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Pfitzer J, Pinky PD, Perman S, Redmon E, Cmelak L, Suppiramaniam V, Coric V, Qureshi IA, Gramlich MW, Reed MN. Troriluzole rescues glutamatergic deficits, amyloid and tau pathology, and synaptic and memory impairments in 3xTg-AD mice. J Neurochem 2024. [PMID: 39214859 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16215] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition in which clinical symptoms are highly correlated with the loss of glutamatergic synapses. While later stages of AD are associated with markedly decreased glutamate levels due to neuronal loss, in the early stages, pathological accumulation of glutamate and hyperactivity contribute to AD pathology and cognitive dysfunction. There is increasing awareness that presynaptic dysfunction, particularly synaptic vesicle (SV) alterations, play a key role in mediating this early-stage hyperactivity. In the current study, we sought to determine whether the 3xTg mouse model of AD that exhibits both beta-amyloid (Aβ) and tau-related pathology would exhibit similar presynaptic changes as previously observed in amyloid or tau models separately. Hippocampal cultures from 3xTg mice were used to determine whether presynaptic vesicular glutamate transporters (VGlut) and glutamate are increased at the synaptic level while controlling for postsynaptic activity. We observed that 3xTg hippocampal cultures exhibited increased VGlut1 associated with an increase in glutamate release, similar to prior observations in cultures from tau mouse models. However, the SV pool size was also increased in 3xTg cultures, an effect not previously observed in tau mouse models but observed in Aβ models, suggesting the changes in pool size may be due to Aβ and not tau. Second, we sought to determine whether treatment with troriluzole, a novel 3rd generation tripeptide prodrug of the glutamate modulator riluzole, could reduce VGlut1 and glutamate release to restore cognitive deficits in 8-month-old 3xTg mice. Treatment with troriluzole reduced VGlut1 expression, decreased basal and evoked glutamate release, and restored cognitive deficits in 3xTg mice. Together, these findings suggest presynaptic alterations are early events in AD that represent potential targets for therapeutic intervention, and these results support the promise of glutamate-modulating drugs such as troriluzole in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremiah Pfitzer
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Priyanka D Pinky
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Savannah Perman
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Emma Redmon
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Luca Cmelak
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Vishnu Suppiramaniam
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Center for Neuroscience Initiative, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Science and Mathematics, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, Georgia, USA
| | - Vladimir Coric
- Biohaven Pharmaceuticals Inc., New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Michael W Gramlich
- Center for Neuroscience Initiative, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Department of Physics, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Miranda N Reed
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Center for Neuroscience Initiative, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
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2
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Singhaarachchi PH, Antal P, Calon F, Culmsee C, Delpech JC, Feldotto M, Geertsema J, Hoeksema EE, Korosi A, Layé S, McQualter J, de Rooij SR, Rummel C, Slayo M, Sominsky L, Spencer SJ. Aging, sex, metabolic and life experience factors: Contributions to neuro-inflammaging in Alzheimer's disease research. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 162:105724. [PMID: 38762130 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is prevalent around the world, yet our understanding of the disease is still very limited. Recent work suggests that the cornerstone of AD may include the inflammation that accompanies it. Failure of a normal pro-inflammatory immune response to resolve may lead to persistent central inflammation that contributes to unsuccessful clearance of amyloid-beta plaques as they form, neuronal death, and ultimately cognitive decline. Individual metabolic, and dietary (lipid) profiles can differentially regulate this inflammatory process with aging, obesity, poor diet, early life stress and other inflammatory factors contributing to a greater risk of developing AD. Here, we integrate evidence for the interface between these factors, and how they contribute to a pro-inflammatory brain milieu. In particular, we discuss the importance of appropriate polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the diet for the metabolism of specialised pro-resolving mediators (SPMs); raising the possibility for dietary strategies to improve AD outlook.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Antal
- Department of Measurement and Information Systems, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, 1111, Hungary
| | - Frédéric Calon
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Laval University, Quebec G1V0A6, Canada; International Associated Laboratory OptiNutriBrain-NutriNeuro, Bordeaux F-33000, France; INAF, Quebec G1V0A6, Canada
| | - Carsten Culmsee
- Institute of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg D-35032, Germany; Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior-CMBB, Giessen, D-35392, Marburg D-35032, Germany
| | - Jean-Christophe Delpech
- International Associated Laboratory OptiNutriBrain-NutriNeuro, Bordeaux F-33000, France; Université de Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeurO, UMR 1286, Bordeaux F-33000, France; INAF, Quebec G1V0A6, Canada
| | - Martin Feldotto
- Institute of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen D-35392, Germany
| | - Jorine Geertsema
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1018, the Netherlands
| | - Emmy E Hoeksema
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1018, the Netherlands
| | - Aniko Korosi
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1018, the Netherlands
| | - Sophie Layé
- International Associated Laboratory OptiNutriBrain-NutriNeuro, Bordeaux F-33000, France; Université de Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeurO, UMR 1286, Bordeaux F-33000, France; INAF, Quebec G1V0A6, Canada
| | - Jonathan McQualter
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Melbourne, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Susanne R de Rooij
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, 1018, the Netherlands
| | - Christoph Rummel
- Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior-CMBB, Giessen, D-35392, Marburg D-35032, Germany; Institute of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen D-35392, Germany
| | - Mary Slayo
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Melbourne, Victoria 3083, Australia; Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior-CMBB, Giessen, D-35392, Marburg D-35032, Germany; Institute of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen D-35392, Germany
| | - Luba Sominsky
- Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria 3220, Australia; IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria 3217, Australia
| | - Sarah J Spencer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Melbourne, Victoria 3083, Australia.
