Neuroscience Graduate Program, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Darrin H Brager
- Center for Learning and Memory, Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, USA
| | - Jeffrey K Rymer
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - John M Burwinkel
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Diego Rojas
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Durgesh Tiwari
- University of Cincinnati Neuroscience Graduate Program, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Yueh-Chiang Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Transgenic Animal and Genome Editing Core Facility, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Christina Gross
- University of Cincinnati Neuroscience Graduate Program, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Bludau A, Schwartz U, Zeitler DM, Royer M, Meister G, Neumann ID, Menon R. Functional involvement of septal miR-132 in extinction and oxytocin-mediated reversal of social fear. Mol Psychiatry 2023:10.1038/s41380-023-02309-3. [PMID: 37938765 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02309-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Social interactions are critical for mammalian survival and evolution. Dysregulation of social behavior often leads to psychopathologies such as social anxiety disorder, denoted by intense fear and avoidance of social situations. Using the social fear conditioning (SFC) paradigm, we analyzed expression levels of miR-132-3p and miR-124-3p within the septum, a brain region essential for social preference and avoidance behavior, after acquisition and extinction of social fear. Here, we found that SFC dynamically altered both microRNAs. Functional in vivo approaches using pharmacological strategies, inhibition of miR-132-3p, viral overexpression of miR-132-3p, and shRNA-mediated knockdown of miR-132-3p specifically within oxytocin receptor-positive neurons confirmed septal miR-132-3p to be critically involved not only in social fear extinction, but also in oxytocin-induced reversal of social fear. Moreover, Argonaute-RNA-co-immunoprecipitation-microarray analysis and further in vitro and in vivo quantification of target mRNA and protein, revealed growth differentiation factor-5 (Gdf-5) as a target of miR-132-3p. Septal application of GDF-5 impaired social fear extinction suggesting its functional involvement in the reversal of social fear. In summary, we show that septal miR-132-3p and its downstream target Gdf-5 regulate social fear expression and potentially mediate oxytocin-induced reversal of social fear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bludau
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Uwe Schwartz
- NGS Analysis Center, Biology and Pre-Clinical Medicine, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Daniela M Zeitler
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry, Laboratory of RNA Biology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Royer
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry, Laboratory of RNA Biology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gunter Meister
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry, Laboratory of RNA Biology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Rohit Menon
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Dziembowska M. How dendritic spines shape is determined by MMP-9 activity in FXS. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 173:171-185. [PMID: 37993177 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) belongs to the family of endopeptidases expressed in neurons and secreted at the synapse in response to neuronal activity. It regulates the pericellular environment by cleaving its protein components. MMP9 is involved in activity-dependent reorganization of spine architecture. In the mouse model of fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common inherited intellectual disability and the most common single-gene cause of autism, increased synaptic expression of MMP-9 is responsible for the observed dendritic spine abnormalities. In this chapter, I summarize the current data on the molecular regulatory pathways responsible for synaptic MMP-9 expression and discuss the fact that MMP-9 is extracellularly localized, making it a particularly attractive potential target for therapeutic pharmacological intervention in FXS.
Collapse
|
18
|
Parkins EV, Burwinkel JM, Ranatunga R, Yaser S, Hu YC, Tiwari D, Gross C. Age-Dependent Regulation of Dendritic Spine Density and Protein Expression in Mir324 KO Mice. J Mol Neurosci 2023; 73:818-830. [PMID: 37773316 PMCID: PMC10793736 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-023-02157-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic spines are small, dynamic protrusions along the dendrite that comprise more than 90% of excitatory connections in the brain, making them essential sites for neuronal communication. These synaptic sites change throughout the process of development, reducing in density and shifting morphology as synapses are refined. One important class of dendritic spine regulators is microRNA (miRNA), small-noncoding RNAs that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression. Several studies suggest that miRNA-324-5p regulates dendritic spine formation. In addition, we have previously shown that miR-324-5p plays a role in seizure and long-term potentiation, both of which involve dendritic spine changes. In this study, we aimed to characterize the role of miRNA-324-5p in developmental spine regulation by assessing the effect of Mir324 knockout (KO) on dendritic spine density and expression of a subset of dendritic proteins at select developmental time points. We show that miR-324-5p expression is developmentally regulated and peaks at 4 weeks of age. We demonstrate that loss of miR-324-5p expression leads to differential changes in both target protein expression and spine density at different time points during development, disrupting the pattern of spine density changes and leading to a premature loss of dendritic spines in KO mice, which is compensated later. Our findings indicate that miR-324-5p plays a role in synaptic refinement across development. Additionally, our data illustrate the importance of context in the study of miRNA, as regulation by and/or of miRNA can vary dramatically across development and in disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma V Parkins
- University of Cincinnati Neuroscience Graduate Program, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - John M Burwinkel
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Ruvi Ranatunga
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Sarah Yaser
- University of Cincinnati Neuroscience Graduate Program, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Yueh-Chiang Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Transgenic Animal and Genome Editing Core Facility, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Durgesh Tiwari
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Christina Gross
- University of Cincinnati Neuroscience Graduate Program, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Zolboot N, Xiao Y, Du JX, Ghanem MM, Choi SY, Junn MJ, Zampa F, Huang Z, MacRae IJ, Lippi G. MicroRNAs are necessary for the emergence of Purkinje cell identity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.28.560023. [PMID: 37808721 PMCID: PMC10557743 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.28.560023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Brain computations are dictated by the unique morphology and connectivity of neuronal subtypes, features established by closely timed developmental events. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical for brain development, but current technologies lack the spatiotemporal resolution to determine how miRNAs instruct the steps leading to subtype identity. Here, we developed new tools to tackle this major gap. Fast and reversible miRNA loss-of-function revealed that miRNAs are necessary for cerebellar Purkinje cell (PC) differentiation, which previously appeared miRNA-independent, and resolved distinct miRNA critical windows in PC dendritogenesis and climbing fiber synaptogenesis, key determinants of PC identity. To identify underlying mechanisms, we generated a mouse model, which enables precise mapping of miRNAs and their targets in rare cell types. With PC-specific maps, we found that the PC-enriched miR-206 drives exuberant dendritogenesis and modulates synaptogenesis. Our results showcase vastly improved approaches for dissecting miRNA function and reveal that many critical miRNA mechanisms remain largely unexplored. Highlights Fast miRNA loss-of-function with T6B impairs postnatal Purkinje cell developmentReversible T6B reveals critical miRNA windows for dendritogenesis and synaptogenesisConditional Spy3-Ago2 mouse line enables miRNA-target network mapping in rare cellsPurkinje cell-enriched miR-206 regulates its unique dendritic and synaptic morphology.
