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Grote J, Patel N, Bates C, Parmar MS. From lab bench to hope: a review of gene therapies in clinical trials for Parkinson's disease and challenges. Neurol Sci 2024:10.1007/s10072-024-07599-1. [PMID: 38795270 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-024-07599-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurological disorder that is identified by a characteristic combination of symptoms such as bradykinesia, resting tremor, rigidity, and postural instability. It is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's disease and is characterized by the progressive loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Currently, available treatments for PD are symptomatic and do not prevent the disease pathology. There is growing interest in developing disease-modifying therapy that can reduce disease progression and improve patients' quality of life. One of the promising therapeutic approaches under evaluation is gene therapy utilizing a viral vector, adeno-associated virus (AAV), to deliver transgene of interest into the central nervous system (CNS). Preclinical studies in small animals and nonhuman primates model of PD have shown promising results utilizing the gene therapy that express glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), cerebral dopamine neurotrophic factor (CDNF), aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC), and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD). This study provides a comprehensive review of the current state of the above-mentioned gene therapies in various phases of clinical trials for PD treatment. We have highlighted the rationale for the gene-therapy approach and the findings from the preclinical and nonhuman primates studies, evaluating the therapeutic effect, dose safety, and tolerability. The challenges associated with gene therapy for heterogeneous neurodegenerative diseases, such as PD, have also been described. In conclusion, the review identifies the ongoing promising gene therapy approaches in clinical trials and provides hope for patients with PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Grote
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Nikita Patel
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Chad Bates
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Mayur S Parmar
- Department of Foundational Sciences, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Tampa Bay Regional Campus, Clearwater, FL, USA.
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Kong L, Miu L, Yao W, Shi Z. Effect of Regular Aerobic Exercise on Cognitive Function, Depression Level and Regulative Role of Neurotrophic Factor: A Prospective Cohort Study in the Young and the Middle-Aged Sample. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2024; 17:935-943. [PMID: 38633669 PMCID: PMC11021864 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s456765] [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: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and depressive disorder (DD), which are associated with unhealthy lifestyles, are prevalent worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the effects of regular aerobic exercise on cognitive function, depression, and the regulatory role of neurotrophic growth factors for providing scientific basis in preventing MCI and DD in healthy individuals. Patients and Methods Eighty members of the fitness center and 80 community residents were recruited, who were administered by the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell-line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in the peripheral blood were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results The RBANS and other factor scores, except for visuospatial abilities, were higher and PHQ-9 scores were lower in the study group than in the control group. The concentrations of BDNF and GDNF in the study group were higher than those in the control group. RBANS and its factor scores positively and PHQ-9 negatively correlated with BDNF and GDNF levels. Finally, multiple regression analysis showed that BDNF, as a predictor of RBANS, could explain 59.90% of its variance and that GDNF was a predictor of PHQ-9 could explain 12.30% of the variance. Conclusion Regular aerobic exercise can improve cognitive function and depressive symptoms by increasing the BDNF and GDNF levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingming Kong
- Mental Health Research Center, No. 904th Hospital, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liqin Miu
- Psychiatry Department, the 2nd People’s Hospital of Jintan District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213200, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenwei Yao
- Psychiatry Department, the 2nd People’s Hospital of Jintan District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, 213200, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiyuan Shi
- College of Clinical Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, People’s Republic of China
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3
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Szwajca M, Kazek G, Śmierciak N, Mizera J, Pomierny-Chamiolo L, Szwajca K, Biesaga B, Pilecki M. GDNF and miRNA-29a as biomarkers in the first episode of psychosis: uncovering associations with psychosocial factors. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1320650. [PMID: 38645418 PMCID: PMC11027163 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1320650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim Schizophrenia involves complex interactions between biological and environmental factors, including childhood trauma, cognitive impairments, and premorbid adjustment. Predicting its severity and progression remains challenging. Biomarkers like glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and miRNA-29a may bridge biological and environmental aspects. The goal was to explore the connections between miRNAs and neural proteins and cognitive functioning, childhood trauma, and premorbid adjustment in the first episode of psychosis (FEP). Method This study included 19 FEP patients who underwent clinical evaluation with: the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), the Premorbid Adjustment Scale (PAS), the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA). Multiplex assays for plasma proteins were conducted with Luminex xMAP technology. Additionally, miRNA levels were quantitatively determined through RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, and RT-qPCR on a 7500 Fast Real-Time PCR System. Results Among miRNAs, only miR-29a-3p exhibited a significant correlation with PAS-C scores (r = -0.513, p = 0.025) and cognitive improvement (r = -0.505, p = 0.033). Among the analyzed proteins, only GDNF showed correlations with MoCA scores at the baseline and after 3 months (r = 0.533, p = 0.0189 and r = 0.598, p = 0.007), cognitive improvement (r = 0.511, p = 0.025), and CTQ subtests. MIF concentrations correlated with the PAS-C subscale (r = -0.5670, p = 0.011). Conclusion GDNF and miR-29a-3p are promising as biomarkers for understanding and addressing cognitive deficits in psychosis. This study links miRNA and MIF to premorbid adjustment and reveals GDNF's unique role in connection with childhood trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Szwajca
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Kazek
- Department of Pharmacological Screening, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Natalia Śmierciak
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Józef Mizera
- Department of Toxicology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | | | - Krzysztof Szwajca
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Beata Biesaga
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Maciej Pilecki
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
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4
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Marshall P. Finding an Optimal Level of GDNF Overexpression: Insights from Dopamine Cycling. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:3179-3189. [PMID: 37410316 PMCID: PMC10477250 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01375-z] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
