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Chao Y, Qin Y, Zou X, Wang X, Hu C, Xia F, Zou C. Promising therapeutic aspects in human genetic imprinting disorders. Clin Epigenetics 2022; 14:146. [PMID: 36371218 PMCID: PMC9655922 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-022-01369-6] [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: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic imprinting is an epigenetic phenomenon of monoallelic gene expression pattern depending on parental origin. In humans, congenital imprinting disruptions resulting from genetic or epigenetic mechanisms can cause a group of diseases known as genetic imprinting disorders (IDs). Genetic IDs involve several distinct syndromes sharing homologies in terms of genetic etiologies and phenotypic features. However, the molecular pathogenesis of genetic IDs is complex and remains largely uncharacterized, resulting in a lack of effective therapeutic approaches for patients. In this review, we begin with an overview of the genomic and epigenomic molecular basis of human genetic IDs. Notably, we address ethical aspects as a priority of employing emerging techniques for therapeutic applications in human IDs. With a particular focus, we delineate the current field of emerging therapeutics for genetic IDs. We briefly summarize novel symptomatic drugs and highlight the key milestones of new techniques and therapeutic programs as they stand today which can offer highly promising disease-modifying interventions for genetic IDs accompanied by various challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqi Chao
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
| | - Yifang Qin
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
| | - Xinyi Zou
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XZhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, 310015 Zhejiang China
| | - Xiangzhi Wang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
| | - Chenxi Hu
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
| | - Fangling Xia
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
| | - Chaochun Zou
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310052 Zhejiang China
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Xie WS, Shehzadi K, Ma HL, Liang JH. A Potential Strategy for Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disorders by Regulation of Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis in Human Brain. Curr Med Chem 2022; 29:5315-5347. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867329666220509114232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Abstract:
Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is a multistage mechanism that continues throughout the lifespan of human and non-human mammals. These adult-born neurons in the central nervous system (CNS) play a significant role in various hippocampus-dependent processes, including learning, mood regulation, pattern recognition, etc. Reduction of adult hippocampal neurogenesis, caused by multiple factors such as neurological disorders and aging, would impair neuronal proliferation and differentiation and result in memory loss. Accumulating studies have indicated that functional neuron impairment could be restored by promoting adult hippocampal neurogenesis. In this review, we summarized the small molecules that could efficiently promote the process of adult neurogenesis, particularly the agents that have the capacity of crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and showed in vivo efficacy in mammalian brains. This may pave the way for the rational design of drugs to treat humnan neurodegenerative disorders in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Song Xie
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Kiran Shehzadi
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Hong-Le Ma
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Jian-Hua Liang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
- Yangtze Delta Region Academy of Beijing Institute of Technology, Jiaxing 314019, China
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Cosgrove JA, Kelly LK, Kiffmeyer EA, Kloth AD. Sex-dependent influence of postweaning environmental enrichment in Angelman syndrome model mice. Brain Behav 2022; 12:e2468. [PMID: 34985196 PMCID: PMC8865162 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Angelman syndrome (AS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutation or loss of UBE3A and marked by intellectual disability, ataxia, autism-like symptoms, and other atypical behaviors. One route to treatment may lie in the role that environment plays early in postnatal life. Environmental enrichment (EE) is one manipulation that has shown therapeutic potential in preclinical models of many brain disorders, including neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we examined whether postweaning EE can rescue behavioral phenotypes in Ube3a maternal deletion mice (AS mice), and whether any improvements are sex-dependent. METHODS Male and female mice (C57BL/6J Ube3atm1Alb mice and wild-type (WT) littermates; ≥10 mice/group) were randomly assigned to standard housing (SH) or EE at weaning. EE had a larger footprint, a running wheel, and a variety of toys that promoted foraging, burrowing, and climbing. Following 6 weeks of EE, animals were submitted to a battery of tests that reliably elicit behavioral deficits in AS mice, including rotarod, open field, marble burying, and forced swim; weights were also monitored. RESULTS In male AS-EE mice, we found complete restoration of motor coordination, marble burying, and forced swim behavior to the level of WT-SH mice. We also observed a complete normalization of exploratory distance traveled in the open field, but we found no rescue of vertical behavior or center time. AS-EE mice also had weights comparable to WT-SH mice. Intriguingly, in the female AS-EE mice, we found a failure of EE to rescue the same behavioral deficits relative to female WT-SH mice. CONCLUSIONS Environmental enrichment is an effective route to correcting the most penetrant phenotypes in male AS mice but not female AS mice. This finding has important implications for the translatability of early behavioral intervention for AS patients, most importantly the potential dependency of treatment response on sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jameson A. Cosgrove
