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Sun S, Lu W, Zhang C, Wang G, Hou Y, Zhou J, Wang Y. Folic acid and S-adenosylmethionine reverse Homocysteine-induced Alzheimer's disease-like pathological changes in rat hippocampus by modulating PS1 and PP2A methylation levels. Brain Res 2024; 1841:149095. [PMID: 38917878 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.149095] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormally elevated homocysteine (Hcy) is recognized as a biomarker and risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the underlying mechanisms by which Hcy affects AD are still unclear. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to elucidate the effects and mechanisms by which Hcy affects AD-like pathological changes in the hippocampus through in vivo and in vitro experiments, and to investigate whether folic acid (FA) and S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) supplementation could improve neurodegenerative injuries. METHODS In vitro experiments hippocampal neurons of rat were treated with Hcy, FA or SAM for 24 h; while the hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) in Wistar rats was established by intraperitoneal injection of Hcy, and FA was added to feed. The expression of β-amyloid (Aβ), phosphorylated tau protein, presenilin 1 (PS1) at the protein level and the activity of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) were detected, the immunopositive cells for Aβ and phosphorylated tau protein in the rat hippocampus were also evaluated by immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS FA and SAM significantly repressed Hcy-induced AD-like pathological changes in the hippocampus, including the increased tau protein phosphorylation at Ser214, Ser396 and the expression of Aβ42. In addition, Hcy-induced PS1 expression increased at the protein level and PP2A activity decreased, while FA and SAM were able to retard that. CONCLUSIONS The increase in PS1 expression and decrease in PP2A activity may be the mechanisms underlying the Hcy-induced AD-like pathology. FA and SAM significantly repressed the Hcy-induced neurodegenerative injury by modulating PS1 and PP2A methylation levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoudan Sun
- Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250031, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250031, China
| | - Chunhong Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250031, China
| | - Guanyu Wang
- Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 30050, China
| | - Yue Hou
- Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 30050, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical College, Weifang 261053, China.
| | - Yonghui Wang
- Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 30050, China.
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2
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Tang D, Sun C, Yang J, Fan L, Wang Y. Advances in the Study of the Pathology and Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease and Its Association with Periodontitis. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2203. [PMID: 38004343 PMCID: PMC10672606 DOI: 10.3390/life13112203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) has become one of the leading causes of health problems in the elderly, and studying its causes and treatments remains a serious challenge for researchers worldwide. The two main pathological features of Alzheimer's disease are the extracellular deposition of β-amyloid (Aβ) to form senile plaques and the intracellular aggregation of hyperphosphorylated Tau protein to form neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Researchers have proposed several hypotheses to elucidate the pathogenesis of AD, but due to the complexity of the pathophysiologic factors involved in the development of AD, no effective drugs have been found to stop the progression of the disease. Currently, the mainstay drugs used to treat AD can only alleviate the patient's symptoms and do not have a therapeutic effect. As researchers explore interactions among diseases, much evidence suggests that there is a close link between periodontitis and AD, and that periodontal pathogenic bacteria can exacerbate Aβ deposition and Tau protein hyperphosphorylation through neuroinflammatory mechanisms, thereby advancing the pathogenesis of AD. This article reviews recent advances in the pathogenesis of AD, available therapeutic agents, the relevance of periodontitis to AD, and mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Tang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050, China; (C.S.); (L.F.)
| | - Chang Sun
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050, China; (C.S.); (L.F.)
| | - Jumei Yang
- Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, China;
| | - Lili Fan
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050, China; (C.S.); (L.F.)
| | - Yonggang Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050, China; (C.S.); (L.F.)