The application of glial cell line-derive neurotrophic factor (GDNF) to cell cultures and animal models has demonstrated positive effects upon dopaminergic neuronal survival and development, function, restoration, and protection. On this basis, recombinant GDNF protein has been trialled in the treatment of late-stage human Parkinson's disease patients with only limited success that is likely due to a lack of viable receptor targets in an advanced state of neurodegeneration. The latest research points to more refined approaches of modulating GDNF signalling and an optimal quantity and spatial regulation of GDNF can be extrapolated using regulation of dopamine as a proxy measure. The basic research literature on dopaminergic effects of GDNF in animal models is reviewed, concluding that a twofold increase in natively expressing cells increases dopamine turnover and maximises neuroprotective and beneficial motor effects whilst minimising hyperdopaminergia and other side-effects. Methodological considerations for measurement of dopamine levels and neuroanatomical distinctions are made between populations of dopamine neurons and their respective effects upon movement and behaviour that will inform future research into this still-relevant growth factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pepin Marshall
- Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
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Kumar P, Osahon OW, Sekhar RV. GlyNAC (Glycine and N-Acetylcysteine) Supplementation in Old Mice Improves Brain Glutathione Deficiency, Oxidative Stress, Glucose Uptake, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Genomic Damage, Inflammation and Neurotrophic Factors to Reverse Age-Associated Cognitive Decline: Implications for Improving Brain Health in Aging. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12051042. [PMID: 37237908 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12051042] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive decline frequently occurs with increasing age, but mechanisms contributing to age-associated cognitive decline (ACD) are not well understood and solutions are lacking. Understanding and reversing mechanisms contributing to ACD are important because increased age is identified as the single most important risk factor for dementia. We reported earlier that ACD in older humans is associated with glutathione (GSH) deficiency, oxidative stress (OxS), mitochondrial dysfunction, glucose dysmetabolism and inflammation, and that supplementing GlyNAC (glycine and N-acetylcysteine) improved these defects. To test whether these defects occur in the brain in association with ACD, and could be improved/reversed with GlyNAC supplementation, we studied young (20-week) and old (90-week) C57BL/6J mice. Old mice received either regular or GlyNAC supplemented diets for 8 weeks, while young mice received the regular diet. Cognition and brain outcomes (GSH, OxS, mitochondrial energetics, autophagy/mitophagy, glucose transporters, inflammation, genomic damage and neurotrophic factors) were measured. Compared to young mice, the old-control mice had significant cognitive impairment and multiple brain defects. GlyNAC supplementation improved/corrected the brain defects and reversed ACD. This study finds that naturally-occurring ACD is associated with multiple abnormalities in the brain, and provides proof-of-concept that GlyNAC supplementation corrects these defects and improves cognitive function in aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Premranjan Kumar
- Translational Metabolism Unit, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ob W Osahon
- Translational Metabolism Unit, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rajagopal V Sekhar
- Translational Metabolism Unit, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Ding L, Wu Y, Kong L, Sun J, Qu F, Xin K, Yang A, Yan X, Lu Y, Jiang X, Tang Y, Wu F. Gender differences in plasma glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor levels of patients with bipolar disorder. J Affect Disord 2023; 320:605-609. [PMID: 36183819 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.09.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) has an important role in neurons and is closely associated with psychiatric disorders. The development of bipolar disorder (BD) may differ between genders. Existing studies have shown that plasma GDNF levels are altered in patients with BD. In this study, we investigate whether the GDNF levels in patients with BD differ in terms of gender. METHODS Participants were divided into the BD group (n = 76, with 26 males and 50 females) and healthy control (HC) group (n = 89, with 35 males and 54 females). Plasma GDNF levels were detected via multifactor assay. Clinical symptoms of patients with BD were collected and assessed using the Hamilton Depression-17 Inventory, Hamilton Anxiety-17 Inventory, Young's Mania Rating Scale, and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. RESULTS The GDNF levels were significantly higher in all participants in the HC group (F = 4.262, p < 0.05) compared with those in the BD group. In the HC group, the males (t = 4.814, p < 0.001) presented significantly higher levels than the females. The plasma GDNF levels in males in the BD group (t = 3.022, p < 0.05) were significantly lower than those in males in the HC group. CONCLUSION Differences in plasma GDNF levels are associated with the gender of patients with BD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyu Ding
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yifan Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Lingtao Kong
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
| | - Jiaze Sun
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Fangru Qu
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Kaiqi Xin
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Anqi Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xintong Yan
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yihui Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaowei Jiang
- Brain Function Research Section, Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yanqing Tang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Department of Geriatric Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Feng Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
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7
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Pandey SK, Singh RK. Recent developments in nucleic acid-based therapies for Parkinson’s disease: Current status, clinical potential, and future strategies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:986668. [PMID: 36339626 PMCID: PMC9632735 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.986668] [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: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease is the second most common progressive neurodegenerative disease diagnosed mainly based on clinical symptoms caused by loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. Although currently available pharmacological therapies provide symptomatic relief, however, the disease continues to progress eventually leading to severe motor and cognitive decline and reduced quality of life. The hallmark pathology of Parkinson’s disease includes intraneuronal inclusions known as Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites, including fibrillar α-synuclein aggregates. These aggregates can progressively spread across synaptically connected brain regions leading to emergence of disease symptoms with time. The α-synuclein level is considered important in its fibrillization and aggregation. Nucleic acid therapeutics have recently been shown to be effective in treating various neurological diseases, raising the possibility of developing innovative molecular therapies for Parkinson’s disease. In this review, we have described the advancements in genetic dysregulations in Parkinson’s disease along with the disease-modifying strategies involved in genetic regulation with particular focus on downregulation of α-synuclein gene using various novel technologies, notably antisense oligonucleotides, microRNA, short interfering RNA, short hairpin RNAs, DNA aptamers, and gene therapy of vector-assisted delivery system-based therapeutics. In addition, the current status of preclinical and clinical development for nucleic acid-based therapies for Parkinson’s disease have also been discussed along with their limitations and opportunities.
