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Keilholz AN, Pathak I, Smith CL, Osman KL, Smith L, Oti G, Golzy M, Ma L, Lever TE, Nichols NL. Tongue exercise ameliorates structural and functional upper airway deficits in a rodent model of hypoglossal motor neuron loss. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1441529. [PMID: 39296960 PMCID: PMC11408480 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1441529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tongue weakness and atrophy can lead to deficits in the vital functions of breathing and swallowing in patients with motor neuron diseases (MNDs; e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and pseudobulbar palsy), often resulting in aspiration pneumonia, respiratory failure, and death. Available treatments for patients with MNDs are largely palliative; thus, there is a critical need for therapies targeting preservation of upper airway function and suggesting a role for tongue exercise in patients with MNDs. Here, we leveraged our inducible rodent model of hypoglossal (XII) motor neuron degeneration to investigate the effects of a strength endurance tongue exercise program on upper airway structure and function. Our model was created through intralingual injection of cholera toxin B conjugated to saporin (CTB-SAP) into the genioglossus muscle of the tongue to induce targeted death of XII motor neurons. Methods Rats in this study were allocated to 4 experimental groups that received intralingual injection of either CTB-SAP or unconjugated CTB + SAP (i.e., control) +/- tongue exercise. Following tongue exercise exposure, we evaluated the effect on respiratory function (via plethysmography), macrostructure [via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the upper airway and tongue], and ultrafine structure [via ex vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) of the tongue] with a focus on lipid profiles. Results Results showed that sham exercise-treated CTB-SAP rats have evidence of upper airway restriction (i.e., reduced airflow) and structural changes present in the upper airway (i.e., airway compression) when compared to CTB-SAP + exercise rats and control rats +/- tongue exercise, which was ameliorated with tongue exercise. Additionally, CTB-SAP + sham exercise rats have evidence of increased lipid expression in the tongue consistent with previously observed tongue hypertrophy when compared to CTB-SAP + exercise rats or control rats +/- tongue exercise. Conclusion These findings provide further evidence that a strength endurance tongue exercise program may be a viable therapeutic treatment option in patients with XII motor neuron degeneration in MNDs such as ALS. Future directions will focus on investigating the underlying mechanism responsible for tongue exercise-induced plasticity in the hypoglossal-tongue axis, particularly inflammatory associated factors such as BDNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy N Keilholz
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Ishan Pathak
- Research Division, Biomolecular Imaging Center, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Arts and Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Catherine L Smith
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Kate L Osman
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Lauren Smith
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Grace Oti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Mojgan Golzy
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Lixin Ma
- Research Division, Biomolecular Imaging Center, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Arts and Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Teresa E Lever
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Nicole L Nichols
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
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Fogarty MJ, Drieberg-Thompson JR, Bellingham MC, Noakes PG. Timeline of hypoglossal motor neuron death and intrinsic tongue muscle denervation in high-copy number SOD1 G93A mice. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1422943. [PMID: 39119557 PMCID: PMC11306148 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1422943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) postmortem tissue and the SOD1 mouse model at mid-disease, death of hypoglossal motor neurons (XII MNs) is evident. These XII MNs innervate the intrinsic and extrinsic tongue muscles, and despite their importance in many oral and lingual motor behaviours that are affected by ALS (e.g., swallowing, speech, and respiratory functions), little is known about the timing and extent of tongue muscle denervation. Here in the well-characterised SOD1G93A (high-copy) mouse model, we evaluated XII MN numbers and intrinsic tongue muscle innervation using standard histopathological approaches, which included stereological evaluation of Nissl-stained brainstem, and the presynaptic and postsynaptic evaluation of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs), using synapsin, neurofilament, and α-bungarotoxin immunolabelling, at presymptomatic, onset, mid-disease, and endstage timepoints. We found that reduction in XII MN size at onset preceded reduced XII MN survival, while the denervation of tongue muscle did not appear until the endstage. Our study suggests that denervation-induced weakness may not be the most pertinent feature of orolingual deficits in ALS. Efforts to preserve oral and respiratory functions of XII MNs are incredibly important if we are to influence patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Fogarty
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
- School of Biomedical Sciences, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | | | | | - Peter G. Noakes