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Essayan-Perez S, Südhof TC. Neuronal γ-secretase regulates lipid metabolism, linking cholesterol to synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease. Neuron 2023; 111:3176-3194.e7. [PMID: 37543038 PMCID: PMC10592349 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Presenilin mutations that alter γ-secretase activity cause familial Alzheimer's disease (AD), whereas ApoE4, an apolipoprotein for cholesterol transport, predisposes to sporadic AD. Both sporadic and familial AD feature synaptic dysfunction. Whether γ-secretase is involved in cholesterol metabolism and whether such involvement impacts synaptic function remains unknown. Here, we show that in human neurons, chronic pharmacological or genetic suppression of γ-secretase increases synapse numbers but decreases synaptic transmission by lowering the presynaptic release probability without altering dendritic or axonal arborizations. In search of a mechanism underlying these synaptic impairments, we discovered that chronic γ-secretase suppression robustly decreases cholesterol levels in neurons but not in glia, which in turn stimulates neuron-specific cholesterol-synthesis gene expression. Suppression of cholesterol levels by HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) impaired synaptic function similar to γ-secretase inhibition. Thus, γ-secretase enables synaptic function by maintaining cholesterol levels, whereas the chronic suppression of γ-secretase impairs synapses by lowering cholesterol levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Essayan-Perez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Thomas C Südhof
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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4
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Gomez-Sequeda N, Mendivil-Perez M, Jimenez-Del-Rio M, Lopera F, Velez-Pardo C. Cholinergic-like neurons and cerebral spheroids bearing the PSEN1 p.Ile416Thr variant mirror Alzheimer's disease neuropathology. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12833. [PMID: 37553376 PMCID: PMC10409854 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39630-4] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder for which there are no therapeutics to date. Several mutations in presenilin 1 (PSEN 1), which is the catalytic component of γ-secretase complex, are causal of FAD. Recently, the p.Ile416Thr (I416T) PSEN 1 mutation has been reported in large kindred in Colombia. However, cell and molecular information from I416T mutation is scarce. Here, we demonstrate that menstrual stromal cells (MenSCs)-derived planar (2D) PSEN 1 I416T cholinergic-like cells (ChLNS) and (3D) cerebral spheroids (CSs) reproduce the typical neuropathological markers of FAD in 4 post-transdifferentiating or 11 days of transdifferentiating, respectively. The models produce intracellular aggregation of APPβ fragments (at day 4 and 11) and phosphorylated protein TAU at residue Ser202/Thr205 (at day 11) suggesting that iAPPβ fragments precede p-TAU. Mutant ChLNs and CSs displayed DJ-1 Cys106-SO3 (sulfonic acid), failure of mitochondria membrane potential (ΔΨm), and activation of transcription factor c-JUN and p53, expression of pro-apoptotic protein PUMA, and activation of executer protein caspase 3 (CASP3), all markers of cell death by apoptosis. Moreover, we found that both mutant ChLNs and CSs produced high amounts of extracellular eAβ42. The I416T ChLNs and CSs were irresponsive to acetylcholine induced Ca2+ influx compared to WT. The I416T PSEN 1 mutation might work as dominant-negative PSEN1 mutation. These findings might help to understanding the recurring failures of clinical trials of anti-eAβ42, and support the view that FAD is triggered by the accumulation of other intracellular AβPP metabolites, rather than eAβ42.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Gomez-Sequeda
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA), Calle 70 No. 52-21, and Calle 62 # 52-59, Torre 1, Laboratorio 412, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Miguel Mendivil-Perez
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA), Calle 70 No. 52-21, and Calle 62 # 52-59, Torre 1, Laboratorio 412, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Marlene Jimenez-Del-Rio
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA), Calle 70 No. 52-21, and Calle 62 # 52-59, Torre 1, Laboratorio 412, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Francisco Lopera
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA), Calle 70 No. 52-21, and Calle 62 # 52-59, Torre 1, Laboratorio 412, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Carlos Velez-Pardo
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA), Calle 70 No. 52-21, and Calle 62 # 52-59, Torre 1, Laboratorio 412, Medellín, Colombia.