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3
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Golmohammadi M, Mahmoudian M, Hasan EK, Alshahrani SH, Romero-Parra RM, Malviya J, Hjazi A, Najm MAA, Almulla AF, Zamanian MY, Kadkhodaei M, Mousavi N. Neuroprotective effects of riluzole in Alzheimer's disease: A comprehensive review. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2024; 38:225-237. [PMID: 37753585 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite several hundred clinical trials of drugs that initially showed promise, there has been limited clinical improvement in Alzheimer's disease (AD). This may be attributed to the existence of at least 25 abnormal cellular pathways that underlie the disease. It is improbable for a single drug to address all or most of these pathways, thus even drugs that show promise when administered alone are unlikely to produce significant results. According to previous studies, eight drugs, namely, dantrolene, erythropoietin, lithium, memantine, minocycline, piracetam, riluzole, and silymarin, have been found to target multiple pathways that are involved in the development of AD. Among these drugs, riluzole is currently indicated for the treatment of medical conditions in both adult patients and children and has gained increased attention from scientists due to its potential in the excitotoxic hypothesis of neurodegenerative diseases. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of drugs on AD based on cellular and molecular mechanisms. METHODS The literature search for this study utilized the Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases to identify relevant articles. RESULTS Riluzole exerts its effects in AD through diverse pathways including the inhibition of voltage-dependent sodium and calcium channels, blocking AMPA and NMDA receptors and inhibiting the release of glutamic acid release and stimulation of EAAT1-EAAT2. CONCLUSION In this review article, we aimed to review the neuroprotective properties of riluzole, a glutamate modulator, in AD, which could benefit patients with the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Golmohammadi
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | | | | | - Jitendra Malviya
- Department of Life Sciences and Biological Sciences, IES University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mazin A A Najm
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, College of Pharmacy, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar, Iraq
| | - Abbas F Almulla
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Yasin Zamanian
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mona Kadkhodaei
- Department of Surgery, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Nazanin Mousavi
- Department of Psychology, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran
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Brosens N, Simon C, Kessels HW, Lucassen PJ, Krugers HJ. Early life stress lastingly alters the function and AMPA-receptor composition of glutamatergic synapses in the hippocampus of male mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13346. [PMID: 37901923 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Early postnatal life is a sensitive period of development that shapes brain structure and function later in life. Exposure to stress during this critical time window can alter brain development and may enhance the susceptibility to psychopathology and neurodegenerative disorders later in life. The developmental effects of early life stress (ELS) on synaptic function are not fully understood, but could provide mechanistic insights into how ELS modifies later brain function and disease risk. We here assessed the effects of ELS on synaptic function and composition in the hippocampus of male mice. Mice were subjected to ELS by housing dams and pups with limited bedding and nesting material from postnatal days (P) 2-9. Synaptic strength was measured in terms of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) in the hippocampal dentate gyrus at three different developmental stages: the early postnatal phase (P9), preadolescence (P21, at weaning) and adulthood at 3 months of age (3MO). Hippocampal synaptosome fractions were isolated from P9 and 3MO tissue and analyzed for protein content to assess postsynaptic composition. Finally, dendritic spine density was assessed in the DG at 3MO. At P9, ELS increased mEPSC frequency and amplitude. In parallel, synaptic composition was altered as PSD-95, GluA3 and GluN2B content were significantly decreased. The increased mEPSC frequency was sustained up to 3MO, at which age, GluA3 content was significantly increased. No differences were found in dendritic spine density. These findings highlight how ELS affects the development of hippocampal synapses, which could provide valuable insight into mechanisms how ELS alters brain function later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niek Brosens
- SILS-CNS, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carla Simon
- SILS-CNS, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Paul J Lucassen
- SILS-CNS, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harm J Krugers
- SILS-CNS, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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5
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Jeanneteau F. Stress and the risk of Alzheimer dementia: Can deconstructed engrams be rebuilt? J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13235. [PMID: 36775895 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The exact neuropathological mechanism by which the dementia process unfolds is under intense scrutiny. The disease affects about 38 million people worldwide, 70% of which are clinically diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD). If the destruction of synapses essential for learning, planning and decision-making is part of the problem, must the restoration of previously lost synapses be part of the solution? It is plausible that neuronal capacity to restitute information corresponds with the adaptive capacity of its connectivity reserve. A challenge will be to promote the functional connectivity that can compensate for the lost one. This will require better clarification of the remodeling of functional connectivity during the progression of AD dementia and its reversal upon experimental treatment. A major difficulty is to promote the neural pathways that are atrophied in AD dementia while suppressing others that are bolstered. Therapeutic strategies should aim at scaling functional connectivity to a just balance between the atrophic and hypertrophic systems. However, the exact factors that can help reach this objective are still unclear. Similarities between the effects of chronic stress and some neuropathological mechanisms underlying AD dementia support the idea that common components deserve prime attention as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freddy Jeanneteau
- Institut de génomique fonctionnelle, Université de Montpellier, INSERM, CNRS, Montpellier, France
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6
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Yan J, Bading H. The Disruption of NMDAR/TRPM4 Death Signaling with TwinF Interface Inhibitors: A New Pharmacological Principle for Neuroprotection. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1085. [PMID: 37631001 PMCID: PMC10458786 DOI: 10.3390/ph16081085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
With the discovery that the acquisition of toxic features by extrasynaptic NMDA receptors (NMDARs) involves their physical interaction with the non-selective cation channel, TRPM4, it has become possible to develop a new pharmacological principle for neuroprotection, namely the disruption of the NMDAR/TRPM4 death signaling complex. This can be accomplished through the expression of the TwinF domain, a 57-amino-acid-long stretch of TRPM4 that mediates its interaction with NMDARs, but also using small molecule TwinF interface (TI) inhibitors, also known as NMDAR/TRPM4 interaction interface inhibitors. Both TwinF and small molecule TI inhibitors detoxify extrasynaptic NMDARs without interfering with synaptic NMDARs, which serve important physiological functions in the brain. As the toxic signaling of extrasynaptic NMDARs contributes to a wide range of neurodegenerative conditions, TI inhibitors may offer therapeutic options for currently untreatable human neurodegenerative diseases including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and Huntington's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hilmar Bading
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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7
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Huang Z, Jordan JD, Zhang Q. Early life adversity as a risk factor for cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Transl Neurodegener 2023; 12:25. [PMID: 37173751 PMCID: PMC10182702 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-023-00355-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurological conditions, including cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease (AD), impose a huge burden on society, affecting millions of people globally. In addition to genetic factors, recent studies indicate that environmental and experiential factors may contribute to the pathogenesis of these diseases. Early life adversity (ELA) has a profound impact on brain function and health later in life. In rodent models, exposure to ELA results in specific cognitive deficits and aggravated AD pathology. Extensive concerns have been raised regarding the higher risk of developing cognitive impairments in people with a history of ELA. In this review, we scrutinize findings from human and animal studies focusing on the connection of ELA with cognitive impairment and AD. These discoveries suggest that ELA, especially at early postnatal stages, increases susceptibility to cognitive impairment and AD later in life. In terms of mechanisms, ELA could lead to dysregulation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, altered gut microbiome, persistent inflammation, oligodendrocyte dysfunction, hypomyelination, and aberrant adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Crosstalks among these events may synergistically contribute to cognitive impairment later in life. Additionally, we discuss several interventions that may alleviate adverse consequences of ELA. Further investigation into this crucial area will help improve ELA management and reduce the burden of related neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihai Huang
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA
| | - J Dedrick Jordan
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA.
| | - Quanguang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA, 71103, USA.