Collapse
|
20
|
Chen XL, Fortes JM, Hu YT, van Iersel J, He KN, van Heerikhuize J, Balesar R, Swaab D, Bao AM. Sexually dimorphic age-related molecular differences in the entorhinal cortex of cognitively intact elderly: Relation to early Alzheimer's changes. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:3848-3857. [PMID: 36960685 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women are more vulnerable to Alzheimer's disease (AD) than men. The entorhinal cortex (EC) is one of the earliest structures affected in AD. We identified in cognitively intact elderly different molecular changes in the EC in relation to age. METHODS Changes in 12 characteristic molecules in relation to age were determined by quantitative immunohistochemistry or in situ hybridization in the EC. They were arbitrarily grouped into sex steroid-related molecules, markers of neuronal activity, neurotransmitter-related molecules, and cholinergic activity-related molecules. RESULTS The changes in molecules indicated increasing local estrogenic and neuronal activity accompanied by a higher and faster hyperphosphorylated tau accumulation in women's EC in relation to age, versus a mainly stable local estrogenic/androgenic and neuronal activity in men's EC. DISCUSSION EC employs a different neurobiological strategy in women and men to maintain cognitive function, which seems to be accompanied by an earlier start of AD in women. HIGHLIGHTS Local estrogen system is activated with age only in women's entorhinal cortex (EC). EC neuronal activity increased with age only in elderly women with intact cognition. Men and women have different molecular strategies to retain cognition with aging. P-tau accumulation in the EC was higher and faster in cognitively intact elderly women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Lu Chen
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jennifer Monteiro Fortes
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, An Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yu-Ting Hu
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Juliet van Iersel
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, An Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kang-Ning He
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Joop van Heerikhuize
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, An Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rawien Balesar
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, An Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dick Swaab
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, An Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ai-Min Bao
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Parkins EV, Burwinkel JM, Ranatunga R, Yaser S, Hu YC, Tiwari D, Gross C. Age-dependent regulation of dendritic spine density and protein expression in Mir324 KO mice. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3221779. [PMID: 37609225 PMCID: PMC10441466 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3221779/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic spines are small, dynamic protrusions along the dendrite that comprise more than 90% of excitatory connections in the brain, making them essential sites for neuronal communication. These synaptic sites change throughout the process of development, reducing in density and shifting morphology as synapses are refined. One important class of dendritic spine regulators is microRNA (miRNA), small noncoding RNAs that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression. Several studies suggest that miRNA-324-5p regulates dendritic spine formation. In addition, we have previously shown that miR-324-5p plays a role in seizure and long-term potentiation, both of which involve dendritic spine changes. In this study, we aimed to characterize the role of miRNA-324-5p in developmental spine regulation by assessing the effect of Mir324 knockout (KO) on dendritic spine density and expression of a subset of dendritic proteins at select developmental time points. We show that miR-324-5p expression is developmentally regulated and peaks at four weeks of age. We demonstrate that loss of miR-324-5p expression leads to differential changes in both target protein expression and spine density at different time points during development, disrupting the pattern of spine density changes and leading to a premature loss of dendritic spines in KO mice, which is compensated later. Our findings indicate that miR-324-5p plays a role in synaptic refinement across development. Additionally, our data illustrate the importance of context in the study of miRNA, as regulation by and/or of miRNA can vary dramatically across development and in disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sarah Yaser
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ruggiero-Ruff RE, Villa PA, Hijleh SA, Avalos B, DiPatrizio NV, Haga-Yamanaka S, Coss D. Increased body weight in mice with fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (Fmr1) gene mutation is associated with hypothalamic dysfunction. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12666. [PMID: 37542065 PMCID: PMC10403586 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39643-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene are linked to Fragile X Syndrome, the most common monogenic cause of intellectual disability and autism. People affected with mutations in FMR1 have higher incidence of obesity, but the mechanisms are largely unknown. In the current study, we determined that male Fmr1 knockout mice (KO, Fmr1-/y), but not female Fmr1-/-, exhibit increased weight when compared to wild-type controls, similarly to humans with FMR1 mutations. No differences in food or water intake were found between groups; however, male Fmr1-/y display lower locomotor activity, especially during their active phase. Moreover, Fmr1-/y have olfactory dysfunction determined by buried food test, although they exhibit increased compulsive behavior, determined by marble burying test. Since olfactory brain regions communicate with hypothalamic regions that regulate food intake, including POMC neurons that also regulate locomotion, we examined POMC neuron innervation and numbers in Fmr1-/y mice. POMC neurons express Fmrp, and POMC neurons in Fmr1-/y have higher inhibitory GABAergic synaptic inputs. Consistent with increased inhibitory innervation, POMC neurons in the Fmr1-/y mice exhibit lower activity, based on cFOS expression. Notably, Fmr1-/y mice have fewer POMC neurons than controls, specifically in the rostral arcuate nucleus, which could contribute to decreased locomotion and increased body weight. These results suggest a role for Fmr1 in the regulation of POMC neuron function and the etiology of Fmr1-linked obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Ruggiero-Ruff
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Pedro A Villa
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Sarah Abu Hijleh
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Bryant Avalos
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Nicholas V DiPatrizio
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Sachiko Haga-Yamanaka
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, USA
| | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Walgrave H, Penning A, Tosoni G, Snoeck S, Davie K, Davis E, Wolfs L, Sierksma A, Mars M, Bu T, Thrupp N, Zhou L, Moechars D, Mancuso R, Fiers M, Howden AJ, De Strooper B, Salta E. microRNA-132 regulates gene expression programs involved in microglial homeostasis. iScience 2023; 26:106829. [PMID: 37250784 PMCID: PMC10213004 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
microRNA-132 (miR-132), a known neuronal regulator, is one of the most robustly downregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) in the brain of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. Increasing miR-132 in AD mouse brain ameliorates amyloid and Tau pathologies, and also restores adult hippocampal neurogenesis and memory deficits. However, the functional pleiotropy of miRNAs requires in-depth analysis of the effects of miR-132 supplementation before it can be moved forward for AD therapy. We employ here miR-132 loss- and gain-of-function approaches using single-cell transcriptomics, proteomics, and in silico AGO-CLIP datasets to identify molecular pathways targeted by miR-132 in mouse hippocampus. We find that miR-132 modulation significantly affects the transition of microglia from a disease-associated to a homeostatic cell state. We confirm the regulatory role of miR-132 in shifting microglial cell states using human microglial cultures derived from induced pluripotent stem cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Walgrave
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Amber Penning
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, 1105 BA Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Giorgia Tosoni
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, 1105 BA Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sarah Snoeck
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, 1105 BA Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kristofer Davie
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Bioinformatics Core Facility, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Emma Davis
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Leen Wolfs
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annerieke Sierksma
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mayte Mars
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, 1105 BA Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Taofeng Bu
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nicola Thrupp
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lujia Zhou
- Discovery Neuroscience, Janssen Research and Development, Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Diederik Moechars
- Discovery Neuroscience, Janssen Research and Development, Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Renzo Mancuso
- Microglia and Inflammation in Neurological Disorders (MIND) Lab, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Mark Fiers
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Andrew J.M. Howden
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HN, UK
| | - Bart De Strooper
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Evgenia Salta