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5
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Hur JY. γ-Secretase in Alzheimer's disease. Exp Mol Med 2022; 54:433-446. [PMID: 35396575 PMCID: PMC9076685 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-022-00754-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is caused by synaptic and neuronal loss in the brain. One of the characteristic hallmarks of AD is senile plaques containing amyloid β-peptide (Aβ). Aβ is produced from amyloid precursor protein (APP) by sequential proteolytic cleavages by β-secretase and γ-secretase, and the polymerization of Aβ into amyloid plaques is thought to be a key pathogenic event in AD. Since γ-secretase mediates the final cleavage that liberates Aβ, γ-secretase has been widely studied as a potential drug target for the treatment of AD. γ-Secretase is a transmembrane protein complex containing presenilin, nicastrin, Aph-1, and Pen-2, which are sufficient for γ-secretase activity. γ-Secretase cleaves >140 substrates, including APP and Notch. Previously, γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs) were shown to cause side effects in clinical trials due to the inhibition of Notch signaling. Therefore, more specific regulation or modulation of γ-secretase is needed. In recent years, γ-secretase modulators (GSMs) have been developed. To modulate γ-secretase and to understand its complex biology, finding the binding sites of GSIs and GSMs on γ-secretase as well as identifying transiently binding γ-secretase modulatory proteins have been of great interest. In this review, decades of findings on γ-secretase in AD are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yeun Hur
- Chemical Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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6
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Pourabdi L, Küçükkılınç TT, Khoshtale F, Ayazgök B, Nadri H, Farokhi Alashti F, Forootanfar H, Akbari T, Shafiei M, Foroumadi A, Sharifzadeh M, Shafiee Ardestani M, Abaee MS, Firoozpour L, Khoobi M, Mojtahedi MM. Synthesis of New 3-Arylcoumarins Bearing N-Benzyl Triazole Moiety: Dual Lipoxygenase and Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibitors With Anti-Amyloid Aggregation and Neuroprotective Properties Against Alzheimer’s Disease. Front Chem 2022; 9:810233. [PMID: 35127652 PMCID: PMC8812461 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.810233] [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: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel series of coumarin derivatives linked to the N-benzyl triazole group were synthesized and evaluated against 15-lipoxygenase (15-LOX), and acetyl- and butyrylcholinesterase (AChE and BuChE) to find the most potent derivative against Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Most of the compounds showed weak to moderate activity against ChEs. Among the most active BuChE and 15-LOX inhibitors, 8l and 8n exhibited an excellent neuroprotective effect, higher than the standard drug (quercetin) on the PC12 cell model injured by H2O2 and significantly reduced aggregation of amyloid Aβ1-42, with potencies of 1.44 and 1.79 times higher than donepezil, respectively. Compound 8l also showed more activity than butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) as the reference antioxidant agent in reducing the levels of H2O2 activated by amyloid β in BV2 microglial cells. Kinetic and ligand–enzyme docking studies were also performed for better understanding of the mode of interaction between the best BuChE inhibitor and the enzyme. Considering the acceptable BuChE and 15-LOX inhibition activities as well as significant neuroprotection, and anti-amyloid aggregation activities, 8l and 8n could be considered as potential MTDLs for further modification and studies against AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladan Pourabdi
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Natural Products, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Research Center of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Khoshtale
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Natural Products, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Research Center of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Beyza Ayazgök
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Biochemistry, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hamid Nadri
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Farid Farokhi Alashti
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Natural Products, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Research Center of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Forootanfar
- Pharmaceutical Sciences and Cosmetic Products Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Tayebeh Akbari
- Department of Microbiology, Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shafiei
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Foroumadi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, The institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Sharifzadeh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Shafiee Ardestani
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M. Saeed Abaee
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Natural Products, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Research Center of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Loghman Firoozpour
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khoobi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, The institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- *Correspondence: Mohammad M. Mojtahedi, ; Mehdi Khoobi, ,
| | - Mohammad M. Mojtahedi
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Natural Products, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Research Center of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- *Correspondence: Mohammad M. Mojtahedi, ; Mehdi Khoobi, ,
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7
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Ni D, Chai Z, Wang Y, Li M, Yu Z, Liu Y, Lu S, Zhang J. Along the allostery stream: Recent advances in computational methods for allosteric drug discovery. WIRES COMPUTATIONAL MOLECULAR SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/wcms.1585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Duan Ni
- College of Pharmacy Ningxia Medical University Yinchuan China
- The Charles Perkins Centre University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Zongtao Chai
- Department of Hepatic Surgery VI, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital Second Military Medical University Shanghai China
| | - Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Mingyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | | | - Yaqin Liu
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Shaoyong Lu
- College of Pharmacy Ningxia Medical University Yinchuan China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Jian Zhang