- School of Biomedical Sciences, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Brain Institute, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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Ciuro M, Sangiorgio M, Cacciato V, Cantone G, Fichera C, Salvatorelli L, Magro G, Leanza G, Vecchio M, Valle MS, Gulino R. Mitigating the Functional Deficit after Neurotoxic Motoneuronal Loss by an Inhibitor of Mitochondrial Fission. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7059. [PMID: 39000168 PMCID: PMC11241433 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an extremely complex neurodegenerative disease involving different cell types, but motoneuronal loss represents its main pathological feature. Moreover, compensatory plastic changes taking place in parallel to neurodegeneration are likely to affect the timing of ALS onset and progression and, interestingly, they might represent a promising target for disease-modifying treatments. Therefore, a simplified animal model mimicking motoneuronal loss without the other pathological aspects of ALS has been established by means of intramuscular injection of cholera toxin-B saporin (CTB-Sap), which is a targeted neurotoxin able to kill motoneurons by retrograde suicide transport. Previous studies employing the mouse CTB-Sap model have proven that spontaneous motor recovery is possible after a subtotal removal of a spinal motoneuronal pool. Although these kinds of plastic changes are not enough to counteract the functional effects of the progressive motoneuron degeneration, it would nevertheless represent a promising target for treatments aiming to postpone ALS onset and/or delay disease progression. Herein, the mouse CTB-Sap model has been used to test the efficacy of mitochondrial division inhibitor 1 (Mdivi-1) as a tool to counteract the CTB-Sap toxicity and/or to promote neuroplasticity. The homeostasis of mitochondrial fission/fusion dynamics is indeed important for cell integrity, and it could be affected during neurodegeneration. Lesioned mice were treated with Mdivi-1 and then examined by a series of behavioral test and histological analyses. The results have shown that the drug may be capable of reducing functional deficits after the lesion and promoting synaptic plasticity and neuroprotection, thus representing a putative translational approach for motoneuron disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Ciuro
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.); (V.C.); (G.C.); (C.F.); (M.V.); (M.S.V.)
| | - Maria Sangiorgio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.); (V.C.); (G.C.); (C.F.); (M.V.); (M.S.V.)
| | - Valeria Cacciato
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.); (V.C.); (G.C.); (C.F.); (M.V.); (M.S.V.)
| | - Giuliano Cantone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.); (V.C.); (G.C.); (C.F.); (M.V.); (M.S.V.)
| | - Carlo Fichera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.); (V.C.); (G.C.); (C.F.); (M.V.); (M.S.V.)
| | - Lucia Salvatorelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.M.)
| | - Gaetano Magro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.M.)
| | - Giampiero Leanza
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Michele Vecchio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.); (V.C.); (G.C.); (C.F.); (M.V.); (M.S.V.)
| | - Maria Stella Valle
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.); (V.C.); (G.C.); (C.F.); (M.V.); (M.S.V.)
| | - Rosario Gulino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.); (V.C.); (G.C.); (C.F.); (M.V.); (M.S.V.)
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Li J, Gao P, Zhang S, Lin X, Chen J, Zhang S, Jiao Y, Yu W, Xia X, Yang L. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor of the trigeminal ganglion regulates acute and chronic itch in mice. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14367. [PMID: 37452499 PMCID: PMC10848076 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Itch is an unpleasant sensation that severely impacts the patient's quality of life. Recent studies revealed that the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) may play a crucial role in the regulation of pain and itch perception. However, the contribution of the GPER in primary sensory neurons to the regulation of itch perception remains elusive. This study aimed to investigate whether and how the GPER participates in the regulation of itch perception in the trigeminal ganglion (TG). METHODS AND RESULTS Immunofluorescence staining results showed that GPER-positive (GPER+ ) neurons of the TG were activated in both acute and chronic itch. Behavioral data indicated that the chemogenetic activation of GPER+ neurons of the TG of Gper-Cre mice abrogated scratching behaviors evoked by acute and chronic itch. Conversely, the chemogenetic inhibition of GPER+ neurons resulted in increased itch responses. Furthermore, the GPER expression and function were both upregulated in the TG of the dry skin-induced chronic itch mouse model. Pharmacological inhibition of GPER (or Gper deficiency) markedly increased acute and chronic itch-related scratching behaviors in mouse. Calcium imaging assays further revealed that Gper deficiency in TG neurons led to a marked increase in the calcium responses evoked by agonists of the transient receptor potential ankyrin A1 (TRPA1) and transient receptor potential vanilloid V1 (TRPV1). CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrated that the GPER of TG neurons is involved in the regulation of acute and chronic itch perception, by modulating the function of TRPA1 and TRPV1. This study provides new insights into peripheral itch sensory signal processing mechanisms and offers new targets for future clinical antipruritic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chaohu Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Po Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoqi Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Junhui Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Song Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingfu Jiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Weifeng Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqiong Xia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chaohu Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Liqun Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