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Usmani MT, Krattli RP, El-Khatib SM, Le ACD, Smith SM, Baulch JE, Ng DQ, Acharya MM, Chan A. BDNF Augmentation Using Riluzole Reverses Doxorubicin-Induced Decline in Cognitive Function and Neurogenesis. Neurotherapeutics 2023; 20:838-852. [PMID: 36720792 PMCID: PMC10275819 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01339-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) considerably affects the quality of life of millions of cancer survivors. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been shown to promote survival, differentiation, and maintenance of in vivo dentate neurogenesis, and chemotherapy induces a plethora of physiological and cellular alterations, including a decline in neurogenesis and increased neuroinflammation linked with cognitive impairments. In our clinical studies, breast cancer patients treated with doxorubicin (Adriamycin®, ADR) experienced a significant reduction in the blood levels of BDNF that was associated with a higher risk of CRCI. Our past rodent studies in CRCI have also shown a significant reduction in dentate neurogenesis accompanied by cognitive impairment. In this study, using a female mouse model of ADR-induced cognitive decline, we tested the impact of riluzole (RZ), an orally active BDNF-enhancing medication that is FDA-approved for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. ADR-treated mice receiving RZ in the drinking water for 1 month showed significant improvements in hippocampal-dependent learning and memory function (spatial recognition), fear extinction memory consolidation, and reduced anxiety-like behavior. RZ prevented chemotherapy-induced reductions of BDNF levels in the hippocampus. Importantly, RZ mitigated chemotherapy-induced loss of newly born, immature neurons, dentate neurogenesis, and neuroinflammation. In conclusion, this data provides pre-clinical evidence for a translationally feasible approach to enhance the neuroprotective effects of RZ treatment to prevent CRCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal T Usmani
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Robert P Krattli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Sanad M El-Khatib
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Anh C D Le
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Sarah M Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Janet E Baulch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ding Quan Ng
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Munjal M Acharya
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
| | - Alexandre Chan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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Cure of Alzheimer's Dementia Requires Addressing All of the Affected Brain Cell Types. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12052049. [PMID: 36902833 PMCID: PMC10004473 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12052049] [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: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple genetic, metabolic, and environmental abnormalities are known to contribute to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's dementia (AD). If all of those abnormalities were addressed it should be possible to reverse the dementia; however, that would require a suffocating volume of drugs. Nevertheless, the problem may be simplified by using available data to address, instead, the brain cells whose functions become changed as a result of the abnormalities, because at least eleven drugs are available from which to formulate a rational therapy to correct those changes. The affected brain cell types are astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, neurons, endothelial cells/pericytes, and microglia. The available drugs include clemastine, dantrolene, erythropoietin, fingolimod, fluoxetine, lithium, memantine, minocycline, pioglitazone, piracetam, and riluzole. This article describes the ways by which the individual cell types contribute to AD's pathogenesis and how each of the drugs corrects the changes in the cell types. All five of the cell types may be involved in the pathogenesis of AD; of the 11 drugs, fingolimod, fluoxetine, lithium, memantine, and pioglitazone, each address all five of the cell types. Fingolimod only slightly addresses endothelial cells, and memantine is the weakest of the remaining four. Low doses of either two or three drugs are suggested in order to minimize the likelihood of toxicity and drug-drug interactions (including drugs used for co-morbidities). Suggested two-drug combinations are pioglitazone plus lithium and pioglitazone plus fluoxetine; a three-drug combination could add either clemastine or memantine. Clinical trials are required to validate that the suggest combinations may reverse AD.
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10
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Fessel J. Supplementary Pharmacotherapy for the Behavioral Abnormalities Caused by Stressors in Humans, Focused on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). J Clin Med 2023; 12:1680. [PMID: 36836215 PMCID: PMC9967886 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12041680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Used as a supplement to psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy that addresses all of the known metabolic and genetic contributions to the pathogenesis of psychiatric conditions caused by stressors would require an inordinate number of drugs. Far simpler is to address the abnormalities caused by those metabolic and genetic changes in the cell types of the brain that mediate the behavioral abnormality. Relevant data regarding the changed brain cell types are described in this article and are derived from subjects with the paradigmatic behavioral abnormality of PTSD and from subjects with traumatic brain injury or chronic traumatic encephalopathy. If this analysis is correct, then therapy is required that benefits all of the affected brain cell types; those are astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, synapses and neurons, endothelial cells, and microglia (the pro-inflammatory (M1) subtype requires switching to the anti-inflammatory (M2) subtype). Combinations are advocated using several drugs, erythropoietin, fluoxetine, lithium, and pioglitazone, that benefit all of the five cell types, and that should be used to form a two-drug combination, suggested as pioglitazone with either fluoxetine or lithium. Clemastine, fingolimod, and memantine benefit four of the cell types, and one chosen from those could be added to the two-drug combination to form a three-drug combination. Using low doses of chosen drugs will limit both toxicity and drug-drug interactions. A clinical trial is required to validate both the advocated concept and the choice of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Fessel
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 2069 Filbert Street, San Francisco, CA 94123, USA
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11
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Fessel J. Formulating treatment of major psychiatric disorders: algorithm targets the dominantly affected brain cell-types. DISCOVER MENTAL HEALTH 2023; 3:3. [PMID: 37861813 PMCID: PMC10501034 DOI: 10.1007/s44192-022-00029-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacotherapy for most psychiatric conditions was developed from serendipitous observations of benefit from drugs prescribed for different reasons. An algorithmic approach to formulating pharmacotherapy is proposed, based upon which combination of changed activities by brain cell-types is dominant for any particular condition, because those cell-types contain and surrogate for genetic, metabolic and environmental information, that has affected their function. The algorithm performs because functions of some or all the affected cell-types benefit from several available drugs: clemastine, dantrolene, erythropoietin, fingolimod, fluoxetine, lithium, memantine, minocycline, pioglitazone, piracetam, and riluzole PROCEDURES/FINDINGS: Bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and post-traumatic stress disorder, illustrate the algorithm; for them, literature reviews show that no single combination of altered cell-types accounts for all cases; but they identify, for each condition, which combination occurs most frequently, i.e., dominates, as compared with other possible combinations. Knowing the dominant combination of altered cell-types in a particular condition, permits formulation of therapy with combinations of drugs taken from the above list. The percentage of patients who might benefit from that therapy, depends upon the frequency with which the dominant combination occurs in patients with that particular condition. CONCLUSIONS Knowing the dominant combination of changed cell types in psychiatric conditions, permits an algorithmically formulated, rationally-based treatment. Different studies of the same condition often produce discrepant results; all might be correct, because identical clinical phenotypes result from different combinations of impaired cell-types, thus producing different results. Clinical trials would validate both the proposed concept and choice of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Fessel
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 2069 Filbert Street, San Francisco, CA, 94123, USA.