- Department of BiologyAugustana University2001 S. Summit AvenueSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
| | - Lauren K. Kelly
- Department of BiologyAugustana University2001 S. Summit AvenueSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
| | - Elizabeth A. Kiffmeyer
- Department of BiologyAugustana University2001 S. Summit AvenueSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
| | - Alexander D. Kloth
- Department of BiologyAugustana University2001 S. Summit AvenueSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
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Jolivalt CG, Aghanoori MR, Navarro-Diaz MC, Han MM, Sanchez G, Guernsey L, Quach D, Johe K, Fernyhough P, Calcutt NA. Enhancement of Mitochondrial Function by the Neurogenic Molecule NSI-189 Accompanies Reversal of Peripheral Neuropathy and Memory Impairment in a Rat Model of Type 2 Diabetes. J Diabetes Res 2022; 2022:8566970. [PMID: 35967127 PMCID: PMC9372526 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8566970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to many forms of peripheral and central nervous system degeneration. Therapies that protect mitochondrial number and function have the potential to impact the progression of conditions such as diabetic neuropathy. We therefore assessed indices of mitochondrial function in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and brain cortex of the Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rat model of type 2 diabetes and tested the therapeutic impact of a neurogenic compound, NSI-189, on both mitochondrial function and indices of peripheral and central neurological dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS ZDF rats were maintained for 16 weeks of untreated diabetes before the start of oral treatment with NSI-189 for an additional 16 weeks. Nerve conduction velocity, sensitivity to tactile and thermal stimuli, and behavioral assays of cognitive function were assessed monthly. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation, mitochondrial protein levels, and respiratory complex activities were assessed in the DRG and brain cortex after 16 weeks of treatment with NSI-189. RESULTS Treatment with NSI-189 selectively elevated the expression of protein subunits of complexes III and V and activities of respiratory complexes I and IV in the brain cortex, and this was accompanied by amelioration of impaired memory function and plasticity. In the sensory ganglia of ZDF rats, loss of AMPK activity was ameliorated by NSI-189, and this was accompanied by reversal of multiple indices of peripheral neuropathy. CONCLUSIONS Efficacy of NSI-189 against dysfunction of the CNS and PNS function in type 2 diabetic rats was accompanied by improvement of mitochondrial function. NSI-189 exhibited actions at different levels of mitochondrial regulation in central and peripheral tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. G. Jolivalt
- University of California San Diego, Department of Pathology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - M. R. Aghanoori
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - M. C. Navarro-Diaz
- University of California San Diego, Department of Pathology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - M. M. Han
- University of California San Diego, Department of Pathology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - G. Sanchez
- University of California San Diego, Department of Pathology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - L. Guernsey
- University of California San Diego, Department of Pathology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - D. Quach
- Neuralstem Inc., Germantown, MD, USA
| | - K. Johe
- Neuralstem Inc., Germantown, MD, USA
| | - P. Fernyhough
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - N. A. Calcutt
- University of California San Diego, Department of Pathology, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Do Small Molecules Activate the TrkB Receptor in the Same Manner as BDNF? Limitations of Published TrkB Low Molecular Agonists and Screening for Novel TrkB Orthosteric Agonists. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14080704. [PMID: 34451801 PMCID: PMC8398766 DOI: 10.3390/ph14080704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
TrkB is a tyrosine kinase receptor that is activated upon binding to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). To date, the search for low-molecular-weight molecules mimicking BDNF’s action has been unsuccessful. Several molecules exerting antidepressive effects in vivo, such as 7,8-DHF, have been suggested to be TrkB agonists. However, more recent publications question this hypothesis. In this study, we developed a set of experimental procedures including the evaluation of direct interactions, dimerization, downstream signaling, and cytoprotection in parallel with physicochemical and ADME methods to verify the pharmacology of 7,8-DHF and other potential reference compounds, and perform screening for novel TrkB agonists. 7,8 DHF bound to TrkB with Kd = 1.3 μM; however, we were not able to observe any other activity against the TrkB receptor in SN56 T48 and differentiated SH-SY5Y cell lines. Moreover, the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of 7,8-DHF at doses of 1 and 50 mg/kg were examined in mice after i.v and oral administration, respectively. The poor pharmacokinetic properties and lack of observed activation of TrkB-dependent signaling in the brain confirmed that 7,8-DHF is not a relevant tool for studying TrkB activation in vivo. The binding profile for 133 molecular targets revealed a significant lack of selectivity of 7,8-DHF, suggesting a distinct functional profile independent of interaction with TrkB. Additionally, a compound library was screened in search of novel low-molecular-weight orthosteric TrkB agonists; however, we were not able to identify reliable drug candidates. Our results suggest that published reference compounds including 7,8-DHF do not activate TrkB, consistent with canonical dogma, which indicates that the reported pharmacological activity of these compounds should be interpreted carefully in a broad functional context.