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5
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King SN, Kaissieh N, Haxton C, Shojaei M, Malott L, Devara L, Thompson R, Osman KL, Millward J, Blackburn M, Lever TE. Radiation induced changes in profibrotic markers in the submental muscles and their correlation with tongue movement. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287044. [PMID: 37352202 PMCID: PMC10289304 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Swallowing impairment is a major complication of radiation treatment for oropharyngeal cancers. Developing targeted therapies that improve swallowing outcomes relies on an understanding of the mechanisms that influence motor function after radiation treatment. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a correlation between radiation induced changes in tongue movement and structural changes in irradiated submental muscles, as well as assess other possible causes for dysfunction. We hypothesized that a clinically relevant total radiation dose to the submental muscles would result in: a) quantifiable changes in tongue strength and displacement during drinking two months post treatment; and b) a profibrotic response and/or fiber type transition in the irradiated tissue. Sprague-Dawley adult male rats received radiation to the submental muscles at total dose-volumes known to provoke dysphagia in humans. A clinical linear accelerator administered 8 fractions of 8Gy for a total of 64Gy. Comparisons were made to sham-treated rats that received anesthesia only. Swallowing function was assessed using videofluoroscopy and tongue strength was analyzed via force lickometer. TGFβ1 expression was analyzed via ELISA. The amount of total collagen was analyzed by picrosirius red staining. Immunofluorescence was used to assess fiber type composition and size. Significant changes in licking function during drinking were observed at two months post treatment, including a slower lick rate and reduced tongue protrusion during licking. In the mylohyoid muscle, significant increases in TGFβ1 protein expression were found post radiation. Significant increases in the percentage of collagen content were observed in the irradiated geniohyoid muscle. No changes in fiber type expression were observed. Results indicate a profibrotic transition within the irradiated swallowing muscles that contributes to tongue dysfunction post-radiation treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne N. King
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States of America
| | - Nada Kaissieh
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States of America
| | - Chandler Haxton
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, United States of America
| | - Marjan Shojaei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States of America
| | - Luke Malott
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States of America
| | - Lekha Devara
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Thompson
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, United States of America
| | - Kate L. Osman
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, United States of America
| | - Jessica Millward
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States of America
| | - Megan Blackburn
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States of America
| | - Teresa E. Lever
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, United States of America
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Fogarty MJ. Loss of larger hypoglossal motor neurons in aged Fischer 344 rats. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2023:104092. [PMID: 37331418 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2023.104092] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
The intrinsic (longitudinal, transversalis and verticalis) and extrinsic (genioglossus, styloglossus, hyoglossus and geniohyoid) tongue muscles are innervated by hypoglossal motor neurons (MNs). Tongue muscle activations occur during many behaviors: maintaining upper airway patency, chewing, swallowing, vocalization, vomiting, coughing, sneezing and grooming/sexual activities. In the tongues of the elderly, reduced oral motor function and strength contribute to increased risk of obstructive sleep apnoea. Tongue muscle atrophy and weakness is also described in rats, yet hypoglossal MN numbers are unknown. In young (6-months, n=10) and old (24-months, n=8) female and male Fischer 344 (F344) rats, stereological assessment of hypoglossal MN numbers and surface areas were performed on 16µm Nissl-stained brainstem cryosections. We observed a robust loss of ~15% of hypoglossal MNs and a modest ~8% reduction in their surface areas with age. In the larger size tertile of hypoglossal MNs, age-associated loss of hypoglossal MNs approached ~30% These findings uncover a potential neurogenic locus of pathology for age-associated tongue dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Fogarty
- Department of Physiology & Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