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12
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Findley CA, McFadden SA, Cox MF, Sime LN, Peck MR, Quinn K, Bartke A, Hascup KN, Hascup ER. Prodromal Glutamatergic Modulation with Riluzole Impacts Glucose Homeostasis and Spatial Cognition in Alzheimer's Disease Mice. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 94:371-392. [PMID: 37248899 PMCID: PMC10357216 DOI: 10.3233/jad-221245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior research supports a strong link between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and metabolic dysfunction that involves a multi-directional interaction between glucose, glutamatergic homeostasis, and amyloid pathology. Elevated soluble amyloid-β (Aβ) is an early biomarker for AD-associated cognitive decline that contributes to concurrent glutamatergic and metabolic dyshomeostasis in humans and male transgenic AD mice. Yet, it remains unclear how primary time-sensitive targeting of hippocampal glutamatergic activity may impact glucose regulation in an amyloidogenic mouse model. Previous studies have illustrated increased glucose uptake and metabolism using a neuroprotective glutamate modulator (riluzole), supporting the link between glucose and glutamatergic homeostasis. OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that targeting early glutamatergic hyperexcitation through riluzole treatment could aid in attenuating co-occurring metabolic and amyloidogenic pathologies with the intent of ameliorating cognitive decline. METHODS We conducted an early intervention study in male and female transgenic (AβPP/PS1) and knock-in (APPNL - F/NL - F) AD mice to assess the on- and off-treatment effects of prodromal glutamatergic modulation (2-6 months of age) on glucose homeostasis and spatial cognition through riluzole treatment. RESULTS Results indicated a sex- and genotype-specific effect on glucose homeostasis and spatial cognition with riluzole intervention that evolved with disease progression and time since treatment. CONCLUSION These findings support the interconnected nature of glucose and glutamatergic homeostasis with amyloid pathology and petition for further investigation into the targeting of this relationship to improve cognitive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleigh A. Findley
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
- Departments of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Samuel A. McFadden
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - MaKayla F. Cox
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Lindsey N. Sime
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Mackenzie R. Peck
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Kathleen Quinn
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Andrzej Bartke
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Kevin N. Hascup
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
- Departments of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Erin R. Hascup
- Neuroscience Institute, Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
- Departments of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
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Kumarasamy D, Viswanathan VK, Shetty AP, Pratheep GK, Kanna RM, Rajasekaran S. The Role of Riluzole in Acute Traumatic Cervical Spinal Cord Injury with Incomplete Neurological Deficit: A Prospective, Randomised Controlled Study. Indian J Orthop 2022; 56:2160-2168. [PMID: 36507215 PMCID: PMC9705651 DOI: 10.1007/s43465-022-00758-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Riluzole, a benzothiazole sodium channel blocker is acknowledged as a neuroprotective agent in spinal cord injury (SCI). Most of this evidence is based on pre-clinical studies and its effectiveness in clinical setting is undetermined, heretofore. Methods A prospective, randomised-controlled study was conducted between April 2019 and March 2020 at a tertiary-level centre. Patients aged 18-65 years with sub-axial cervical spine injury, who presented within 72 h of injury with incomplete neuro-deficit, were included. They were randomised into groups A (riluzole was administered) and B (no adjuvants). All patients were followed up at 6 weeks/3/6/12 months, and clinical [ASIA motor/sensory scores/grade, SCIM3, and NRS (neuropathic pain)] and radiological evaluation was performed. Results Twenty-three and 20 patients were included in groups A and B. Two in group A were females, while others were males (p = 0.49). Mean age in groups A and B was 47.7 ± 14.8 and 51.2 ± 14.1 years (p = 0.44). Five patients died prior to 6th-week follow-up. Among the others, there was significant improvement in all neurological parameters in both groups (post-injury vs 1-year; motor score: p < 0.001, sensory score: p < 0.001, SCIM3: p < 0.001, NRS: p < 0.001). In both groups, initial significant improvement was noticed even at the 6th-week follow-up, which further continued until the end of 1 year. There was no statistically significant difference between groups A and B with respect to these neurological parameters (motor: p = 0.15, sensory: p = 0.39, SCIM3: p = 0.68, NRS: p = 0.06). Conclusion Administration of riluzole did not significantly improve neurological outcome/neuropathic pain in our cohort. Nevertheless, both our groups demonstrated an overall improvement in neurological outcome at 1 year, as compared with immediate post-injury status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Kumarasamy
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganga Medical Centre and Hospital, 313, Mettupalayam Road, Sai Baba Colony, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641001 India
| | - Vibhu Krishnan Viswanathan
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganga Medical Centre and Hospital, 313, Mettupalayam Road, Sai Baba Colony, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641001 India
| | - Ajoy Prasad Shetty
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganga Medical Centre and Hospital, 313, Mettupalayam Road, Sai Baba Colony, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641001 India
- Department of Orthopaedics and Spine Surgery, Ganga Medical Centre and Hospital, 313, Mettupalayam Road, Sai Baba Colony, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641001 India
| | - Guna K. Pratheep
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganga Medical Centre and Hospital, 313, Mettupalayam Road, Sai Baba Colony, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641001 India
| | - Rishi Mukesh Kanna
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganga Medical Centre and Hospital, 313, Mettupalayam Road, Sai Baba Colony, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641001 India
| | - S. Rajasekaran
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganga Medical Centre and Hospital, 313, Mettupalayam Road, Sai Baba Colony, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641001 India
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Cheng A, Zhao Z, Liu H, Yang J, Luo J. The physiological mechanism and effect of resistance exercise on cognitive function in the elderly people. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1013734. [PMID: 36483263 PMCID: PMC9723356 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1013734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As brain function declines and cognitive ability declines, the benefits of resistance exercise to the brain of older people are gradually gaining attention. Objective The purpose of this review is to explore the mechanism and relationship between physiological factors such as vascular and neuronal degeneration and cognitive decline, and to categorize the differences in the effects of an acute and chronic resistance exercise intervention on cognitive function in healthy elderly people and the possible regulators of cognitive effects. Methods Using PubMed, Elsevier, Web of Science, X-MOL, CNKI, and Taiwan academic literature database, the research papers published in relevant journals at home and abroad until April 2022 were searched with Chinese and English keywords such as Resistance exercise, the elderly, hippocampus, memory performance, neurons, cognitive function. Pedro scale was used to check the quality of various documents, and the relevant research documents were obtained with the resistance exercise elements as the main axis for comprehensive analysis. Results and conclusion (1) Resistance exercise can have a beneficial effect on the brain function of the elderly through blood flow changes, stimulate nerve conduction substances and endocrine metabolism, promote cerebrovascular regeneration and gray matter volume of the brain, and prevent or delay the cognitive function degradation such as memory and attention of the elderly; (2) Acute resistance can temporarily stimulate hormone secretion in vivo and significantly improve the effect of short-term memory test, but it has little effect on the cognitive performance of the elderly; (3) Moderate-high intensity resistance exercise (50-80%1RM, 1-3 times/week, 2-3 groups/time) lasting for at least 6 months is more prominent for the improvement of cognitive function of the elderly, while the parameters such as resistance exercise intensity, exercise amount, duration, evaluation test time and differences of subjects may have different degrees of influence on cognitive benefits.