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Wu Y, Rakotoarisoa M, Angelov B, Deng Y, Angelova A. Self-Assembled Nanoscale Materials for Neuronal Regeneration: A Focus on BDNF Protein and Nucleic Acid Biotherapeutic Delivery. NANOMATERIALS 2022; 12:nano12132267. [PMID: 35808102 PMCID: PMC9268293 DOI: 10.3390/nano12132267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Enabling challenging applications of nanomedicine and precision medicine in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders requires deeper investigations of nanocarrier-mediated biomolecular delivery for neuronal targeting and recovery. The successful use of macromolecular biotherapeutics (recombinant growth factors, antibodies, enzymes, synthetic peptides, cell-penetrating peptide–drug conjugates, and RNAi sequences) in clinical developments for neuronal regeneration should benefit from the recent strategies for enhancement of their bioavailability. We highlight the advances in the development of nanoscale materials for drug delivery in neurodegenerative disorders. The emphasis is placed on nanoformulations for the delivery of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) using different types of lipidic nanocarriers (liposomes, liquid crystalline or solid lipid nanoparticles) and polymer-based scaffolds, nanofibers and hydrogels. Self-assembled soft-matter nanoscale materials show favorable neuroprotective characteristics, safety, and efficacy profiles in drug delivery to the central and peripheral nervous systems. The advances summarized here indicate that neuroprotective biomolecule-loaded nanoparticles and injectable hydrogels can improve neuronal survival and reduce tissue injury. Certain recently reported neuronal dysfunctions in long-COVID-19 survivors represent early manifestations of neurodegenerative pathologies. Therefore, BDNF delivery systems may also help in prospective studies on recovery from long-term COVID-19 neurological complications and be considered as promising systems for personalized treatment of neuronal dysfunctions and prevention or retarding of neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wu
- CNRS, Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France; (Y.W.); (M.R.)
| | - Miora Rakotoarisoa
- CNRS, Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France; (Y.W.); (M.R.)
| | - Borislav Angelov
- Institute of Physics, ELI Beamlines, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Na Slovance 2, CZ-18221 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Yuru Deng
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 1, Jinlian Road, Longwan District, Wenzhou 325001, China;
| | - Angelina Angelova
- CNRS, Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France; (Y.W.); (M.R.)
- Correspondence:
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Razenkova VA, Korzhevskii DE. Catecholaminergic Rat’s Forebrain Structures in Early Postnatal Development and Aging. Russ J Dev Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360422030067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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10
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Kassouf V, Sagherian BH, Yassin K, Antoun J. Effect of a discordant opinion offered by a second opinion physician on the patient's decision for management of spinal disc disease. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2022; 105:228-232. [PMID: 33985847 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2021.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Factors that influence a patient's decision for spinal surgery and selection of the spine surgeon have not been studied in the context of a Second Opinion (SO). Providing insight into these factors will guide surgeons in their discussion of treatment options with patients. OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess the impact of a discordant SO on the final decision of patients as compared to their initial preference regarding spinal disc disease treatment for chronic neck and low back pain. PATIENT INVOLVEMENT Patients in this study engage in clinical vignettes designed to induce decisional conflict. METHODS A cross-sectional study using clinical vignette-based questionnaires was presented to patients at the Family Medicine, Orthopedic, and Neurosurgery clinics at a university-based tertiary academic medical center. RESULTS A total of 246 patients participated in the study (response rate, 66.8%). Irrespective of the initial offered treatment, most patients wanted to consult a SO (64.2%). Most patients preferred conservative treatment to surgery after getting the initial recommendation (78.5%) and after getting a discordant SO (56.5%). There was an association between the agreement of the patient with the initial recommendation and the effect of the SO on the final decision of patients (p < 0.001). Patients who disagreed with the initially offered treatment were more likely to abide by their initial decision after the SO (80.8%) as compared to those who were in agreement (17.7%), while those who agreed with the initially offered treatment were more likely to change their decision (39.5%) or to take a third opinion (42.9%). DISCUSSION A discordant SO may validate patients' wishes when they disagree with the initially offered treatment and may lead to confusion when they agree with the initial physicians' recommendations. PRACTICAL VALUE As patients tend to abide by their initial preference, physicians should explicitly consider patients' wishes when discussing options for management of spinal disc disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicky Kassouf
- Department of Family Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Bernard H Sagherian
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery / Department of Surgery, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Koumail Yassin
- Department of Arts and Science, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Jumana Antoun
- Department of Family Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon.