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, 1105 BA Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kouhnavardi S, Cabatic M, Mañas-Padilla MC, Malabanan MA, Smani T, Cicvaric A, Muñoz Aranzalez EA, Koenig X, Urban E, Lubec G, Castilla-Ortega E, Monje FJ. miRNA-132/212 Deficiency Disrupts Selective Corticosterone Modulation of Dorsal vs. Ventral Hippocampal Metaplasticity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9565. [PMID: 37298523 PMCID: PMC10253409 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cortisol is a potent human steroid hormone that plays key roles in the central nervous system, influencing processes such as brain neuronal synaptic plasticity and regulating the expression of emotional and behavioral responses. The relevance of cortisol stands out in the disease, as its dysregulation is associated with debilitating conditions such as Alzheimer's Disease, chronic stress, anxiety and depression. Among other brain regions, cortisol importantly influences the function of the hippocampus, a structure central for memory and emotional information processing. The mechanisms fine-tuning the different synaptic responses of the hippocampus to steroid hormone signaling remain, however, poorly understood. Using ex vivo electrophysiology and wild type (WT) and miR-132/miR-212 microRNAs knockout (miRNA-132/212-/-) mice, we examined the effects of corticosterone (the rodent's equivalent to cortisol in humans) on the synaptic properties of the dorsal and ventral hippocampus. In WT mice, corticosterone predominantly inhibited metaplasticity in the dorsal WT hippocampi, whereas it significantly dysregulated both synaptic transmission and metaplasticity at dorsal and ventral regions of miR-132/212-/- hippocampi. Western blotting further revealed significantly augmented levels of endogenous CREB and a significant CREB reduction in response to corticosterone only in miR-132/212-/- hippocampi. Sirt1 levels were also endogenously enhanced in the miR-132/212-/- hippocampi but unaltered by corticosterone, whereas the levels of phospo-MSK1 were only reduced by corticosterone in WT, not in miR-132/212-/- hippocampi. In behavioral studies using the elevated plus maze, miRNA-132/212-/- mice further showed reduced anxiety-like behavior. These observations propose miRNA-132/212 as potential region-selective regulators of the effects of steroid hormones on hippocampal functions, thus likely fine-tuning hippocampus-dependent memory and emotional processing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shima Kouhnavardi
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Maureen Cabatic
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Marife-Astrid Malabanan
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Tarik Smani
- Department of Medical Physiology and Biophysics, University of Seville, 41013 Seville, Spain
| | - Ana Cicvaric
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Edison Alejandro Muñoz Aranzalez
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Xaver Koenig
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ernst Urban
- Department for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2, 2D 303, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gert Lubec
- Programme for Proteomics, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Francisco J. Monje
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Huang J, Wang T, Qiu Y, Hassanyar AK, Zhang Z, Sun Q, Ni X, Yu K, Guo Y, Yang C, Lü Y, Nie H, Lin Y, Li Z, Su S. Differential Brain Expression Patterns of microRNAs Related to Olfactory Performance in Honey Bees ( Apis mellifera). Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14051000. [PMID: 37239360 DOI: 10.3390/genes14051000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a vital role in the nerve regulation of honey bees (Apis mellifera). This study aims to investigate the differences in expression of miRNAs in a honey bee's brain for olfactory learning tasks and to explore their potential role in a honey bee's olfactory learning and memory. In this study, 12 day old honey bees with strong and weak olfactory performances were utilized to investigate the influence of miRNAs on olfactory learning behavior. The honey bee brains were dissected, and a small RNA-seq technique was used for high-throughput sequencing. The data analysis of the miRNA sequences revealed that 14 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) between the two groups, strong (S) and weak (W), for olfactory performance in honey bees were identified, which included seven up-regulated and seven down-regulated. The qPCR verification results of the 14 miRNAs showed that four miRNAs (miR-184-3p, miR-276-3p, miR-87-3p, and miR-124-3p) were significantly associated with olfactory learning and memory. The target genes of these DEmiRNAs were subjected to the GO database annotation and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses. The functional annotation and pathway analysis showed that the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway, oxidative phosphorylation, biosynthesis of amino acids, pentose phosphate pathway, carbon metabolism, and terpenoid backbone biosynthesis may be a great important pathway related to olfactory learning and memory in honey bees. Our findings together further explained the relationship between olfactory performance and the brain function of honey bees at the molecular level and provides a basis for further study on miRNAs related to olfactory learning and memory in honey bees.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingnan Huang
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Tianbao Wang
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yuanmei Qiu
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Aqai Kalan Hassanyar
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Zhaonan Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- Laboratory of Evolution and Diversity Biology, UMR5174, University Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, CNRS, 31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Qiaoling Sun
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Xiaomin Ni
- Faculty of Science, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Kejun Yu
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yongkang Guo
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Changsheng Yang
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yang Lü
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- Mudanjiang Branch of Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Mudanjiang 157041, China
| | - Hongyi Nie
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yan Lin
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Zhiguo Li
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Songkun Su
- College of Animal Sciences (College of Bee Science), Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- Academy of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Mucha M, Skrzypiec AE, Kolenchery JB, Brambilla V, Patel S, Labrador-Ramos A, Kudla L, Murrall K, Skene N, Dymicka-Piekarska V, Klejman A, Przewlocki R, Mosienko V, Pawlak R. miR-483-5p offsets functional and behavioural effects of stress in male mice through synapse-targeted repression of Pgap2 in the basolateral amygdala. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2134. [PMID: 37185241 PMCID: PMC10130081 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37688-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe psychological trauma triggers genetic, biochemical and morphological changes in amygdala neurons, which underpin the development of stress-induced behavioural abnormalities, such as high levels of anxiety. miRNAs are small, non-coding RNA fragments that orchestrate complex neuronal responses by simultaneous transcriptional/translational repression of multiple target genes. Here we show that miR-483-5p in the amygdala of male mice counterbalances the structural, functional and behavioural consequences of stress to promote a reduction in anxiety-like behaviour. Upon stress, miR-483-5p is upregulated in the synaptic compartment of amygdala neurons and directly represses three stress-associated genes: Pgap2, Gpx3 and Macf1. Upregulation of miR-483-5p leads to selective contraction of distal parts of the dendritic arbour and conversion of immature filopodia into mature, mushroom-like dendritic spines. Consistent with its role in reducing the stress response, upregulation of miR-483-5p in the basolateral amygdala produces a reduction in anxiety-like behaviour. Stress-induced neuromorphological and behavioural effects of miR-483-5p can be recapitulated by shRNA mediated suppression of Pgap2 and prevented by simultaneous overexpression of miR-483-5p-resistant Pgap2. Our results demonstrate that miR-483-5p is sufficient to confer a reduction in anxiety-like behaviour and point to miR-483-5p-mediated repression of Pgap2 as a critical cellular event offsetting the functional and behavioural consequences of psychological stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariusz Mucha
- University of Exeter Medical School, Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | - Anna E Skrzypiec
- University of Exeter Medical School, Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Jaison B Kolenchery
- University of Exeter Medical School, Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Valentina Brambilla
- University of Exeter Medical School, Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Satyam Patel
- Pharmacy Department, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Alberto Labrador-Ramos
- University of Exeter Medical School, Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Lucja Kudla
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Kathryn Murrall
- University of Exeter Medical School, Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Nathan Skene
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Agata Klejman
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Ryszard Przewlocki
- Department of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Valentina Mosienko
- University of Exeter Medical School, Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Robert Pawlak
- University of Exeter Medical School, Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Chou MY, Cao X, Hou KC, Tsai MH, Lee CY, Kuo MF, Wu VC, Huang HY, Akbarian S, Chang SK, Hu CY, Lin SW, Huang HS. Mir125b-2 imprinted in human but not mouse brain regulates hippocampal function and circuit in mice. Commun Biol 2023; 6:267. [PMID: 36918719 PMCID: PMC10014956 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04655-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomic imprinting predominantly occurs in the placenta and brain. Few imprinted microRNAs have been identified in the brain, and their functional roles in the brain are not clear. Here we show paternal, but not maternal, expression of MIR125B2 in human but not mouse brain. Moreover, Mir125b-2m-/p- mice showed impaired learning and memory, and anxiety, whose functions were hippocampus-dependent. Hippocampal granule cells from Mir125b-2m-/p- mice displayed increased neuronal excitability, increased excitatory synaptic transmission, and decreased inhibitory synaptic transmission. Glutamate ionotropic receptor NMDA type subunit 2A (Grin2a), a key regulator of synaptic plasticity, was physically bound by miR-125b-2 and upregulated in the hippocampus of Mir125b-2m-/p- mice. Taken together, our findings demonstrate MIR125B2 imprinted in human but not mouse brain, mediated learning, memory, and anxiety, regulated excitability and synaptic transmission in hippocampal granule cells, and affected hippocampal expression of Grin2a. Our work provides functional mechanisms of a species-specific imprinted microRNA in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Yi Chou