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15
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Rodríguez-Giraldo M, González-Reyes RE, Ramírez-Guerrero S, Bonilla-Trilleras CE, Guardo-Maya S, Nava-Mesa MO. Astrocytes as a Therapeutic Target in Alzheimer's Disease-Comprehensive Review and Recent Developments. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13630. [PMID: 36362415 PMCID: PMC9654484 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a frequent and disabling neurodegenerative disorder, in which astrocytes participate in several pathophysiological processes including neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity, oxidative stress and lipid metabolism (along with a critical role in apolipoprotein E function). Current evidence shows that astrocytes have both neuroprotective and neurotoxic effects depending on the disease stage and microenvironmental factors. Furthermore, astrocytes appear to be affected by the presence of amyloid-beta (Aβ), with alterations in calcium levels, gliotransmission and proinflammatory activity via RAGE-NF-κB pathway. In addition, astrocytes play an important role in the metabolism of tau and clearance of Aβ through the glymphatic system. In this review, we will discuss novel pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments focused on astrocytes as therapeutic targets for AD. These interventions include effects on anti-inflammatory/antioxidant systems, glutamate activity, lipid metabolism, neurovascular coupling and glymphatic system, calcium dysregulation, and in the release of peptides which affects glial and neuronal function. According to the AD stage, these therapies may be of benefit in either preventing or delaying the progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Mauricio O. Nava-Mesa
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencias (NeURos), Centro de Neurociencias Neurovitae-UR, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional (IMT), Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111711, Colombia
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16
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Effects of early life adversities upon memory processes and cognition in rodent models. Neuroscience 2022; 497:282-307. [PMID: 35525496 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to stressors in early postnatal life induces long-lasting modifications in brainfunction.Thisplasticity,an essential characteristic of the brain that enables adaptation to the environment, may also induce impairments in some psychophysiological functions, including learning and memory. Early life stress (ELS) has long-term effects on thehypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axisresponse to stressors, and has been reported to lead toneuroinflammation,altered levelsof neurotrophic factors, modifications inneurogenesis andsynaptic plasticity,with changes in neurotransmitter systems and network functioning. In this review, we focus on early postnatal stress in animal models and their effects on learning and memory.Many studies have reported ELS-induced impairments in different types of memories, including spatial memory, fear memory, recognition (both for objects and social) memory, working memory and reversal learning. Studies are not always in agreement, however, no effects, or sometimes facilitation, being reported, depending on the nature and intensity of the early intervention, as well as the age when the outcome was evaluated and the sex of the animals. When considering processes occurring after consolidation, related with memory maintenance or modification, there are a very reduced number of reports. Future studies addressing the mechanisms underlying memory changes for ELS should shed some light on the understanding of the different effects induced by stressors of different types and intensities on cognitive functions.
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Sanacora G, Yan Z, Popoli M. The stressed synapse 2.0: pathophysiological mechanisms in stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. Nat Rev Neurosci 2022; 23:86-103. [PMID: 34893785 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-021-00540-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Stress is a primary risk factor for several neuropsychiatric disorders. Evidence from preclinical models and clinical studies of depression have revealed an array of structural and functional maladaptive changes, whereby adverse environmental factors shape the brain. These changes, observed from the molecular and transcriptional levels through to large-scale brain networks, to the behaviours reveal a complex matrix of interrelated pathophysiological processes that differ between sexes, providing insight into the potential underpinnings of the sex bias of neuropsychiatric disorders. Although many preclinical studies use chronic stress protocols, long-term changes are also induced by acute exposure to traumatic stress, opening a path to identify determinants of resilient versus susceptible responses to both acute and chronic stress. Epigenetic regulation of gene expression has emerged as a key player underlying the persistent impact of stress on the brain. Indeed, histone modification, DNA methylation and microRNAs are closely involved in many aspects of the stress response and reveal the glutamate system as a key player. The success of ketamine has stimulated a whole line of research and development on drugs directly or indirectly targeting glutamate function. However, the challenge of translating the emerging understanding of stress pathophysiology into effective clinical treatments remains a major challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Sanacora
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Zhen Yan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Maurizio Popoli
- Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology and Functional Neurogenomics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milano, Milan, Italy.
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18
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Monteiro-Fernandes D, Silva JM, Soares-Cunha C, Dalla C, Kokras N, Arnaud F, Billiras R, Zhuravleva V, Waites C, Bretin S, Sousa N, Sotiropoulos I. Allosteric modulation of AMPA receptors counteracts Tau-related excitotoxic synaptic signaling and memory deficits in stress- and Aβ-evoked hippocampal pathology. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:5899-5911. [PMID: 32467647 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-0794-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite considerable progress in the understanding of its neuropathology, Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains a complex disorder with no effective treatment that counteracts the memory deficits and the underlying synaptic malfunction triggered by the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) and Tau protein. Mounting evidence supports a precipitating role for chronic environmental stress and glutamatergic excitotoxicity in AD, suggesting that targeting of glutamate receptor signaling may be a promising approach against both stress and AD pathologies. In light of the limited cognitive benefit of the direct antagonism of NMDA receptors in AD, we here focus on an alternative way to modify glutamatergic signaling through positive allosteric modulation of AMPA receptors, by the use of a PAM-AMPA compound. Using non-transgenic animal model of Aβ oligomer injection as well as the combined stress and Aβ i.c.v. infusion, we demonstrate that positive allosteric modulation of AMPA receptors by PAM-AMPA treatment reverted memory, but not mood, deficits. Furthermore, PAM-AMPA treatment reverted stress/Aβ-driven synaptic missorting of Tau and associated Fyn/GluN2B-driven excitotoxic synaptic signaling accompanied by recovery of neurotransmitter levels in the hippocampus. Our findings suggest that positive allosteric modulation of AMPA receptors restores synaptic integrity and cognitive performance in stress- and Aβ-evoked hippocampal pathology. As the prevalence of AD is increasing at an alarming rate, novel therapeutic targeting of glutamatergic signaling should be further explored against the early stages of AD synaptic malfunction with the goal of attenuating further synaptic damage before it becomes irreversible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Monteiro-Fernandes
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), Medical School, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, Minho, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Joana Margarida Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), Medical School, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, Minho, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Carina Soares-Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), Medical School, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, Minho, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Christina Dalla
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Kokras
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- First Department of Psychiatry, Eginition Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - François Arnaud
- Pôle Innovation Thérapeutique Neuropsychiatrie, Institut de Recherches Internationales Servier, Suresnes, France
| | - Rodolphe Billiras
- Pôle Innovation Thérapeutique Neuropsychiatrie, Institut de Recherches Internationales Servier, Suresnes, France
| | - Viktoriya Zhuravleva
- Neurobiology and Behavior Graduate Program, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Clarissa Waites
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sylvie Bretin
- Pôle Innovation Thérapeutique Neuropsychiatrie, Institut de Recherches Internationales Servier, Suresnes, France
| | - Nuno Sousa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), Medical School, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, Minho, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Ioannis Sotiropoulos
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), Medical School, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, Minho, Portugal.