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Elgersma Y, Sonzogni M. UBE3A reinstatement as a disease-modifying therapy for Angelman syndrome. Dev Med Child Neurol 2021; 63:802-807. [PMID: 33543479 PMCID: PMC8248324 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Half a century ago, Harry Angelman reported three patients with overlapping clinical features, now well known as Angelman syndrome. Angelman syndrome is caused by mutations affecting the maternally inherited UBE3A gene, which encodes an E3-ubiquitin ligase that is critical for typical postnatal brain development. Emerging evidence indicates that UBE3A plays a particularly important role in the nucleus. However, the critical substrates that are controlled by UBE3A remain elusive, which hinders the search for effective treatments. Moreover, given the multitude of signalling mechanisms that are derailed, it is unlikely that targeting a single pathway is going to be very effective. Therefore, expectations are very high for approaches that aim to restore UBE3A protein levels. A particular promising strategy is an antisense oligonucleotide approach, which activates the silenced paternal UBE3A gene. When successful, such treatments potentially offer a disease-modifying therapy for Angelman syndrome and several other neurodevelopmental disorders. What this paper adds Loss of UBE3A affects multiple signalling pathways in the brain. Emerging evidence suggests that UBE3A plays a critical role in the cell nucleus. Trials using antisense oligonucleotides to restore UBE3A levels are continuing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ype Elgersma
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Deptartment of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Monica Sonzogni
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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7
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Markati T, Duis J, Servais L. Therapies in preclinical and clinical development for Angelman syndrome. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 30:709-720. [PMID: 34112038 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2021.1939674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Angelman syndrome is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder, caused by deficiency or abnormal function of the maternal ubiquitin protein-ligase E3A, known as UBE3A, in the central nervous system. There is no disease-modifying treatment available, but the therapeutic pipeline of Angelman syndrome includes at least 15 different approaches at preclinical or clinical development. In the coming years, several clinical trials will be enrolling patients, which prompted this comprehensive review.Areas covered: We summarize and critically review the different therapeutic approaches. Some approaches attempt to restore the missing or nonfunctional UBE3A protein in the neurons via gene replacement or enzyme replacement therapies. Other therapies aim to induce expression of the normal paternal copy of the UBE3A gene by targeting a long non-coding RNA, the UBE3A-ATS, which interferes with its own expression. Another therapeutic category includes compounds that target molecular pathways and effector proteins known to be involved in Angelman syndrome pathophysiology.Expert opinion: We believe that by 2022-2023, more than five disease-modifying treatments will be simultaneously at clinical testing. However, the are several challenges with regards to safety and efficacy, which need to be addressed. Additionally, there is still a significant unmet need for clinical trial readiness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora Markati
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Center, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jessica Duis
- Section of Genetics & Inherited Metabolic Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Laurent Servais
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Center, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Division of Child Neurology, Centre De Références Des Maladies Neuromusculaires, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Liège & University of Liège, Belgium