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Xuhui Cao
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Chu Hou
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Han Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yu Lee
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Genomics and Proteomics, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Fai Kuo
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Vin-Cent Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yi Huang
- Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Schahram Akbarian
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Sheng-Kai Chang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Yi Hu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Wha Lin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Sung Huang
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Chi X, Wang L, Liu H, Zhang Y, Shen W. Post-stroke cognitive impairment and synaptic plasticity: A review about the mechanisms and Chinese herbal drugs strategies. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1123817. [PMID: 36937659 PMCID: PMC10014821 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1123817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-stroke cognitive impairment, is a major complication of stroke, characterized by cognitive dysfunction, which directly affects the quality of life. Post-stroke cognitive impairment highlights the causal relationship between stroke and cognitive impairment. The pathological damage of stroke, including the increased release of excitatory amino acids, oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, apoptosis, changed neurotrophic factor levels and gene expression, influence synaptic plasticity. Synaptic plasticity refers to the activity-dependent changes in the strength of synaptic connections and efficiency of synaptic transmission at pre-existing synapses and can be divided into structural synaptic plasticity and functional synaptic plasticity. Changes in synaptic plasticity have been proven to play important roles in the occurrence and treatment of post-stroke cognitive impairment. Evidence has indicated that Chinese herbal drugs have effect of treating post-stroke cognitive impairment. In this review, we overview the influence of pathological damage of stroke on synaptic plasticity, analyze the changes of synaptic plasticity in post-stroke cognitive impairment, and summarize the commonly used Chinese herbal drugs whose active ingredient or extracts can regulate synaptic plasticity. This review will summarize the relationship between post-stroke cognitive impairment and synaptic plasticity, provide new ideas for future exploration of the mechanism of post-stroke cognitive impairment, compile evidence of applying Chinese herbal drugs to treat post-stroke cognitive impairment and lay a foundation for the development of novel formulas for treating post-stroke cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiansu Chi
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liuding Wang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongxi Liu
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yunling Zhang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Shen
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Roy B, Dwivedi Y. An insight into the sprawling microverse of microRNAs in depression pathophysiology and treatment response. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 146:105040. [PMID: 36639069 PMCID: PMC9974865 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Stress-related neuropathologies are pivotal in developing major depressive disorder (MDD) and are often governed by gene-regulatory changes. Being a stress-responsive gene-regulatory factor, microRNAs (miRNAs) have tremendous biomolecular potential to define an altered gene-regulatory landscape in the MDD brain. MiRNAs' regulatory roles in the MDD brain are closely aligned with changes in plasticity, neurogenesis, and stress-axis functions. MiRNAs act at the epigenetic interface between stress-induced environmental stimuli and cellular pathologies by triggering large-scale gene expression changes in a highly coordinated fashion. The parallel changes in peripheral circulation may provide an excellent opportunity for miRNA to devise more effective treatment strategies and help explore their potential as biomarkers in treatment response. This review discusses the role of miRNAs as epigenetic modifiers in the etiopathogenesis of MDD. Concurrently, key research is highlighted to show the progress in using miRNAs as predictive biomarkers for treatment response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bhaskar Roy
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Yogesh Dwivedi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Massively parallel identification of mRNA localization elements in primary cortical neurons. Nat Neurosci 2023; 26:394-405. [PMID: 36646877 PMCID: PMC9991926 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-022-01243-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Cells adopt highly polarized shapes and form distinct subcellular compartments in many cases due to the localization of many mRNAs to specific areas, where they are translated into proteins with local functions. This mRNA localization is mediated by specific cis-regulatory elements in mRNAs, commonly called 'zipcodes'. Although there are hundreds of localized mRNAs, only a few zipcodes have been characterized. Here we describe a novel neuronal zipcode identification protocol (N-zip) that can identify zipcodes across hundreds of 3' untranslated regions. This approach combines a method of separating the principal subcellular compartments of neurons-cell bodies and neurites-with a massively parallel reporter assay. N-zip identifies the let-7 binding site and (AU)n motif as de novo zipcodes in mouse primary cortical neurons. Our analysis also provides, to our knowledge, the first demonstration of an miRNA affecting mRNA localization and suggests a strategy for detecting many more zipcodes.
Collapse
|
31
|
Villa PA, Lainez NM, Jonak CR, Berlin SC, Ethell IM, Coss D. Altered GnRH neuron and ovarian innervation characterize reproductive dysfunction linked to the Fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein ( Fmr1) gene mutation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1129534. [PMID: 36909303 PMCID: PMC9992745 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1129534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mutations in the Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene cause Fragile X Syndrome, the most common monogenic cause of intellectual disability. Mutations of FMR1 are also associated with reproductive disorders, such as early cessation of reproductive function in females. While progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms of mental impairment, the causes of reproductive disorders are not clear. FMR1-associated reproductive disorders were studied exclusively from the endocrine perspective, while the FMR1 role in neurons that control reproduction was not addressed. Results Here, we demonstrate that similar to women with FMR1 mutations, female Fmr1 null mice stop reproducing early. However, young null females display larger litters, more corpora lutea in the ovaries, increased inhibin, progesterone, testosterone, and gonadotropin hormones in the circulation. Ovariectomy reveals both hypothalamic and ovarian contribution to elevated gonadotropins. Altered mRNA and protein levels of several synaptic molecules in the hypothalamus are identified, indicating reasons for hypothalamic dysregulation. Increased vascularization of corpora lutea, higher sympathetic innervation of growing follicles in the ovaries of Fmr1 nulls, and higher numbers of synaptic GABAA receptors in GnRH neurons, which are excitatory for GnRH neurons, contribute to increased FSH and LH, respectively. Unmodified and ovariectomized Fmr1 nulls have increased LH pulse frequency, suggesting that Fmr1 nulls exhibit hyperactive GnRH neurons, regardless of the ovarian feedback. Conclusion These results reveal Fmr1 function in the regulation of GnRH neuron secretion, and point to the role of GnRH neurons, in addition to the ovarian innervation, in the etiology of Fmr1-mediated reproductive disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Non-coding RNAs as key players in the neurodegenerative diseases: Multi-platform strategies and approaches for exploring the Genome's dark matter. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 129:102236. [PMID: 36709005 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102236] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
A growing amount of evidence in the last few years has begun to unravel that non-coding RNAs have a myriad of functions in gene regulation. Intensive investigation on non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has led to exploring their broad role in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) owing to their regulatory role in gene expression. RNA sequencing technologies and transcriptome analysis has unveiled significant dysregulation of ncRNAs attributed to their biogenesis, upregulation, downregulation, aberrant epigenetic regulation, and abnormal transcription. Despite these advances, the understanding of their potential as therapeutic targets and biomarkers underpinning detailed mechanisms is still unknown. Advancements in bioinformatics and molecular technologies have improved our knowledge of the dark matter of the genome in terms of recognition and functional validation. This review aims to shed light on ncRNAs biogenesis, function, and potential role in NDs. Further deepening of their role is provided through a focus on the most recent platforms, experimental approaches, and computational analysis to investigate ncRNAs. Furthermore, this review summarizes and evaluates well-studied miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs concerning their potential role in pathogenesis and use as biomarkers in NDs. Finally, a perspective on the main challenges and novel methods for the future and broad therapeutic use of ncRNAs is offered.