- College of Pharmacy Ningxia Medical University Yinchuan China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou China
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8
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Zhang M, He P, Bian Z. Long Noncoding RNAs in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Pathogenesis and Potential Implications as Clinical Biomarkers. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:685143. [PMID: 34421536 PMCID: PMC8371338 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.685143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Huntington’s disease (HD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are progressive and ultimately fatal. NDD onset is influenced by several factors including heredity and environmental cues. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNA molecules with: (i) lengths greater than 200 nucleotides, (ii) diverse biological functions, and (iii) highly conserved structures. They directly interact with molecules such as proteins and microRNAs and subsequently regulate the expression of their targets at the genetic, transcriptional, and post-transcriptional levels. Emerging studies indicate the important roles of lncRNAs in the progression of neurological diseases including NDDs. Additionally, improvements in detection technologies have enabled quantitative lncRNA detection and application to circulating fluids in clinical settings. Here, we review current research on lncRNAs in animal models and patients with NDDs. We also discuss the potential applicability of circulating lncRNAs as biomarkers in NDD diagnostics and prognostics. In the future, a better understanding of the roles of lncRNAs in NDDs will be essential to exploit these new therapeutic targets and improve noninvasive diagnostic methods for diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhang
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ping He
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhigang Bian
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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9
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Wiatrak B, Piasny J, Kuźniarski A, Gąsiorowski K. Interactions of Amyloid-β with Membrane Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6075. [PMID: 34199915 PMCID: PMC8200087 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In developing and developed countries, an increasing elderly population is observed. This affects the growing percentage of people struggling with neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. Nevertheless, the pathomechanism of this disease is still unknown. This contributes to problems with early diagnosis of the disease as well as with treatment. One of the most popular hypotheses of Alzheimer's disease is related to the pathological deposition of amyloid-β (Aβ) in the brain of ill people. In this paper, we discuss issues related to Aβ and its relationship in the development of Alzheimer's disease. The structure of Aβ and its interaction with the cell membrane are discussed. Not only do the extracellular plaques affect nerve cells, but other forms of this peptide as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benita Wiatrak
- Department of Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, Mikulicza-Radeckiego 2, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Janusz Piasny
- Department of Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, Mikulicza-Radeckiego 2, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Amadeusz Kuźniarski
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Wroclaw Medical University, Krakowska 26, 50-425 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Kazimierz Gąsiorowski
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
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Ma WH, Chen AF, Xie XY, Huang YS. Sigma ligands as potent inhibitors of Aβ and AβOs in neurons and promising therapeutic agents of Alzheimer's disease. Neuropharmacology 2021; 190:108342. [PMID: 33045243 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disease and characterized by dementia, memory decline, loss of learning and cognitive disorder. The main pathological features of AD are the deposition of amyloid plaques and the formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in the brain. The current anti-AD drugs have shown unsatisfactory therapeutic results. Due to the complications and unclear pathogenesis, AD is still irreversible and incurable. Among several hypotheses proposed by the academic community, the amyloid cascade is widely recognized by scholars and supported by a large amount of evidences. However, controversy over pathogenic factors has also been ongoing. Increasing evidence has shown that amyloid-β (Aβ) and especially amyloid-β oligomers (AβOs) are highly neurotoxic and pathogenic agents that damage neurons, mediate various receptors in the downstream pathways, and ultimately lead to learning and cognitive dysfunction. However, efforts in developing inhibitors of Aβ or amyloid-β precursor protein (APP) have all failed to yield good clinical results. More recently, it has been demonstrated that sigma receptors, including sigma-1 and sigma-2 subtypes, may play critical roles in the regulation of binding and metabolism of AβOs in neuron cells and the pathophysiology of AD. Thus, sigma receptor ligands are being recognized as promising therapeutic agents for treating or ameliorating AD. This article will review the pathophysiology of AD and highlight the sigma ligands that display the capability of preventing or even reversing Aβ- and AβOs-induced neurotoxicity and blocking the signal transduction caused by AβOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Hui Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, 1 Xincheng Ave, Songshan Lake Technology Park, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China; Dongguan Key Laboratory for Drug Design & Formulation, 1 Xincheng Ave, Songshan Lake Technology Park, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China
| | - Ai-Fang Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, 1 Xincheng Ave, Songshan Lake Technology Park, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China; Dongguan Key Laboratory for Drug Design & Formulation, 1 Xincheng Ave, Songshan Lake Technology Park, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China
| | - Xiao-Yang Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, 1 Xincheng Ave, Songshan Lake Technology Park, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China; Dongguan Key Laboratory for Drug Design & Formulation, 1 Xincheng Ave, Songshan Lake Technology Park, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China
| | - Yun-Sheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, 1 Xincheng Ave, Songshan Lake Technology Park, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China; Dongguan Key Laboratory for Drug Design & Formulation, 1 Xincheng Ave, Songshan Lake Technology Park, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China.