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
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19
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Wright AL, Della Gatta PA, Le S, Berning BA, Mehta P, Jacobs KR, Gul H, San Gil R, Hedl TJ, Riddell WR, Watson O, Keating SS, Venturato J, Chung RS, Atkin JD, Lee A, Shi B, Blizzard CA, Morsch M, Walker AK. Riluzole does not ameliorate disease caused by cytoplasmic TDP-43 in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 54:6237-6255. [PMID: 34390052 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease commonly treated with riluzole, a small molecule that may act via modulation of glutamatergic neurotransmission. However, riluzole only modestly extends lifespan for people living with ALS, and its precise mechanisms of action remain unclear. Most ALS cases are characterised by accumulation of cytoplasmic TAR DNA binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43), and understanding the effects of riluzole in models that closely recapitulate TDP-43 pathology may provide insights for development of improved therapeutics. We therefore investigated the effects of riluzole in female transgenic mice that inducibly express nuclear localisation sequence (NLS)-deficient human TDP-43 in neurons (NEFH-tTA/tetO-hTDP-43ΔNLS, 'rNLS8', mice). Riluzole treatment from the first day of hTDP-43ΔNLS expression did not alter disease onset, weight loss or performance on multiple motor behavioural tasks. Riluzole treatment also did not alter TDP-43 protein levels, solubility or phosphorylation. Although we identified a significant decrease in GluA2 and GluA3 proteins in the cortex of rNLS8 mice, riluzole did not ameliorate this disease-associated molecular phenotype. Likewise, riluzole did not alter the disease-associated atrophy of hindlimb muscle in rNLS8 mice. Finally, riluzole treatment beginning after disease onset in rNLS8 mice similarly had no effect on progression of late-stage disease or animal survival. Together, we demonstrate specific glutamatergic receptor alterations and muscle fibre-type changes reminiscent of ALS in female rNLS8 mice, but riluzole had no effect on these or any other disease phenotypes. Future targeting of pathways related to accumulation of TDP-43 pathology may be needed to develop better treatments for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Wright
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul A Della Gatta
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sheng Le
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Britt A Berning
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Neurodegeneration Pathobiology Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Prachi Mehta
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kelly R Jacobs
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hossai Gul
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca San Gil
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Neurodegeneration Pathobiology Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thomas J Hedl
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Neurodegeneration Pathobiology Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Winonah R Riddell
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Owen Watson
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sean S Keating
- Neurodegeneration Pathobiology Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Juliana Venturato
- Neurodegeneration Pathobiology Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Roger S Chung
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Julie D Atkin
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Albert Lee
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bingyang Shi
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Catherine A Blizzard
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Marco Morsch
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adam K Walker
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Neurodegeneration Pathobiology Laboratory, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
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20
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Yang Y, Ji WG, Zhang YJ, Zhou LP, Chen H, Yang N, Zhu ZR. Riluzole ameliorates soluble Aβ 1-42-induced impairments in spatial memory by modulating the glutamatergic/GABAergic balance in the dentate gyrus. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 108:110077. [PMID: 32818535 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Soluble amyloid beta (Aβ) is believed to contribute to cognitive deficits in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Increased soluble Aβ1-42 in the hippocampus is closely correlated with spatial learning and memory deficits in AD. Riluzole (RLZ), an FDA-approved drug for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), has beneficial effects for AD. However, the mechanism underlying the effects remains unclear. In this study, its neuroprotective effect against soluble Aβ1-42-induced spatial cognitive deficits in rats was assessed. We found that intrahippocampal injection of soluble Aβ1-42 impaired spatial cognitive function and suppressed long-term potentiation (LTP) of the DG region, which was relevant to soluble Aβ1-42-induced shift of the hippocampal excitation/inhibition balance toward excitation. Interestingly, RLZ ameliorated Aβ1-42-induced behavioral and LTP impairments through rescuing the soluble Aβ1-42-induced excitation/inhibition imbalance. RLZ attenuated Aβ1-42-mediated facilitation of excitatory synaptic transmission by facilitating glutamate reuptake and decreasing presynaptic glutamate release. Meanwhile, RLZ attenuated the suppression of inhibitory synaptic transmission caused by Aβ1-42 by potentiating postsynaptic GABA receptor function. These results suggest that RLZ exerts a neuroprotective effect against soluble Aβ1-42-related spatial cognitive deficits through rescuing the excitation/inhibition imbalance, and it could be a potential therapy for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Wei-Gang Ji
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Ying-Jie Zhang
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Li-Ping Zhou
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Physiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Nian Yang
- Department of Physiology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhi-Ru Zhu
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
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21
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Hascup KN, Findley CA, Britz J, Esperant-Hilaire N, Broderick SO, Delfino K, Tischkau S, Bartke A, Hascup ER. Riluzole attenuates glutamatergic tone and cognitive decline in AβPP/PS1 mice. J Neurochem 2020; 156:513-523. [PMID: 33107040 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated hippocampal hyperglutamatergic signaling occurs prior to plaque accumulation in AβPP/PS1 mice. Here, we evaluate 2-Amino-6-(trifluoromethoxy) benzothiazole (riluzole) as an early intervention strategy for Alzheimer's disease (AD), aimed at restoring glutamate neurotransmission prior to substantial Beta amyloid (Aβ) plaque accumulation and cognitive decline. Male AβPP/PS1 mice, a model of progressive cerebral amyloidosis, were treated with riluzole from 2-6 months of age. Morris water maze, in vivo electrochemistry, and immunofluorescence were performed to assess cognition, glutamatergic neurotransmission, and pathology, respectively, at 12 months. Four months of prodromal riluzole treatment in AβPP/PS1 mice resulted in long-lasting procognitive effects and attenuated glutamatergic tone that was observed six months after discontinuing riluzole treatment. Riluzole-treated AβPP/PS1 mice had significant improvement in long-term memory compared to vehicle-treated AβPP/PS1 mice that was similar to normal aging C57BL/6J control mice. Furthermore, basal glutamate concentration and evoked-glutamate release levels, which were elevated in vehicle-treated AβPP/PS1 mice, were restored to levels observed in age-matched C57BL/6J mice in AβPP/PS1 mice receiving prodromal riluzole treatment. Aβ plaque accumulation was not altered with riluzole treatment. This study supports that interventions targeting the glutamatergic system during the early stages of AD progression have long-term effects on disease outcome, and importantly may prevent cognitive decline. Our observations provide preclinical support for targeting glutamate neurotransmission in patients at risk for developing AD. Read the Editorial Highlight for this article on page 399.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin N Hascup