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Murphy ER, Thompson R, Osman KL, Haxton C, Brothers M, Lee L, Warncke K, Smith CL, Keilholz AN, Hamad A, Golzy M, Bunyak F, Ma L, Nichols NL, Lever TE. A Strength Endurance Exercise Paradigm Mitigates Deficits in Hypoglossal-Tongue Axis Function, Strength, and Structure in a Rodent Model of Hypoglossal Motor Neuron Degeneration. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:869592. [PMID: 35844238 PMCID: PMC9279620 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.869592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The tongue plays a crucial role in the swallowing process, and impairment can lead to dysphagia, particularly in motor neuron diseases (MNDs) resulting in hypoglossal-tongue axis degeneration (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and progressive bulbar palsy). This study utilized our previously established inducible rodent model of dysphagia due to targeted degeneration of the hypoglossal-tongue axis. This model was created by injecting cholera toxin B conjugated to saporin (CTB-SAP) into the genioglossus muscle of the tongue base for retrograde transport to the hypoglossal (XII) nucleus via the hypoglossal nerve, which provides the sole motor control of the tongue. Our goal was to investigate the effect of high-repetition/low-resistance tongue exercise on tongue function, strength, and structure in four groups of male rats: (1) control + sham exercise (n = 13); (2) control + exercise (n = 10); (3) CTB-SAP + sham exercise (n = 13); and (4) CTB-SAP + exercise (n = 12). For each group, a custom spout with adjustable lick force requirement for fluid access was placed in the home cage overnight on days 4 and 6 post-tongue injection. For the two sham exercise groups, the lick force requirement was negligible. For the two exercise groups, the lick force requirement was set to ∼40% greater than the maximum voluntary lick force for individual rats. Following exercise exposure, we evaluated the effect on hypoglossal-tongue axis function (via videofluoroscopy), strength (via force-lickometer), and structure [via Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brainstem and tongue in a subset of rats]. Results showed that sham-exercised CTB-SAP rats had significant deficits in lick rate, swallow timing, and lick force. In exercised CTB-SAP rats, lick rate and lick force were preserved; however, swallow timing deficits persisted. MRI revealed corresponding degenerative changes in the hypoglossal-tongue axis that were mitigated by tongue exercise. These collective findings suggest that high-repetition/low-resistance tongue exercise in our model is a safe and effective treatment to prevent/diminish signs of hypoglossal-tongue axis degeneration. The next step is to leverage our rat model to optimize exercise dosing parameters and investigate corresponding treatment mechanisms of action for future translation to MND clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika R. Murphy
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Rebecca Thompson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Kate L. Osman
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Chandler Haxton
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Margaret Brothers
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Li Lee
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Research Division, Biomolecular Imaging Center, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Kristen Warncke
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Research Division, Biomolecular Imaging Center, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Catherine L. Smith
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Amy N. Keilholz
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Ali Hamad
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Mojgan Golzy
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Filiz Bunyak
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Lixin Ma
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Research Division, Biomolecular Imaging Center, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Nicole L. Nichols
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- *Correspondence: Nicole L. Nichols,
| | - Teresa E. Lever
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Teresa E. Lever,
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Saporin as a Commercial Reagent: Its Uses and Unexpected Impacts in the Biological Sciences—Tools from the Plant Kingdom. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14030184. [PMID: 35324681 PMCID: PMC8952126 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14030184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Saporin is a ribosome-inactivating protein that can cause inhibition of protein synthesis and causes cell death when delivered inside a cell. Development of commercial Saporin results in a technology termed ‘molecular surgery’, with Saporin as the scalpel. Its low toxicity (it has no efficient method of cell entry) and sturdy structure make Saporin a safe and simple molecule for many purposes. The most popular applications use experimental molecules that deliver Saporin via an add-on targeting molecule. These add-ons come in several forms: peptides, protein ligands, antibodies, even DNA fragments that mimic cell-binding ligands. Cells that do not express the targeted cell surface marker will not be affected. This review will highlight some newer efforts and discuss significant and unexpected impacts on science that molecular surgery has yielded over the last almost four decades. There are remarkable changes in fields such as the Neurosciences with models for Alzheimer’s Disease and epilepsy, and game-changing effects in the study of pain and itch. Many other uses are also discussed to record the wide-reaching impact of Saporin in research and drug development.