Collapse
|
33
|
Li X, Jin DS, Eadara S, Caterina MJ, Meffert MK. Regulation by noncoding RNAs of local translation, injury responses, and pain in the peripheral nervous system. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2023; 13:100119. [PMID: 36798094 PMCID: PMC9926024 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2023.100119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a chronic condition arising from damage to somatosensory pathways that results in pathological hypersensitivity. Persistent pain can be viewed as a consequence of maladaptive plasticity which, like most enduring forms of cellular plasticity, requires altered expression of specific gene programs. Control of gene expression at the level of protein synthesis is broadly utilized to directly modulate changes in activity and responsiveness in nociceptive pathways and provides an effective mechanism for compartmentalized regulation of the proteome in peripheral nerves through local translation. Levels of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are commonly impacted by peripheral nerve injury leading to persistent pain. NcRNAs exert spatiotemporal regulation of local proteomes and affect signaling cascades supporting altered sensory responses that contribute to hyperalgesia. This review discusses ncRNAs found in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) that are dysregulated following nerve injury and the current understanding of their roles in pathophysiological pain-related responses including neuroimmune interactions, neuronal survival and axon regeneration, Schwann cell dedifferentiation and proliferation, intercellular communication, and the generation of ectopic action potentials in primary afferents. We review progress in the field beyond cataloging, with a focus on the relevant target transcripts and mechanisms underlying pain modulation by ncRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinbei Li
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Daniel S. Jin
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Sreenivas Eadara
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Michael J. Caterina
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurosurgery Pain Research Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, United States
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Mollie K. Meffert
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, United States
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, United States
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Chowdhury MN, Jin H. The RGG motif proteins: Interactions, functions, and regulations. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2023; 14:e1748. [PMID: 35661420 PMCID: PMC9718894 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Proteins with motifs rich in arginines and glycines were discovered decades ago and are functionally involved in a staggering range of essential processes in the cell. Versatile, specific, yet adaptable molecular interactions enabled by the unique combination of arginine and glycine, combined with multiplicity of molecular recognition conferred by repeated di-, tri-, and multiple peptide motifs, allow RGG motif proteins to interact with a broad range of proteins and nucleic acids. Furthermore, posttranslational modifications at the arginines in the motif extend the RGG protein's capacity for a fine-tuned regulation. In this review, we focus on the biochemical properties of the RGG motif, its molecular interactions with RNAs and proteins, and roles of the posttranslational modification in modulating their interactions. We discuss current knowledge of the RGG motif proteins involved in mRNA transport and translation, highlight our merging understanding of their molecular functions in translational regulation and summarize areas of research in the future critical in understanding this important family of proteins. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Recognition RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications Translation > Mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mashiat N. Chowdhury
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S. Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Hong Jin
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S. Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801,Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S. Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, 1206 West Gregory Drive, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S. Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801,Corresponding author: Phone: (217)244-9493, Fax: (217)244-5858,
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Vasiliev GV, Ovchinnikov VY, Lisachev PD, Bondar NP, Grinkevich LN. The Expression of miRNAs Involved in Long-Term Memory Formation in the CNS of the Mollusk Helix lucorum. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010301. [PMID: 36613744 PMCID: PMC9820140 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010301] [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: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Mollusks are unique animals with a relatively simple central nervous system (CNS) containing giant neurons with identified functions. With such simple CNS, mollusks yet display sufficiently complex behavior, thus ideal for various studies of behavioral processes, including long-term memory (LTM) formation. For our research, we use the formation of the fear avoidance reflex in the terrestrial mollusk Helix lucorum as a learning model. We have shown previously that LTM formation in Helix requires epigenetic modifications of histones leading to both activation and inactivation of the specific genes. It is known that microRNAs (miRNAs) negatively regulate the expression of genes; however, the role of miRNAs in behavioral regulation has been poorly investigated. Currently, there is no miRNAs sequencing data being published on Helix lucorum, which makes it impossible to investigate the role of miRNAs in the memory formation of this mollusk. In this study, we have performed sequencing and comparative bioinformatics analysis of the miRNAs from the CNS of Helix lucorum. We have identified 95 different microRNAs, including microRNAs belonging to the MIR-9, MIR-10, MIR-22, MIR-124, MIR-137, and MIR-153 families, known to be involved in various CNS processes of vertebrates and other species, particularly, in the fear behavior and LTM. We have shown that in the CNS of Helix lucorum MIR-10 family (26 miRNAs) is the most representative one, including Hlu-Mir-10-S5-5p and Hlu-Mir-10-S9-5p as top hits. Moreover, we have shown the involvement of the MIR-10 family in LTM formation in Helix. The expression of 17 representatives of MIR-10 differentially changes during different periods of LTM consolidation in the CNS of Helix. In addition, using comparative analysis of microRNA expression upon learning in normal snails and snails with deficient learning abilities with dysfunction of the serotonergic system, we identified a number of microRNAs from several families, including MIR-10, which expression changes only in normal animals. The obtained data can be used for further fundamental and applied behavioral research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gennady V. Vasiliev
- The Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 10 Lavrentiev Avenue, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Vladimir Y. Ovchinnikov
- The Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 10 Lavrentiev Avenue, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Pavel D. Lisachev
- Federal Research Center for Information and Computational Technologies, 6 Lavrentiev Avenue, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Natalia P. Bondar
- The Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 10 Lavrentiev Avenue, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Larisa N. Grinkevich
- The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 6 nab. Makarova, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Keil-Stietz K, Lein PJ. Gene×environment interactions in autism spectrum disorders. Curr Top Dev Biol 2022; 152:221-284. [PMID: 36707213 PMCID: PMC10496028 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2022.11.001] [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] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There is credible evidence that environmental factors influence individual risk and/or severity of autism spectrum disorders (hereafter referred to as autism). While it is likely that environmental chemicals contribute to the etiology of autism via multiple mechanisms, identifying specific environmental factors that confer risk for autism and understanding how they contribute to the etiology of autism has been challenging, in part because the influence of environmental chemicals likely varies depending on the genetic substrate of the exposed individual. Current research efforts are focused on elucidating the mechanisms by which environmental chemicals interact with autism genetic susceptibilities to adversely impact neurodevelopment. The goal is to not only generate insights regarding the pathophysiology of autism, but also inform the development of screening platforms to identify specific environmental factors and gene×environment (G×E) interactions that modify autism risk. Data from such studies are needed to support development of intervention strategies for mitigating the burden of this neurodevelopmental condition on individuals, their families and society. In this review, we discuss environmental chemicals identified as putative autism risk factors and proposed mechanisms by which G×E interactions influence autism risk and/or severity using polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) as an example.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Keil-Stietz
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Pamela J Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Inouye MO, Colameo D, Ammann I, Winterer J, Schratt G. miR-329- and miR-495-mediated Prr7 down-regulation is required for homeostatic synaptic depression in rat hippocampal neurons. Life Sci Alliance 2022; 5:5/12/e202201520. [PMID: 36150742 PMCID: PMC9510147 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202201520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In rat hippocampal neurons, miRNA-dependent regulation of the synaptic Prr7 protein is required for the homeostatic synaptic depression of excitatory synapses upstream of the CDK5-SPAR pathway. Homeostatic synaptic depression (HSD) in excitatory neurons is a cell-autonomous mechanism which protects excitatory neurons from over-excitation as a consequence of chronic increases in network activity. In this process, excitatory synapses are weakened and eventually eliminated, as evidenced by a reduction in synaptic AMPA receptor expression and dendritic spine loss. Originally considered a global, cell-wide mechanism, local forms of regulation, such as the local control of mRNA translation in dendrites, are being increasingly recognized in HSD. Yet, identification of excitatory proteins whose local regulation is required for HSD is still limited. Here, we show that proline-rich protein 7/transmembrane adapter protein 3 (Prr7) down-regulation in dendrites of rat hippocampal neurons is necessary for HSD induced by chronic increase in network activity resulting from a blockade of inhibitory synaptic transmission by picrotoxin (PTX). We further identify two activity-regulated miRNAs, miR-329-3p and miR-495-3p, which inhibit Prr7 mRNA translation and are required for HSD. Moreover, we found that Prr7 knockdown reduces expression of the synaptic scaffolding protein SPAR, which is rescued by pharmacological inhibition of CDK5, indicating a role of Prr7 protein in the maintenance of excitatory synapses via protection of SPAR from degradation. Together, our findings highlight a novel HSD mechanism in which chronic activity leads to miR-329– and miR-495–mediated Prr7 reduction upstream of the CDK5-SPAR pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michiko O Inouye