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11
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Conway JA, Kramer ER. Is activation of GDNF/RET signaling the answer for successful treatment of Parkinson's disease? A discussion of data from the culture dish to the clinic. Neural Regen Res 2021; 17:1462-1467. [PMID: 34916419 PMCID: PMC8771118 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.327330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotrophic signaling of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) with its canonical receptor, the receptor tyrosine kinase RET, coupled together with the GDNF family receptor alpha 1 is important for dopaminergic neuron survival and physiology in cell culture experiments and animal models. This prompted the idea to try GDNF/RET signaling as a therapeutic approach to treat Parkinson's disease with the hallmark of dopaminergic cell death in the substantia nigra of the midbrain. Despite several clinical trials with GDNF in Parkinson's disease patients, which mainly focused on optimizing the GDNF delivery technique, benefits were only seen in a few patients. In general, the endpoints did not show significant improvements. This suggests that it will be helpful to learn more about the basic biology of this fascinating but complicated GDNF/RET signaling system in the dopaminergic midbrain and about recent developments in the field to facilitate its use in the clinic. Here we will refer to the latest publications and point out important open questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Conway
- Institute of Translational and Stratified Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Devon, UK
| | - Edgar R Kramer
- Institute of Translational and Stratified Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Devon, UK
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12
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Shamadykova DV, Panteleev DY, Kust NN, Savchenko EA, Rybalkina EY, Revishchin AV, Pavlova GV. Neuroinductive properties of mGDNF depend on the producer, E. Coli or human cells. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258289. [PMID: 34634077 PMCID: PMC8504721 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is involved in the survival of dopaminergic neurons. Besides, GDNF can also induce axonal growth and creation of new functional synapses. GDNF potential is promising for translation to treat diseases associated with neuronal death: neurodegenerative disorders, ischemic stroke, and cerebral or spinal cord damages. Unproductive clinical trials of GDNF for Parkinson's disease treatment have induced to study this failure. A reason could be due to irrelevant producer cells that cannot perform the required post-translational modifications. The biological activity of recombinant mGDNF produced by E. coli have been compared with mGDNF produced by human cells HEK293. mGDNF variants were tested with PC12 cells, rat embryonic spinal ganglion cells, and SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells in vitro as well as with a mouse model of the Parkinson's disease in vivo. Both in vitro and in vivo the best neuro-inductive ability belongs to mGDNF produced by HEK293 cells. Keywords: GDNF, neural differentiation, bacterial and mammalian expression systems, cell cultures, model of Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dzhirgala V. Shamadykova
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry Y. Panteleev
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nadezhda N. Kust
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | - Alexander V. Revishchin
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Galina V. Pavlova
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Burdenko Neurosurgical Institute, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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13
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Gao J, Qin DL, Tang CX, Kang XY, Song CJ, Zhang CT. Smarcd1 antagonizes the apoptosis of injured MES23.5 DA cells by enhancing the effect of Six2 on GDNF expression. Neurosci Lett 2021; 760:136088. [PMID: 34233203 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) played critical roles in the survival and repair of dopaminergic (DA) neurons. Transcription factor Six2 could repair injured DA cells by promoting the expression of GDNF, however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, we screened forty-three proteins that interacted with Six2 in MES23.5 DA cells treated with 6-OHDA by liquid chromatography - electrospray - ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-ITMS/MS). Among these proteins, Smarcd1 is a member of SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex family. Our results confirmed that Smarcd1 formed a transcription complex with Six2, and Smarcd1 mainly binded to the 2840 bp-2933 bp region of the GDNF promoter. Furthermore, knockdown of Smarcd1 inhibited the effect of Six2 on GDNF expression, and resulted in decreased cell viability and increased the apoptosis of injured DA neurons, and the result of overexpression of Smarcd1 is opposite to knockdown. Taken together, our results indicate that smarcd1 can be recruited to the promoter region of GDNF by transcription factor Six2 to promote the effect of Six2 on GDNF expression and protect injured MES23.5 DA cells, which could be useful in identifying potential drug targets for promoting endogenous GDNF expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Gao
- Department of Neurobiology and Cell Biology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Deng-Li Qin
- Department of Neurobiology and Cell Biology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuan-Xi Tang
- Department of Neurobiology and Cell Biology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Kang
- Department of Neurobiology and Cell Biology, Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cheng-Jie Song
- Department of Physiology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Can-Tang Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, Jiangsu, China
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14
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Bondarenko O, Saarma M. Neurotrophic Factors in Parkinson's Disease: Clinical Trials, Open Challenges and Nanoparticle-Mediated Delivery to the Brain. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:682597. [PMID: 34149364 PMCID: PMC8206542 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.682597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophic factors (NTFs) are small secreted proteins that support the development, maturation and survival of neurons. NTFs injected into the brain rescue and regenerate certain neuronal populations lost in neurodegenerative diseases, demonstrating the potential of NTFs to cure the diseases rather than simply alleviating the symptoms. NTFs (as the vast majority of molecules) do not pass through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and therefore, are delivered directly into the brain of patients using costly and risky intracranial surgery. The delivery efficacy and poor diffusion of some NTFs inside the brain are considered the major problems behind their modest effects in clinical trials. Thus, there is a great need for NTFs to be delivered systemically thereby avoiding intracranial surgery. Nanoparticles (NPs), particles with the size dimensions of 1-100 nm, can be used to stabilize NTFs and facilitate their transport through the BBB. Several studies have shown that NTFs can be loaded into or attached onto NPs, administered systemically and transported to the brain. To improve the NP-mediated NTF delivery through the BBB, the surface of NPs can be functionalized with specific ligands such as transferrin, insulin, lactoferrin, apolipoproteins, antibodies or short peptides that will be recognized and internalized by the respective receptors on brain endothelial cells. In this review, we elaborate on the most suitable NTF delivery methods and envision "ideal" NTF for Parkinson's disease (PD) and clinical trial thereof. We shortly summarize clinical trials of four NTFs, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), neurturin (NRTN), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-BB), and cerebral dopamine neurotrophic factor (CDNF), that were tested in PD patients, focusing mainly on GDNF and CDNF. We summarize current possibilities of NP-mediated delivery of NTFs to the brain and discuss whether NPs have impact in improving the properties of NTFs and delivery across the BBB. Emerging delivery approaches and future directions of NTF-based nanomedicine are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olesja Bondarenko
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Mart Saarma
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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15
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Jin W, Zhang F, Linhardt RJ. Glycosaminoglycans in Neurodegenerative Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1325:189-204. [PMID: 34495536 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-70115-4_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are linear polysaccharides that consist of alternating disaccharides sequences of uronic acids and/or galactose hexamino sugars most of which are sulfated. GAGs are ubiquitously expressed on the cell surface, in the intracellular milieu and in the extracellular matrix of all animal cells. Thus, GAGs exhibit many essential roles in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. The targets of GAGs are GAG-binding proteins and related proteins that are of significant interest to both the academic community and in the pharmaceutical industry. In this review, the structures of GAGs, their binding proteins, and analogs are presented that further the development of GAGs and their analogs for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihua Jin
- College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Fuming Zhang
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.