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Balmforth MR, Haigh J, Kumar V, Dai W, Tiede C, Tomlinson DC, Deuchars J, Webb ME, Turnbull WB. Piggybacking on the Cholera Toxin: Identification of a CTB-Binding Protein as an Approach for Targeted Delivery of Proteins to Motor Neurons. Bioconjug Chem 2021; 32:2205-2212. [PMID: 34565149 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.1c00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
A significant unmet need exists for the delivery of biologic drugs such as polypeptides or nucleic acids to the central nervous system for the treatment and understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. Naturally occurring bacterial toxins have been considered as tools to meet this need. However, due to the complexity of tethering macromolecular drugs to toxins and the inherent dangers of working with large quantities of recombinant toxins, no such route has been successfully exploited. Developing a method where a bacterial toxin's nontoxic targeting subunit can be assembled with a drug immediately prior to in vivo administration has the potential to circumvent some of these issues. Using a phage-display screen, we identified two antibody mimetics, anticholera toxin Affimer (ACTA)-A2 and ACTA-C6 that noncovalently associate with the nonbinding face of the cholera toxin B-subunit. In a first step toward the development of a nonviral motor neuron drug-delivery vehicle, we show that Affimers can be selectively delivered to motor neurons in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Balmforth
- School of Chemistry, School of Biomedical Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural and Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Jessica Haigh
- School of Chemistry, School of Biomedical Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural and Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Vajinder Kumar
- School of Chemistry and Astbury Centre for Structural and Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K
- Akal University, Talwandi Sabo, Punjab 151302, India
| | - Wenyue Dai
- School of Chemistry and Astbury Centre for Structural and Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Christian Tiede
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Astbury Centre for Structural and Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Darren C Tomlinson
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Astbury Centre for Structural and Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Jim Deuchars
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Michael E Webb
- School of Chemistry and Astbury Centre for Structural and Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - W Bruce Turnbull
- School of Chemistry and Astbury Centre for Structural and Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K
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10
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Vicario N, Spitale FM, Tibullo D, Giallongo C, Amorini AM, Scandura G, Spoto G, Saab MW, D'Aprile S, Alberghina C, Mangione R, Bernstock JD, Botta C, Gulisano M, Buratti E, Leanza G, Zorec R, Vecchio M, Di Rosa M, Li Volti G, Lazzarino G, Parenti R, Gulino R. Clobetasol promotes neuromuscular plasticity in mice after motoneuronal loss via sonic hedgehog signaling, immunomodulation and metabolic rebalancing. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:625. [PMID: 34135312 PMCID: PMC8209072 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03907-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Motoneuronal loss is the main feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, although pathogenesis is extremely complex involving both neural and muscle cells. In order to translationally engage the sonic hedgehog pathway, which is a promising target for neural regeneration, recent studies have reported on the neuroprotective effects of clobetasol, an FDA-approved glucocorticoid, able to activate this pathway via smoothened. Herein we sought to examine functional, cellular, and metabolic effects of clobetasol in a neurotoxic mouse model of spinal motoneuronal loss. We found that clobetasol reduces muscle denervation and motor impairments in part by restoring sonic hedgehog signaling and supporting spinal plasticity. These effects were coupled with reduced pro-inflammatory microglia and reactive astrogliosis, reduced muscle atrophy, and support of mitochondrial integrity and metabolism. Our results suggest that clobetasol stimulates a series of compensatory processes and therefore represents a translational approach for intractable denervating and neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzio Vicario
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy.
- Molecular Preclinical and Translational Imaging Research Centre - IMPRonTE, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy.
| | - Federica M Spitale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Daniele Tibullo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Cesarina Giallongo
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Angela M Amorini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Grazia Scandura
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Graziana Spoto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Miriam W Saab
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Simona D'Aprile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Cristiana Alberghina
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Renata Mangione
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of Rome, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Joshua D Bernstock
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Cirino Botta
- Hematology Unit, Annunziata Hospital, 87100, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Massimo Gulisano
- Molecular Preclinical and Translational Imaging Research Centre - IMPRonTE, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuele Buratti
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giampiero Leanza
- Molecular Preclinical and Translational Imaging Research Centre - IMPRonTE, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Robert Zorec
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Celica Biomedical, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology - Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Michele Vecchio
- Rehabilitation Unit, AOU Policlinico G. Rodolico, 95123, Catania, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences,Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Michelino Di Rosa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Li Volti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalba Parenti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy.
- Molecular Preclinical and Translational Imaging Research Centre - IMPRonTE, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy.
| | - Rosario Gulino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy.
- Molecular Preclinical and Translational Imaging Research Centre - IMPRonTE, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy.