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Moreira-de-Sá A, Gonçalves FQ, Lopes JP, Silva HB, Tomé ÂR, Cunha RA, Canas PM. Adenosine A 2A receptors format long-term depression and memory strategies in a mouse model of Angelman syndrome. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 146:105137. [PMID: 33049319 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.105137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Angelman syndrome (AS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by loss of function of the maternally inherited Ube3a neuronal protein, whose main features comprise severe intellectual disabilities and motor impairments. Previous studies with the Ube3am-/p+ mouse model of AS revealed deficits in synaptic plasticity and memory. Since adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR) are powerful modulators of aberrant synaptic plasticity and A2AR blockade prevents memory dysfunction in various brain diseases, we tested if A2AR could control deficits of memory and hippocampal synaptic plasticity in AS. We observed that Ube3am-/p+ mice were unable to resort to hippocampal-dependent search strategies when tested for learning and memory in the Morris water maze; this was associated with a decreased magnitude of long-term depression (LTD) in CA1 hippocampal circuits. There was an increased density of A2AR in the hippocampus of Ube3am-/p+ mice and their chronic treatment with the selective A2AR antagonist SCH58261 (0.1 mg/kg/day, ip) restored both hippocampal-dependent learning strategies, as well as LTD deficits. Altogether, this study provides the first evidence of a role of A2AR as a new prospective therapeutic target to manage learning deficits in AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Moreira-de-Sá
- CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Francisco Q Gonçalves
- CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João P Lopes
- CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Henrique B Silva
- CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ângelo R Tomé
- CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo A Cunha
- CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula M Canas
- CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal.
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Schultz MN, Crawley JN. Evaluation of a TrkB agonist on spatial and motor learning in the Ube3a mouse model of Angelman syndrome. Learn Mem 2020; 27:346-354. [PMID: 32817301 PMCID: PMC7433657 DOI: 10.1101/lm.051201.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Angelman syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a mutation in the maternal allele of the gene Ube3a The primary symptoms of Angelman syndrome are severe cognitive deficits, impaired motor functions, and speech disabilities. Analogous phenotypes have been detected in young adult Ube3a mice. Here, we investigate cognitive phenotypes of Ube3a mice as compared to wild-type littermate controls at an older adult age. Water maze spatial learning, swim speed, and rotarod motor coordination and balance were impaired at 6 mo of age, as predicted. Based on previous findings of reduced brain-derived neurotrophic factor in Ube3a mice, a novel therapeutic target, the TrkB agonist 7,8-DHF, was interrogated. Semichronic daily treatment with 7,8-DHF, 5 mg/kg i.p., did not significantly improve the impairments in performance during the acquisition of the water maze hidden platform location in Ube3a mice, after training with either massed or spaced trials, and had no effect on the swim speed and rotarod deficits. Robust behavioral phenotypes in middle-aged Ube3a mice appear to result from continued motor decline. Our results suggest that motor deficits could offer useful outcome measures for preclinical testing of many pharmacological targets, with the goal of reducing symptoms in adults with Angelman syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria N Schultz
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95821, USA
| | - Jacqueline N Crawley
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95821, USA
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Tsagkaris C, Papakosta V, Miranda AV, Zacharopoulou L, Danilchenko V, Matiashova L, Dhar A. Gene Therapy for Angelman Syndrome: Contemporary Approaches and Future Endeavors. Curr Gene Ther 2020; 19:359-366. [DOI: 10.2174/1566523220666200107151025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background:
Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a congenital non inherited neurodevelopmental
disorder. The contemporary AS management is symptomatic and it has been accepted that gene therapy
may play a key role in the treatment of AS.
Objective:
The purpose of this study is to summarize existing and suggested gene therapy approaches
to Angelman syndrome.
Methods:
This is a literature review. Pubmed and Scopus databases were researched with keywords
(gene therapy, Angelman’s syndrome, neurological disorders, neonates). Peer-reviewed studies that
were closely related to gene therapies in Angelman syndrome and available in English, Greek, Ukrainian
or Indonesian were included. Studies that were published before 2000 were excluded and did not
align with the aforementioned criteria.
Results:
UBE3A serves multiple roles in signaling and degradation procedures. Although the restoration
of UBE3A expression rather than targeting known activities of the molecule would be the optimal
therapeutic goal, it is not possible so far. Reinstatement of paternal UBE3A appears as an adequate alternative.