| | - Robert J Linhardt
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA. .,Department of Biological Science, Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Biology and Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.
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16
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Liran M, Rahamim N, Ron D, Barak S. Growth Factors and Alcohol Use Disorder. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2020; 10:cshperspect.a039271. [PMID: 31964648 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a039271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophic growth factors were originally characterized for their support in neuronal differentiation, outgrowth, and survival during development. However, it has been acknowledged that they also play a vital role in the adult brain. Abnormalities in growth factors have been implicated in a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including alcohol use disorder (AUD). This work focuses on the interaction between alcohol and growth factors. We review literature suggesting that several growth factors play a unique role in the regulation of alcohol consumption, and that breakdown in these growth factor systems is linked to the development of AUD. Specifically, we focus on the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), and insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1). We also review the literature on the potential role of midkine (MDK) and pleiotrophin (PTN) and their receptor, anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), in AUD. We show that alcohol alters the expression of these growth factors or their receptors in brain regions previously implicated in addiction, and that manipulations on these growth factors and their downstream signaling can affect alcohol-drinking behaviors in animal models. We conclude that there is a need for translational and clinical research to assess the therapeutic potential of new pharmacotherapies targeting these systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirit Liran
- Department of Neurobiology, Tel Aviv University, 69978 Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Nofar Rahamim
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 69978 Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dorit Ron
- Department of Neurology, University of California, 675 Nelson Rising Lane, San Francisco, California 94143-0663, USA
| | - Segev Barak
- Department of Neurobiology, Tel Aviv University, 69978 Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 69978 Tel Aviv, Israel.,School of Psychological Sciences, Tel Aviv University, 69978 Tel Aviv, Israel
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17
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Xuan J, Zhu D, Cheng Z, Qiu Y, Shao M, Yang Y, Zhai Q, Wang F, Qin F. Crocin inhibits the activation of mouse hepatic stellate cells via the lnc-LFAR1/MTF-1/GDNF pathway. Cell Cycle 2020; 19:3480-3490. [PMID: 33295246 PMCID: PMC7781632 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2020.1848064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Crocin is the main monomer of saffron, which is a momentous component of traditional Chinese medicine Lang Qing A Ta. Here, we tried to probe into the role of crocin in liver fibrosis. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and Sirius Red staining were used to observe the pathological changes of liver tissues. After hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were isolated from liver tissues, lnc-LFAR1, MTF-1, GDNF, and α-SMA expressions were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were used to detect α-SMA expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to analyze the binding of MTF-1 to the GDNF promoter. Moreover, the dual-luciferase reporter gene, RNA pull-down, and RNA immunoprecipitation were used to clarify the interaction between MTF-1 and GDNF, lnc-LFAR1 and MTF-1. The degree of liver fibrosis was more severe in the mice from the liver fibrosis model, while the liver fibrosis was alleviated by the injection of crocin. lnc-LFAR1, GDNF, and α-SMA were up-regulated, and MTF-1 was down-regulated in liver fibrosis tissues and cells, while these trends were reversed after the injection of crocin. Besides, lnc-LFAR1 negatively regulated MTF-1 expression, and positively regulated GDNF and α-SMA expressions, and MTF-1 was enriched in the promoter region of GDNF. Furthermore, the cellular direct interactions between MTF-1 and GDNF, lnc-LFAR1 and MTF-1 were verified. In vivo experiments confirmed the relief of crocin on liver fibrosis. Our research expounded that crocin restrained the activation of HSCs through the lnc-LFAR1/MTF-1/GDNF axis, thereby ameliorating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Xuan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Dongmei Zhu
- Department of Nursing, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhengyuan Cheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuping Qiu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Mei Shao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Ya Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Zhai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Fangyu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Qin
- Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
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18
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Zhong J, Li J, Ni C, Zuo Z. Amantadine Alleviates Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction Possibly by Preserving Neurotrophic Factor Expression and Dendritic Arborization in the Hippocampus of Old Rodents. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:605330. [PMID: 33324197 PMCID: PMC7726433 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.605330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Amantadine has been shown to attenuate postoperative learning and memory dysfunction in young adult rats. However, postoperative cognitive dysfunction often occurs in elderly patients. We aimed to determine whether amantadine attenuated postoperative learning and memory dysfunction and whether these effects were associated with improved dendritic arborization in old rodents. Methods Eighteen-month old male C57BL/6J mice or Fischer 344 rats were subjected to right carotid artery exposure (surgery) under isoflurane anesthesia. This age represents an early old stage in rodents. Carotid artery exposure was used to simulate commonly performed carotid endarterectomy in elderly patients. Amantadine was injected intraperitoneally at 25 μg/g once a day for 3 days with the first dose at 15 min before surgery. The animals were tested by Barnes maze and fear conditioning starting one week after the surgery. Hippocampus was harvested for Western blotting and Golgi staining. Results Surgery and anesthesia impaired the learning and memory in old mice and rats. Surgery reduced the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), dendritic arborization and spine density in the hippocampus of old rats. These effects were attenuated by amantadine. The effects of amantadine were blocked by intracerebroventricular injection of anti-BDNF antibody or anti-GDNF antibody. Conclusion Surgery and anesthesia impaired learning, memory and dendritic arborization in old rodents that are age relevant to postoperative cognitive dysfunction. These effects may be attenuated by amantadine via preserving the expression of neurotrophic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhong