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11
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Kim HN, Kim JY. A Systematic Review of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia Models in Rodents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4987. [PMID: 34067192 PMCID: PMC8125817 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a condition characterized by swallowing difficulty in the mouth and pharynx, which can be due to various factors. Animal models of oropharyngeal dysphagia are essential to confirm the cause-specific symptoms, pathological findings, and the effect of treatment. Recently, various animal models of dysphagia have been reported. The purpose of this review is to organize the rodent models of oropharyngeal dysphagia reported to date. The articles were obtained from Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane library, and selected following the PRISMA guideline. The animal models in which oropharyngeal dysphagia was induced in rats or mice were selected and classified based on the diseases causing oropharyngeal dysphagia. The animal used, method of inducing dysphagia, and screening methods and results were collected from the selected 37 articles. Various rodent models of oropharyngeal dysphagia provide distinctive information on atypical swallowing. Applying and analyzing the treatment in rodent models of dysphagia induced from various causes is an essential process to develop symptom-specific treatments. Therefore, the results of this study provide fundamental and important data for selecting appropriate animal models to study dysphagia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Na Kim
- Department of Dental Hygiene, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Cheongju University, Cheongju 28503, Korea;
| | - Ji-Youn Kim
- Department of Dental Hygiene, College of Health Science, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
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12
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Lind LA, Lever TE, Nichols NL. Tongue and hypoglossal morphology after intralingual cholera toxin B-saporin injection. Muscle Nerve 2020; 63:413-420. [PMID: 33269488 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We recently developed an inducible model of dysphagia using intralingual injection of cholera toxin B conjugated to saporin (CTB-SAP) to cause death of hypoglossal neurons. In this study we aimed to evaluate tongue morphology and ultrastructural changes in hypoglossal neurons and nerve fibers in this model. METHODS Tissues were collected from 20 rats (10 control and 10 CTB-SAP animals) on day 9 post-injection. Tongues were weighed, measured, and analyzed for microscopic changes using laminin immunohistochemistry. Hypoglossal neurons and axons were examined using transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS The cross-sectional area of myofibers in the posterior genioglossus was decreased in CTB-SAP-injected rats. Degenerative changes were observed in both the cell bodies and distal axons of hypoglossal neurons. DISCUSSION Preliminary results indicate this model may have translational application to a variety of neurodegenerative diseases resulting in tongue dysfunction and associated dysphagia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori A Lind
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Teresa E Lever
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Nicole L Nichols
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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13
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McCall AL, Dhindsa JS, Pucci LA, Kahn AF, Fusco AF, Biswas DD, Strickland LM, Tseng HC, ElMallah MK. Respiratory pathology in the Optn -/- mouse model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2020; 282:103525. [PMID: 32805420 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2020.103525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder that results in death due to respiratory failure. Many genetic defects are associated with ALS; one such defect is a mutation in the gene encoding optineurin (OPTN). Using an optineurin null mouse (Optn-/-), we sought to characterize the impact of optineurin deficiency on respiratory neurodegeneration. Respiratory function was assessed at 6 and 12 mo of age using whole body plethysmography at baseline during normoxia (FiO2: 0.21; N2 balance) and during a respiratory challenge with hypoxia and hypercapnia (FiCO2: 0.07, FiO2: 0.10; N2 balance). Histological analyses to assess motor neuron viability and respiratory nerve integrity were performed in the medulla, cervical spinal cord, hypoglossal nerve, and phrenic nerve. Minute ventilation, peak inspiratory flow, and peak expiratory flow are significantly reduced during a respiratory challenge in 6 mo Optn-/-mice. By 12 mo, tidal volume is also significantly reduced in Optn-/- mice. Furthermore, 12mo Optn-/- mice exhibit hypoglossal motor neuron loss, phrenic and hypoglossal dysmyelination, and accumulated mitochondria in the hypoglossal nerve axons. Overall, these data indicate that Optn-/- mice display neurodegenerative respiratory dysfunction and are a useful model to study the impact of novel therapies on respiratory function for optineurin-deficient ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela L McCall
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Justin S Dhindsa
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Logan A Pucci
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Amanda F Kahn
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Anna F Fusco
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Debolina D Biswas
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Laura M Strickland
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Henry C Tseng
- Duke Eye Center and Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Mai K ElMallah
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
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14