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11
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Structural Studies Providing Insights into Production and Conformational Behavior of Amyloid-β Peptide Associated with Alzheimer's Disease Development. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 26:molecules26102897. [PMID: 34068293 PMCID: PMC8153327 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26102897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of neurodegenerative disease in the world. Genetic evidence strongly suggests that aberrant generation, aggregation, and/or clearance of neurotoxic amyloid-β peptides (Aβ) triggers the disease. Aβ accumulates at the points of contact of neurons in ordered cords and fibrils, forming the so-called senile plaques. Aβ isoforms of different lengths are found in healthy human brains regardless of age and appear to play a role in signaling pathways in the brain and to have neuroprotective properties at low concentrations. In recent years, different substances have been developed targeting Aβ production, aggregation, interaction with other molecules, and clearance, including peptide-based drugs. Aβ is a product of sequential cleavage of the membrane glycoprotein APP (amyloid precursor protein) by β- and γ-secretases. A number of familial mutations causing an early onset of the disease have been identified in the APP, especially in its transmembrane domain. The mutations are reported to influence the production, oligomerization, and conformational behavior of Aβ peptides. This review highlights the results of structural studies of the main proteins involved in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis and the molecular mechanisms by which perspective therapeutic substances can affect Aβ production and nucleation.
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12
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Hitzenberger M, Götz A, Menig S, Brunschweiger B, Zacharias M, Scharnagl C. The dynamics of γ-secretase and its substrates. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 105:86-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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13
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Zhou F, Xiong X, Li S, Liang J, Zhang X, Tian M, Li X, Gao M, Tang L, Li Y. Enhanced autophagic retrograde axonal transport by dynein intermediate chain upregulation improves Aβ clearance and cognitive function in APP/PS1 double transgenic mice. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:12142-12159. [PMID: 32584265 PMCID: PMC7343509 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103382] [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: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autophagosome accumulation is observed in the distal axons of Alzheimer disease (AD) patients and AD animal models, suggesting that deficient retrograde transport and impaired autophagic clearance of beta-amyloid (A β) contribute to AD pathogenesis. Expression of the retrograde axonal transport-related protein dynein intermediate chain (DIC) is also reduced in AD patients, but the contributions of DIC to AD pathology remain elusive. This study investigated the effects of DIC expression levels on cognitive function, autophagosome axonal transport, and A β clearance in the APP/PS1 double transgenic mouse model of AD. Autophagic activity was enhanced in the hippocampus of young (3-month-old) AD mice, as evidenced by greater expression of autophagosome markers, lysosome markers, axonal transport motors (including DIC), and dynein regulatory proteins. The expression levels of autophagosome markers remained elevated, whereas those of autophagic and axonal transport proteins decreased progressively with age, accompanied by spatial learning and memory deficits, axonal autophagosome accumulation, and A β deposition. Knockdown of DIC exacerbated while overexpression improved axonal transport, autophagosome maturation, Aβ clearance, and spatial learning and memory in aged AD mice. Our study provides evidence that age-dependent failure of axonal autophagic flux contributes to AD-associated neuropathology and cognitive deficits, suggesting DIC as a potential therapeutic target for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanlin Zhou
- Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Xiaomin Xiong
- Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Shijie Li
- Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jie Liang
- Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiong Zhang
- Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Mingyuan Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiaoju Li
- Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Minna Gao
- Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Li Tang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yu Li
- Institute of Neuroscience, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.,Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400044, China
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14
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Funamoto S, Tagami S, Okochi M, Morishima-Kawashima M. Successive cleavage of β-amyloid precursor protein by γ-secretase. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 105:64-74. [PMID: 32354467 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