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, Institute for Neuroscience, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - David Colameo
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, Institute for Neuroscience, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Irina Ammann
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, Institute for Neuroscience, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jochen Winterer
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, Institute for Neuroscience, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Gerhard Schratt
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, Institute for Neuroscience, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Di Liegro CM, Schiera G, Schirò G, Di Liegro I. RNA-Binding Proteins as Epigenetic Regulators of Brain Functions and Their Involvement in Neurodegeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314622. [PMID: 36498959 PMCID: PMC9739182 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A central aspect of nervous system development and function is the post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA fate, which implies time- and site-dependent translation, in response to cues originating from cell-to-cell crosstalk. Such events are fundamental for the establishment of brain cell asymmetry, as well as of long-lasting modifications of synapses (long-term potentiation: LTP), responsible for learning, memory, and higher cognitive functions. Post-transcriptional regulation is in turn dependent on RNA-binding proteins that, by recognizing and binding brief RNA sequences, base modifications, or secondary/tertiary structures, are able to control maturation, localization, stability, and translation of the transcripts. Notably, most RBPs contain intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) that are thought to be involved in the formation of membrane-less structures, probably due to liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Such structures are evidenced as a variety of granules that contain proteins and different classes of RNAs. The other side of the peculiar properties of IDRs is, however, that, under altered cellular conditions, they are also prone to form aggregates, as observed in neurodegeneration. Interestingly, RBPs, as part of both normal and aggregated complexes, are also able to enter extracellular vesicles (EVs), and in doing so, they can also reach cells other than those that produced them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Maria Di Liegro
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche) (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gabriella Schiera
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche) (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Schirò
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (Dipartimento di Biomedicina, Neuroscienze e Diagnostica Avanzata) (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Italia Di Liegro
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (Dipartimento di Biomedicina, Neuroscienze e Diagnostica Avanzata) (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-091-238-97 (ext. 415/446)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Couto RR, Kubaski F, Siebert M, Félix TM, Brusius-Facchin AC, Leistner-Segal S. Increased Serum Levels of miR-125b and miR-132 in Fragile X Syndrome: A Preliminary Study. Neurol Genet 2022; 8:e200024. [PMID: 36313066 PMCID: PMC9608387 DOI: 10.1212/nxg.0000000000200024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, identified as the most common cause of hereditary intellectual disability and monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), caused by the loss of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). FMRP is an RNA-binding protein, a regulator of translation that plays an important role in neurodevelopment, and its loss causes cognitive and behavioral deficits. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small molecules that regulate gene expression in diverse biological processes. Previous studies found that the interaction of FMRP with miR-125b and miR-132 regulates the maturation and synaptic plasticity in animal models and miRNA dysregulation plays a role in the pathophysiology of FXS. The present study aimed to analyze the expression of miR-125b-5p and miR-132-3p in the serum of patients with FXS. Methods The expressions of circulating miRNAs were studied in the serum of 10 patients with FXS and 20 controls using the real-time quantitative retrotranscribed method analyzed by relative quantification. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) were generated to assess the diagnostic values of the miRNAs. Results We found that both miR-125b and miR-132 were increased in the serum of patients with FXS compared with controls and likely involved with FMRP loss. The AUC (95% confidence interval) of miR-125b and miR-132 was 0.94 (0.86–1.0) and 0.89 (0.77–1.0), respectively. Databases allowed for the identification of possible target genes for miR-125b and miR-132, whose products play an important role in the homeostasis of the nervous system. Discussion Our results indicate that serum miR-125b and miR-132 may serve as potential biomarkers for FXS. The increased expression of circulating miR-125b and miR-132 seems to be associated with the genotype of FXS. Predicted gene targets of the differentially regulated miRNAs are involved in cognitive performance and ASD phenotype. Classification of Evidence This study provides Class III evidence that miR-125b and miR-132 distinguish men with FXS from normal controls.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rowena Rubim Couto
- Medical Genetics Service (R.R.C., F.K., M.S., T.M.F., A.C.B.-F., S.L.-S.), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre-HCPA; Postgraduate Program in Medicine: Child and Adolescent Health (R.R.C., T.M.F., S.L.-S.), UFRGS; and Postgraduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology (F.K.), PPGMB, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Francyne Kubaski
- Medical Genetics Service (R.R.C., F.K., M.S., T.M.F., A.C.B.-F., S.L.-S.), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre-HCPA; Postgraduate Program in Medicine: Child and Adolescent Health (R.R.C., T.M.F., S.L.-S.), UFRGS; and Postgraduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology (F.K.), PPGMB, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Marina Siebert
- Medical Genetics Service (R.R.C., F.K., M.S., T.M.F., A.C.B.-F., S.L.-S.), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre-HCPA; Postgraduate Program in Medicine: Child and Adolescent Health (R.R.C., T.M.F., S.L.-S.), UFRGS; and Postgraduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology (F.K.), PPGMB, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Têmis Maria Félix
- Medical Genetics Service (R.R.C., F.K., M.S., T.M.F., A.C.B.-F., S.L.-S.), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre-HCPA; Postgraduate Program in Medicine: Child and Adolescent Health (R.R.C., T.M.F., S.L.-S.), UFRGS; and Postgraduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology (F.K.), PPGMB, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Brusius-Facchin
- Medical Genetics Service (R.R.C., F.K., M.S., T.M.F., A.C.B.-F., S.L.-S.), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre-HCPA; Postgraduate Program in Medicine: Child and Adolescent Health (R.R.C., T.M.F., S.L.-S.), UFRGS; and Postgraduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology (F.K.), PPGMB, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Sandra Leistner-Segal
- Medical Genetics Service (R.R.C., F.K., M.S., T.M.F., A.C.B.-F., S.L.-S.), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre-HCPA; Postgraduate Program in Medicine: Child and Adolescent Health (R.R.C., T.M.F., S.L.-S.), UFRGS; and Postgraduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology (F.K.), PPGMB, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Tsujimura K, Shiohama T, Takahashi E. microRNA Biology on Brain Development and Neuroimaging Approach. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12101366. [PMID: 36291300 PMCID: PMC9599180 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12101366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Proper brain development requires the precise coordination and orchestration of various molecular and cellular processes and dysregulation of these processes can lead to neurological diseases. In the past decades, post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression has been shown to contribute to various aspects of brain development and function in the central nervous system. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), short non-coding RNAs, are emerging as crucial players in post-transcriptional gene regulation in a variety of tissues, such as the nervous system. In recent years, miRNAs have been implicated in multiple aspects of brain development, including neurogenesis, migration, axon and dendrite formation, and synaptogenesis. Moreover, altered expression and dysregulation of miRNAs have been linked to neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful imaging technology to obtain high-quality, detailed structural and functional information from the brains of human and animal models in a non-invasive manner. Because the spatial expression patterns of miRNAs in the brain, unlike those of DNA and RNA, remain largely unknown, a whole-brain imaging approach using MRI may be useful in revealing biological and pathological information about the brain affected by miRNAs. In this review, we highlight recent advancements in the research of miRNA-mediated modulation of neuronal processes that are important for brain development and their involvement in disease pathogenesis. Also, we overview each MRI technique, and its technological considerations, and discuss the applications of MRI techniques in miRNA research. This review aims to link miRNA biological study with MRI analytical technology and deepen our understanding of how miRNAs impact brain development and pathology of neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keita Tsujimura
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Group of Brain Function and Development, Nagoya University Neuroscience Institute of the Graduate School of Science, Nagoya 4648602, Japan
- Research Unit for Developmental Disorders, Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya 4648602, Japan
- Correspondence: (K.T.); (E.T.)