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States.,Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Cheng Ni
- Department of Anesthesia, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyi Zuo
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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19
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Mahato AK, Sidorova YA. Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factors (GFLs) and small molecules targeting RET receptor for the treatment of pain and Parkinson's disease. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 382:147-160. [PMID: 32556722 PMCID: PMC7529621 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03227-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rearranged during transfection (RET), in complex with glial cell line-derived (GDNF) family receptor alpha (GFRα), is the canonical signaling receptor for GDNF family ligands (GFLs) expressed in both central and peripheral parts of the nervous system and also in non-neuronal tissues. RET-dependent signaling elicited by GFLs has an important role in the development, maintenance and survival of dopamine and sensory neurons. Both Parkinson's disease and neuropathic pain are devastating disorders without an available cure, and at the moment are only treated symptomatically. GFLs have been studied extensively in animal models of Parkinson's disease and neuropathic pain with remarkable outcomes. However, clinical trials with recombinant or viral vector-encoded GFL proteins have produced inconclusive results. GFL proteins are not drug-like; they have poor pharmacokinetic properties and activate multiple receptors. Targeting RET and/or GFRα with small molecules may resolve the problems associated with using GFLs as drugs and can result in the development of therapeutics for disease-modifying treatments against Parkinson's disease and neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Kumar Mahato
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5D, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Yulia A Sidorova
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5D, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
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20
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Abstract
The last decade has been a frustrating time for investigators who had envisioned major advances in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease using neurotrophic factors. The first trials of glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor for treating Parkinson’s disease were very promising. Later blinded control trials were disappointing, not reaching the predetermined outcomes for improvement in motor function. Consideration of the problems in the studies as well as the biology of the neurotrophins used can potentially lead to more effective therapies. Parkinson’s disease presents a multitude of opportunities for the cell biologist wanting to understand its pathology and to find possible new avenues for treatment.
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21
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Remodeling microglia to a protective phenotype in Parkinson's disease? Neurosci Lett 2020; 735:135164. [PMID: 32561452 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the most widespread movement disorder with a prevalence of 1 in 1000 individuals above 60 years of age. Until now, understanding the pathological mechanisms of PD to translate them into therapy has remained a high research priority. In this review, we highlight evidence describing the involvement of microglial dysfunction in PD. Thereafter, we provide current knowledge suggesting that the substantia nigra pars compacta and putamen, compared to other brain regions, show a reduced microglial density, as well as altered morphological and functional properties in homeostatic conditions, while presenting dystrophic features associated with aging. Further, we describe that this defective microglial programing emerges as early as the second postnatal week, persists until adulthood and impacts negatively on their transcriptional pattern and provision of local trophic support. We emphasize the role of α-synuclein oligomers as a major dysfunctional signal underlining microglial-mediated phenotypic switch and adaptive response contributing to neurodegeneration. Moreover, we explore available avenues should microglia be considered as target for neuroprotective or restorative strategies including preventing the aggregation of α-synuclein protofibrils formation. However, we provide a note of caution regarding the success of microglial-targeted PD strategies, using minocycline as an example. In conclusion, we discuss putative neuroprotective agents that were unsuccessful in previous trials but could be reconsidered by focusing on the stage of microglial-dependent pathogenic events during PD in suitable cohorts of patients.
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22
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Molecular Regulation in Dopaminergic Neuron Development. Cues to Unveil Molecular Pathogenesis and Pharmacological Targets of Neurodegeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113995. [PMID: 32503161 PMCID: PMC7312927 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The relatively few dopaminergic neurons in the mammalian brain are mostly located in the midbrain and regulate many important neural functions, including motor integration, cognition, emotive behaviors and reward. Therefore, alteration of their function or degeneration leads to severe neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases. Unraveling the mechanisms of midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) phenotype induction and maturation and elucidating the role of the gene network involved in the development and maintenance of these neurons is of pivotal importance to rescue or substitute these cells in order to restore dopaminergic functions. Recently, in addition to morphogens and transcription factors, microRNAs have been identified as critical players to confer mDA identity. The elucidation of the gene network involved in mDA neuron development and function will be crucial to identify early changes of mDA neurons that occur in pre-symptomatic pathological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease. In addition, it can help to identify targets for new therapies and for cell reprogramming into mDA neurons. In this essay, we review the cascade of transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation that confers mDA identity and regulates their functions. Additionally, we highlight certain mechanisms that offer important clues to unveil molecular pathogenesis of mDA neuron dysfunction and potential pharmacological targets for the treatment of mDA neuron dysfunction.