- Department of Neurology, Center for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Neurosciences Institute, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Caleigh A Findley
- Department of Neurology, Center for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Neurosciences Institute, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Jesse Britz
- Department of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Nahayo Esperant-Hilaire
- Department of Neurology, Center for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Neurosciences Institute, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Sarah O Broderick
- Department of Neurology, Center for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Neurosciences Institute, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Kristin Delfino
- Department of Surgery, Center for Clinical Research, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Shelley Tischkau
- Department of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Andrzej Bartke
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Erin R Hascup
- Department of Neurology, Center for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, Neurosciences Institute, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
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22
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Hu P, Maita I, Phan ML, Gu E, Kwok C, Dieterich A, Gergues MM, Yohn CN, Wang Y, Zhou JN, Qi XR, Swaab DF, Pang ZP, Lucassen PJ, Roepke TA, Samuels BA. Early-life stress alters affective behaviors in adult mice through persistent activation of CRH-BDNF signaling in the oval bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Transl Psychiatry 2020; 10:396. [PMID: 33177511 PMCID: PMC7658214 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-020-01070-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Early-life stress (ELS) leads to stress-related psychopathology in adulthood. Although dysfunction of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) signaling in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) mediates chronic stress-induced maladaptive affective behaviors that are historically associated with mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, it remains unknown whether ELS affects CRH function in the adult BNST. Here we applied a well-established ELS paradigm (24 h maternal separation (MS) at postnatal day 3) and assessed the effects on CRH signaling and electrophysiology in the oval nucleus of BNST (ovBNST) of adult male mouse offspring. ELS increased maladaptive affective behaviors, and amplified mEPSCs and decreased M-currents (a voltage-gated K+ current critical for stabilizing membrane potential) in ovBNST CRH neurons, suggesting enhanced cellular excitability. Furthermore, ELS increased the numbers of CRH+ and PACAP+ (the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide, an upstream CRH regulator) cells and decreased STEP+ (striatal-enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase, a CRH inhibitor) cells in BNST. Interestingly, ELS also increased BNST brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, indicating enhanced neuronal plasticity. These electrophysiological and behavioral effects of ELS were reversed by chronic application of the CRHR1-selective antagonist R121919 into ovBNST, but not when BDNF was co-administered. In addition, the neurophysiological effects of BDNF on M-currents and mEPSCs in BNST CRH neurons mimic effects and were abolished by PKC antagonism. Together, our findings indicate that ELS results in a long-lasting activation of CRH signaling in the mouse ovBNST. These data highlight a regulatory role of CRHR1 in the BNST and for BDNF signaling in mediating ELS-induced long-term behavioral changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu Hu
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA
| | - Isabella Maita
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA
| | - Mimi L. Phan
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA
| | - Edward Gu
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA
| | - Christopher Kwok
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA
| | - Andrew Dieterich
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA
| | - Mark M. Gergues
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA ,grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Present Address: Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158 USA
| | - Christine N. Yohn
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA
| | - Yu Wang
- grid.59053.3a0000000121679639CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Life Science School, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
| | - Jiang-Ning Zhou
- grid.59053.3a0000000121679639CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Life Science School, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
| | - Xin-Rui Qi
- grid.412538.90000 0004 0527 0050Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072 China
| | - Dick F. Swaab
- grid.418101.d0000 0001 2153 6865Department of Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, An Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Meibergdreef, Amsterdam 1105 BA The Netherlands
| | - Zhiping P. Pang
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 USA
| | - Paul J. Lucassen
- grid.7177.60000000084992262Brain Plasticity Group, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Troy A. Roepke
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 USA
| | - Benjamin A. Samuels
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA
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23
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Plascencia-Villa G, Perry G. Status and future directions of clinical trials in Alzheimer's disease. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 154:3-50. [PMID: 32739008 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2020.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles of tau are generally recognized as the culprits of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementia. About 25 years ago, the amyloid cascade hypotheses postulated a direct correlation of plaques with the development of AD, and it has been the dominant theory since then. In this period, more than 200 clinical trials focused mainly on targeting components of the Aβ cascade have dramatically failed, some of them in Phase III. With a greater than 99.6% failure rate at a cost of several billion from governments, industry, and private funders, therapeutic strategies targeting amyloid and tau are now under scrutiny. Therefore, it is time to reevaluate alternatives to targeting Aβ and tau as effective therapeutic strategies for AD. The diagnosis of AD is currently based on medical examination of symptoms including tests to assess memory impairment, attention, language, and other thinking skills. This is complemented with brain scans, such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or positron emission tomography with the help of imaging probes targeting Aβ or tau deposits. This approach has contributed to the tunnel vision focus on Aβ and tau as the main culprits of AD. However, events upstream of these proteopathies (age-related impaired neuronal bioenergetics, lysosome function, neurotrophic signaling, and neuroinflammation, among others) are almost surely where the development of alternative therapeutic interventions should be targeted. Here, we present the current status of therapeutic candidates targeting diverse mechanisms and strategies including Aβ and tau, proteins involved in Aβ production and trafficking (ApoE, α/β/γ-secretases), neuroinflammation, neurotransmitters, neuroprotective agents antimicrobials, and gene and stem cell therapy. There are currently around 33 compounds in Phase III, 78 in Phase II, and 32 more in Phase I trials. With the current world health crisis of increased dementia in a rapidly aging population, effective AD therapies are desperately needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germán Plascencia-Villa
- Department of Biology and Neurosciences Institute, The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), 1 UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - George Perry
- Department of Biology and Neurosciences Institute, The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), 1 UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, United States.