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Spitale FM, Vicario N, Rosa MD, Tibullo D, Vecchio M, Gulino R, Parenti R. Increased expression of connexin 43 in a mouse model of spinal motoneuronal loss. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:12598-12608. [PMID: 32579130 PMCID: PMC7377853 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is one of the most common motoneuronal disease, characterized by motoneuronal loss and progressive paralysis. Despite research efforts, ALS remains a fatal disease, with a survival of 2-5 years after disease onset. Numerous gene mutations have been correlated with both sporadic (sALS) and familiar forms of the disease, but the pathophysiological mechanisms of ALS onset and progression are still largely uncertain. However, a common profile is emerging in ALS pathological features, including misfolded protein accumulation and a cross-talk between neuroinflammatory and degenerative processes. In particular, astrocytes and microglial cells have been proposed as detrimental influencers of perineuronal microenvironment, and this role may be exerted via gap junctions (GJs)- and hemichannels (HCs)-mediated communications. Herein we investigated the role of the main astroglial GJs-forming connexin, Cx43, in human ALS and the effects of focal spinal cord motoneuronal depletion onto the resident glial cells and Cx43 levels. Our data support the hypothesis that motoneuronal depletion may affect glial activity, which in turn results in reactive Cx43 expression, further promoting neuronal suffering and degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Maria Spitale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Nunzio Vicario
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Michelino Di Rosa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Daniele Tibullo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Michele Vecchio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.,Rehabilitation Unit, "AOU Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele", University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Rosario Gulino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Rosalba Parenti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
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15
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Zhao Y, Maharjan S, Sun Y, Yang Z, Yang E, Zhou N, Lu L, Whittaker AK, Yang B, Lin Q. Red fluorescent AuNDs with conjugation of cholera toxin subunit B (CTB) for extended-distance retro-nerve transporting and long-time neural tracing. Acta Biomater 2020; 102:394-402. [PMID: 31809883 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2019.11.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A retrograde transportation nerve probe, Au nanodots-cholera toxin B subunit (AuNDs-CTB), are prepared and fully characterized, which emit bright red fluorescence and show high quantum yield (7.2%) and good stability. The fluorescence emitted by the AuNDs is constant across a wide pH range (4-10) and after prolonged UV irradiation (>4 h). Previously, CTB has shown targeting characteristic for nerve cells with high sensitivity and effectiveness. After linking CTB to AuNDs through amidation reactions, AuNDs-CTB are obtained with excellent fluorescence property, nerve target characteristic, and, particularly, neural retrograde transportation feature. The red emission of the AuNDs-CTB is well distinguished from the blue autofluorescence of normal tissues, which provides potential for detection by naked eyes. Further, the fluorescence emission intensity maintains for 10 days in vivo, suggesting great utility for long-time monitoring and sensing of the nerve tissue. Furthermore, the AuNDs-CTB with bright red fluorescence can travel through the peripheral nerve to the spinal cord rapidly by retrograde transportation. The transportation occurs for a long distance (>5 cm) within only 2 days after injection of the AuNDs-CTB into the sciatic nerve. The present study exhibits a novel method for nerve visualization and drug delivery. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Au nanodots (AuNDs) conjugated with cholera toxin subunit B (CTB) have been developed for nerve labeling and neural retro-transporting. The red fluorescence from AuNDs-CTB is stable in vitro (pH 4-10 and 4 h UV irradiation) and in vivo (for a long time, more than 10 days). When injecting AuNDs-CTB into the sciatic nerve located at the midpiece of the thigh, the targeted nerve emits bright red fluorescence under UV light. Furthermore, the nerve can retrograde transport the AuNDs-CTB to the spinal cord for a distance of more than 5 cm just in 2 days. This work exhibits a novel method for nerve visualization by naked eyes and demonstrates the potential for intraoperative navigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueqi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Material, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Suraj Maharjan
- Department of Hand Surgery, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair, Reconstruction and Regeneration, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yuanqing Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, College of Science, China University of Petroleum, Beijing 102249, China
| | - Zhe Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Material, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Enfeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Material, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Nan Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1 Jianshe Rd., Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Laijin Lu
- Department of Hand Surgery, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair, Reconstruction and Regeneration, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Andrew K Whittaker
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Bai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Material, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Quan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Material, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China.
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16
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Gould FDH, Lammers AR, Mayerl CJ, German RZ. Specific Vagus Nerve Lesion Have Distinctive Physiologic Mechanisms of Dysphagia. Front Neurol 2019; 10:1301. [PMID: 31920925 PMCID: PMC6920241 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.01301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Swallowing is complex at anatomical, functional, and neurological levels. The connections among these levels are poorly understood, yet they underpin mechanisms of swallowing pathology. The complexity of swallowing physiology means that multiple failure points may exist that lead to the same clinical diagnosis (e.g., aspiration). The superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) and the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) are branches of the vagus that innervate different structures involved in swallowing. Although they have distinct sensory fields, lesion of either nerve is associated clinically with increased aspiration. We tested the hypothesis that despite increased aspiration in both case, oropharyngeal kinematic changes and their relationship to aspiration would be different in RLN and SLN lesioned infant pigs. We compared movements of the tongue and epiglottis in swallows before and after either RLN or SLN lesion. We rated swallows for airway protection. Posterior tongue ratio of safe swallows changed in RLN (p = 0.01) but not SLN lesioned animals. Unsafe swallows post lesion had different posterior tongue ratios in RLN and SLN lesioned animals. Duration of epiglottal inversion shortened after lesion in SLN animals (p = 0.02) but remained unchanged in RLN animals. Thus, although SLN and RLN lesion lead to the same clinical outcome (increased aspiration), the mechanisms of failure of airway protection are different, which suggests that effective therapies may be different with each injury. Understanding the specific pathophysiology of swallowing associated with specific neural insults will help develop targeted, disease appropriate treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- François D H Gould