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23
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Dar NJ, Glazner GW. Deciphering the neuroprotective and neurogenic potential of soluble amyloid precursor protein alpha (sAPPα). Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:2315-2330. [PMID: 31960113 PMCID: PMC11105086 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03404-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a transmembrane protein expressed largely within the central nervous system. Upon cleavage, it does not produce the toxic amyloid peptide (Aβ) only, which is involved in neurodegenerative progressions but via a non-amyloidogenic pathway it is metabolized to produce a soluble fragment (sAPPα) through α-secretase. While a lot of studies are focusing on the role played by APP in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, sAPPα is reported to have numerous neuroprotective effects and it is being suggested as a candidate with possible therapeutic potential against Alzheimer's disease. However, the mechanisms through which sAPPα precisely works remain elusive. We have presented a comprehensive review of how sAPPα is regulating the neuroprotective effects in different biological models. Moreover, we have focused on the role of sAPPα during different developmental stages of the brain, neurogenic microenvironment in the brain and how this metabolite of APP is regulating the neurogenesis which is regarded as a compelling approach to ameliorate the impaired learning and memory deficits in dementia and diseases like Alzheimer's disease. sAPPα exerts beneficial physiological, biochemical and behavioral effects mitigating the detrimental effects of neurotoxic compounds. It has shown to increase the proliferation rate of numerous cell types and promised the synaptogenesis, neurite outgrowth, cell survival and cell adhesion. Taken together, we believe that further studies are warranted to investigate the exact mechanism of action so that sAPPα could be developed as a novel therapeutic target against neuronal deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawab John Dar
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 2A6, Canada
| | - Gordon W Glazner
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
- St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 2A6, Canada.
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24
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Invited review: Utilizing peripheral nerve regenerative elements to repair damage in the CNS. J Neurosci Methods 2020; 335:108623. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2020.108623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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25
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Zhan W, Rodriguez Y Baena F, Dini D. Effect of tissue permeability and drug diffusion anisotropy on convection-enhanced delivery. Drug Deliv 2020; 26:773-781. [PMID: 31357890 PMCID: PMC6711026 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2019.1639844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although convection-enhanced delivery (CED) can successfully facilitate a bypass of the blood brain barrier, its treatment efficacy remains highly limited in clinic. This can be partially attributed to the brain anisotropic characteristics that lead to the difficulties in controlling the drug spatial distribution. Here, the responses of six different drugs to the tissue anisotropy are examined through a parametric study performed using a multiphysics model, which considers interstitial fluid flow, tissue deformation and interlinked drug transport processes in CED. The delivery outcomes are evaluated in terms of the penetration depth and delivery volume for effective therapy. Simulation results demonstrate that the effective penetration depth in a given direction can be improved with the increase of the corresponding component of anisotropic characteristics. The anisotropic tissue permeability could only reshape the drug distribution in space but has limited contribution to the total effective delivery volume. On the other hand, drugs respond in different ways to the anisotropic diffusivity. The large delivery volumes of fluorouracil, carmustine, cisplatin and doxorubicin could be achieved in relatively isotropic tissue, while paclitaxel and methotrexate are able to cover enlarged regions into anisotropic tissues. Results obtained from this study serve as a guide for the design of CED treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Zhan
- a Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | | | - Daniele Dini
- a Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London , London , UK
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26
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Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are a large family of proteins that transduce extracellular signals to the inside of the cell to ultimately affect important cellular functions such as cell proliferation, survival, apoptosis, differentiation, and migration. They are expressed in the nervous system and can regulate behavior through modulation of neuronal and glial function. As a result, RTKs are implicated in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders such as depression and addiction. Evidence has emerged that 5 RTKs (tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB), RET proto-oncogene (RET), anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)) modulate alcohol drinking and other behaviors related to alcohol addiction. RTKs are considered highly "druggable" targets and small-molecule inhibitors of RTKs have been developed for the treatment of various conditions, particularly cancer. These kinases are therefore attractive targets for the development of new pharmacotherapies to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD). This review will examine the preclinical evidence describing TrkB, RET, ALK, FGFR, and EGFR modulation of alcohol drinking and other behaviors relevant to alcohol abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kana Hamada
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601 West Taylor Street, MC 912, Chicago, Illinois, 60612, USA
| | - Amy W Lasek
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601 West Taylor Street, MC 912, Chicago, Illinois, 60612, USA.
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27
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Virachit S, Mathews KJ, Cottam V, Werry E, Galli E, Rappou E, Lindholm P, Saarma M, Halliday GM, Shannon Weickert C, Double KL. Levels of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor are decreased, but fibroblast growth factor 2 and cerebral dopamine neurotrophic factor are increased in the hippocampus in Parkinson's disease. Brain Pathol 2019; 29:813-825. [PMID: 31033033 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth factors can facilitate hippocampus-based learning and memory and are potential targets for treatment of cognitive dysfunction via their neuroprotective and neurorestorative effects. Dementia is common in Parkinson's disease (PD), but treatment options are limited. We aimed to determine if levels of growth factors are altered in the hippocampus of patients with PD, and if such alterations are associated with PD pathology. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to quantify seven growth factors in fresh frozen hippocampus from 10 PD and nine age-matched control brains. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to explore cellular and inflammatory changes that may be associated with growth factor alterations. In the PD hippocampus, protein levels of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor were significantly decreased, despite no evidence of neuronal loss. In contrast, protein levels of fibroblast growth factor 2 and cerebral dopamine neurotrophic factor were significantly increased in PD compared to controls. Levels of the growth factors epidermal growth factor, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor did not differ between groups. Our data demonstrate changes in specific growth factors in the hippocampus of the PD brain, which potentially represent targets for modification to help attenuate cognitive decline in PD. These data also suggest that multiple growth factors and direction of change needs to be considered when approaching growth factors as a potential treatment for cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Virachit
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kathryn J Mathews
- Discipline of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Veronica Cottam
- Discipline of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Eryn Werry
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Emilia Galli
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elisabeth Rappou
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pӓivi Lindholm
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mart Saarma
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Glenda M Halliday
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Central Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Cynthia Shannon Weickert
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, Australia.,School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY
| | - Kay L Double
- Discipline of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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28
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Abstract
Neurotrophic factors (NTF) are a subgroup of growth factors that promote survival and
differentiation of neurons. Due to their neuroprotective and neurorestorative properties,
their therapeutic potential has been tested in various neurodegenerative diseases.