This can be achieved by administering topoisomerase-I inhibitors or reducing UBE3A antisense
transcript (UBE3A-ATS), a molecule which silences paternal UBE3A.
Conclusion:
Understanding UBE3A imprinting unravels the path to an etiologic treatment of AS.
Gene therapy models tested on mice appeared less effective than anticipated pointing out that activation
of paternal UBE3A cannot counteract the existing CNS defects. On the other hand, targeting abnormal
downstream cell signaling pathways has provided promising rescue effects. Perhaps, combined
reinstatement of paternal UBE3A expression with abnormal signaling pathways-oriented treatment is
expected to provide better therapeutic effects. However, AS gene therapy remains debatable in pharmacoeconomics
and ethics context.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Valeriia Danilchenko
- Department of Pediatrics #1 with Propaedeutics and Neonatology, Ukrainian Medical Stomatological Academy, Poltava, Ukraine
| | | | - Amrit Dhar
- Government Medical College, Jammu and Kashmir, India
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Maranga C, Fernandes TG, Bekman E, da Rocha ST. Angelman syndrome: a journey through the brain. FEBS J 2020; 287:2154-2175. [PMID: 32087041 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Angelman syndrome (AS) is an incurable neurodevelopmental disease caused by loss of function of the maternally inherited UBE3A gene. AS is characterized by a defined set of symptoms, namely severe developmental delay, speech impairment, uncontrolled laughter, and ataxia. Current understanding of the pathophysiology of AS relies mostly on studies using the murine model of the disease, although alternative models based on patient-derived stem cells are now emerging. Here, we summarize the literature of the last decade concerning the three major brain areas that have been the subject of study in the context of AS: hippocampus, cortex, and the cerebellum. Our comprehensive analysis highlights the major phenotypes ascribed to the different brain areas. Moreover, we also discuss the major drawbacks of current models and point out future directions for research in the context of AS, which will hopefully lead us to an effective treatment of this condition in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Maranga
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago G Fernandes
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Evguenia Bekman
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,The Discoveries Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Simão Teixeira da Rocha
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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Jolivalt CG, Marquez A, Quach D, Navarro Diaz MC, Anaya C, Kifle B, Muttalib N, Sanchez G, Guernsey L, Hefferan M, Smith DR, Fernyhough P, Johe K, Calcutt NA. Amelioration of Both Central and Peripheral Neuropathy in Mouse Models of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes by the Neurogenic Molecule NSI-189. Diabetes 2019; 68:2143-2154. [PMID: 31492662 PMCID: PMC6804627 DOI: 10.2337/db19-0271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
While peripheral neuropathy is the most common complication of long-term diabetes, cognitive deficits associated with encephalopathy and myelopathy also occur. Diabetes is a risk factor for Alzheimer disease (AD) and increases the risk of progression from mild cognitive impairment to AD. The only current recommendation for preventing or slowing the progression of peripheral neuropathy is to maintain close glycemic control, while there is no recommendation for central nervous system disorders. NSI-189 is a new chemical entity that when orally administered promotes neurogenesis in the adult hippocampus, increases hippocampal volume, enhances synaptic plasticity, and reduces cognitive dysfunction. To establish the potential for impact on peripheral neuropathy, we first showed that NSI-189 enhances neurite outgrowth and mitochondrial functions in cultured adult rat primary sensory neurons. Oral delivery of NSI-189 to murine models of type 1 (female) and type 2 (male) diabetes prevented multiple functional and structural indices of small and large fiber peripheral neuropathy, increased hippocampal neurogenesis, synaptic markers and volume, and protected long-term memory. NSI-189 also halted progression of established peripheral and central neuropathy. NSI-189, which is currently in clinical trials for treatment of major depressive disorder, offers the opportunity for the development of a single therapeutic agent against multiple indices of central and peripheral neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne G Jolivalt
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Alexandra Marquez
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | | | | | - Carlos Anaya
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Betelhem Kifle
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Nabeel Muttalib
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Gabriela Sanchez
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Lucy Guernsey
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | | | - Darrel R Smith
- St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Paul Fernyhough
- St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Nigel A Calcutt
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
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