| | - Tadashi Shiohama
- Department of Pediatrics, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba 2608677, Japan
| | - Emi Takahashi
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Correspondence: (K.T.); (E.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Li H, Gavis ER. Drosophila FMRP controls miR-276-mediated regulation of nejire mRNA for space-filling dendrite development. G3 GENES|GENOMES|GENETICS 2022; 12:6697885. [PMID: 36102801 PMCID: PMC9635640 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkac239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are enriched in neurons and play important roles in dendritic spine development and synaptic plasticity. MicroRNA activity is controlled by a wide range of RNA-binding proteins. FMRP, a highly conserved RNA-binding protein, has been linked to microRNA-mediated gene regulation in axonal development and dendritic spine formation. FMRP also participates in dendritic arbor morphogenesis, but whether and how microRNAs contribute to its function in this process remains to be elucidated. Here, using Drosophila larval sensory neurons, we show that a FMRP-associated microRNA, miR-276, functions in FMRP-mediated space-filling dendrite morphogenesis. Using EGFP microRNA sensors, we demonstrate that FMRP likely acts by regulating miR-276a RNA targeting rather than by modulating microRNA levels. Supporting this conclusion, miR-276a coimmunoprecipitated with FMRP and this association was dependent on the FMRP KH domains. By testing putative targets of the FMRP–miR-276a regulatory axis, we identified nejire as a FMRP-associated mRNA and, using EGFP reporters, showed that the nejire 3′ untranslated region is a target of miR-276a in vivo. Genetic analysis places nejire downstream of the FMRP–miR-276a pathway in regulating dendrite patterning. Together, our findings support a model in which FMRP facilitates miR-276a-mediated control of nejire for proper dendrite space-filling morphology and shed light on microRNA-dependent dendrite developmental pathology of fragile X syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University , Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Elizabeth R Gavis
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University , Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Kuzniewska B, Rejmak K, Nowacka A, Ziółkowska M, Milek J, Magnowska M, Gruchota J, Gewartowska O, Borsuk E, Salamian A, Dziembowski A, Radwanska K, Dziembowska M. Disrupting interaction between miR-132 and Mmp9 3'UTR improves synaptic plasticity and memory in mice. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:924534. [PMID: 35992198 PMCID: PMC9389266 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.924534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As microRNAs have emerged to be important regulators of molecular events occurring at the synapses, the new questions about their regulatory effect on the behavior have araised. In the present study, we show for the first time that the dysregulated specific targeting of miR132 to Mmp9 mRNA in the mouse brain results in the increased level of Mmp9 protein, which affects synaptic plasticity and has an effect on memory formation. Our data points at the importance of complex and precise regulation of the Mmp9 level by miR132 in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bozena Kuzniewska
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Synaptic Plasticity, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karolina Rejmak
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Synaptic Plasticity, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agata Nowacka
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Behavior, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Ziółkowska
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Behavior, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Milek
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Synaptic Plasticity, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Magnowska
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Synaptic Plasticity, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Gruchota
- Laboratory of RNA Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Olga Gewartowska
- Laboratory of RNA Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Borsuk
- Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ahmad Salamian
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Behavior, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Dziembowski
- Laboratory of RNA Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kasia Radwanska
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Behavior, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Dziembowska
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Synaptic Plasticity, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Mohammadi AH, Seyedmoalemi S, Moghanlou M, Akhlagh SA, Talaei Zavareh SA, Hamblin MR, Jafari A, Mirzaei H. MicroRNAs and Synaptic Plasticity: From Their Molecular Roles to Response to Therapy. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:5084-5102. [PMID: 35666404 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02907-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Synaptic plasticity is the ability of synapses to weaken or strengthen over time, in response to changes in the activity of the neurons. It is orchestrated by a variety of genes, proteins, and external and internal factors, especially epigenetic factors. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are well-acknowledged epigenetic modulators that regulate the translation and degradation of target genes in the nervous system. Increasing evidence has suggested that a number of miRNAs play important roles in modulating various aspects of synaptic plasticity. The deregulation of miRNAs could be associated with pathological alterations in synaptic plasticity, which could lead to different CNS-related diseases. Herein, we provide an update on the role of miRNAs in governing synaptic plasticity. In addition, we also summarize recent researches on the role of miRNAs in drug addiction, and their targets and mechanism of action. Understanding of the way in which miRNAs contribute to synaptic plasticity provides rational clues in establishing the novel biomarkers and new therapeutic strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of plasticity-related diseases and drug addiction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Hossein Mohammadi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Seyedvahid Seyedmoalemi
- Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mahsa Moghanlou
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa
| | - Ameneh Jafari
- Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (ATMP) Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
- Proteomics Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Bhat VD, Jayaraj J, Babu K. RNA and neuronal function: the importance of post-transcriptional regulation. OXFORD OPEN NEUROSCIENCE 2022; 1:kvac011. [PMID: 38596700 PMCID: PMC10913846 DOI: 10.1093/oons/kvac011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The brain represents an organ with a particularly high diversity of genes that undergo post-transcriptional gene regulation through multiple mechanisms that affect RNA metabolism and, consequently, brain function. This vast regulatory process in the brain allows for a tight spatiotemporal control over protein expression, a necessary factor due to the unique morphologies of neurons. The numerous mechanisms of post-transcriptional regulation or translational control of gene expression in the brain include alternative splicing, RNA editing, mRNA stability and transport. A large number of trans-elements such as RNA-binding proteins and micro RNAs bind to specific cis-elements on transcripts to dictate the fate of mRNAs including its stability, localization, activation and degradation. Several trans-elements are exemplary regulators of translation, employing multiple cofactors and regulatory machinery so as to influence mRNA fate. Networks of regulatory trans-elements exert control over key neuronal processes such as neurogenesis, synaptic transmission and plasticity. Perturbations in these networks may directly or indirectly cause neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. We will be reviewing multiple mechanisms of gene regulation by trans-elements occurring specifically in neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vandita D Bhat
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, CV Raman Road, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India
| | - Jagannath Jayaraj
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, CV Raman Road, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India
| | - Kavita Babu
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, CV Raman Road, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Sánchez-Luquez KY, Carpena MX, Karam SM, Tovo-Rodrigues L. The contribution of whole-exome sequencing to intellectual disability diagnosis and knowledge of underlying molecular mechanisms: A systematic review and meta-analysis. MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2022; 790:108428. [PMID: 35905832 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2022.108428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Whole-exome sequencing (WES) is useful for molecular diagnosis, family genetic counseling, and prognosis of intellectual disability (ID). However, ID molecular diagnosis ascertainment based on WES is highly dependent on de novo mutations (DNMs) and variants of uncertain significance (VUS). The quantification of DNM frequency in ID molecular diagnosis ascertainment and the biological mechanisms common to genes with VUS may provide objective information about WES use in ID diagnosis and etiology. We aimed to investigate and estimate the rate of ID molecular diagnostic assessment by WES, quantify the contribution of DNMs to this rate, and biologically and functionally characterize the genes whose mutations were identified through WES. A PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, BIREME, and PsycINFO systematic review and meta-analysis was performed, including studies published between 2010 and 2022. Thirty-seven articles with data on ID molecular diagnostic yield using the WES approach were included in the review. WES testing accounted for an overall diagnostic rate of 42% (Confidence interval (CI): 35-50%), while the estimate restricted to DNMs was 11% (CI: 6-18%). Genetic information on mutations and genes was extracted and split into two groups: (1) genes whose mutation was used for positive molecular diagnosis, and (2) genes whose mutation led to uncertain molecular diagnosis. After functional enrichment analysis, in addition to their expected roles in neurodevelopment, genes from the first group were enriched in epigenetic regulatory mechanisms, immune system regulation, and circadian rhythm control. Genes from uncertain diagnosis cases were enriched in the renin angiotensin pathway. Taken together, our results support WES as an important approach to the molecular diagnosis of ID. The results also indicated relevant pathways that may underlie the pathogenesis of ID with the renin-angiotensin pathway being suggested to be a potential pathway underlying the pathogenesis of ID.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina Xavier Carpena
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil.