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24
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Ihara M, Saito S. Drug Repositioning for Alzheimer’s Disease: Finding Hidden Clues in Old Drugs. J Alzheimers Dis 2020; 74:1013-1028. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-200049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Masafumi Ihara
- Department of Neurology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Japan
| | - Satoshi Saito
- Department of Neurology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Japan
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25
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Abbink MR, Kotah JM, Hoeijmakers L, Mak A, Yvon-Durocher G, van der Gaag B, Lucassen PJ, Korosi A. Characterization of astrocytes throughout life in wildtype and APP/PS1 mice after early-life stress exposure. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:91. [PMID: 32197653 PMCID: PMC7083036 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01762-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Early-life stress (ES) is an emerging risk factor for later life development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We have previously shown that ES modulates amyloid-beta pathology and the microglial response to it in the APPswe/PS1dE9 mouse model. Because astrocytes are key players in the pathogenesis of AD, we studied here if and how ES affects astrocytes in wildtype (WT) and APP/PS1 mice and how these relate to the previously reported amyloid pathology and microglial profile. Methods We induced ES by limiting nesting and bedding material from postnatal days (P) 2–9. We studied in WT mice (at P9, P30, and 6 months) and in APP/PS1 mice (at 4 and 10 months) (i) GFAP coverage, cell density, and complexity in hippocampus (HPC) and entorhinal cortex (EC); (ii) hippocampal gene expression of astrocyte markers; and (iii) the relationship between astrocyte, microglia, and amyloid markers. Results In WT mice, ES increased GFAP coverage in HPC subregions at P9 and decreased it at 10 months. APP/PS1 mice at 10 months exhibited both individual cell as well as clustered GFAP signals. APP/PS1 mice when compared to WT exhibited reduced total GFAP coverage in HPC, which is increased in the EC, while coverage of the clustered GFAP signal in the HPC was increased and accompanied by increased expression of several astrocytic genes. While measured astrocytic parameters in APP/PS1 mice appear not be further modulated by ES, analyzing these in the context of ES-induced alterations to amyloid pathology and microglial shows alterations at both 4 and 10 months of age. Conclusions Our data suggest that ES leads to alterations to the astrocytic response to amyloid-β pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maralinde R Abbink
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janssen M Kotah
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lianne Hoeijmakers
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aline Mak
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Genevieve Yvon-Durocher
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bram van der Gaag
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J Lucassen
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aniko Korosi
- Brain Plasticity Group, Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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26
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Lander SS, Chornyy S, Safory H, Gross A, Wolosker H, Gaisler‐Salomon I. Glutamate dehydrogenase deficiency disrupts glutamate homeostasis in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex and impairs recognition memory. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2020; 19:e12636. [DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sergiy Chornyy
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Haifa Haifa Israel
| | - Hazem Safory
- Department of Biochemistry, The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of MedicineTechnion‐Israel Institute of Technology Haifa Israel
| | - Amit Gross
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Haifa Haifa Israel
| | - Herman Wolosker
- Department of Biochemistry, The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of MedicineTechnion‐Israel Institute of Technology Haifa Israel
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27
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Caruso A, Nicoletti F, Gaetano A, Scaccianoce S. Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease: Focus on Stress. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:976. [PMID: 31551781 PMCID: PMC6746823 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In vulnerable individuals, chronic and persistent stress is an established risk factor for disorders that are comorbid with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), such as hypertension, obesity and metabolic syndrome, and psychiatric disorders. There are no disease-modifying drugs in the treatment of AD, and all phase-3 clinical trials with anti-amyloid drugs (e.g., β- or γ-secretase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies) did not meet the primary endpoints. There are many reasons for the lack of efficacy of anti-amyloid drugs in AD, the most likely being a late start of treatment, considering that pathophysiological mechanisms underlying synaptic dysfunction and neuronal death begin several decades before the clinical onset of AD. The identification of risk factors is, therefore, an essential step for early treatment of AD with candidate disease-modifying drugs. Preclinical studies suggest that stress, and the resulting activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, can induce biochemical abnormalities reminiscent to those found in autoptic brain samples from individuals affected by AD (e.g., increases amyloid precursor protein and tau hyperphosphorylation). In this review, we will critically analyze the current knowledge supporting stress as a potential risk factor for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Caruso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy.,Neuropharmacology Research Unit, I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gaetano
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Scaccianoce
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
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28
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Lesuis SL, Lucassen PJ, Krugers HJ. Early life stress amplifies fear responses and hippocampal synaptic potentiation in the APPswe/PS1dE9 Alzheimer mouse model. Neuroscience 2019; 454:151-161. [PMID: 31302265 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive deficits and alterations in emotional behaviour are typical features of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Moreover, exposure to stress or adversity during the early life period has been associated with an acceleration of cognitive deficits and increased AD pathology in transgenic AD mouse models. Whether and how early life adversity affects fear memory in AD mice remains elusive. We therefore investigated whether exposure to early life stress (ELS) alters fear learning in APPswe/PS1dE9 mice, a classic mouse model for AD, and whether this is accompanied by alterations in hippocampal synaptic potentiation, an important cellular substrate for learning and memory. Transgenic APPswe/PS1dE9 mice were subjected to ELS by housing the dams and her pups with limited nesting and bedding material from postnatal days 2-9. Following a fear conditioning paradigm, 12-month-old ELS-exposed APPswe/PS1dE9 mice displayed enhanced contextual freezing behaviour, both in the conditioning context and in a novel context. ELS-exposed APPswe/PS1dE9 mice also displayed enhanced hippocampal synaptic potentiation, even in the presence of the GluN2B antagonist Ro25-6981 (which prevented synaptic potentiation in control mice). No differences in the level of PSD-95 or synaptophysin were observed between the groups. We conclude that in APPswe/PS1dE9 mice, ELS increases fear memory in the conditioning context as well as a novel context, which is accompanied by aberrant hippocampal synaptic potentiation. These results may help to understand how individual differences in the vulnerability to develop AD arise and emphasise the importance of the early postnatal time window in these differences. This article is part of Special Issue entitled: Lifestyle and Brain Metaplasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie L Lesuis
- Brain Plasticity Group, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Paul J Lucassen
- Brain Plasticity Group, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Harm J Krugers
- Brain Plasticity Group, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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