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, United States
| | - Andrew R Lammers
- School of Health Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | | | - Rebecca Z German
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, NEOMED, Rootstown, OH, United States
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17
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Gulino R, Vicario N, Giunta MAS, Spoto G, Calabrese G, Vecchio M, Gulisano M, Leanza G, Parenti R. Neuromuscular Plasticity in a Mouse Neurotoxic Model of Spinal Motoneuronal Loss. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20061500. [PMID: 30917493 PMCID: PMC6471664 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20061500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the relevant research efforts, the causes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are still unknown and no effective cure is available. Many authors suggest that ALS is a multi-system disease caused by a network failure instead of a cell-autonomous pathology restricted to motoneurons. Although motoneuronal loss is the critical hallmark of ALS given their specific vulnerability, other cell populations, including muscle and glial cells, are involved in disease onset and progression, but unraveling their specific role and crosstalk requires further investigation. In particular, little is known about the plastic changes of the degenerating motor system. These spontaneous compensatory processes are unable to halt the disease progression, but their elucidation and possible use as a therapeutic target represents an important aim of ALS research. Genetic animal models of disease represent useful tools to validate proven hypotheses or to test potential therapies, and the conception of novel hypotheses about ALS causes or the study of pathogenic mechanisms may be advantaged by the use of relatively simple in vivo models recapitulating specific aspects of the disease, thus avoiding the inclusion of too many confounding factors in an experimental setting. Here, we used a neurotoxic model of spinal motoneuron depletion induced by injection of cholera toxin-B saporin in the gastrocnemius muscle to investigate the possible occurrence of compensatory changes in both the muscle and spinal cord. The results showed that, following the lesion, the skeletal muscle became atrophic and displayed electromyographic activity similar to that observed in ALS patients. Moreover, the changes in muscle fiber morphology were different from that observed in ALS models, thus suggesting that some muscular effects of disease may be primary effects instead of being simply caused by denervation. Notably, we found plastic changes in the surviving motoneurons that can produce a functional restoration probably similar to the compensatory changes occurring in disease. These changes could be at least partially driven by glutamatergic signaling, and astrocytes contacting the surviving motoneurons may support this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Gulino
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.
| | - Nunzio Vicario
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.
| | - Maria A S Giunta
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.
| | - Graziana Spoto
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Calabrese
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.
| | - Michele Vecchio
- Rehabilitation Unit, "AOU Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele" and Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.
| | - Massimo Gulisano
- Laboratory of Synthetic and Systems Biology, Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95125, Italy.
| | - Giampiero Leanza
- Laboratory of Neurogenesis and Repair, Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95125, Italy.
| | - Rosalba Parenti
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.
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Fusco AF, McCall AL, Dhindsa JS, Pucci LA, Strickland LM, Kahn AF, ElMallah MK. The Respiratory Phenotype of Rodent Models of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Spinocerebellar Ataxia. JOURNAL OF NEUROINFLAMMATION AND NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES 2019; 3:100011. [PMID: 31893284 PMCID: PMC6938301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) are neurodegenerative disorders that result in progressive motor dysfunction and ultimately lead to respiratory failure. Rodent models of neurodegenerative disorders provide a means to study the respiratory motor unit pathology that results in respiratory failure. In addition, they are important for pre-clinical studies of novel therapies that improve breathing, quality of life, and survival. The goal of this review is to compare the respiratory phenotype of two neurodegenerative disorders that have different pathological origins, but similar physiological outcomes. Manuscripts reviewed were identified using specific search terms and exclusion criteria. We excluded manuscripts that investigated novel therapeutics and only included those manuscripts that describe the respiratory pathology. The ALS manuscripts describe pathology in respiratory physiology, the phrenic and hypoglossal motor units, respiratory neural control centers, and accessory respiratory muscles. The SCA rodent model manuscripts characterized pathology in overall respiratory function, phrenic motor units and hypoglossal motor neurons. Overall, a combination of pathology in the respiratory motor units and control centers contribute to devastating respiratory dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna F. Fusco
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Angela L. McCall
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Justin S. Dhindsa
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Logan A. Pucci
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | | | - Amanda F. Kahn
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Mai K. ElMallah
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC,Corresponding author: Mai K. ElMallah, Division of Allergy, Immunology and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, NC 27710, USA, Tel: 919-684-3577;
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