γ-Secretase is a multimeric aspartyl protease that cleaves the membrane-spanning region of the β-carboxyl terminal fragment (βCTF) generated from β-amyloid precursor protein. γ-Secretase defines the generated molecular species of amyloid β-protein (Aβ), a critical molecule in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Many therapeutic trials for AD have targeted γ-secretase. However, in contrast to the great efforts in drug discovery, the enzymatic features and cleavage mechanism of γ-secretase are poorly understood. Here we review our protein-chemical analyses of the cleavage products generated from βCTF by γ-secretase, which revealed that Aβ was produced by γ-secretase through successive cleavages of βCTF, mainly at three-residue intervals. Two representative product lines were identified. ε-Cleavages occur first at Leu49-Val50 and Thr48-Leu49 of βCTF (in accordance with Aβ numbering). Longer generated Aβs, Aβ49 and Aβ48, are precursors to the majority of Aβ40 and Aβ42, concomitantly releasing the tripeptides, ITL, VIV, and IAT; and VIT and TVI, respectively. A portion of Aβ42 is processed further to Aβ38, releasing a tetrapeptide, VVIA. The presence of additional multiple minor pathways may reflect labile cleavage activities derived from the conformational flexibility of γ-secretase through molecular interactions. Because these peptide byproducts are not secreted and remain within the cells, they may serve as an indicator that reflects γ-secretase activity more directly than secreted Aβ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoru Funamoto
- Department of Neuropathology, Graduate School of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shinji Tagami
- Neuropsychiatry, Department of Integrated Medicine, Division of Internal Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Masayasu Okochi
- Neuropsychiatry, Department of Integrated Medicine, Division of Internal Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Maho Morishima-Kawashima
- Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
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15
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Dioguardi M, Crincoli V, Laino L, Alovisi M, Sovereto D, Mastrangelo F, Lo Russo L, Lo Muzio L. The Role of Periodontitis and Periodontal Bacteria in the Onset and Progression of Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E495. [PMID: 32054121 PMCID: PMC7074205 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9020495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The evidence of a connection between the peripheral inflammatory processes and neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system is becoming more apparent. This review of the related literature highlights the most recent clinical, epidemiological, and in vitro studies trying to investigate possible connections between periodontal bacteria and the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease. This review was conducted by searching databases such as PubMed and Scopus using keywords or combinations such as Alzheimer's Disease AND periodontal or dementia AND periodontitis OR periodontal. After eliminating overlaps and screening the articles not related to these issues, we identified 1088 records and proceeded to the selection of articles for an evaluation of the associative assumptions. The hypothesis suggested by the authors and confirmed by the literature is that the bacterial load and the inflammatory process linked to periodontal disease can intensify inflammation at the level of the central nervous system, favoring the occurrence of the disease. The analysis of the literature highlights how periodontal disease can directly contribute to the peripheral inflammatory environment by the introduction of periodontal or indirect pathogenic bacteria and proinflammatory cytokines locally produced at the periodontal level following bacterial colonization of periodontal defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Dioguardi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Rovelli 50, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (D.S.); (F.M.); (L.L.R.)
| | - Vito Crincoli
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, Division of Complex Operating Unit of Dentistry, “Aldo Moro” University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Luigi Laino
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Odontostomatological Specialties, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80121 Naples, Italy;
| | - Mario Alovisi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Dental School, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Diego Sovereto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Rovelli 50, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (D.S.); (F.M.); (L.L.R.)
| | - Filiberto Mastrangelo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Rovelli 50, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (D.S.); (F.M.); (L.L.R.)
| | - Lucio Lo Russo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Rovelli 50, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (D.S.); (F.M.); (L.L.R.)
| | - Lorenzo Lo Muzio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Rovelli 50, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (D.S.); (F.M.); (L.L.R.)
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