Bioavailability of NTFs in the target tissue remains a major challenge for NTF-based
therapies. Various intracerebral delivery approaches, both protein and gene
transfer-based, have been tested with varying outcomes. Three growth factors, glial
cell-line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), neurturin (NRTN) and platelet-derived growth
factor (PDGF-BB) have been tested in clinical trials in Parkinson’s disease (PD) during
the past 20 years. A new protein can now be added to this list, as cerebral dopamine
neurotrophic factor (CDNF) has recently entered clinical trials. Despite their misleading
names, CDNF, together with its closest relative mesencephalic astrocyte-derived
neurotrophic factor (MANF), form a novel family of unconventional NTF that are both
structurally and mechanistically distinct from other growth factors. CDNF and MANF are
localized mainly to the lumen of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and their primary function
appears to be modulation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway. Prolonged ER
stress, via the UPR signaling pathways, contributes to the pathogenesis in a number of
chronic degenerative diseases, and is an important target for therapeutic modulation.
Intraputamenally administered recombinant human CDNF has shown robust neurorestorative
effects in a number of small and large animal models of PD, and had a good safety profile
in preclinical toxicology studies. Intermittent monthly bilateral intraputamenal infusions
of CDNF are currently being tested in a randomized placebo-controlled phase I–II clinical
study in moderately advanced PD patients. Here, we review the history of growth
factor-based clinical trials in PD, and discuss how CDNF differs from the previously
tested growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henri J Huttunen
- 1 Herantis Pharma Plc, Espoo, Finland.,2 Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mart Saarma
- 3 Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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29
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Gasparini F, Di Paolo T. Drug repurposing: Old drugs, new tricks to fast track drug development for the brain. Neuropharmacology 2019; 147:1-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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30
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Kurtzeborn K, Cebrian C, Kuure S. Regulation of Renal Differentiation by Trophic Factors. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1588. [PMID: 30483151 PMCID: PMC6240607 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Classically, trophic factors are considered as proteins which support neurons in their growth, survival, and differentiation. However, most neurotrophic factors also have important functions outside of the nervous system. Especially essential renal growth and differentiation regulators are glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and fibroblast growth factors (FGFs). Here we discuss how trophic factor-induced signaling contributes to the control of ureteric bud (UB) branching morphogenesis and to maintenance and differentiation of nephrogenic mesenchyme in embryonic kidney. The review includes recent advances in trophic factor functions during the guidance of branching morphogenesis and self-renewal versus differentiation decisions, both of which dictate the control of kidney size and nephron number. Creative utilization of current information may help better recapitulate renal differentiation in vitro, but it is obvious that significantly more basic knowledge is needed for development of regeneration-based renal therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Kurtzeborn
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Medicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Cristina Cebrian
- Developmental Biology Division, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Satu Kuure
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Medicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- GM-Unit, Laboratory Animal Centre, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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31
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Troncoso-Escudero P, Parra A, Nassif M, Vidal RL. Outside in: Unraveling the Role of Neuroinflammation in the Progression of Parkinson's Disease. Front Neurol 2018; 9:860. [PMID: 30459700 PMCID: PMC6232883 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is one of the most important processes involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). The current concept of neuroinflammation comprises an inflammation process, which occurs in the central nervous system due to molecules released from brain-resident and/or blood-derived immune cells. Furthermore, the evidence of the contribution of systemic delivered molecules to the disease pathogenesis, such as the gut microbiota composition, has been increasing during the last years. Under physiological conditions, microglia and astrocytes support the well-being and well-function of the brain through diverse functions, including neurotrophic factor secretion in both intact and injured brain. On the other hand, genes that cause PD are expressed in astrocytes and microglia, shifting their neuroprotective role to a pathogenic one, contributing to disease onset and progression. In addition, growth factors are a subset of molecules that promote cellular survival, differentiation and maturation, which are critical signaling factors promoting the communication between cells, including neurons and blood-derived immune cells. We summarize the potential targeting of astrocytes and microglia and the systemic contribution of the gut microbiota in neuroinflammation process archived in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Troncoso-Escudero
- Faculty of Sciences, Center for Integrative Biology, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile.,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Program of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Geroscience Center for Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile
| | - Alejandra Parra
- Faculty of Sciences, Center for Integrative Biology, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile.,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Program of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Geroscience Center for Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile
| | - Melissa Nassif
- Faculty of Sciences, Center for Integrative Biology, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rene L Vidal
- Faculty of Sciences, Center for Integrative Biology, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile.,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Geroscience Center for Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile.,Neurounion Biomedical Foundation, Santiago, Chile
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