| | - Simone M Karam
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil.
| | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Chen H, Zhang M, Zhang J, Chen Y, Zuo Y, Xie Z, Zhou G, Chen S, Chen Y. Application of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Models for Investigating microRNA Regulation in Developmental Processes. Front Genet 2022; 13:899831. [PMID: 35719367 PMCID: PMC9204592 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.899831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) techniques have opened up new perspectives in research on developmental biology. Compared with other sources of human cellular models, iPSCs present a great advantage in hosting the unique genotype background of donors without ethical concerns. A wide spectrum of cellular and organoid models can be generated from iPSCs under appropriate in vitro conditions. The pluripotency of iPSCs is orchestrated by external signalling and regulated at the epigenetic, transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. Recent decades have witnessed the progress of studying tissue-specific expressions and functions of microRNAs (miRNAs) using iPSC-derived models. MiRNAs are a class of short non-coding RNAs with regulatory functions in various biological processes during development, including cell migration, proliferation and apoptosis. MiRNAs are key modulators of gene expression and promising candidates for biomarker in development; hence, research on the regulation of human development by miRNAs is expanding. In this review, we summarize the current progress in the application of iPSC-derived models to studies of the regulatory roles of miRNAs in developmental processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mimi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingzhi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yapei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yabo Zuo
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Clinical Rapid Diagnosis and Early Warning of Infectious Diseases, KingMed School of Laboratory Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhishen Xie
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Clinical Rapid Diagnosis and Early Warning of Infectious Diseases, KingMed School of Laboratory Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guanqing Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shehong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaoyong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Circulating miRNAs as Potential Biomarkers for Patient Stratification in Bipolar Disorder: A Combined Review and Data Mining Approach. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13061038. [PMID: 35741801 PMCID: PMC9222282 DOI: 10.3390/genes13061038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Bipolar disorder is a debilitating psychiatric condition that is shaped in a concerted interplay between hereditary and triggering risk factors. Profound depression and mania define the disorder, but high clinical heterogeneity among patients complicates diagnosis as well as pharmacological intervention. Identification of peripheral biomarkers that capture the genomic response to the exposome may thus progress the development of personalized treatment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a prominent role in of post-transcriptional gene regulation in the context of brain development and mental health. They are coordinately modulated by multifarious effectors, and alteration in their expression profile has been reported in a variety of psychiatric conditions. Intriguingly, miRNAs can be released from CNS cells and enter circulatory bio-fluids where they remain remarkably stable. Hence, peripheral circulatory miRNAs may act as bio-indicators for the combination of genetic risk, environmental exposure, and/or treatment response. Here we provide a comprehensive literature search and data mining approach that summarize current experimental evidence supporting the applicability of miRNAs for patient stratification in bipolar disorder.
Collapse
|
48
|
Jiraanont P, Manor E, Tabatadze N, Zafarullah M, Mendoza G, Melikishvili G, Tassone F. De Novo Large Deletion Leading to Fragile X Syndrome. Front Genet 2022; 13:884424. [PMID: 35646065 PMCID: PMC9130735 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.884424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most frequent cause of X-linked inherited intellectual disabilities (ID) and the most frequent monogenic form of autism spectrum disorders. It is caused by an expansion of a CGG trinucleotide repeat located in the 5'UTR of the FMR1 gene, resulting in the absence of the fragile X mental retardation protein, FMRP. Other mechanisms such as deletions or point mutations of the FMR1 gene have been described and account for approximately 1% of individuals with FXS. Here, we report a 7-year-old boy with FXS with a de novo deletion of approximately 1.1 Mb encompassing several genes, including the FMR1 and the ASFMR1 genes, and several miRNAs, whose lack of function could result in the observed proband phenotypes. In addition, we also demonstrate that FMR4 completely overlaps with ASFMR1, and there are no sequencing differences between both transcripts (i.e., ASFMR1/FMR4 throughout the article).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Poonnada Jiraanont
- Faculty of Medicine, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Esther Manor
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel.,Genetics Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Nazi Tabatadze
- Department of Pediatrics, MediClub Georgia Medical Center, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Marwa Zafarullah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Guadalupe Mendoza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Gia Melikishvili
- Department of Pediatrics, MediClub Georgia Medical Center, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Flora Tassone
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States.,UC Davis MIND Institute, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Malone TJ, Kaczmarek LK. The role of altered translation in intellectual disability and epilepsy. Prog Neurobiol 2022; 213:102267. [PMID: 35364140 PMCID: PMC10583652 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2022.102267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A very high proportion of cases of intellectual disability are genetic in origin and are associated with the occurrence of epileptic seizures during childhood. These two disorders together effect more than 5% of the world's population. One feature linking the two diseases is that learning and memory require the synthesis of new synaptic components and ion channels, while maintenance of overall excitability also requires synthesis of similar proteins in response to altered neuronal stimulation. Many of these disorders result from mutations in proteins that regulate mRNA processing, translation initiation, translation elongation, mRNA stability or upstream translation modulators. One theme that emerges on reviewing this field is that mutations in proteins that regulate changes in translation following neuronal stimulation are more likely to result in epilepsy with intellectual disability than general translation regulators with no known role in activity-dependent changes. This is consistent with the notion that activity-dependent translation in neurons differs from that in other cells types in that the changes in local cellular composition, morphology and connectivity that occur generally in response to stimuli are directly coupled to local synaptic activity and persist for months or years after the original stimulus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taylor J Malone
- Departments of Pharmacology, and of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street B-309, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Leonard K Kaczmarek
- Departments of Pharmacology, and of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street B-309, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Dysregulated miRNAs as Biomarkers and Therapeutical Targets in Neurodegenerative Diseases. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12050770. [PMID: 35629192 PMCID: PMC9143965 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12050770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) are representative neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) characterized by degeneration of selective neurons, as well as the lack of effective biomarkers and therapeutic treatments. In the last decade, microRNAs (miRNAs) have gained considerable interest in diagnostics and therapy of NDs, owing to their aberrant expression and their ability to target multiple molecules and pathways. Here, we provide an overview of dysregulated miRNAs in fluids (blood or cerebrospinal fluid) and nervous tissue of AD, PD, and ALS patients. By emphasizing those that are commonly dysregulated in these NDs, we highlight their potential role as biomarkers or therapeutical targets and describe the use of antisense oligonucleotides as miRNA therapies.
Collapse
|